Half-Time Report: Michael Carrick strike puts Manchester United ahead

Half time at the Britannia Stadium sees Manchester United leading Stoke City 1-0 after an early strike from Michael Carrick.

Sir Alex Ferguson's side took the lead after just four minutes when Carrick poked the ball into the bottom corner after a scramble from a corner.

© AP Photos

Minutes later Patrice Evra found himself in space, but his effort went wide of the post.

Robert Huth had Stoke's first real effort of the game on 20 minutes, winning a header in the area, but he could only head wide.

Carrick had another attempt on goal from a corner, but his flicked header went over the bar.

Robin van Persie had an effort on goal after 31 minutes, but Asmir Begovic just kept the ball out at his near post.

Wayne Rooney came close with a free kick on 43 minutes, putting his curled effort just wide of the post from outside the area.

Stoke pushed forward late on in the second half, but United's defence stood firm to ensure they led at half time.