Wayne Rooney scored one and made two as Manchester United cranked up the pressure on leaders Chelsea with a 3-1 victory at Hull.
But that scoreline more than flattered the champions, who were careless in possession and clueless in the final third. Rooney, though, saved his team-mates' skin.
United were fortunate not to concede a first half penalty for a Wes Brown challenge but took the lead just before the break when Rooney tapped home Darren Fletcher's inviting low cross.
Just when it looked as though United had gained control, Rooney made his one error of the day. His senseless back pass was picked off by Craig Fagan and Rafael Da Silva fouled Seyi Olofinjana in the box. Fagan slotted the spot kick for 1-1.
Then it was all about Rooney's desire to make amends. With Dimitar Berbatov once more seemingly managing not to break sweat, the England man was on his own up front yet he was everywhere as United chased a winner.
And he got his reward when the champions counter-attacked and Hull left-back Andy Dawson could only turn Rooney's driven cross into his own net.
The former Everton man was not done yet either. With Hull throwing bodies forward in search of a late equaliser, Rooney broke on the left and threaded a beautiful pass through for Berbatov to seal the points.
On this evidence, United have a lot to do if they are to win the title and become the first team to do so after losing five games before Christmas. Rooney's performance papered over a number of cracks and Sir Alex Ferguson has some interesting decisions to make when the January transfer window opens.
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