Rooney strike sends United ten points clear at the top
Rooney scores only goal
By Chris
February 3 2013
A second-half strike from Wayne Rooney handed Manchester United a crucial 1-0 victory at Fulham in Saturday's tea-time kick-off. His 78th minute goalensured that the Red Devils opened up an impressive ten point lead at the top of the Premier League.
United snatched the points as Rooney latched onto Jonny Evans's long ball and dispatched a fine finish beyond the reach of Mark Schwarzer.
The goal settled a lively contest, which was at one point interrupted by floodlight failure and in which both sides hit the woodwork and had a host of excellent opportunities.
Both teams adopted an attacking mentality and went close in the opening period. Patrice Evra's shot came back off the woodwork and Rooney's follow-up was bundled off the line as United sought to break the deadlock.
The Cottagers also went close as John Arne Riise and Bryan Ruiz both had chances, with the latter hitting the woodwork, before Brede Hangeland almost headed into his own goal before Rooney hit the post.
After a brief interlude due to floodlight failure, the game increasingly looked to be heading towards a goalless draw as neither side, despite attacking intent, could find a way through.
However, with 12 minutes to go Rooney struck a fine winner to the delight of the travelling Red Army.
Robin van Persie cleared a Philippe Senderos header off the line in the closing moments as United held on for a crucial three points as Sir Alex Ferguson's men make it 13 league games without defeat.
The result piles pressure on Manchester City as they prepare to face Liverpool on Sunday afternoon at Eastlands. Next up for United is a home clash with Everton before attentions turn to the Uefa Champions League and Real Madrid.
Full Time - Fulham 0-1 Manchester United
Attendance - 25,670