Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson hailed his matchwinner Wayne Rooney after their dramatic Carling Cup semifinal victory over Manchester City. The all-Mancunian semi-final was heading for extra time until Rooney popped up to nod home his 21st goal of the season to secure a 3-1 win and complete a 4-3 aggregate triumph over Manchester City.

It might not have been as individual a triumph as his four-goal salvo against Hull on Saturday. But for Ferguson, Rooney's performance was even better.

"It was much better than Saturday," Ferguson said of his number one striker, who played up front on his own.

"I know he scored four goals but tonight his control leading the line and his link-up play was fantastic. Overall it was a wonderful performance - world class."

Ryan Giggs' fateful cross came from the resulting corner, allowing Rooney to confirm hero status and deny City their first Wembley cup final since 1981.

"I know with our deliveries I will get chances and thankfully I took that one in injury time," said Rooney.