IT couldn't really go wrong writes Andrew Mosley

Oasis played to a home crowd in the City of Manchester Stadium - their football team's ground - and even the rain held off.

It's nice to see that age hasn't mellowed the boys. Liam acted as cocksure as ever, and the mandatory spat between the brothers causing cheers from the audience.

Yet, despite the posturing, Oasis are certainly one of the greatest stadium rock bands of our generation.

They refrained from simply pulling out the greatest hits, interspersing popular album tracks such as Turn Up The Sun, Bring It On Down and Acquiesce with latest single Lyla, the soon-to-be-released The Importance of Being Idle and classics including Cigarettes and Alcohol and Wonderwall.

Noel left the showmanship to his brother, and concentrated on proving that he can do more with a guitar than just strum a few chords.

The City spirit must have got to Blues fan Liam. Obviously gleeful at the misfortunes of his club's great rivals, Manchester United, he dedicated Live Forever to Malcolm Glazer, who has just taken over the Old Trafford club. Perhaps United fans should take the advice of another highlight of the evening - Don't Look Back In Anger.

Although this gig means Oasis have now played their home city a grand total of 30 times, it must still be gratifying to be able to draw a crowd of 55,000.

And despite occasional lulls, their appreciation was obvious.

Champagne Supernova led to a singalong that must have been heard all over the city, while Songbird and Guess God Thinks I'm Able provided rare moments of introspection.

With songs this good, it's difficult to think of another band who could steal the Manc rock crowns from the Gallaghers' heads.

A now-familiar cover of The Who's My Generation topped the night. Noel obviously hopes his songs will be as well remembered in 40 years' time.

But the absolute highlight was Liam's self-confident sneer of "tonight, I'm a rock and roll star".

The adulation they received in Manchester suggested something more than stardom. In this city at this time, Oasis are gods.

Oasis play the City of Manchester Stadium Saturday and on Sunday. Tickets cost from £32.50 plus booking fee. Visit www.aloud.com