Ferdinand handed goal boost

Rio Ferdinand has his first international goal after FIFA today credited him with the opener in England’s 3-0 win over Denmark.

The Leeds defender’s fifth-minute header, which was going wide, was bundled into the net by Danish goalkeeper Thomas Sorensen.

However, FIFA decided to award Ferdinand the goal after their Technical Study Group (TSG), who

adjudicate in such matters, watched video tapes of the incident.

Keith Cooper, FIFA director of communications, said: ‘‘Own goals still exist but when in doubt we like to think positive and if it is 50-50 then we will go with the attacking player.

‘‘It was an attempt on goal that was deflected in, but that happens all the time in football.’’

Ferdinand said: ‘‘It wasn’t one of the best headers, but it was nice that it was awarded to me.

‘‘To score so early in the game was brilliant and for it to be me was the icing on the cake. You dream about things like that and luckily enough I’ve been able to live out a dream.’’

Earlier in the tournament the TSG credited a goal to Ronaldo after it had initially gone down as an own goal by Costa Rica’s Luis Marin.