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Manchester City logo
Premier League
Dec 9, 2012 at 1.30pm UK
 
Manchester United logo

2-3

Zabaleta (86'), Touré (60')
FT(HT: 0-2)
Rooney (16', 29'), Van Persie (90')

Half-Time Report: Wayne Rooney brace gives Manchester United lead

Wayne Rooney scores twice as Manchester United take a 2-0 lead at half-time.

A first-half brace from Wayne Rooney has given Manchester United the upper hand against Manchester City at half-time in the Manchester derby.

Wayne Rooney celebrates his goal with team mates Ashley Young and Robin Van Persie on December 9, 2012© PA Photos

City started brightly, dominating the possession and having the better of the early chances.

Mario Balotelli took charge of an early free kick for the Premier League champions, David de Gea parrying the effort wide.

David Silva set up the Italian again minutes later, but his volley went well high.

Wayne Rooney slots the ball past Joe Hart to score his second goal on December 9, 2012© PA Photos

The visitors' lead came in the 16th minute through a scuffed Rooney shot which wrongfooted City keeper Joe Hart and slowly rolled into the net.

There was more bad news for the home side five minutes later, when captain Vincent Kompany was forced off with an injury, Kolo Toure taking his place.

Vincent Kompany is substituted for Kolo Toure after picking up an injury on December 9, 2012© PA Photos

Roberto Mancini's men had chances to equalise, Sergio Aguero and Yaya Toure with opportunities for the blue half of Manchester.

The champions were made to pay for their misses just before the half-hour mark when Rooney slotted home his 150th Premier League goal.

Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini on the touchline during the match against rivals Manchester United on December 9, 2012© PA Photos

City will need to take full advantage of their chances in the second half if they are to overturn United's 2-0 lead.

Follow continuing live coverage of the derby right here on Sports Mole.

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Sian Cowper
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Robin Van Persie strikes the ball to score the winner against rivals Manchester City on December 9, 2012
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