Memorable Manchester Derby Goals

Manchester is a city with a deep-rooted love of sports. Visit any park on a Saturday morning, and you'll see scores of young children practicing and playing football. They enjoy the game at the grassroots level but dream of making it all the way to the English Premier League and following in the footsteps of their heroes. Only a small percentage of youth and amateur players make it to the EPL, and even fewer play for Manchester City or Manchester United, but that doesn't stop them from dreaming.

Manchester has more to offer sports fans than football and the city's two largest clubs. It also has a bustling boxing scene thanks to the efforts and achievements of former world champion Ricky Hatton. The Hitman helped drag the Manchester boxing scene into the spotlight, and for a while, it was the centre of the universe for fight fans. Manchester boasted warriors like Ricky and Mathew Hatton, Michael Gomez, Anthony Farnell, and plenty more. Ricky's son, Campbell Hatton, is now a professional fighter as he entertains a new generation of fans.

Who is your favourite athlete from Manchester, past or present? There are certainly more than a few to choose from. Trawl the sportsbooks advertised at vegasbetting.com, and you'll find a long list of successful teams and players with a Manchester connection from football and boxing to MMA, athletics, cricket, motorsports, and more. The sports scene in Manchester is in great shape, and there are no signs of weakening anytime soon.

Clash of the Titans

We already know what Manchester has given to the sports world. The city's most talented athletes have flown the flag on the global stage, taking on the best opponents from across England, the United Kingdom, and internationally with great results. But there's magic in the air when we see Manchester take on Manchester. It often happens in many popular sports, but it is most famous when Man City and Man Utd lock horns.

The bickering Premier League neighbours have served up some memorable and fierce battles over the years, including the 2023/24 FA Cup final at Wembley. That was a thrilling encounter at the national stadium to decide the winner of the campaign's final piece of silverware. City and United players stepped up to the plate, ensuring the game surpassed the pre-match hype, putting on a show as the eyes of the world fell on Wembley, London.

Saturday's FA Cup final got us thinking about some of the best goals scored in the Manchester derby, loved by many as one of the best derbies in modern sport, alongside the Merseyside derby, Old Firm Derby, Milan derby, and El Classico. Keep reading as we walk you down memory lane, reflecting on some of our best goals scored in the Manchester derby over the years. Can you spot your favourite?

Wayne Rooney's bicycle kick

Wayne Rooney's stunning bicycle kick in the 2010-2011 season is often heralded as one of the greatest goals in Premier League history, let alone the Manchester Derby. The goal came in the 78th minute, with the score level at 1-1.

Nani crossed the ball from the right, and Rooney, positioned just inside the penalty area, executed a perfect overhead kick. The ball flew past a helpless Joe Hart into the top corner of the net. Rooney's balance, timing, and precision were immaculate, making this goal a masterpiece of athleticism and technique. 

Rooney's wonder goal secured Manchester United a 2-1 victory and became a symbol of his career and knack for delivering in crucial moments that swung the game in United's favour. In his prime, Rooney could win points almost single-handedly.

Shaun Goater's derby double

Shaun Goater's performance in the 2002 derby was legendary, particularly his goal that put City ahead 3-1, sealing their first derby win in 13 years.

City had already taken a 2-1 lead when Gary Neville's poor back pass allowed Goater to intercept the ball. Goater calmly rounded Fabian Barthez and slotted the ball into the empty net. His composure under pressure highlighted his striker's instinct and ability to capitalize on defensive errors.

Goater's goals that day, especially this one, endeared him to City fans and etched his name in derby folklore. The match ended 3-1, marking a memorable victory for City at Maine Road.

Michael Owen's injury-time winner

Michael Owen's last-gasp winner in the 2009 derby is one of the most dramatic moments in the history of this rivalry.

The game was already an epic contest, tied at 3-3 as it moved into injury time. Ryan Giggs, showing remarkable vision and precision, threaded a pass through the City defense. Owen controlled the ball brilliantly and, with his second touch, placed it beyond Shay Given into the net. The goal showcased Owen's predatory instincts and finishing prowess.

The goal came in the 96th minute and ensured a 4-3 victory for United. It was a statement of intent in the early stages of the season and a memorable highlight in Owen's stint at United.

Paul Scholes' late header

Paul Scholes' header in the dying minutes of the 2010 derby at the City of Manchester Stadium was a classic moment of individual brilliance and timing.

With the match seemingly heading towards a goalless draw, Patrice Evra whipped in a precise cross from the left. Scholes, renowned for his technical ability and reading of the game, timed his run perfectly and directed a powerful header into the bottom corner.

The goal came in the 93rd minute, securing a crucial 1-0 victory for United. Scholes' knack for scoring important goals was evident, and this particular goal was critical to keeping United's title hopes alive that season.

Vincent Kompany's bullet header

Vincent Kompany's header in the 2011-2012 season was not just a great goal but a defining moment in Manchester City's history.

The stakes were incredibly high; both teams were vying for the Premier League title. City won a corner just before half-time. Kompany rose above the United defense and powered a header past David De Gea. The precision and power of the header exemplified Kompany's aerial prowess and leadership.

The goal proved to be the match-winner in a 1-0 victory. It was pivotal in City's push for their first Premier League title, as they eventually edged out United on goal difference to win the league.