Manchester United snapped a nine-year streak without a win at Stamford Bridge by beating Chelsea, as the Red Devils took a one-goal aggregate lead on their Premier League foes in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-finals.

Wayne Rooney might be considered a lightning rod for criticism off the field, but on the field the 25-year-old forward shows flashes of brilliance.

After a hat trick against West Ham United on Saturday, Rooney gave Manchester United a 1-0 lead at halftime, and the Red Devils never looked back. The goal came in the 24th minute after a fine assist from veteran midfielder Ryan Giggs.

Chelsea had opportunities in the first half, but weren't able to capitalize off of them. The best chances came in the 45th minute when Frank Lampard wasn't able to score on two straight occasions.

His first opportunity came when Fernando Torres hit the post, but when Lampard pounced on the ricochet, he directed the ball right at Patrice Evra.

Lampard's second chance came moments later, when he measured up a right-footed blast from just outside the box that was deflected.

In the first half, I think we contained the ball quite well, said Rio Ferdinand, who made the start for Manchester United after being sidelined for months due to injury.

Chelsea had opportunities in the second half, as well.

Edwin van der Sar made a fantastic save off a header by Torres in the 74th minute.

In the dying moments of the match, Ramires went down in the box, and later so did Torres.

Neither was given a penalty, and Torres was booked for a dive. The replay showed Torres was pushed, but how harsh the push was is up for debate.

Manchester United Wayne rooney Wayne rooney Wayne rooney