The tale of Cloughie clipping a fan around the ear for intruding on the pitch during a game was ‘classic clough’ – something that only he could do, something only he could get away with. Everyone loved him for it – but Craig Bellamy – well he’s not Cloghie and so he maybe harshly was pillored for his alteration with a United fan on Sunday.

In front of 78,000, live to a world wide audience, in a Manchester Derby, the little Welsh fireball decided nobody was interrupting this classic – and gave the pitch invading fan a good slap. His goals weren’t bad either.

Despite this altercation, this game was red hot. Goals, gaffs and Giggs. The senior citizen of United and the Premier League was simply outstanding – you wonder what his market value would be today if he was still in his twenties?£80m? What a legend. He just gets better. The Premier League is the quickest league on the planet, and Giggsy is holding up as strong as ever. The likes of Madrid and Milan must be tempted to make him an offer to play into his forties in the pedestrian environment of La Liga and Serie A.

Manchester City have certainly spent the cash, and their squad looks as strong as anyone’s – but time on the training ground is needed to Gel those boys together. After a good start – they looked open against a top four side. Once firing on all cylinders, City will be a force that is for sure. Robinho can’t even get a start!

Despite the urge to spend – home grown players add an extra edge to these type of games. Giggs and Fletcher were both massively influential on Derby day – both of whom have come from the youth system. It would have been good to see the likes of Nedum Onuoha standing strong for City at the back – just add a bit of City Blood to the array of imports. No defence would have stopped bargain buy and now United hero Owen stealing the show with his exquisite finish – did you see that Mr.Capello? Owen showed he’s still the man for the big occasion. MO showed what’s Special about the Speciali!

The classic Derby was signed off by the contrasting images of the managers. Fergie – who is usually gyrating at his watch whilst chomping away at his gum – was all smiles and cuddles for the officials. Whilst in the other technical area – Mark Hughes looked like steam was about to pour out of his ears, completely enraged by what had just happened, completely bemused that the game was still playing!

It was an absolute classic. This game has ignited the Premier League season. Monday morning in the office has presented some very happy workers, and some that have hibernated behind their laptops. You know who you are!