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Alex Isn`t Taking Any Chances With United
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Posted by: forwardone
Alex Ferguson is taking no chances this time. Eleven days ago, his Manchester United team was held 0-0 at home in front of 67,551 in the third round of the FA Cup by Exeter City, a team of part-time players looking to spring the biggest upset in the 133-year history of the tournament.
When the teams meet again today, Ferguson will make sure his team is at fullstrength, sending out his first team of international stars at Exeter's St. James' Park, which seats all of 9,500.
"We embarrassed ourselves a bit and we got the criticism we deserved," the United manager said. "I am taking a strong side and hopefully we will get the result we want. . . . Whether Exeter will be able to cope with that is down to the romance of the FA Cup."
Exeter is 98 places below the Reds in the English hierarchy, and its players barely scratch out a living from the game. Some Manchester United stars earn up to $168,000 a week.
Even though stars Wayne Rooney and Rio Ferdinand didn't play for United on Jan. 8, Exeter noticed the gulf in talent. "A few of the lads said they saw Rooney and Rio at the match, but the 11 who were on the field were good enough for me," Exeter striker Sean Devine said.
Geoff
Posted by: forwardone
Very happy to report that United are through to the next round having beaten Exeter City by 2 goals to Nil. 
Geoff