Manchester United extended their lead at the top of the Barclays Premier League to 15 points from Manchester City with a routine 2-0 win over Stoke City, who are just three points above the relegation zone.
Michael Carrick put United ahead just four minutes in while Robin van Persie’s second half penalty sealed victory for Sir Alex Ferguson’s men, meaning they can now wrap up the title as early as next Monday’s match against Aston Villa.
It was the perfect start for United as Van Persie’s corner was not cleared by Geoff Cameron and Carrick was on hand to scramble home his second goal of the campaign.
But just as it looked like the hosts would have a chance, United hit them on the break with Van Persie fouled by Wilkinson in the area from Rooney’s 67th-minute pass.
Van Persie confidently took the spot kick, ignoring the wind which had blown the ball off its spot, to fire low and hard to Begovic’s left. United next travel to West Ham on Wednesday and will look to consolidate lead further atop.
Michael Carrick put United ahead just four minutes in while Robin van Persie’s second half penalty sealed victory for Sir Alex Ferguson’s men, meaning they can now wrap up the title as early as next Monday’s match against Aston Villa.
It was the perfect start for United as Van Persie’s corner was not cleared by Geoff Cameron and Carrick was on hand to scramble home his second goal of the campaign.
But just as it looked like the hosts would have a chance, United hit them on the break with Van Persie fouled by Wilkinson in the area from Rooney’s 67th-minute pass.
Van Persie confidently took the spot kick, ignoring the wind which had blown the ball off its spot, to fire low and hard to Begovic’s left. United next travel to West Ham on Wednesday and will look to consolidate lead further atop.