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Ferguson: Gives United the thumbs-up

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Sir Alex Ferguson is not taking Manchester United's place in the UEFA Champions League semi-finals for granted after a 2-0 win away to Roma.

Goals from Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney have put the Premier League leaders in a commanding position ahead of next week's second leg at Old Trafford.

United beat Roma 7-1 at home at the same stage of the competition 12 months ago, but Ferguson is not yet plotting a last-four clash against Barcelona or Schalke.

"We can't take anything for granted, but we definitely feel like we can reach the semi-finals," said Ferguson.

Fantastic header

Ronaldo scored his 36th goal of the season, and his seventh in the Champions League, to head United in front just before half-time.

Ferguson felt that goal was a key moment in the match and also acknowledged that his side enjoyed some good fortune at the Stadio Olimpico.

The United boss added: "It was a marvellous result for us. We showed discipline and composure on the ball.

"Ronaldo's goal changed the game for us. It was a fantastic header.

"His spring and courage to go in front of the defender surprised the Roma player.

"It was a centre-forward's header - it reminded me of myself.

"I thought Roma had some good chances the first 15 minutes of the second half.

"But there are breaks in a football match and I think they were with us today."