The latest win over West Ham at Old Trafford brought United one step closer to retaining the Barclays Premier league title. United are now three points clear of Chelsea, who have yet to play their match against Newcastle United on Monday afternoon. In case the Blues fail to win on Saint James Park, a last round draw against Wigan Athletic would be enough to secure the title for a second consecutive season. And in case Newcastle win on Monday, the last round match would have no competitive meaning for Sir Alex Ferguson’s men.

It started off well for United- Ronaldo ended his four games long goal drought with a solo effort in the third minute. The winger picked the ball up on the right and managed to hit the net between Lucas Neill and George McCartney. There was a sigh of relief in the full-packed Old Trafford when Rio Ferdinand and Patrice Evra cleared Bobby Zamora’s header of the line. In the twenty fourth minute Owen Hargeaves crossed the ball towards the back post and Cristiano Ronaldo punished the Hammers poor defending by scoring his second goal of the match. United’s stunning third goal was scored by former West Ham striker Teves with an unstoppable 30-yard shot. United were highly efficient even though main striker Wayne Rooney was absent due to a hip injury. Vidic also couldn’t make the first eleven today but never the less the defense was up to the task. Another goal was scored before half time, but this time on the other side of the field. Mullins assisted Dean Ashton in scoring a beautiful over head kick. Nani was shown a red card just before half time for head butting Lucas Neill. It appears Nani took justice into his own hands after being pushed by the Hammers skipper and earned a suspension for the final round. United had a good result at half time but were a man down. Ronaldo had to cover Nani’s side so Teves was the only man in front in a 4-4-1 formation.

The second half started well for the Hammers. Pantsil’s low cross was cleared by Ferdinand. Parker picked up the rebound but his shot went wide of the goal. Michael Carrick also scored against his former club. His 20-yard shot deflected of Lucas Neill tricking the keeper. At this point of the match United had already secured a win, and both teams were waiting for the final whistle. The Reds comfortably brought the match to an end and are now one step closer to winning the league. The fans were fantastic today; they sung the whole match and helped their team win another important battle. In the end another great performance was crowned with a vital win.