MANCHESTER, May 3 (SW) - Manchester United have easily survived the first of two hurdles for the English Premiership titiel, as West Ham United were pushed aside 4-1 at Old Trafford.

Cristiano Ronaldo guided United to a 2-0 lead with goals in the third and 24th minutes, and Carlos Tevez added a third in the 28th minute.

Ashton did get one back for the Hammers, but the final say was for Manchester's Michael Carrick close to the hour mark.

A negative side-effect of this match though, is that Nani's Premiership season is over as result of a red card in the first half.

If Chelsea lose their match at Newcastle United on Monday, the league will practically be decided.

Arsenal meanwhile, were probably not counting on a miracle anyway but now the Gunners know for sure that they no longer have a chance to win this year's Premiership.