Manchester City versus Chelsea at the Etihad on Super Sunday - a battle of the two teams who combined have won six of the last ten Premier League titles - inevitably turned out to be about one man.
Mike Dean.
It was his awarding of the penalty - leading to City’s fifth goal - after Raheem Sterling was brought down by Cesar Azpilicueta that grabbed the most attention, with Dean going full Travolta in a splendid Saturday Night Fever impression after he saw the infringement, that was inevitably picked up by eagle-eyed commentators.
Watch with amazement as El Deano has the poise and composure of a Strictly dancer, arm stretched, hips ready to girate as his moment of glory arrived.
It seems Dean has however turned himself into a bit of a cult hero. Antics that could be grating have been endeared by numerous supporters; jeers have become laughs.
“I dislike him as a ref but the guys got banter.” @WestHamMad1
“Don't ever change Mike. What a guy!!” @leonwilce
“Mike Dean pilot of the banter bus.” @Twjtter
“I love and hate Mike Dean in equal measure.” @DissectMUFC
“This is Mike Dean's world and we are just living in it.” @ellis_yates
The coolness in which the penalty was subsequently taken allowed Sergio Aguero’s 15th hat-trick for City and a record-equalling 11th in the Premier League.
The ref was even shown cheekily concealing the match ball from hattrick hero Sergio Aguero - the real star of the day - after the final whistle as cameras circled. Dean however missed out on the opportunity to reach for his 100th red card as the game eventually ended with no players dismissed.
Good old Mike Dean. Watch his Fever night and his ball-hiding skills in the footage below.
