Giggs - outstanding in the contentious derby win against Manchester City last Sunday - showed his enduring quality by making the decisive contribution to set up a victory Sir Alex Ferguson's side richly deserved. He replaced the infuriating Nani early in the second half and swiftly set up a simple opener for Dimitar Berbatov as United finally transformed their domination into tangible rewards. He then helped settle the match when he sent over a pinpoint free-kick for John O'Shea to head the second with 13 minutes left.It was only what United merited for their emphatic superiority, which they exerted from start to finish as Stoke's normally whole-hearted approach fizzled out long before the final whistle. If Stoke hoped to exploit United goalkeeper Ben Foster, heavily criticised for his uncertain display against Manchester City, they were never given the chance as most of the action unfolded in the Potters' territory and any rare raids were comfortably repelled.
Wayne Rooney was behind all United's early supremacy, but it was the composure and class of Giggs that brought order to proceedings, and three points to United as they leapfrogged Chelsea. He was the difference between wasted approach play and end product as United ran out comfortable winners at the Britannia, a hostile environment that has proved to be hazardous territory for the top four since Stoke returned to the Premier League.
Stoke's fans were subdued, or at least as subdued as they ever will be, as United ensured they were given little encouragement to create the usual cauldron. (BBC Sport)
