Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson praised the Anfield crowd after victory over Liverpool.

Ferguson said he felt the day had gone well.

"Liverpool FC have done a fantastic job," he said. "The fans were terrific. Our fans paid back that respect. I don't think anybody could have any complaints about that part.

"It was a nice touch both captains letting off the 96 balloons. It was a beautiful touch Sir Bobby giving Ian Rush the bouquet.

"It demonstrates that two great clubs can unite and do these things and then get on with the game of football with both teams trying to win.

"It was ferocious and intense. The supporters got behind their teams in the right ways which was great to know. It has been a day for football.

"Both clubs don't deserve anything else. We have to put up with some things when we've come here but Liverpool are nowhere near as bad as some other clubs with this aeroplane stuff.

"We have had to endure that for years and years. It is a sick part of society but it is only a minority from every club. They all have an element who can disgrace their club."