Ricardo Carvalho's header inside the opening five minutes at Stamford Bridge gave Chelsea the perfect start but they were guilty of not killing the game as Shaun Wright-Phillips twice wasted good chances.

Chelsea rode their luck after the break when Boro substitute Afonso Alves could have scored a hat-trick. The 12 million pounds Brazilian signing was twice denied by the woodwork and also missed the target when unmarked in front of goal.

Chelsea have 71 points from 32 games to United's 76. Arsenal are in third place with 70 points. Boro remain 12th and still not safe from relegation. -- REUTERS