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LONDON, England -- Midfield duo Frank Lampard and Michael Ballack scored either side of halftime as Chelsea claimed a regulation 2-0 win at Sheffield United in the Premiership on Saturday. Champions Chelsea returned to the top on 25 points, but their tenure was shortlived as Wayne Rooney hit a hat-trick as Manchester United triumphed 4-0 at third-placed Bolton to reclaim the lead. Chelsea had a few early scares -- third-choice goalkeeper Hilario saved a penalty -- but were eventually comfortable winners. United, seeking their second win of the season, missed a great chance to take the lead in the 17th minute after Chelsea striker Didier Drogba was ruled to have hauled down Claude Davis. However, Hilario had little difficulty saving Danny Webber's under-hit spot kick. That made it three misses from three penalties for the promoted club this season and with just for goals to show from their first nine games, the lowest in the division. Chelsea broke through two minutes before the break when United keeper Paddy Kenny, who had brilliantly saved a Lampard header moments earlier, horribly misjudged a 25-metre free kick from the England player. Lampard turned provider four minutes after the restart, crossing to the back post for Ballack to climb high and head home strongly for his second goal in consecutive league games. Chelsea, who visit Barcelona in the Champions League on Tuesday, were able to cruise home from then on. Lampard is hugged by Dutch team-mate Arjen Robben after firing Chelsea ahead. FOOTBALL MAILBAGFOOTBALL MAILBAG |