Smalling's Derby Success

Chris Smalling declared his first Manchester derby a success after helping United beat City 2-1 in the Barclays Premier League at Old Trafford.

The young defender was outstanding against the Blues and showed no sign of inexperience despite starting just three league matches for the Reds prior to kick-off on Saturday.

Speaking to MUTV, Smalling admitted: “I was a little bit nervous but we’ve been building up to this game all week and I knew I was going to be playing quite early on so I was able to prepare fully. As soon as I got my first touch it felt like just another game. The atmosphere was electric. To be able to play in a game with that sort of magnitude was great."

Smalling was also keen to stress the importance of three points against City following the Reds' first league defeat of the season against Wolves last weekend. “We had all seen the table and realised how crucial the game was," he said.

"All week we had been working towards this so we could stretch the lead and put some pressure on the others at the top of the league. In terms of the three points, it really separates us from them so it was a massive game and for me to play my part was a real buzz."

United took the lead just before half-time after Nani latched onto Ryan Giggs' superb through-ball to finish past Joe Hart, before an Edin Dzeko shot deflected off David Silva to put City back on level terms shortly after the hour mark.

Smalling felt the Reds were always in control of the game, however, and were worthy winners in the end. "Their goal was pretty jammy and set us back a little bit but we just kept on going and Nani and Giggs were brilliant. I think we got what we deserved and it would have been disappointing to only get a draw out of that game.”

The Reds defender went on to praise Wayne Rooney’s acrobatic winner, labelling it the perfect way to seal victory. “You can see on the replay how the ball comes off the middle of his foot and goes right into the top corner. There are not many better ways to win a match. It was great for Wayne to pop up after working so hard during the game and seal such a great occasion.”