Soccer:Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini claimed his side's title chances were over despite an unexpected twist in the race for the Premier League crown.

City cut the gap to leaders Manchester United to five points with as many games remaining as they eased to a 4-0 win over West Brom, while their rivals were shocked at Wigan.

United still have to visit the Etihad Stadium later this month, meaning one more slip-up on their part could put City's destiny back in their own hands.

But, despite that, Mancini feels it may be too little too late.

Mancini said: "United are a fantastic team and I don't think they can lose five points.

"For us it is important that we finish this good season for us well. This is the best season since 1968 and this is important.

"I fight always, every day, and also my team but now I think it is too late.

"I think they have fantastic spirit, United. We don't have the same spirit and for this reason I think this is very difficult."

City's defeat at Arsenal on Sunday appeared to signal the end of their title hopes but they showed little sign of demoralisation as they crushed the Baggies.

Carlos Tevez scored his first goal in 11 months while top scorer Sergio Aguero struck twice and David Silva added a fourth.

City led only 1-0 at the interval and appeared to be lifted when news United had fallen behind filtered through, but Mancini joked that was not the case.

He said: "I thought they played tomorrow - only when the game finished I knew they had played tonight."

Aguero was City's outstanding performer but it was Tevez who grabbed the headlines on his first start since his infamous dispute with the club was concluded.

Mancini said: "I am pleased with all the players because it was important to come back and play like one month ago and to score four goals.

"I am happy for Carlos because he scored a goal. He is not ready to play 90 minutes, it is difficult. If Carlos continues to play he can improve his performance."

Tevez started in place of the suspended Mario Balotelli, whose season looked over after he was sent off at Arsenal.

But the Italian has avoided an extended ban for an unpunished challenge on Alex Song in the same game and could now play again when his three-game suspension ends.

Mancini had said Balotelli would not play again this season but on Wednesday night said that was because he assumed the 21-year-old would be punished further.

After initially joking about Balotelli by saying "Mario who?", Mancini said: "It is important Mario takes only three games - I thought he could take six or seven games (suspension).

"Yes, for the Manchester United game he will be ready."