Robin van Persie struck a first-half hat-trick to secure the win for United, moving them 16 points clear of local rivals Manchester City with just five games left.

Manchester United's Robin van Persie celebrates scoring against Aston Villa on April 22, 2013 © PA Photos

United took the lead after just two minutes when Rafael da Silva's cross was knocked into the path of Van Persie by Ryan Giggs, allowing the Dutch striker to tap the ball over the line.

Van Persie came close to doubling his side's lead just a minute later when Antonio Valencia's cross eluded Ron Vlaar, but the former Arsenal man couldn't keep his volley down.

Manchester United's Robin van Persie scores his first goal against Aston Villa on April 22, 2013 © PA Photos

Rafael came within inches of adding his name to the scoresheet when he let fly from outside the box, but his shot deflected off the outside of the post with Brad Guzan beaten.

United wouldn't have to wait long for their second, however, as Van Persie thumped a fine volley into the top corner having been found by Wayne Rooney's lofted pass.

Manchester United's Robin van Persie scores his second goal against Aston Villa on April 22, 2013 © PA Photos

Van Persie completed his hat-trick in the 33rd minute when Giggs selflessly gave the ball to the striker, who took a touch before firing his shot in off the post.

Aston Villa almost pulled a goal back just before the break when Gabriel Agbonlahor found space to shoot from the edge of the box, but his effort went narrowly wide.

Manchester United's Robin van Persie scores his third goal against Aston Villa on April 22, 2013 © PA Photos

Van Persie was involved at the other end of the pitch at the start of the second half when he cleared Nathan Baker's header off the line with David de Gea beaten.

Christian Benteke had a good chance to open the scoring for his side just three minutes later when Rooney was caught in possession near his own box, but De Gea was equal to the Villa striker's effort.

Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson during his side's match against Aston Villa on April 22, 2013 © PA Photos

De Gea was called into action again 15 minutes from time when Karim El Ahmadi let fly from 30 yards out, but the United keeper got a fingertip to it to put it over.

Shinji Kagawa should have made it 4-0 soon after when he was found by Valencia's pass, but the United midfielder put his effort over the bar.