Vincent Kompany's first half stoppage time goal was enough to launch Manchester City to the top of the Premiership on goal difference and put them in the driving seat with two games to go.
The match was described as the biggest in Premierships history. Just three weeks ago United were ahead of their rivals by a considerable eight points, with fans and pundits round the country writing-off any chance of a City comeback- but that all changed tonight.
It was a must win for City to stay in the title race, while Sir Alex Ferguson knew a draw would still be enough to keep them at the summit of the league and put them on the home straight for their 20th league title. However this was reflected in his team selection, leaving Wayne Rooney isolated up top on his own, playing with a more passive and defensive approach, while Mancini's side came out the tunnel with flair and an immediate attacking mentality. The likes of in-form Valencia, Welbeck and Young were left on the bench, leaving the earnest on Scholes, Giggs and the hard working Park to get the result. Despite the experience of the old guard, the huge physical miss match between Yaya Toure and Park was particularly apparent.
The first half had minimal chances but was high in tension. The weight of an entire season's nerves came down on the Etihad and you could see it in the players. The home side were troubled by United early on, but gradually brought themselves back into the game with lively play from Nasri, and Aguero always lurking. The pressure eventually paid off in first half stoppage time. Chris Smalling failed to follow his man, leaving Kompany to emphatically head home David Silva's corner kick into the back of the net.
Before the 60 minute mark Park was unsurprisingly substituted for Welbeck in an attempt to bring a more offensive approach, but this was countered by Mancini brining on the defensive De Jong and Richards to see the game out.
Yaya Toure had yet another powerful performance and nearly put the nail in the coffin after a dash from midfield, shooting just wide of the post. Clichy also came incredibly close after drilling the ball towards the bottom corner, but was denied by De Gea. Nasri had the best of the second half opportunities but after trying to skip passed one to many players in the box, he was eventually dispossessed.
Even with United's tendency to score a last gasp goal to save the day and five-extra time minutes, it wasn't enough, leaving city to close the game in complete control.
Both teams are now tied on 83 points. Manchester United have Swansea at home and Sunderland away, while Manchester City have Newcastle away and QPR at home. It's debatable who has the easier run-in, but one thing for sure City have the momentum.