Away to Bolton

It was not a vintage performance, but it demonstrated the art of the being ruthless in front of goal very well. In terms of the number of chances created during the early exchanges, United was not ahead by much, but they finished their moved brilliantly.

Bolton defenses and midfield just could not contain the energy of United on the day, though United had to make an early replacement, putting the more pedestrian-paced Carrick on for the injured - later to a suspected broken foot - Cleverley. It was a typical Kevin Davies challenged coming from the blind side, missing the ball and catching the trailing leg. It looked innocuous, not even warranting a yellow card from referee Andy Marriner, but it was damaging enough never the less.

The opener came under 5 minutes, with Nani providing the low cross from the right and the newly-minted England International, Gary Cahill given a lesson by Chicarito. He was literally turned inside out, not even sure where Chica was. One nil.

The second and third came from Rooney's neat finish with Phil Jones providing the assists, the first being a good cross for Rooney to tap in, and the second, a low drive into the bottom corner, after a mazy Jones run, taking on four Bolton players. Not bad for a big guy. It remained three nil until the interval, although Chica did put the ball into the net the fourth time, but it was flagged off side.

United started the second half slowly, but soon settled back in with two quick goals. The first from Chica, an opportunistic but clinical finish. Nani receiving a long pass on the right touch, took a couple of defenders, and was clipped in the area. Referee played a good advantage, with the ball falling to Carrick after Nani was taken out. His low cross deflected nicely for the pouncing Hernandes waiting at the far post.

Soon after, Rooney completed his hattrick, again thanks to the skill of Nani, drawing the defenders towards his side of the field, creating daylight in the middle of the park for Rooney to receive his cut back. Another low drive to Jaaskelainen right hand corner, and it was five.

That stayed until the end of the game, with United deciding to rest some key players right after. Unfortunately, there were battle scars, with Evans having groin tweak and Evra overstretcthed his knee.

There were uncertain moment at the back with the physical approach of Bolton, but United defenders coped well. Even Rooney chipped in with a couple of vital blocks. De Gea was gaining confidence as the game wore on. Another clean sheet.

Man of the match? Rooney most definitely. His all round game, from defending set pieces and playing his colleague in in the middle of the park and the final third were exemplary. Eight goals in the first four Premiership Games of the season, and two hattrick in a row. He has to be the most in-form player in the League. Looking forward for next weekend game against Chelsea. But in the meantime, there was the matter of the trip to Benfica for the Champions League mid week.