London, February 25:

Manchester United moved nine points clear of Chelsea at the top of the Premier League after Cristiano Ronaldo scored in the 88th minute for a 2-1 win at Fulham.

Ryan Giggs equalised for United midway through the first half after Brian McBride had put the home side ahead. United have 69 points, while Chelsea are not in league action this weekend.

Also, Robbie Fowler scored two penalties in Liverpool’s 4-0 win over Sheffield United, Charlton beat West Ham 4-0, Everton beat Watford 3-0 and Middlesbrough defeated Reading 2-1.

McBride scored in the 17th minute after United goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar blocked Simon Davies’ shot. Giggs volleyed into the net with the top of his foot in the 29th and Ronaldo fired into the bottom corner off Fulham defender Philippe Christanval.