Juan Mata scored a superb double as Manchester United beat Liverpool at Anfield 2-0 on Sunday afternoon.
Louis van Gaal’s side arrived at Anfield in good spirits and they started the game well, dominating possession in the early stages.
Despite their dominance, Raheem Sterling almost put the home side ahead after he skipped past Daley Blind, before testing the palms of David de Gea.
United did well to subdue any further Liverpool pressure and they would take the lead in the 14th minute through Spanish midfielder Mata, who was played in by his compatriot Ander Herrera.
The score remained the same through to the half time interval but the game would it’s biggest talking point shortly after the break when Steven Gerrard was introduced.
The former England captain would last no longer than 48 seconds on the field before he was sent off for a stamp on Herrera.
And, United would take full advantage of their extra man when Mata produced a wonderful bit of magic to add a second.
Daniel Sturridge would score a late goal for Liverpool but it would be a mere consolation as United kept the ball for the most of the four minutes of stoppage time.
Wayne Rooney could have made it 3-1 in the final minute but his penalty was saved by Simon Mignolet.