BOURNEMOUTH REPORT

Last updated : 28 July 2002 By Editor

This from The Mail:

Rio Ferdinand made his first appearance for Manchester United as Sir Alex Ferguson made good on a promise and brought his team down to the south coast for Bournemouth's director of football Mel Machin's testimonial.

An entertaining match ended with United victorious, 3-2, after Bournemouth had twice led, Michael Stewart netting the winner two minutes before the £30million defender made his entrance.

And a quote from Rio:

"I want to get my mind set on football and prepare for the new season in the best possible way.

"We've got a new coach in and the boys are enjoying it.

"They are a great bunch of lads and we have great ambition and, hopefully, a good season ahead of us.

"The World Cup was a great experience but I won't be sitting on that.

"I can't wait for the challenge."