West Ham secured a fortuitous victory over Fulham in their Premiership encounter with Nolberto Solano grabbing the winner three minutes from time as the Hammers remained in touch for a European spot next season.

West Ham had dominated the chances throughout the game but Fulham put up a spirited defensive display to keep out their opponents for most of the match. However West Ham secured the victory late in the game albeit in a controversial manner when the ball struck Solano's arm before going into the net.

West Ham dominated right from the kick off with Carlton Cole getting three golden opportunities to put his side in the lead. However his first chance went straight to Antti Niemi while he somehow managed to miss the target in his next two attempts.

Fulham first real chance fell to Paul Konchesky in the first half but his effort was saved in style by Robert Green. McBride and Dempsey had decent chances to score for the hosts but their shots were easily saved by Green.

Cole had another chance in the second half but once again headed straight into the waiting arms of Niemi. Fulham's best chance of the match fell to Dempsey when he raced forward into a one-on-one position with Green but only managed to loft the ball straight to Green.

Solano made Fulham pay for the missed chance when he raced forward and tried to snatch the ball from Niemi but the ball hit the Peruvian's elbow before rolling into the next. Fulham players protested vociferously but referee waved away the appeals, sending off Leon Andreasen in the process.

The defeat leaves Fulham deep in the relegation zone and manager Roy Hodgson will be hoping that his side will be able to collect enough points in order to stay in the league for the next season.