Rvp: We Had To Win

Robin van Persie has described Manchester United's victory over Arsenal as a “six-pointer” and says that the Reds are now firmly among the title contenders.

The striker grabbed what proved to be the decisive goal against his former club and believes that victory was the only option during Sunday’s blockbuster encounter.

Speaking to MUTV, Van Persie said: “We could have been 11 points behind, so now we’re in a good position. It was a big win, a real six-pointer. We are right in the mix, which is what we wanted. We knew what the other teams had done before us, and realised that it was a must-win game. I always think positively, and I’m thankful that we did that today.”

The Dutchman found the net from a Wayne Rooney corner with 27 minutes gone and was subsequently full of praise for his strike partner, who was later named Man of the Match by United fans on ManUtd.com and Twitter.

“It was a good corner from Wayne. After I made contact with my head, I think it brushed my shoulder, but it didn’t really matter. It was a good goal, and I’m very happy to have scored. Wayne is a great player, and he worked really hard, as everyone did today. I don’t think it is enough for a couple of individuals to play well, I think you need to be strong as a team, that’s what we did today.

“The fans were incredible, they really lifted us and were the twelfth man. Since I’ve been here, they have been absolutely unbelievable, so thanks again to them.”

Van Persie scored in both games against Arsenal last season following his move from the Emirates and believes they pose a different challenge to United's other domestic rivals. Asked about facing his previous employers, the 30-year-old said that it was vital to employ the right tactics.

“It is different because of the way Arsenal play. They have a really specific way of playing, which I know of course, so you have to play a slightly different game to beat them. I think we did that today, we did really well to close everyone down. If you look at Patrice Evra, who went for every single ball, even the forward players did that. It makes a big difference.

“I think we did well in the second half though, we were under a bit more pressure without conceding many chances. We had two big opportunities; one for Wayne, and one for Chris Smalling. It wasn’t a game of many chances, but one of tactics, and we had the right attitude"