RVP and Rooney on target as United win at Palace

Fresh from having penned his new big money contract, and making his 300th Red Devils appearance, Wayne Rooney hit a superb strike as Manchester United claimed a pivotal 2-0 victory at Crystal Palace.

United head to Athens with renewed vigour as a RVP penalty and Rooney's strike bagged the points at Selhurst Park.

The away win was sealed largely thanks to a second-half penalty, converted by RVP, which changed the dynamic of the contest.

David Moyes' men had spent much of the game frustrated by the organised and disciplined endeavours of their hosts, but Palace were forced to adopt a more ambitious style after Marouane Chamakh felled Patrice Evra and United's Dutch frontman powered home from twelve yards.

Playing with added confidence, United enjoyed increased time and freedom on the ball and doubled their advantage thanks to a moment of Rooney brilliance. Evra's cross found the forward, courtesy of a Joe Ledley deflection, and he lifted a fine effort into the net.

United came close to a third when RVP raced onto Adnan Januzaj's through ball and turned his effort onto the woodwork, as the visitors began to show the sort of creative spark that has been missing too often this season. P

alace remained competitive in the closing stages and continued to cause problems for United from set-pieces, but the Red Devils remained composed to seal a crucial victory.

This must be regarded as a huge result. United must kick on from here and produce a fine run of form. A top four finish is still obtainable, but the time for results has arrived. Come on United!

Full Time - Crystal Palace 0-2 Manchester United

Attendance - 24,571 (2,608 MUFC fans)