Rooney extends United run

An inspirational performance from Wayne Rooney saw Manchester United FC claim a ninth successive Premiership victory by defeating Arsenal FC 2-0 at Old Trafford. They remain seven points behind Premiership leaders Chelsea FC after the champions overcame the early dismissal of Maniche to beat West Ham United FC 4-1.

Rampant Rooney
Rooney twice stung the hands of Jens Lehmann in the first half, before taking the ball around the German No1 only to see his goalbound effort touched on to the post by Kolo Touré. Rooney finally found the net on 54 minutes when he controlled a Mikaël Silvestre cross and fired a powerful shot into the left corner to give Lehmann no chance. Rooney was again involved as United made the points safe 12 minutes from time, bursting past Philippe Senderos down the right flank before laying on a chance for Ji-Sung Park to score his first Premiership goal.

Impressive comeback
Chelsea endured a nightmare start against West Ham as James Collins headed the visitors in front and Maniche was sent off for a foul on Lionel Scaloni within the first 16 minutes. Didier Drogba restored parity, finishing at the second attempt just before the half-hour. Two minutes later a close-range Hernán Crespo effort put Chelsea ahead. Despite their numerical disadvantage, the home side continued to dominate, with defenders John Terry and William Gallas completing the scoring.

Fowler present
Robbie Fowler celebrated his 31st birthday with a goal as Liverpool FC defeated Bolton Wanderers FC 1-0 at Anfield. The striker scored the game's only goal with the last kick of the first half, driving a crisp left-foot shot past Jussi Jääskeläinen. Middlesbrough FC midfielder George Boateng scored at both ends as the UEFA Cup semi-finalists lost 2-1 at home to Newcastle United FC, for whom Shola Ameobi got the winner. Meanwhile, it was goalless in the derby between Aston Villa FC and West Bromwich Albion FC, a result which leaves West Brom a point from safety in the relegation zone.