There was never really any doubt as Manchester United did what they always do, picking up all three points against Everton to move 12 points clear of rivals Manchester City in the English Premier League.
United, who put out a strong side following Manchester City's disappointing defeat to Southampton, have now as good as been crowned champions, with Ryan Giggs and Robin Van Persie, who else, scoring the two goals in a 2-0 win against the Toffees at Old Trafford.
Van Persie, who missed a glorious early chance, played through Giggs, who made no mistake in slotting the ball past goalkeeper Tim Howard to give the home side an early lead in the 13th minute. The goal continued Giggs' remarkable record of scoring in every single Premier League season.
"We've used up all the superlatives," Ferguson told Sky Sports. "He doesn't need any himself because his legacy lives on. He is a fantastic human being. At 39 years of age he is up and down that pitch all day and has fantastic energy. It is great to see."
The prolific Dutchman then made it 2-0 in first half stoppage time, latching onto a pass from Rafael before rounding the keeper and placing into an empty net.
"I thought I'd make seven changes but when the City result happened yesterday (Saturday) I thought it would be a more important game for us because it gives us a comfortable lead," Ferguson said.
"We knew if we got a result it would put us in a fantastic position. We can make changes later in the season."
The second goal came completely against the run of play, with Everton finding their feet and bombarding the United goal with crosses in the second part of the first half.
"The goal just before half-time made it really difficult for us," Everton manager David Moyes said. "But full credit to the lads, we stuck at it, kept going, never gave in and we are a bit disappointed we never got a goal in the game."
In the early game, Aston Villa received a great fillip in their battle for survival with a 2-1 victory over West Ham. Goals from Christian Benteke and Charles N'Zogbia gave Villa a 2-0 lead, before a late Ashley Westwood own goal reduced the deficit.
With the three points, Villa climbed out of the relegation zone, and are one point clear of third bottom Reading.
