Ballack header gives Chelsea the edge at break

Chelsea 1 Manchester United 0

Michael Ballack boosted Chelsea’s title hopes with a first-half header at Stamford Bridge.

The Germany captain was left unmarked at the far post to head home Drogba’s cross in the 45th minute.

Joe Cole had rapped the United crossbar earlier in the half while United, who lost defender Nemanja Vidic with a facial injury, failed to test Petr Cech at the opposite end.

Chelsea went into the game needing a win to draw level on points with United.