Defending champions Manchester United began the new season with a narrow 1-0 win over new Premier League boys Birmingham in a game that was sedate by their own high standards.

The game showed critics that Man United are likely to struggle this season without the creativity of Cristiano Ronaldo, but Sir Alex Ferguson has insisted that he has adequate resources to cover that loss.

The game itself was a baptism by fire for Birmingham, but much to the delight of boss Alex McLeish, they acquitted themselves very nicely. Early on in the game Antonio Valencia and Nani ran the Blues defense ragged with their penetrating runs, but were unable to provide the killer touch.

Manchester United threatened to score every time they moved forward, but the goal only came in the 34th minute when Nani's cross found Wayne Rooney. The England striker's header bounced off the post, but he was able to take the rebound and tap it in.

It was a palpable relief for the players as well as the fans after the first goal went in and thereafter Manchester United settled down to play some attractive football.

Birmingham reacted furiously charging through the lines and Gregory Vignal headed home only to see Patrice Evra clear off the line.

In the second half goalkeeper Ben Foster affected some decent saves to deny Christian Benitez and United rounded off the day with all three points.