Manchester United recorded a 3-1 victory over West Ham United at Old Trafford this afternoon.
First-half goals from Danny Welbeck and Adnan Januzaj put the hosts in command, before Ashley Young sealed the outcome after the restart.
West Ham also got themselves on the scoresheet courtesy of substitute Carlton Cole in the closing stages.
Below, Sports Mole has looked back over the clash to determine if the result was a fair one.
Match statistics:
Man United:
Shots 21
On target 8
Possession 62%
Corners 8
Fouls 7
West Ham:
Shots 4
On target 1
Possession 38%
Corners 2
Fouls 16
Was the result fair?
On occasions United have been deservedly beaten in front of their own supporters this season, but this time had they not have claimed all three points it would have been a real travesty. They dominated proceedings from the first whistle and arguably could have scored even more with a combination of more luck and better composure in the final third.
Man United's performance
It was a 'United of old' display from the champions today. The goals in the first half - both of which were well worked - settled the team down and from that moment on they passed the ball around the pitch with some real authority. At the moment, David Moyes's men look a side that is full of confidence and what's more, they appear to be threatening with every venture forward. There is still plenty of work to be done that's for sure, but it was easily United's best performance at Old Trafford this term.
West Ham's performance
With the tactics deployed by Sam Allardyce, a 0-0 draw was the best result that West Ham were ever going to get. They showed very little ambition and in fact their only shot on target resulted in a goal. Granted they may not have a wealth of options, but United have shown in recent weeks that they are vulnerable, especially at Old Trafford. The one regret for the away fans is bound to be that their team didn't put up much of a fight in an attacking sense.
Sports Mole's man of the match
Phil Jones: The likes of Wayne Rooney, Welbeck and Januzaj will rightly be credited for lively displays, but Jones was effective throughout the 90 minutes. He sat in front of the United back four and made a host of challenges and blocks at crucial times. What's more, he also used the ball effectively and started numerous counter-attacks with accurate passes. He may not like playing in the midfield, but he's extremely comfortable in that position.
Biggest gaffe
Januzaj lit up the first half on occasions, but he must cut out his diving antics. On this occasion it appeared that he anticipated some contact from James Collins, but none came. Even so, the United youngster theatrically threw himself to the ground and was rightly booked for the offence. For someone so talented, it's a needless act.
Referee performance
In truth there was not too much for Michael Jones to do, although he did have to get his yellow card out to caution a few late West Ham challenges. Also, he correctly booked United youngster for the offence mentioned above. All in all it was a solid outing for the man with the whistle.
What next?
Man United: The champions are on the road on Boxing Day when they travel to the KC Stadium to take on Hull City.
West Ham: The Hammers return to home comforts on the same day when they play host to Arsenal.
Liam Apicella
