Phil Jones' second-half winner brought David Moyes some blessed relief and ensured Manchester United's tortuous week ended with the knowledge they will be guaranteed a seeding for the Champions League knockout round draw.
After 280 minutes without a goal, United finally found the net when Jones delivered a powerful finish to Robin van Persie's corner.
It was enough to see off a dangerous Shakhtar Donetsk outfit, who had more shots than their hosts, on and off target, but failed to condemn Moyes to a third straight home defeat.
Jubilation: Manchester United defender Phil Jones (right) celebrates his winner against Shakhtar Donetsk
A scrappy, stuttering and, at times,
unconvincing performance will not be enough to silence United's critics -
in his half-time analysis on ITV former skipper Roy Keane declared
Ashley Young to be not good enough to play for his former club.
And a reminder that Jones' only other European goal came against Basle two years ago in a game that saw United exit the competition at the group stage should at least check those who have conveniently forgotten life under Sir Alex Ferguson was not always straightforward.
More to follow.
Strike: Jones fires home in the 67th minute to put Manchester United one up at Old Trafford
One up: Jones' goal was enough to seal top spot in Group A for Manchester United
Match zone graphic of Phil Jones' goal in the 67th minute
Through on goal: Ashley Young looks to chip the ball into the net
So close: Young looks to the ground after putting his chip over the bar
Under pressure: Manchester United manager David Moyes shouts instructions at his team
First to the ball: Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea (right) clears from Shakhtar Donetsk's Alex Teixeira
Arm out: Shakhtar's Taison (left) holds off the challenge of Rafael
Desperation: Shakhtar's Douglas Costa (left) dives in to deny Ryan Giggs
On the bench: Robin van Persie did not make the starting 11 but came on in the 63rd minute
Tribute: Manchester United and Shakhtar Donetsk stand behind a banner remembering Nelson Mandela
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