Rooney Relieved By 'Crazy' Win

Wayne Rooney was left relieved after United's "crazy" victory over Reading gave the Reds a three point lead at the head of the Barclays Premier League table.

United led 4-3 at the interval in a pulsating encounter at Madejski Stadium, but improved defensively in the second half in order to build a points cushion ahead of next weekend's Manchester derby.

"It was crazy, to be honest," Rooney told ESPN, "but we dug in there. In the first half, with the goals it wasn't good enough defending at set-pieces and it could have cost us.

"In the second half we wanted to be more solid. It gave them a bit of easy possession but we wanted to make sure we were solid and we thankfully got the three points.

"When you look back it is (enjoyable), but when you're playing you don't know what's going to happen. It's end to end, a bit like a basketball match, but I'm sure the fans and the neutrals will be delighted to watch it."

United have now fallen behind in 10 of 15 league games this season, emerging triumphant from eight, and Rooney admits there is no question of his side's resolve, even if it does make for nerve-shredding spectacles.

"I'm sure for the coaches and fans watching it's agonising, but we always believe in ourselves," he said. "Even though we went behind twice today we believed we could win the game and we showed that we've got great character in the team."