Champions Review: September

ManUtd.com's review of the 20th title moves on to September...

Overview The action came thick and fast with a flood of goals at both ends, Robin van Persie's two late efforts completing his hat-trick and a 3-2 win at Southampton before Wigan were blown away 4-0 as Alexander Büttner and Nick Powell grabbed debut strikes. Van Persie may have missed a penalty at St Mary's but he kept his nerve from the spot to earn victory at Liverpool. The month ended in defeat with a five-goal thriller against Tottenham.

Key moment United hadn't won for five years at Anfield and trailed to Steven Gerrard's opener despite the home side being reduced to 10 men after Jonjo Shelvey's red card. Rafael's pearler hauled the Reds level but van Persie confirmed his new hero status by driving the winning penalty past Pepe Reina.

Star man Rafael earned ManUtd.com's monthly individual prize. The fans appreciated the popular Brazilian's entertaining and enterprising forays forward as well as his defensive responsibility. However, that splendid strike on Merseyside must have won him a few votes too.

State of play The Reds finished the month in third behind Chelsea and Everton. Manchester City were level with United on points, with Tottenham a further place back after that first win at Old Trafford in 23 years