England round-up: Blackburn end United run

Blackburn Rovers FC brought Manchester United FC's eight-game winning streak to an end with a 1-0 English Premiership victory at Ewood Park.

Only goal
Garry Flitcroft scored the only goal with an effort from 12 metres five minutes before half-time following a half-cleared Damien Duff free-kick.

Keane comeback
Ruud van Nistelrooij went close for the visitors after the break, but his best effort on 65 minutes was wide after the striker rounded Blackburn goalkeeper Brad Friedel. Roy Keane made his first appearance since August when he came on for United on the hour mark.

Four points adrift
It was United's first defeat since 9 November, and leaves them third in the table, four points behind leaders Arsenal FC and two adrift of Chelsea FC.

Merseyside derby
Everton FC hold fourth place after drawing 0-0 at Liverpool FC in the Merseyside derby. In a level game neither side created many clear-cut chances, although Everton's 17-year-old striker Wayne Rooney, on as a second-half substitute, saw a shot deflected on to the crossbar by Liverpool defender Stéphane Henchoz. Liverpool, a point behind Everton in fifth, have now gone seven games without victory.

Christmas fixture rush
However, much could change in the busy Christmas and New Year period, which sees English top-flight teams play three league and one FA Cup game between Boxing Day and 5 January.