MAYA LE TISSIER scored a first-half penalty as Manchester United launched their maiden Champions League campaign with a 1-0 win over Valerenga.

Skipper Le Tissier struck after 31 minutes as United saw off the Norwegians in their first match of the league phase at Leigh Sports Village on Wednesday evening.

Despite the narrow scoreline, it was a victory Marc Skinner’s side thoroughly deserved for a dominant display in which they created numerous chances.

On another night their profligacy might have been a concern but, with tougher tests ahead in the competition, United will be pleased to have got off the mark with a positive result.

They took control from the outset and went close inside the first minute as Elisabeth Terland headed wide.

Hinata Miyazawa also threatened after a charge down the left but her long-range shot was easily saved by Tove Enblom.

Valarenga created an opportunity against the run of play when Karina Saevik fed Olaug Tvedten but her low effort was comfortably dealt with by Phallon Tullis-Joyce.

United almost took the lead after Melvine Malard robbed Sara Horte but Enblom kept out her shot and Michaela Kovacs cleared Terland’s follow-up off the line. Malard also volleyed wide.

United finally broke through when Le Tissier sent Enblom the wrong way from the spot after Arna Eiriksdottir had handled.

The hosts had chances to double their lead either side of the break but Enblom did superbly to deny Ella Toone and Jess Park.

Terland dragged another shot wide and Malard fired over twice as United pressed for more.

There was a late scare when Elise Thorsnes broke clear late on for Valerenga but she shot well wide.

Skinner’s Red Devils will travel to Spain next week to take on Atletico de Madrid Femenino.