After missing the first half and seeing the replay of Ronney’s goal it seemed as if this would be yet another 1-0 win for the Red Devils. This is of course was not to be. Rooney’s goal was his first outside the penalty area in three years and they seemed as if Chelsea might not have a chance. You can never count out the reigning champions as Lampards free kick in the 40th minute took all of Van der Saar’s experience to keep the ball from crossing the line. He had another chance in the 50th minute at around the same place but fired it straight at the Danish goal keeper for a comfortable save.
The Blues did not have to wait long before they were back in the game when new signing David Luiz, fresh from his stay at Benefica, took full advantage of his half chance and converted a beautiful shot. Carlo Ancelotti must be pleased by the sum he paid for him as he played an influenttial role in Chelsea’s win.
Through the game, although Chelsea trailed for the first half, Chelsea took most of the chances and converted all of the corner kicks. At 62 minutes Chelsea had taken fourteen shots compared to Manchester United only taking four.
Rooney had a great opportunity in the 63rd minute but was called offside by the assistant referee. Wayne did not raise any doubts knowing he was beaten by the offside trap.
Manchester made several changes late in the second half brining off Hernandez to bring in Berbatov and Sir Alex took off Scholes to make way for Giggs.
Late in the game, Chelsea got the chance they were looking for when after a scrappy play they were awarded a penalty kick. Lampard kept a cool head and beat Cech by going high and straight down the middle.
There was a late chance for an equilizer as Rooney delivered a great ball in for Fabio who was unable to place his shot where he wanted.
Manchester started the game seven points clear of Arsenal while Chelsea who were two points behind Tottenham sneaked into the top four for a place in the Champions League. Neither team finishes the end of the season with so called easy games and with Manchesters loss the title race seems even more up for grabs.
