The English premier football leaders Manchester United enjoyed a hugely satisfying match as they beat Everton 1-0 to go five points clear in the Premier League after challengers Arsenal and Aston Villa were held to goalless home draws.
Cristiano Ronaldo's 44th-minute penalty at Old Trafford proved enough to end Everton's nine-game unbeaten run and take the champions to 53 points.
Chelsea and Liverpool, who meet at Anfield tomorrow have 48 points, as do Villa after their draw with Wigan Athletic.
Fifth-placed Arsenal, held to their first goalless home draw for three years by the stalwart defending of West Ham United, have 43 while Everton remain sixth on 37.
