A Zat Knight own goal followed by Antonio Valencia’s first goal for United were enough to settle the game and render Matthew Taylor’s late header no more than an inconvenience.
Chelsea’s 2-1 defeat at Aston Villa gave United the chance to return to the summit and the champions – never ones to refuse a chance to kick a rival when they are down – secured victory against a Bolton side that only started playing with 20 minutes remaining.
The champions wobbled late on, but still secured a victory despite Wayne Rooney’s injury-enforced absence, delivering a fine team performance.
Video: