Manchester United's Unprecedented Title Defense Begins Perfectly

Manchester United began their pursuit of an unprecedented fourth consecutive English Premier League title against Birmingham City on Sunday and a goal from Wayne Rooney proved to be enough as United won 1-0.

After having a the bulk of the possession, Wayne Rooney latched on to a cross from winger Nani heading it onto the post, but with no defender in sight, Rooney coolly tapped in the rebound.

Patrice Evra came up with a wonderful clearance off Ben Foster's line just short of half time. Reacting perfectly, Evra was able to clear the Birmingham City attempt off the line with his head.

The second half saw United claim the majority of the possession while Birmingham City did defend better.

Dimitar Berbatov had a header cleared off the same goal line and came close on two other chances.

The first, a cross from Rooney which was just nicked away from him by the City defender.

The second came off of some brilliant individual skill, but the referee denied him a penalty claim as he had his foot stepped on in the box, preventing him from shooting on goal.

Ben Foster had a rather uneventful game, but came up with the decisive save of the game when City's Benitez found himself free of the defense. Foster pushed Benitez's curling shot wide of the post in the 78th minute to preserve United's 1-0 lead.

Michael Owen found himself alone with City keeper Joe Hart in the dying seconds, but was just unable to lift the ball over Hart.

Shortly after, the whistle blew, giving United the three points and a perfect start to their Premier League campaign.