Frank Lampard netted the only goal of the game from the penalty-spot, as the English internationals recent run of good form continued. The spot-kick was a result of a challenge from United skipper Roy Keane, who brought down former West Ham attacker Joe Cole as he ran towards goal.

The Irish midfielder and team-mates protested the decision, but I must be honest it looked a clear penalty. Lampard took full advantage of the chance by sending Tim Howard the wrong way, sending the majority of supporters who filled Stamford Bridge into delight.

In a game which created little chances, United's best attempt came from Ruud Van Nistelrooy. The prolific Dutch forward sent a hard shot towards the Chelsea goal, but his shot was deflected on it's way to goal.

Diego Forlan also had a couple of chances during the game, but United never really had the cutting edge to go on and take the game to Chelsea. Improvements will undoubtedly have to be made if Sir Alex Ferguson's side hope to retain the Premiership crown they lifted at Goodison Park last May.

Arsenal's surprisingly 0-0 stalemate with Fulham at Highbury, where the inspired Edwin Van Der Sar made a number of wonderful saves, meant the new-look Chelsea side went top with this victory. The defeat leaves United 4 points off the top, and the lack of drive shown in this performance against one of our main title rivals was worrying to say the least.

Full Time - Chelsea 1-0 Manchester United

Chelsea: Cudicini, Melchiot, Terry, Gallas, Bridge, Geremi, Cole (Duff 58), Lampard, Makelele, Crespo (Gronkjaer 61), Mutu (Hasselbaink 79).
Subs not used: Desailly, Ambrosio.

Man Utd: Howard, Gary Neville, Ferdinand, Fortune (Ronaldo 72), O'Shea, Silvestre, Giggs, Keane, Phil Neville (Kleberson 77), Forlan, Van Nistelrooy.
Subs not used: Butt, Bellion, Carroll.

Attendance: 41,932.

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