Jose Mourinho yesterday explained his team's recent inconsistencies by saying that in football sometimes two plus two equals five. But after this emphatic win, simple mathematics dictate that merely avoiding defeat by Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on April 29th could give Chelsea a second successive title. If United drop points in their three games between times, it could be over before that.

This was a performance that underlined Chelsea's worthiness as champions. Trailing to James Collins's 10th-minute header and down to 10 men after Maniche was dismissed 10 minutes later, Chelsea put in a dominant display deserving of their position.

"We were losing 1-0 and there was a straight red card but the team was focused on getting three points," said Mourinho. "When we had 10 players, I think it looked like we played with 12. I am really pleased with the players.

"The spirit was amazing. No fear. Playing with 10 men to win, because we wanted to win the game and I think the character of the players was unbelievable. It is possible (to clinch the title against United) but for me the occasion is having the trophy in my hands again. For me that's what is sweet."

Such was the resolve of the Chelsea team that defeats by Middlesbrough, Barcelona and Fulham in the past two months and the drab goalless draw against Birmingham last time out were instantly forgotten.

Chelsea's irrepressibility was embodied in one man more than any other. Didier Drogba had invited opprobrium in recent weeks with his admission he is given to diving. His response was to score a goal, set up another and work tirelessly.

It would be disingenuous to suggest Chelsea won only because of West Ham's deficiencies but the visitors were weak in midfield and, despite the man advantage, left Dean Ashton isolated up front.

Alan Pardew bemoaned his side's lack of fizz and admitted they may have been distracted by the FA Cup semi-final they face in two weeks. But it will come as no great comfort that the prize for that match could be a third heavy defeat by Chelsea, another FA Cup hopeful. If they maintain this level of performance, another simple equation will be Chelsea's double.

Guardian Service