The much-awaited showdown between league leaders Manchester United and reigning champions Chelsea finished with honours even after a breathless 1-1 Old Trafford draw on Sunday.

Louis Saha, who missed a late penalty in Tuesday's Champions League defeat by Celtic, steered United into a deserved lead after 29 minutes after an astute through-ball from Wayne Rooney.

Chelsea were much improved after the break and levelled when Riccardo Carvalho headed in a Frank Lampard corner in the 69th.

Both sides pressed for the winner but had to settle for a point each to leave United top of the standings on 35 points, three ahead of Chelsea.

Earlier on Sunday, Tottenham Hotspur came from behind to beat Wigan Athletic 3-1 at White Hart Lane while struggling Newcastle United beat fourth-placed Portsmouth 1-0 at St James' Park.