Sven Goran Eriksson’s reign as Manchester City manager appears to have already borne fruit as his side emerged worthy winners in the derby over Manchester United at Eastlands on Sunday. Handicapped by the absence of key players in the form of Wayne Rooney and Cristiano Ronaldo, United struggled to convert although they had plenty of chances.

This is Manchester United's worst beginning to the Premiership since the 1992-93 season. That year the team clinched the Premiership and Sir Alex Ferguson will be hoping his side recovers quickly from this disastrous beginning.

Early in the Eastlands derby, it was Manchester United who dominated all possession. New boy Nani was especially rampant all over the midfield and forced City keeper Kasper Schmeichel into effective two crucial saves.

Manchester City struggled to create chances and saw little of the ball early on; such was United's dominance. However City's luck turned in the 31st minute when Geovanni's shot was deflected into the goal off Nemanja Vidic.

Surprised at this turn in fortune, City hung on for the rest of the half and were laid-back in the second half as well. Carlos Tevez came close to scoring, but his header flew well wide. For City, Micah Richards was the star once again as he gamely defended for his life.

Manchester United are winless after three games, while Manchester City have made a great beginning under new owner and new manager, registering three wins out of three games. United next face Tottenham in a must win game, while City take on Arsenal over the weekend.

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