Van Persie double earns United Community Shield

David Moyes got his hands on a first piece of silverware as Manchester United FC manager, as two Robin van Persie goals earned the English champions victory against Wigan Athletic FC in the FA Community Shield.

The traditional curtain-raiser for the English season saw last season's Premier League winners United go ahead just six minutes in through a Van Persie header. FA Cup winners Wigan, relegated to the English second tier at the end of last term, put in an admirable effort before the interval, but were sunk by Van Persie's deflected second in the 59th minute.

"It was a very professional performance," said player-coach Ryan Giggs, who started the game. "The main objective was to get a clean sheet. The first goal was a brilliant goal. It was a great start and we hope Robin van Persie can reproduce his form from last year."

The first goal of Moyes' reign came early, as last season's Premier League top scorer released Patrice Evra on the left, before cruising into the area and guiding a cross from the left-back into the corner of Scott Carson's goal with a delightful header.

Wigan fought back as summer signings Grant Holt and James McClean caused issues for the United defence, but the UEFA Europa League group stage contenders could not find an equaliser before the break.

Van Persie doubled United's lead after Danny Welbeck played in the forward and his low shot flicked in off the body of James Perch. United dominated after the goal, but were unable to add to their tally, nonetheless getting their season off to a winning start as they collected the trophy for the 16th time.