Hernandez: Victory could be pivotal

Javier Hernandez thinks Manchester United’s controversial 3-2 win over Chelsea on Sunday could have a decisive bearing on the destination of this year’s Premier League.

Hernandez struck 15 minutes from time to help United claim their first top-flight win at Stamford Bridge in over 10 years.

The victory extended United’s winning streak to five matches and also narrowed the gap on league leaders Chelsea to just one point.

So having helped his team stifle Chelsea’s comeback with his second-half winner, Hernandez was under no illusions as to how important the three points were to his club.

“This game could have changed the title,” the Mexican said.

“That’s why it was important we didn’t allow them to get ahead.

“It was vital to get the three points at a very tough place. We are in there in the fight to win (the Premier League).”

After a slow start, United have started showing signs they are back to their best.

Ferguson’s team have racked up wins against old rivals Chelsea and Liverpool, and midfielder Michael Carrick believes the team must continue their good record against the top sides when they host Arsenal next weekend.

“It’s important to take points off your rivals like Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal next week,” he said.

“Next week is just as important. It’s a good start to the season.

“We’ve obviously had a couple of defeats but we’ve bounced back and we’re still in a good position, so we can be happy.”

Being a striker, Hernandez was not too bothered about being in an offside position when he scored the late winner.

“I don’t care... the referee counted it,” the 24-year-old said.

“When Robin (van Persie) shot and (Petr) Cech made a great save I went for the rebound and the ball went to Rafael.

“The first thing was to get along the line of defenders because I thought that was where the ball was going to go. Thankfully I reacted well to it.”