A deflected shot by Juan Mata gave Chelsea a victory at champions Manchester United which moves the Blues up to third in the Premier League table. Before the goal Oscar came close for the visitors but his shot was palmed on to the post by goalkeeper Anders Lindegaard before Robin van Persie fired one just wide for United. The match seemed to be heading towards a goalless draw but Mata's shot on 87 minutes took a deflection off Phil Jones before going in off the post. A few seconds later United's Rafael was sent off for kicking fellow Brazilian David Luiz.
Chelsea appeared more determined at the start of the match and Demba Ba was the first to come close but he headed Mata's cross over the bar. Another cross from the Spaniard found Ba at the far post but his finish was disappointing. Oscar came the closest when his shot was diverted onto the post by Lindegaard while Victor Moses squandered a good chance for the Blues. United replied through Van Persie who went close twice before half time.
The second half didn't bring too much action in the two penalty areas but Chelsea were rewarded for their effort with three minutes left when Oscar set up Mata who fired one in with a bit of luck as the ball hit both Jones and the post before going in. Rafael then ended all hopes of a comeback as he produced a cynical challenge on Luiz and was justly sent off.
The Blues are now three points in front of fifth-placed Tottenham, who they play on Wednesday. If Chelsea win that game it should almost guarantee them a top-four place. Here are the odds for that big match at Bet365:
Chelsea win - 10/11
Draw - 13/5
Tottenham win - 3/1
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