Man United thrash Chelsea 3-1

Alex Ferguson's team have spent the close-season licking their wounds after being pipped to the title by the Blues, but they underlined their determination to regain the crown with a ruthless display in the annual curtain-raiser to the English top-flight season.

A first half goal from Antonio Valencia put United in front and new signing Javier Hernandez added the second after the break.



Salomon Kalou got one back for Chelsea, but Dimitar Berbatov's late strike ensured United have the early momentum heading into the new campaign.

Berbatov's goal was the product of a 20-pass move.

"It's my first goal of the season, so it's a really good day," said the Bulgarian.

"Now we will celebrate and wait for our first league game against Newcastle next week. We have a great team spirit, we are like one big family."

This may have been no more than a glamourous friendly, but there was definite edge to the match as these two old rivals tried to land a psychological blow ahead of the Premier League kick-off on Saturday.

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