Robin van Persie
Robin van Persie strikes his incredible volley against Aston Villa. Reuters

Robin van Persie scored a thunderous volley to put Manchester United 2-0 up against Aston Villa in the early going of the sides’ Premier League contest at Old Trafford.

Wayne Rooney created the opportunity for the Dutchman with an inch-perfect ball over the top of the Villa defense from inside his own half. Van Persie may have been fractionally offside, but didn’t waste any time checking for a flag and unleashed an unstoppable volley from the edge of the box that soared past American Brad Guzan in the opposition goal.

The goal in the 13th minute was Van Persie’s second of the contest having put United ahead with a close-range finish inside the first two minutes. The goals take Van Persie’s tally to 23 in the Premier League and level with Liverpool’s Luis Suarez at the top of the scoring charts.

It had been a perfect start to the match for United as they look to seal a 20th league title with a victory. Despite still having four games to play after the match, United would take an unassailable 16-point lead over second-place Manchester City.

The points are also important for Aston Villa, which currently sits just one place and three points clear of the Premier League relegation zone.

UNI 2-0 AST by ADSA214

Wayne rooney