Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has praised his defence following his side's 1-0 victory over West Ham United in the Premier League.

A first-minute strike from Robin van Persie was enough to seal the points for the Red Devils, with the team's rearguard holding firm throughout.

"Jonny Evans and Rafael were fantastic, so there were plus points tonight," he told Sky Sports News. "There were opportunities to score more goals, so I am pleased with the result.

"If we keep clean sheets from now until January, then it will give us a good foundation to go all the way [to winning the Premier League title]. There were plus points for everyone to see."

The result helped United maintain their one-point lead at the top of the Premier League, with second-placed Manchester City winning 2-0 at Wigan Athletic.

Written by
Mark Langshaw