Manchester United moved to within a point of leaders Chelsea after a Wayne Rooney brace contributed to the 3-0 defeat of West Ham at Old Trafford. Rooney has now scored 27 goals this season and the hitman was ably assisted by Antonio Valencia who was provider for both of the England striker's conversions.
The in-form number 10 opened the scoring with a firm header from Antonio Valencia's excellent volleyed cross just before half time.
If United had looked disjointed in the first 45 minutes they looked more in command after the break and another Valencia cross was headed home by Rooney on 55 minutes.
Before then West Ham had more than held their own without looking dangerous, although Valon Behrami did lash an effort wide.
The visitor's continued to battle bravely but substitute Michael Owen clipped a late third from Paul Scholes's pass.
