On-song United's tune-up for derby final

THE league season ended how it started at Old Trafford: a 2-1 result on the scoreboard, albeit this one was in United's favour.

- SAMUEL LUCKHURST

This campaign has been bookended by two 2-1s that feel a lifetime apart. The mood around Old Trafford is not totally harmonious as the Glazer family mull over proposals to end their occupation, though the football is.

Nathan Lyon, the Australian spin bowler, was sat in the directors' box with a Bruno Fernandes scarf draped around his neck. The Reds require no spin this season even with a final to be played.

Their players staggered around the pitch for the lap of appreciation with their partners and children, satisfied that they had given the matchgoers a successful campaign. That has not happened in six years. A good season could become a great one on Saturday in north London.

The Stone Roses were still blaring through the speakers when United supporters started chanting about going to Wembley again. They ended the day singing about the national stadium and a third visit this calendar year.

Reds followers changed their tune to revel in Leeds's misfortune after they conceded in the second minute to Tottenham. It restarted when Spurs scored their second. There will not be a Premier League away day at Elland Road next season. Daniel James, on loan at Fulham from Leeds, emerged to appreciative applause from his former followers.