This article was first published 13 years ago

Man United make winning start, Chelsea draw

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August 14, 2011 22:44 IST

English champions Manchester United opened their title defence with a 2-1 win at West Bromwich Albion on Sunday while Chelsea could manage a draw only in new coach Andre Villas-Boas' first Premier League match.

United opening the scoring in the 13th minute when Wayne Rooney combined well with winger Ashley Young before sending a left-footed shot into the bottom right corner.

The hosts levelled through debutant Shane Long, who made the most of United keeper David De Gea's lack of conviction, before Young masterminded a winner that West Brom defender Steven Reid deflected into his own net in the 81st minute.

Ashley YoungUnited did what none of their main rivals could this weekend after Chelsea drew 0-0 at Stoke City on Sunday and Arsenal and Liverpool also managed a point only in their openers on Saturday. Manchester City host Swansea City on Monday.

Injury woes

Manchester United defender Rafael will be out of action for around 10 weeks after dislocating his shoulder in training ahead of the champions' Premier League opener at West Bromwich Albion Sunday.

"The Brazilian full back suffered the painful injury at Carrington (training ground) and will be out for some time with Chris Smalling taking on the right back role at The Hawthorns," United said on their website.

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