Scholes scores in 500th game as United beat Liverpool

LONDON, Oct 22 (Reuters) Paul Scholes celebrated his 500th game for Manchester United in style by scoring the opener in a 2-0 victory over old rivals Liverpool at Old Trafford today.

Scholes, Manchester-born and a product of the United youth system, steered home from close range in the 39th minute to mark a milestone match in the 31-year-old's United career.

England defender Rio Ferdinand scored a rare goal in the 66th minute, superbly bringing down a high ball with his right foot and then driving the ball beyond Jose Reina with his left.

Victory sent United back to the top of the Premier League on goal difference ahead of champions Chelsea, who beat Portsmouth 2-1 at Stamford Bridge yesterday.

Reuters AY DB2011