Manchester United: The Best Moments of Robin van Persie's Early United Career

Jake Nisse@@jake_nisse_BRX.com LogoFeatured ColumnistFebruary 1, 2013

Manchester United: The Best Moments of Robin van Persie's Early United Career

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    In only six months as a Red, Robin van Persie has already looked like a successful transfer, with an EPL-leading 18 goals in 24 games.

    Even with his prior reputation, the Dutchman has exceeded expectations, and United fans couldn't have hoped for a better start to his United career.

    That career has been short, but not short of great moments from the 29-year-old.

    Here are some of the best.

    (All stats and dates used are via ESPN FC.)

First United Goal vs. Fulham: Aug. 25

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    In his first EPL start for United, Van Persie delivered this devastating half-volley to tie the game at 1-1 against Fulham.

    Supplied by Patrice Evra, the Dutchman one-hopped the ball into the back of the net—turning a seemingly harmless attack into a memorable moment.

    The Reds pulled out a 3-2 victory, and their fans were given a nice preview of what was to come from Van Persie.

Hat Trick vs. Southampton: Sept. 2

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    For a second straight week, United won their match 3-2, and Robin van Persie gave fans another reason to think that his £24 million transfer fee was truly a bargain.

    Despite having to play catch-up for most of the game, he put any doubts to rest on this designed set piece play from Nani.

    Van Persie's breathtaking display of dominance single-handedly won the game for United, as he netted three goals and overshadowed the flaws of the defense.

Threading the Needle vs. Tottenham: Sept. 29

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    After weeks of clinical finishing, Robin van Persie proved here that passing was also in his repertoire. 

    This nifty pass to Shinji Kagawa was his first assist of the season and showed the Dutchman's ability as a playmaker.

    Although the Reds couldn't find a tying goal, and fell 3-2, it wasn't for a lack of effort on Van Persie's part, who proved to many that he is not a one-dimensional player.

    (Note: highlight can be seen at 2:05 in video.)

Clinical vs. Chelsea: Oct. 28

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    While it may not be his most impressive goal in a United shirt, Robin van Persie's goal vs. Chelsea was probably his most important at this point in the season.

    Feeding off a driven cross from Antonio Valencia, he powered home United's second goal of the game and helped the Reds defeat first-place Chelsea.

    With major contributions to the other two goals as well, Van Persie's importance to United was showcased on a grand stage.

    (Note: highlight can be seen at 0:30 in video.)

Thrilla' at Villa: Nov. 10

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    After trailing 2-0 against Aston Villa, United pulled out another 3-2 victory, with the help of a Javier Hernandez header.

    Although he didn't score the goal himself, Van Persie's service to the Mexican was perfect, once again showing his ability as a passer.

    His immaculate, in-swung, lobbed pass to Hernandez was enough to give United a late goal, and dramatic win.

    (Note: highlight can be seen at 3:12 in video.)

Derby Day Deflection: Dec. 9

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    Sure, it was a little bit lucky. But at the end of the day, Robin van Persie delivered.

    In a game with high stakes and abnormally high tension, Van Persie delivered a stunning stoppage-time blow to United's crosstown rivals.

    As the ball left his foot and deflected off Samir Nasri's, there was nothing Joe Hart could do but watch as Van Persie's name was etched into United folklore.

Riled Up vs. Swansea: Dec. 23

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    Although no United fan would want to see him be suspended, they'd be lying if they told you they didn't enjoy Robin van Persie's violent confrontation with Ashley Williams.

    After Williams kicked the ball at the defenseless Van Persie's head, the striker showed a side of ferocity and toughness toward the Swansea defender, disproving the stigma that he is nothing more than a pretty boy.

    Plus, it's always a bonus to see Wayne Rooney break up a fight.

Stunner vs. West Brom: Dec. 29

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    Despite only being on the field for 25 minutes, Van Persie had no trouble getting his name on the score sheet in this fixture.

    Following an innocent Antonio Valencia pass, he somehow found a way to do what he continues to do time and time again: make something out of nothing.

    In the 90th minute, the Dutchman beat his man, cut inside and delivered an upper-90, left-footed finish to seal the win for United.

    Better late than never.

    (Note: highlight can be see at 0:32 in video.)

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