Football world: History of the Manchester Derby
The interesting thing about the Manchester Derby is that it has had a constantly changing dynamic.
Let's explore some memorable matches between Manchester United and Manchester City.
The first meeting between Manchester's biggest clubs occurred in November 1881. St. Mark's (West Gorton) – who would later become Manchester City – hosted Newton Heath LYR – who would later become Manchester United.
Manchester City 6 - 3 United, October 2022
The most recent match between the two sides. United had recovered in the Premier League after a poor start but they were never in this game. City raced into a 3-0 lead very quickly before eventually going 6-1 up. Two goals from Anthony Martial gave the match some respectability from a Manchester United perspective.
Man United 0-1 Man City, April 1974
Did Denis Law really relegate Manchester United? Technically no. United would have been relegated anyway after Birmingham beat Norwich City in their final game of the campaign, United fans sung after the game that they'll be back and they were. The following season saw a Second Division United beat a First Division City.
Man City 3 - 3 Man United, November 1990
Video from United on VHS - YouTube
Coming a year after City's historic 5-1 win over United, the reds were out for revenge but found themselves trailing again. Two late goals from Brian McClair eventually earned United a dramatic 3-3 draw.
One United fan told us: "This was a fantastic game. The character we had on display was perhaps evidence that we were turning into a decent team."
Man United 4 - 3 Man City, September 2009
Was this the greatest of all Manchester Derbies? Not long after signing Carlos Tevez, City travelled to United trying to make a statement that they had finally joined the elite of English football. Seven goals and a Michael Owen winner later, they had certainly arrived but it was ultimately heartbreak on this occasion.
A City fan commented: "I'm still not sure where they got all the added time from in this game. However, we were probably better than them on the day and there were many positive signs."
Man United 3 - 1 Man City, 2010 League Cup Semi Final 2nd leg
City came into this 2nd leg with a 2-1 lead after edging United out in the 1st leg thanks to two goals from Carlos Tevez. United were still favourites to qualify though, and there was a roaring atmosphere inside Old Trafford from both sets of fans. The tie was finally sealed in United's favour when Wayne Rooney scored a last-minute winner.