We played like champions! Ferguson praises Man United’s performance

Sir Alex Ferguson praised Manchester United for playing “like champions” after the Red Devils came from behind twice to secure a 2-2 draw at West Ham United.

Ricardo Vaz Te gave the Hammers a first-half lead before Antonio Valencia levelled in the 30th minute, with Mohamed Diame’s clinical finish cancelled out by Robin van Persie with 13 minutes remaining.

United’s lead was reduced to 13 points after Manchester City were 1-0 winners against Wigan Athletic, but Ferguson was pleased to pick up a valuable point at Upton Park with five games remaining.

“We had to stand up to a lot but our players kept going,” Ferguson said. “We were behind twice but we came back and I thought we played like champions.

“We were magnificent in terms of our determination and courage to play. We don’t like losing and we showed that again tonight so I was pleased with the result.

“It’s a game closer to the title. We have five left – three at home, two away – and the players are showing they want to win it. There’s no doubt about that. We’ve got a nice cushion with our lead but we don’t want to make any mistakes.”