Edwin van der Sar
City may have created a few decent chances but poor finishing rather than Edwin’s brilliance kept them at bay. A quiet day for the Dutchman.
John O’Shea
Defended well and blocked plenty of crosses, especially when up against Zabaleta in the first half. Edin Dzeko posed a different challenge later, but he coped just as admirably.
Chris Smalling
Rio might not get his place back if Smalling keeps turning in performances like this. In his first derby, Chris was rock solid – cool, calm and collected.
Nemanja Vidic
The big Serbian put his body on the line more than once and frustrated City’s forward with a string of timely tackles and interceptions.
Patrice Evra
Had his hands full early on as Micah Richards surged forward from right back but was never exposed or found wanting. Survived a penalty shout for handball.
Nani
Always looked to make something happen. Fizzed a few shots goalwards before sending United in front and then crossed for Rooney’s winner. Another top performance.
Anderson
Not a poor display, although the Brazilian only really took the game to City in the way Sir Alex would have liked for a brief period in the first half. To his credit, though, he did put himself about.
Paul Scholes
A cool head in a crowded midfield, Scholes kept possession well and kept the ball moving. Shifted the ball wide to Nani in the build-up to United’s winner.
Darren Fletcher
Headed powerfully on target in the first half but otherwise his contribution came via his work-rate and tackling. Played his part in limiting City’s forays through the middle.
Ryan Giggs
Gave the ball away cheaply early on but soon settled and caused City problems on his flank. Provided a perfect pass for Nani’s goal.
Wayne Rooney
By his own admission, Wayne didn’t have his greatest game. He did score his greatest ever goal, though. And that’s all that counts.
SUBSTITUTES
Dimitar Berbatov (for Anderson, 67)
Rooney’s winner aside, City had the better of the last 20 minutes, meaning Berbatov was often on the periphery.
Michael Carrick (for Scholes, 78)
Sent on as soon as Rooney scored, Michael brought added defensive cover to the Reds’ midfield and helped ensure United gained three points.
Коментар за играчите од официјалната .... :wink: