Premier League: West Ham 0 Birmingham 1

Birmingham won a crucial battle against West Ham in their fight against relegation, winning 1-0 at Upton Park on Sunday.

Nikola Zigic headed the winner midway through the second half from a set play, to send Alex McLeish’s side one point clear of the drop zone while also condemning United back to last place on the table.

There were few chances created in the first half, although the in-form Victor Obinna was influential once more for the hosts.

Roger Johnson had the best chance for the visitors on goal, but headed over the bar from six yards out.

West Ham manager Avram Grant was forced to make a late change to his starting line up, replacing the injured James Tomkins with Matthew Upson, but the defender lasted only until half-time.

Sebastian Larsson came on for striker Cameron Jerome early in the second half, and the Swede justified McLeish’s decision when he provided a dipping free-kick which found Zigic at the back post who headed home the winner in the 65th minute.

West Ham substitute Manuel da Costa missed two gilt-edged chances late on – one with the head, one by foot – firing wide on both occasions.

City move to 16th on the table, with a game in hand on their relegation rivals, while West Ham are bottom, two points from safety.