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Manchester United United had to play more than half the match a man down as defender Chris Smalling was sent off in the 39th minute after collecting two needless yellow cards, having charged down goalkeeper Joe Hart's clearance kick before a reckless foul on James Milner.
“We responded well and defended well [after falling behind],” Rooney told MUTV.
“I felt for long periods of the game we were the better team. We took control of the game with 10 men and created the better chances.
“We were unfortunate not to get anything out of the match and we're disappointed to leave with no points after a great effort.”
After already being suspended for a red card himself, the United captain insisted Smalling will learn from his mistake.
“Chris is disappointed," said the skipper.
"It's tough when you get sent off, especially in a derby and with such a long time to go in the game it made it difficult for the rest of us to hold on. I'm sure Chris will learn from that.”
Rooney maintained that there were positive signs despite City’s fourth consecutive derby win against the Reds.
On Saturday, Manchester United host Crystal Palace at Old Trafford. The match kicks off at 17:00.
