Rooney twin strike, Suarez handshake snub leave Liverpool red faced

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Manchester United regained top spot in the Premier League with a 2-1 victory over Liverpool on Saturday in a stormy clash marred by fresh controversy stemming from the Luis Suarez racism affair.

Two second-half goals in three minutes from United talisman Wayne Rooney -- playing in his 500th game at senior level -- saw the champions go one point clear of Manchester City, who face Aston Villa on Sunday.

But the early kick-off at Old Trafford was dominated by incidents involving Suarez, who scored Liverpool's only goal in his first start since returning from an eight-match ban for racially abusing United captain Patrice Evra.

Despite assurances from both clubs' managers during the week that Evra and Suarez would shake hands before the kick-off, the Uruguayan caused an unnecessary flashpoint by ignoring Evra's outstretched hand.

Evra angrily grabbed Suarez's arm as the South American walked away, before United defender Rio Ferdinand then snubbed Suarez's offer of a handshake.

The incident was the main talking point of a low-key opening 45 minutes, with Paul Scholes' header from close range the best scoring chance.

However, tempers flared on the stroke of half-time, with Suarez appealing for a foul after being tackled by Ferdinand when through on goal, and later kicking the ball angrily towards the dug-out area.

Sky Sports later reported that police and stewards were called to the tunnel to separate scuffling players from both sides.

When the second half kicked off, Rooney effectively settled the result in a devastating three-minute spell.

The England striker volleyed in his first from close range on 47 minutes after Liverpool midfielder Jordan Henderson inadvertently flicked on a Ryan Giggs corner.

Rooney then made it 2-0 in the 50th minute after a Jay Spearing blunder let in Antonio Valencia. Valencia's pass found Rooney, who coolly stroked his shot past Pepe Reina.

United remained firmly in control for the remainder of the half but a lapse in concentration saw Suarez pull a goal back for Liverpool to set up a nervous final 10 minutes.

Liverpool substitute Charlie Adam swung a free-kick into the United box and when Ferdinand failed to clear, the ball fell invitingly to Suarez, who jabbed home from close range.