Rafael da Silva helped Manchester United overcome local rivals Manchester City in dramatic fashion at the Etihad Stadium on Sunday.
The Brazilian right-back set up Wayne Rooney to double United’s lead in the 29th minute with a low cross from the wing.
Yaya Toure pulled one back for City to set up a thrilling last half-hour, and Pablo Zabaleta sent the home support wild in the 86th minute when he made their relentless pressure count with his first goal of the season.
However, Rafael earned the visitors a free-kick on the edge of City’s area with minutes remaining after he was fouled by Carlos Tevez.
Robin Van Persie stepped up to have the final say in a magnificent derby with a deflected 25-yard free-kick that nestled in the bottom corner of Joe Hart’s goal.
There were some ugly scenes after the winning goal but nothing could take away any significance of United’s win, which has extended their lead at the top of the Premier League to six points.
Brazilian defender Maicon was unable to experience his first Manchester derby as he remained on the bench for City.
