Reds' dominance delights Boss

Sir Alex Ferguson was mystified that it took penalty kicks to overcome Portsmouth in the Community Shield, but still declared himself happy with an excellent performance.

The Reds dominated Harry Redknapp's side for long stretches at Wembley and, while satisfied by yet more silverware, it was the display which most delighted the manager.

"It's always nice, winning - I think that's the name of the game at our club," Sir Alex said. "The players showed that today, the determination and enjoyment of the game was good and I was very pleased with the performance today, it was excellent.

"How it got to penalty kicks, that's one of the mysteries of football. We created a lot of chances, we were the better team, but it's only pre-season."

Sir Alex is under no illusions that, while the first trophy of the season has been procured, the barometer of United's strength comes in the shape of next Sunday's Premier League curtain-raiser against Newcastle.

"It doesn't really do a lot other than it gives us the winning of the shield. It's very good for the young players involved today like Campbell, Possebon and da Silva," he said.

"It keeps the momentum going from last year I suppose, but the real test is when it kicks off next Sunday - Newcastle at home.

"We have some issues at the moment with fitness and injuries, and Nani is suspended, so we have to find a way around that and pick a system that will get us victory."