Own goal gives Man U 2-1 win
(Agencies)
Updated: 2004-08-12 09:43

Manchester United have come from behind to beat Dinamo Bucharest 2-1 in a Champions League third qualifying round tie marked by two own goals.

United, missing seven first-team players through injury, suspension and Olympic duty, made a nightmare start when Dinamo striker Ionel Danciulescu's angled shot was turned into the net by South African defender Quinton Fortune after 10 minutes.

Ryan Giggs settled the FA Cup holders' nerves in the 38th minute of the first leg tie, collecting a superb defence-splitting pass from Paul Scholes, rounding the keeper and coolly slotting home.

"Giggs' goal coming from Manchester's single clear opportunity at the end of the first half destroyed my players' morale," Dinamo Bucharest coach Ioan Andone said.

"But this is the mark of a great team -- converting few opportunities into goals. Manchester deserved the victory because of their excellent organisation."

United's new striker Alan Smith hit the post just after the break but the pressure finally paid off when United substitute Liam Miller crossed from the right and Dinamo defender Angelo Alistar knocked the ball into his own net.

Though Smith later had a header disallowed, the win still leaves United needing only a draw in the second leg at Old Trafford in two weeks' time to reach the group phase of the competition.

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