Robin van Persie proved his value on Sunday as the striker scored a hat trick to lead Manchester United's comeback over Southampton at St. Mary's Stadium, 3-2.

Southampton got on the board first with a header from forward Rickie Lambert in the 16th minute, but Van Persie leveled the match seven minutes later with a solid shot from the left side.

The Saints would regain the lead in the 55th minute, with a header goal from Morgan Schneiderlin following a cross from Lambert.

Van Persie's penalty shot was blocked by Kelvin Davis in the 69th minute, but the Dutch striker would make up for it by scoring two goals in the closing minutes to shock the home side.

It was an impressive victory for Sir Alex Ferguson's side as Manchester United were without Wayne Rooney and had goalkeeper David De Gea on the bench.

Van Persie now has four goals for United.

United took 20 shots, with seven on goal, while Southampton took 15 shots with four on target. The Red Devils had the advantage in ball possession at 55 percent.

Southampton face Arsenal at Emirates Stadium on Sept. 15, while Manchester United host Wigan Athletic at Old Trafford.

Southampton 2-3 Manchester United - ALL GOALS... by bwin888

To contact the editor, e-mail: