Owen Coyle gave his Burnley players permission to go out and bask in the glory of beating Manchester United.
The Clarets first win since ending a 33-year top flight absence was also their first over United since 1968.
Veteran midfielder Robbie Blake was the matchwinner, lashing home an 18th-minute volley after a period of Burnley pressure.
Sir Alex Ferguson refused to comment on why he picked Carrick as the penalty-taker ahead of Owen, who wasted two excellent chances in front of England coach Fabio Capello.
Carrick's penalty was saved.