Manchester United too good for Sunderland

LONDON: Dimitar Berbatov scored twice as Manchester United emerged from the grip of an icy winter to beat Sunderland 2-0 at Old Trafford and consolidate top spot in the Premier League on Sunday.

The Bulgarian marksman headed Alex Ferguson's unbeaten table toppers in front after five minutes and struck again with a deflected effort after the break as United moved to 37 points from 17 games at the start of a hectic holiday programme.

Berbatov now leads the league's scoring charts with 13 goals, one more than former United striker Carlos Tevez who bagged two for Manchester City as they went second with 35 points from 19 games thanks to a 3-1 victory at Newcastle United.

Arsenal can move back above City on goal difference with a win over fourth-placed Chelsea on Monday.

Bolton Wanderers are up to fifth after a 2-0 home triumph over West Bromwich Albion. Stoke City are eighth following a 2-0 victory at Blackburn Rovers.

Carlton Cole was another striker in form, grabbing two goals for West Ham United as they won 3-1 at Fulham to climb off the bottom of the table, above Wolverhampton Wanderers who were beaten 2-1 at home by fellow strugglers Wigan Athletic.