Manchester United forward Robin van Persie has described the end of today's Manchester derby as "special".

Van Persie scored a free kick in second-half stoppage time to secure a 3-2 win for the league leaders, after City had come from 2-0 down.

The match was Van Persie's first taste of a Manchester derby, and the Dutchman felt that his side were always in control, despite City's comeback.

"We had a really good start, because of Wayne [Rooney's] two really good, clinical finishes," Van Persie told Sky Sports News.

"We were in control, but City always come back.

"It's a really special way to end this game, with the three points in a really dramatic way."

The result puts United six points clear of their Manchester neighbours at the top of the Premier League table.