Javier Hernandez came off the bench to ensure that Manchester United won by the odd goal in five against Stoke City this afternoon.
Peter Crouch's opener for Stoke was cancelled out by Robin van Persie, but Marko Arnautovic put the Potters back in front shortly before the break.
However, late goals from Wayne Rooney and Hernandez secured all three points for David Moyes's team.
Below, Sports Mole has looked back over the contest.
Match statistics:
Man United:
Shots 19
On target 5
Possession 66%
Corners 12
Fouls 8
Stoke:
Shots 10
On target 5
Possession 34%
Corners 2
Fouls 18
Was the result fair?
Stoke, perhaps with some justification, will probably argue that their efforts warranted at least a share of the spoils. Although they scored twice, they didn't take their chances during the first half, though, and that is what ultimately cost them. The onslaught from the hosts took its time to arrive, but when it did, they had Stoke pegged back. In the end, United's quality just shone through and for that reason, they did deserve the points.
Man United's performance
Watching the Red Devils right now should come with a heart warning. Once again they put their fans through the ringer, but on this occasion they came through with the three points, which at the end of the day is all that matters. Scratch the surface, though, and there are still some problems for Moyes. His side looked like they were going to concede every time Stoke mounted an attack and they only looked fresh in attack when 18-year-old Adnan Januzaj was introduced into the action.
Stoke's performance
Mark Hughes said that there was nothing for his side to fear today and they proved their manager right, particularly during the first half. In fact, the only criticism that can be aimed at them is the fact that they were only 2-1 up at the break. He will be disappointed that his side folded in the closing stages, but there were still plenty of positives for him to grasp on to for future matches.
Sports Mole's man of the match
Wayne Rooney: The striker carried on his recent form with a positive performance. He was busy from the first whistle and looked to be United's only creative player until Januzaj came on. What's more, he scored the crucial goal that drew the home side level.
Biggest gaffe
There weren't too many errors, but this award can go to Phil Jones, for the needless foul that he committed on the edge of his own area. The resultant free kick was converted by Arnautovic, which gave the away side a 2-1 lead heading into the interval.
Referee performance
Lee Mason had to get his yellow card out quite often during the second half, but to be fair to the official, on each occasion the offence warranted such punishment. All in all he can pleased with his performance, which helped contribute to a free-flowing encounter.
What next?
Man United: The Red Devils will turn their attention to League Cup matters on Tuesday evening when Norwich City visit Old Trafford.
Stoke: The Potters will also compete in that competition when they travel to Championship side Birmingham City on the same night.
Liam Apicella
