Manchester United revived their hopes for a top four finish after edging out rivals Manchester City 1-0 in Sunday’s Premier League match at the Etihad Stadium.
The loss raised serious doubts over whether City themselves will be in contention for Champions League football next season.
Marcus Rashford scored the only goal that decided the derby and with it made history as the youngest scorer in the history of the Manchester derby.
Just like he did against Arsenal one month ago, the 18 year old Rashford was at his best demonstrating great skill to beat Martin Demichelis to the ball and slide home the winner in the 16th minute.
Earlier before the goal came, Rashford nearly won a penalty for United after Demichelis brought him down inside the City box.
This was an important win for under fire United manager Louis Van Gaal whose position has been a subject of speculation with reports at the weekend that United have agreed a deal with Jose Mourinho.
The victory not only gives Van Gaal some breathing space, it also keeps alive their top four hopes.
For City, it was yet another disappointing result that was made worse after goalkeeper Joe Hart was carried off early in the first half.
Hart joins a long injury list at City which also has team captain Vincent Kompany.
City have been on a downward trend since it was announced that Pep Guardiola will be replacing Manuel Pellegrini as they have won just three of their 11 fixtures since then.
Leicester City moved closer to winning the title after stopping Crystal Palace 1-0 and with it registered their third win in a row.
Leicester moved five points clear at the top and will win the league title if they come triumphant in their next six matches.
Arsenal hit Everton 2-0 to stay close to the leaders and with it revived their title hopes though they still have to work harder in the coming weeks.