Manchester United moved 18 points clear at the top of the Premier League after a 1 - 0 win over Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.

United took the lead thanks to an own goal from Titus Bramble in the 26th minute. The defender deflected a Robin Van Persie shot across the six yard box into his own net.

The Black Cats struggled to create any meaningful chances and United held firm comfortably to leave Martin O'Neill's side four points above the drop zone with a tough run of fixtures just beginning.