Rio Ferdinand, Wes Brown and Anderson were upstaged by Latics reserves during a fascinating opening half of their Manchester Senior Cup tie against Manchester United.

While all eyes - includling the world's media - were focused on England captain Ferdinand's return after being injured in the build up to the World Cup, it was Latics who stole the thunder.

They played a 4-5-1 system and hustled and harried United who were never able to settle into their stride with every player performing admirably.

Latics made a lively start and more than matched their more illustrious opponents with an impressive display.

Kirk Millar ran at the Reds' defence and had a strike at goal from distance which took a deflection as it flew narrowly wide.

Free-kick-specialist Joe Jacobson (pictured) then saw a free kick from 20 yards rattle the crossbar.

United hardly threatened, their best chance in the opening half hour falling to Richie De Laet who lofted an effort over the crossbar after the midfield man beat keeper Josh Ollerenshaw to the ball.

Half-time: Latics reserves 0, Man Utd reserves 0.