Rafael admits that Manchester United did not perform well in their come-from-behind 2-1 victory over Liverpool yesterday.
Despite having an extra man following Jonjo Shelvey's 39th minute red card, the Red Devils conceded early in the second half when Reds skipper Steven Gerrard fired his side ahead.
But Sir Alex Ferguson's men rallied to level via Rafael's brilliant curling effort five minutes after the opener before Robin van Persie won the game with a late penalty but the Brazilian defender knows it was a below-par showing on an emotional day for both clubs.
"Both clubs have a great history and we had to respect that, then we got the three points, which is so good for us," said Rafael.
"It wasn't a great performance from us but in the last five years we haven't won here so we're very pleased.
"Robin van Persie had to wait a long time to take his penalty. It might make some people anxious but he is a top player and he found the net."
