Manchester United continued their march towards the Premier League title with a 2-0 win over local rivals Manchester City at Old Trafford
The holders now need just four points from their final three games - against Wigan, Arsenal and Hull City - to retain the trophy for a third consecutive year.
Cristiano Ronaldo and Carlos Tevez did the damage for the hosts, both netting before half-time to settle the 140th league derby between the two old enemies - and ensure United fans can hold their heads high in the city over the summer months.
But more important than mere bragging rights was the result, which saw United reclaim top spot by going three points clear of Liverpool with a further game in hand.
Ronaldo, who was furious at his later substitution, opened the scoring with a trademark free-kick on 19 minutes before Tevez made it two in the final minute of the first half.
Tevez dominated pre-match talk, the Argentinian having reportedly resigned himself to a summer exit from Old Trafford, but he was preferred, alongside Dimitar Berbatov, to Wayne Rooney, who started on the bench.
An unchanged City side held their own in terms of possession during the opening exchanges but with Felipe Caicedo playing a lone striker's role - albeit supported by a midfield trident of Robinho, Stephen Ireland and Elano - forays into United's penalty area were limited.
United's back line, again marshalled impeccably by Nemanja Vidic, were able to keep the visitors at bay and Edwin van der Sar in the United goal enjoyed a relatively comfortable afternoon.
Games Highlight
1 - 0 Ronaldo:18'
2 - 0 Tevez:45'
...Glory, Glory Manchester United...
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