Writing was on the wall: Pictures that show how United were set to celebrate title before City's late fightback



As the clock ticked agonisingly toward full time at the Etihad Stadium, Manchester United fans began to believe.

Believe that their side had done the impossible and snatched the Barclays Premier League title from the jaws of their noisy neighbours.

And it wasn't just the supporters who thought the helicopter carrying the trophy was on its way to the Stadium of Light. The boards heralding United as champions were being readied for the presentation.



False hope: Preparations were made to announce Manchester United as champions before their rivals struck

Premature: The stands to hold the Premier League trophy were also constructed at the Stadium of Light

But, 140 miles away in Manchester, as the clock struck 4.52pm, Edin Dzeko headed home to level the score at 2-2.

In Sunderland, the lingering crowd held their collective breath, the full-time whistle long since blown.



But just three minutes later, Sergio Aguero burst into the box, took aim and fired the ball into the net to complete an incredible comeback.



Mixed emotions: Manchester United fans celebrate (above) but then comes the news from the Etihad (below)

Defiant: One United fan reminds City that his club are way ahead in the Premier League trophy stakes

United's players, who remained on the pitch to await their fate, were informed of the result. Their faces dropped as one.

A sea of misery descended on the South Stand as the news filtered through. One fan remained defiant: 'Big deal 19-3' his sign read, a nod towards the total titles won by the respective Manchester clubs.

Stunned: Manchester United players react to the news that they have lost the Premier League title





So close yet so far: A dejected Sir Alex Ferguson applauds the United crowd at the Stadium of Light

Meanwhile, at the Etihad, City's fans could finally celebrate after 44 years of hurt were wiped away in three stunning injury-time minutes.

Pure delight: Sergio Aguero (right) celebrates scoring the goal that won City the Premier League title At last: City fans celebrate as their side snatch the title from their great Manchester rivals

Party time: Manchester City celebrate their stunning title triumph at the Etihad Stadium



