Robin Van Persie scored a dramatic stoppage time equaliser to earn Manchester United a deserved 1-1 draw at home to Premier League leaders Chelsea.

Didier Drogba, 36, playing from the start because Diego Costa was unfit, headed the visitors in front in the 53rd minute from a corner conceded when David De Gea was forced into a fine save from Eden Hazard.

Chelsea seemed likely to hold out but just before the final whistle Branislav Ivanovic was sent off for a second yellow card and from the free kick Thibaut Courtois saved from Marouane Fellaini but could not keep out Van Persie's fierce follow-up.

The draw extended Chelsea's lead to four points over second-placed Southampton and six over champions Manchester City.

 

Chelsea's Didier Drogba celebrates after scoring during their English Premier League soccer match against Manchester United at Old Trafford in Manchester. Photo: Phil Noble, Reuters

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