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Alex Ferguson - Source: Reuters -
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Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson offered no excuses and said Barcelona were worthy winners of Thursday's Champions League final in Rome.
The Spaniards triumphed 2-0 against a United side who, after a bright opening, struggled to find anything like their best form.
"I think the first goal was a killer for us, we started brightly too, we got a bit nervous after that," Ferguson told ITV.
"We had plenty of time, we had some half-chances in the second half but in fairness we were beaten by a better team. After the goal it was very difficult for us.
"They defended quite well, we thought we could get at their back four better than we did that was the disappointment."
United's defence has been superb this season but they looked shaky from the start and were badly exposed for both goals.
"They were two bad goals to lose at this level especially when we have really excelled defending this season," Ferguson told Sky Sports.
"But we were playing against a good team and we've got to give them credit. Xavi and Iniesta can keep the ball all night. They made it difficult for us."
United central defender Rio Ferdinand said his team had not produced their best football.
"I don't think there's one of us out there can say we played well to be honest, as individuals or collectively," he said.
"(The first goal) was a bit of a sucker punch, we'd had a few good chances before that.
"But no excuses, not on today's performance they were the better team. Special moments decide these games and they were deserved winners today."
