United 2 Chelsea 1

But Sir Alex's men doubled their lead in the 23rd minute when Park's wicked drive from an angle forced a corner from Cech's save. From the flag-kick, Giggs teased Kalou and centred invitingly for an outnumbered Vidic to plunder a downward header into the net. Cue incredible celebrations.

Chelsea's response was instant, with Van der Sar palming away a Kalou header and Branislav Ivanovic only finding the side-netting from the rebound. Van der Sar became more prominent as Luiz moved forward with menace to test the veteran, who then dived to his left to frustrate Didier Drogba from a free-kick.

Another cheaply-awarded foul allowed Drogba a second set-piece attempt before there was controversy when Ivanovic escaped a second booking for a blatant foul on Rooney.

Undeterred, United finished the half strongest. John Obi Mikel prodded behind following a Valencia one-two with Rooney and the Ecuadorian winger smashed over the top following neat play by Giggs and Fabio.

Malouda had the first real effort of the second period but Van der Sar watched it sail wide before another big decision went against United. Lampard clearly handled Valencia's cross inside the area but Howard Webb waved play on as everybody anticipated the official pointing to the spot.