Wonder goal from Scholes

By Chris,
April 9 2012

Manchester United opened up an awesome eight point lead at the top of the Premier League tree following Easter Sunday’s top-flight action. The Red Devils claimed a 2-0 home win over Mark Hughes’ 10-man QPR, whilst ManCity’s poor form continued with a 1-0 defeat at Ashburton Grove against a resurgent Arsenal.

Wayne Rooney broke the deadlock for United from the penalty spot in some what fortunate circumstances.

QPR’s Shaun Derry was harshly dismissed for a tussle with Ashley Young in the box, though the winger was also marginally offside when he collected a through ball.

Rooney dispatched the penalty from 12 yards, and the visiting Rangers were left with a mountain to climb.

United were dominant for long periods, but took until the 68th minute to score from open play as Paul Scholes drilled home a terrific effort from far out.

Sir Alex Ferguson’s men registered 24 shots and some 65% of the possession as they continued their fine run of form – piling pressure on City to get a positive result at Arsenal.

Roberto Mancini’s men failed – again.

A stunning late strike from Mikel Arteta on 87 minutes handed Arsenal a crucial win. The former Everton midfielder drilled home from 25 yards as the Gunners climbed back up to third in the league table.

Following his side’s defeat, Mancini was left casting doubt over the future of his controversial striker Mario Balotelli at City following his dismissal for a foolish late tackle following a dismal performance.

The results put United eight points clear with only six games remaining. Fergie’s men are now overwhelming favourites to win the league title, and will be big favourites to continue their fine form at Wigan on Wednesday.

Full Time – Manchester United 2-0 Queens Park Rangers
Attendance – 75,505

Manchester United: De Gea, Evra, R. Ferdinand, Evans, Rafael (Jones), Carrick, Young (Giggs), Scholes (Cleverley), Valencia, Rooney, Welbeck.
Substitutes Not Used: Amos, Park, Pogba, Hernandez

Queens Park Rangers: Kenny, Hill, Taiwo, A. Ferdinand, Onuoha, Diakite (Wright-Phillips_, Derry, Taarabt (Smith), Buzsaky, Bothroyd (Campbell), Mackie.
Substitutes Not Used: Cerny, Gabbidon, Young, Zamora