Drogba was still new, having been there for barely six months in the first team, and his technique was still notably rough around the edges. Yet there was something about him that seemed immovable. Manchester United players could throw themselves into tackles, but every time they tried to bring him down, they seemed to bounce off him like rubber balls.
Then came a moment that nearly made Richard's heart stop.
After the near-goal sequence, Manchester United center-back Ronny Johnsen attempted a sliding tackle from behind just as Drogba turned to receive the ball. Drogba sensed the challenge at the last second. He half-turned, using his body to shield the ball.
Johnsen came in too aggressively.
Instead of taking the ball, he collided heavily with Drogba's back. The impact sent Johnsen off balance, and the Manchester United defender immediately crashed to the ground, rolling almost 180 degrees before coming to a stop.
The referee's whistle shrilled.
Foul.
