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Cristiano Ronaldo struck after 75 minutes to deny Derby a sensational draw – and send Manchester United top ahead of Arsenal’s late game.

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Wayne Rooney crossed for Ronaldo to volley home and spare United’s blushes. Ronaldo hit the post in the first half but United had debutant keeper Ben Foster to thank for twice keeping out Kenny Miller just before the break. After scoring the goal, Ronaldo skipped clean through, only to be denied by former United team-mate Roy Carroll. Another goal would have been harsh on Derby, who reacted to a 6-1 drubbing by Chelsea with a performance of dogged resilience against the league’s top scorers. United, meanwhile, were hoping to bounce back in style after going out of the FA Cup to Portsmouth – a match in which they spurned numerous chances.