Wayne Rooney's solitary goal turned the spotlight on Manchester United's Premier League rivals after they beat Fulham in a match interrupted by floodlight failure at Craven Cottage.
Fulham ended a run of seven league games without a win as Steve Sidwell and Hugo Rodallega were both on target to beat Newcastle United 2-1 at Craven Cottage.
Chelsea required an 85th-minute winner from Ashley Cole to overcome Stoke City, Rickie Lambert was on target twice as Southampton claimed their first victory, and Hugo Rodallega haunted his old club.
Kevin Nolan, Winston Reid and Matt Taylor were all on target as West Ham United secured a comfortable 3-0 victory over Fulham in the Premier League.
Premier League side Fulham signed Hugo Rodallega on a free transfer on Thursday after the Colombia striker opted not to renew his contract at Wigan.
Clint Dempsey struck a hat-trick as Fulham fought back from a goal behind to hammer Newcastle United 5-2, on-loan Robbie Keane inspired Aston Villa to victory, while Queens Park Rangers secured a vital win.
