City’s 2-1 win last night with a late Sergio Aguero goal left United 12 points ahead of their rivals and still more than likely to claim their 20th domestic title title with seven games remaining.
With a win they could have made the deficit a cushy 18 points.
“If you look at our history over the years we always make it difficult for ourselves,” said United manager Alex Ferguson, refusing to allow complacency from his players.
“The supporters are hanging on the edge of their seats every year. It is a 12-point lead, we go to Stoke at the weekend and we will have a go.”
Mancini on the other hand will take the win, but has given up the premiership fight.
“We know we can win the title next season but this year we made some mistakes,” the under threat City manager conceded.
“It is unfortunate, we can do nothing. This season the title is gone.”
United went behind to a James Milner goal before a quick equaliser through an own goal from City defender Vincent Kompany.
A cracking winner came in the 78th minute through Argentine Aguero.