Van Persie marks Fergie milestone with hat-trick

SOUTHAMPTON, United Kingdom (AFP) - Robin van Persie struck twice in the dying moments to complete his first Manchester United hat-trick and ensure Sir Alex Ferguson's side marked the manager's 1,000th English league game with a 3-2 victory over Southampton on Sunday.

Ferguson appeared destined for disappointment on his landmark occasion when United trailed with three minutes of normal time remaining at St Mary's.

But van Persie - who had earlier cancelled out Rickie Lambert's 16th minute opener and missed a penalty after Southampton had again gone ahead through Morgan Schneiderlin - equalised from close range in the 87th minute after Rio Ferdinand's header had struck the post.

Then with the game in stoppage-time, the Holland international met Nani's corner with a near post header that brought the striker's 100th Premier League goal and secured a fortunate win for Ferguson's team.