UPDATE 1-Soccer-Ronaldo sends United clear as Chelsea stumble

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By Martyn Herman

LONDON, March 19 (Reuters) - Manchester United opened up a three-point lead at the top of the Premier League after beating Bolton Wanderers 2-0 on Wednesday.

The prolific Cristiano Ronaldo inspired the Reds to a fourth consecutive league victory with two classy first-half goals to take his tally for the season to 33.

In a rip-roaring London derby at White Hart Lane, Chelsea led three times against Tottenham Hotspur but were held 4-4. Joe Cole's double looked to have earned Chelsea the points before Robbie Keane struck with a superb 88th minute equaliser.

Victory would have put Chelsea level on points with Arsenal but they still trail the Gunners by two points and reigning champions United by five in a thrilling title race.

Ronaldo was captain for the night at Old Trafford and the Portuguese winger repaid manager Alex Ferguson's faith with a masterful display to see off struggling Bolton.

He crashed in his first after nine minutes following a corner and tormented Bolton again after 20 with another swerving free kick to add to his collection.

His double means he has now surpassed the 32 goals scored by George Best in the 1967-68 season, the highest season's tally for a United winger.