On a day where the banner that adorned the Stretford End 'We'll never die' in homage to the Busby Babes, it was fitting that a homegrown United player should score on this occasion.
Ryan Giggs in his 23rd Season of the premiership made a rare start but showed that at 39 he is still a United player and although the pace has dropped his enthusiasm and spirit still glows.
Everton were the visitors and the visit in April where United drew 4-4 and effectively handed the title to City was still raw with United supporters and the team as well.
United sent out a strong team considering a visit to Madrid on Wednesday but following City defeat on Saturday night this was a perfect opportunity to build a 12 point lead.
Evans made a comeback in place of Rio Ferdinand and Phil Jones the task of shadowing Fellani who has been a pest to United over the last couple of years.
United made a great start and RVP had a chance early on where he rounded Tim Howard only to find the post. However, the goal followed after a long ball headed on by Valencia found RVP who guided the ball to Giggs who scored via the same post that RVP had hit. The goal was special not only because of the remembrance but it was a goal which represented a 23rd consecutive season.
Everton gave it a go and Leon Osman had a long range volley saved by De Gea and a cross by Phil Neville where Anchibe had a chance but a combination of Evans and Rafael cleared. Also Everton corners were a threat and vital blocks by Vidic and Jones saved United.
Rafael and Valencia were nullifying the threat of Baines and Pienaar on the Everton left and Rafael was winning every tackle and one led him to charge upfront and a deft ball to RVP who sprang a high Everton back line, he proceeded to goal, rounded Howard and the ball was in the net despite Hettinga vain attempts.
Rooney was also playing well and selfish play and defending was a credit and certainly Phil Neville felt a few of his tackles.
The second half was merely a solid United defensive display where they have now only conceded 3 goals in the last 7 premiership games. RVP had a great chance near the end after a great ball by Giggs but he steered the ball wide.
Jonny Evans was denied 3 times in as many seconds but a combination of Howard in goal and Jagielka managed to keep the score down to 2 goals.
Man of the match was a difficult choice but the defence stood out with Rafael sterling tackling and forward runs and Vidic managing of the back line outstanding.
United go 12 points clear and next up Real Madrid and Ronaldo.
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