Manchester United finally conceded a goal after 14 league matches but that did not stop them from moving seven points clear at the top of the Premier League table with a hard fought 2-1 win over Blackburn on Saturday.

United dominated the proceedings early in the first half with Cristiano Ronaldo and Nani looking dangerous on the wings. Ronaldo curled in a superb ball into the penalty area though Ryan Nelsen put in a brilliant challenge to hook the ball clear with Wayne Rooney patiently waiting at the far post for a simple tap in.

The England international finally got his goal in the 23rd minute when he raced forward to meet Nani's through ball and though Nelsen got in a foot, he was unable to prevent Rooney from putting United in the lead.

Just when it looked as if United will be cruising towards a victory, Blackburn equalized in the 32nd minute when Roque Santa Cruz held off the challenge from Rio Ferdinand before slotting the ball past Kuszczak.

Blackburn went close to taking the lead minutes later when Nelsen headed a corner on to the post while Diouf was unable to convert on the rebound. United made them pay for the missed chance 15 minutes into the second half when Ronaldo smashed home a superb free kick to restore United's lead.

The visitors had a penalty appeal turned down late in the game as United hung on to claim all three points from the game to move seven points clear of Liverpool at the top of the table.