LONDON -- Shinji Kagawa's hat trick and a stunning goal from Wayne Rooney maintained Manchester United's march to the Premier League title on Saturday, while Rafa Benitez was spared a fierce backlash from Chelsea fans in the team's 1-0 win over West Bromwich Albion.
United provisionally moved 15 points clear at the top with a 4-0 thrashing of Norwich at Old Trafford, with Japan midfielder Kagawa opening the scoring just before halftime and grabbing two more well-taken goals in the second half.
Rooney garnished the scoreline with a long-distance screamer in injury time as United warmed up for its Champions League match against Real Madrid in style.
Chelsea provisionally moved into third place thanks to Demba Ba's 28th-minute winner, giving Benitez some respite after his midweek tirade against the club's fans.
