Soccer-Upbeat Ferguson confident after Rooney hits United winner

By Pete Oliver

MANCHESTER, England April 24 (Reuters) - Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson believes Wayne Rooney's dramatic late winner against AC Milan on Tuesday has given his side a golden opportunity to reach the final of the Champions League.

United will take a 3-2 lead to the San Siro Stadium for next Wednesday's second leg of their semi-final after coming from 2-1 down at half-time to win thanks to two goals from Rooney, including one in time added on for stoppages.

Ferguson said: "He was a threat to them all night and the winning goal was incredible. He didn't take a touch but hit it first time and it was a brilliant goal.

"Wayne's goals have put us in a fantastic position. I think we will score over there again with the speed of the team.

"It will not be easy in Milan but they know it won't be easy either. One thing is I think we have an outstanding chance now."

Ferguson's side led with an early goal from Cristiano Ronaldo that Milan keeper Dida helped into the net but two goals against a makeshift defence from Kaka, who took his tally in this season's competition to nine, seemingly put six-times winners Milan in control until Rooney struck to swing the tie back United's way.

FERGUSON HOPING