Last night there were eight Premier League fixtures and a number of talking points. Manchester United claimed a 1-0 victory over West Ham at Old Trafford.

The only goal of the game came after just 53 seconds, from a deflected Robin Van Persie effort.

The victory kept United top of the Premier League table. Champions Manchester City are just a point behind after winning 2-0 at Wigan.

The game was a close affair until the 68^th minute. Gareth Barry’s effort was fumbled by Ali Al Habsi and controversial Italian striker Mario Balotelli scored at the second attempt, after the Oman keeper had kept out his first shot.

City wrapped up the points shortly afterwards, substitute James Milner producing a superb curling effort which left Al Habsi with no chance.

Elsewhere, Chelsea drew 0-0 with Fulham at Stamford Bridge. New Chelsea boss Rafa Benitez has now overseen two consecutive blank scorelines and will be under-pressure for his team to perform better. Fulham full-back John Arne Riise spurned the visitor’s best chance and much-maligned Fernando Torres missed the home side’s best opportunity.

The draw means that although the Blues move up to third in the Premier League table they are now seven points behind league leaders Manchester United.

Elsewhere, Champions League chasers Everton and Arsenal drew 1-1 at Goodison Park. The Gunners took the lead with less than a minute on the clock, winger Theo Walcott’s effort hitting Everton full-back Tony Hibbert and beating Toffees keeper Tim Howard.

Everton grew into the game and got their reward in the 28^th minute. Just returned from suspension, Belgium international Marouane Fellaini struck a superb curling effort from the edge of the area. Both sides had their chances but neither could find a winner.

Other Premier League results:

Southampton 1-1 Norwich

Stoke 2-1 Newcastle

Swansea 3-1 West Brom

Tottenham 2-1 Liverpool

Can Manchester City overturn United’s slender lead at the top of the Premier League?