by Our Sports Desk

MANCHESTER UNITED produced the ultimate smash-and-grab victory at Anfield as Wayne Rooney’s 78th-minute goal decided a game barely befitting England’s two most decorated clubs.

While Rooney was the match-winner with the visitors’ only shot on target, David de Gea was the man who made the 1-0 win possible with a string of saves and was the far busier of the two goalkeepers.

Wayne Rooney was delighted to score the winning goal, taking his Manchester United tally in the Premier League to 176 — more than any player has managed for one club.

“I think everyone knows the importance of this game, regardless of positions,” he told Sky Sports.

“It is a massive game for both football clubs, for the fans and it was a great victory. It’s three points we needed to continue this start to the year. It’s a massive victory for us.

“Obviously it’s great to have records but I don’t think that’ll beat the feeling I’ve got now.

“I scored the winning goal at Anfield it has been a long time since that happened for me — my first year at United — so I will be a bit selfish today and enjoy that more than most.”

Rooney’s goal proved decisive but goalkeeper David de Gea was named man of the match after a fine display.

“They had some chance but we defended really well,” he said. “After that, Wayne scored a fantastic goal and we beat Liverpool.

“I hope that victory gives us a lot of confidence and hopefully we can get three or four wins in a row. That is what we want.”