United returned to the top of the Barclays Premier League table with a 4-0 victory that was inspired by the imperious quality of Wayne Rooney, who scored all four goals.
Up until the last ten minutes, the performance had perhaps not been completely convincing, but the same could not be said of Rooney’s 90 minutes.
The Reds’ no.10 turned what was a fairly ordinary match into a healthy victory that catapults United above Arsenal and Chelsea, who both play league fixtures in midweek. His first arrived in the eighth minute during a first-half display that was energetic and provided plenty of attacking intent. But United struggled to back it up in the second period, that is until Rooney took matters into his own hands. The final eight minutes were a gold rush for Rooney as he bagged the match ball in brilliant style.
Sir Alex was able to recall Rio Ferdinand for his first match since defeat to Liverpool at Anfield back in October, while Michael Owen and Wayne Rooney started together for only the fourth time in the league.
The United boss made clear that the target on an otherwise free weekend in the Barclays Premier League was to take top spot from new leaders Arsenal. United’s determination to achieve it was clear from the start as Rooney broke through down the left channel and cut the ball back for Owen in the third minute. The United no.7’s shot, however, was deflected wide by Hull captain Anthony Gardner.
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