Manchester United continued their relentless march towards the Premier League title with a comfortable 1-0 win over hapless Sunderland but there was bad news for right-back Rafael.
The Brazilian started the game alongside compatriot Anderson but was forced off the pitch with just half an hour on the clock.
“Rafael got injured and Jonny Evans got a bit of a knock but carried on. We got a few knocks but Sunderland are fighting for their lives, we have to remember that,” said Red Devils boss Sir Alex Ferguson in the presser after the match.
A Titus Bramble own goal gave Manchester United the win after the Sunderland defender diverted Robin van Persie’s wayward shot past Simon Mignolet in goal.
The win maintains United’s 15-point lead at the top of the table with just eight games left to play.
Title rivals Manchester City secured a 4-0 win over Newcastle but their chase looks doomed as the title race enters the closing stages.
