EPL 09/10: Terry put Chelsea 5 points clear at the top [Video Update]

A John Terry header proved the difference as Chelsea beat Manchester United to move clear at the top of the Premier League.

United set out with a gameplan to frustrate Chelsea’s midfield diamond and exploit the space in wide areas, and for much of a game which contained few clear-cut chances, it worked.

Antonio Valencia had a shout for a penalty after a tussle with John Terry turned down, while Nicolas Anelka’s curling shot at the opposite end forced a smart one-handed stop out of Edwin van der Sar.

The second half followed a similar pattern to the first with Chelsea keeper Petr Cech seriously tested for the first time in the 68th minute when Wayne Rooney’s arcing effort from 25 yards was pushed away for a corner.

But Chelsea made the breakthrough 14 minutes from time when Frank Lampard fired in a disputed free-kick and Terry rose well to guide his header inside the far post, with United appealing for an infringement by Didier Drogba, who flicked a foot out towards the ball, but the goal stood.

The result means Chelsea are now five points ahead of the Red Devils and Arsenal, but Arsene Wenger’s side have a game in hand.