The semi final of the Carling Cup first leg saw a shock defeat handed out by Derby County to Manchester United. The crucial strike at Pride Park came from Kris Common thirty minutes after the start of the first half, which gave Manchester their lead.

A good chance wasted by Rob Hulse deprived Derby of a two goal advantage for the second leg to old Trafford in two weeks. The team fielded by Alex Ferguson, the manager of the United was not strong enough, even though players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney were introduced later on. Cristiano Ronaldo’s Nike Mercurial Vapor trainers must have been a little off, as his free kick that just missed by brushing past the post almost equalized the scores.

Roy Carroll, the former keeper was not tested enough in the Derby goal by the Champions of the Premier League. Last season saw Derby scoring low points to be relegated from the top flight. Placed at the18th position, the team welcomed the new manager Nigel Clough who started off his first day from the stands watching.

Clough’s position as the manager of the club was confirmed on Tuesday. He was impressed with the spirit of the organization and Derby, who completely deserved the advantage they gained in the first leg.

Earlier, pressure was building on the United even as one off the line effort was being forced to be cleared by Jonny Evans. A good chance over the crossbar was lifted by Andy Todd.

This weekend saw United hosting Chelsea in Premier League very quiet. They will start as the favourites in the second leg.