Fletcher: next goal is decisive

(GSM) – Manchester United midfielder Darren Fletcher says the first goal will be crucial in deciding the final winner of the Milan-Manchester United Champions League encounter. Manchester United won the first match 3-2 on Tuesday at the San Siro.

And Fletcher wants the Old Trafford men not to give the Italians any chance of a comeback by scoring first when the two sides battle again in the ties’ second-leg on March 10.

“The next goal is going to be crucial,” he said.

“We went to win the first leg and we’ve done that but it is still all to play for in the tie.

“We have seen the quality Milan have got in their side. They are capable of creating chances and scoring goals so we will have to be on top form to get through.”

Manchester United are now seeking to make it to Europe’s most prestigious club competition’s final for a third consecutive time by getting to Madrid on May 22.

“We were maybe a bit naive when we first came here but we have come a long way,” said Fletcher.

“As players you get more mature every season and pick up more experience. You learn how to cope with these sorts of situations.

“We need to maintain these standards in the Champions League though.

“It is no good resting on your laurels thinking you have made it because there are too many other teams with so much quality.”