Sir Alex Ferguson lauds Robin van Persie goal

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson has heaped praise on Robin van Persie after the striker's last-minute equaliser in the 2-2 draw with West Ham United in the FA Cup third round.

The Red Devils found themselves 2-1 down at Upton Park before the Dutch forward grabbed a goal in injury time to earn a replay.

Ferguson described Van Persie's first touch and finish as "world class" and praised the 29-year-old's influence on his side since joining in the summer.

"When you're 2-1 down with a couple of minutes left you just hope you get a break," said the Scot.

"But the manner of goal - the pass from Ryan Giggs and first touch from Robin van Persie and his finish - is absolutely world class, absolutely fantastic.

"He's at a mature age now. He's brought that maturity to our front line and his performance after coming on was tremendous."

Van Persie has scored 20 goals in all competitions for United this season.