Ronaldo puts United a step away from title

Cristiano Ronaldo was in a belligerent mood against the Hammers who were hammered 4-1 at the Theatre of Dreams. He helped himself to a couple of goals and took his season tally to a staggering 40 goals of which 30 have been in Premier League. This record speaks volumes of this star who still has 2 games left in this season and when he adds goals to his tally that will help United add some Silverware to their Cabinet.

Manchester United took on West Ham at Old Trafford knowing that they had to win to put pressure on Chelsea. They were up against a team who had beaten them in their last 3 meetings and when they met earlier this season at Upton, Ronaldo scored early and then missed a penalty in the second half and the Hammers went on to win 2-1. So the Red Devils had to get past the ghost of past memories and it was done with some style by the Champions. With Rooney and Vidic watching from the players box, Ronaldo cut inside from the right wing and smashed the ball which went in off a slight deflection. United were in control and it was Ronaldo again who just converted a ball from Hargreaves with his thighs. That was number 40 for the Dazzler from Madeira. And then it was time for former West Ham boy to get into the party, Tevez smashed a scorcher from nearly 30 yards. United were in dreamland with the score at 3-0 but they came back to earth when Ashton's scissor kick changed the score.

Then came the moment of madness, Nani reacted to some comments from Lucas Neil and reacted by head butting him. The referee after consulting with the linesman sent him off. United were a man down with a half still to go. In the second half United were keeping the ball well and when Carrick's shot was deflected in, the match was done. Ronaldo was replaced to a thunderous applause. United then saw off the match comfortably by keeping the ball well and even had some chances to score. At the end it was job well done by the team who took a lap of honour as it was their last game of this season at Old Trafford.

Ronaldo was the star of the day and his joy was doubled when Betfred boss "Fred Done" said he will donate £50,000 to charity to celebrate Ronaldo's 30 goals.

Click here for the goals

1-0 Ronaldo

2-0 Ronaldo

3-0 Tevez

3-1 Ashton

4-1 Carrick

Nani Red card

Highlights

First Half

Second Half