London, England

Premier League leader Manchester United defeated Sunderland, 1-0, for its seventh straight victory, thanks to an own goal by Titus Bramble in the 27th minute at Stadium of Light.

Bramble sent Robin van Persie's shot past goalkeeper Simon Mignolet after it had also clipped Phil Bardsley on its way to the goal, allowing United to escape with a record 25th win in 30 league games.

"The first half we did well, second half we give credit to Sunderland because they gave it a real go. The players have galvanized themselves - the team spirit, the concentration, the focus in every game," United manager Sir Alex Ferguson said after the game.

"That's 25 wins in 30 league games, which is a record. That's all down to the efforts of the players," he added.

The record win helped United keep a 15-point lead over closest pursuer and defending champion Manchester City, which defeated Newcastle United, 4-0, to earn three points.

Carlos Tevez and David Villa gave Roberto Mancini's side a 2-0 first-half advantage before Vincent Kompany and an own goal from James Perch completed City's easy win.

Meanwhile, Gareth Bale inspired Tottenham Hotspur to a crucial 2-1 win over Swansea City that lifted them to third in the Premier League standings.

Bale set up Jan Vertonghen for his seventh minute opener then flicked home a superb 21st-minute effort to increase his side's lead. Michu had given Swansea hope with a 71st-minute header.

The win put the Hotspur to third after Chelsea suffered a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Southampton. Rickie Lambert's 35th-minute free-kick sealed Southampton's victory after an early opener from Jay Rodriguez was cancelled out by a header from John Terry.

In other games, Arsenal crushed Reading, 4-1; Everton downed Stoke City, 1-0; Wigan Athletic beat Norwich City, 1-0; and West Ham United defeated West Bromwich Albion, 3-1.