The win not only snapped a five-game losing streak for the home side, but gave them a much-needed three points, providing them eight on the season, and carrying them past both Watford and Sheffield United in the relegation zone. The Hammers now occupy 16th place along with Newcastle.

Sheringham put West Ham on top in the 20th minute when he got on the other end of a cross from the right flank off the boot of Yossi Benayoun. Sheringham positioned himself only 10 yards from goal and as the ball came across the face of the goal, the veteran climbed up and buried it past a helpless Brad Friedel in the Blackburn net.

With the home squad still nursing a 1-0 lead in the second half, Robert Green came to the rescue with a fine save on Lucas Neil's attempt. Neil crept to the back post and steered a shot on net, but Green made a quality reaction save and got a piece of the ball to deflect it wide.

West Ham's much-awaited insurance goal came in the 79th minute as the Hammers made the most of a corner kick opportunity. Matthew Etherington swung the ball into the box and Mullins redirected it across the line for a two-goal edge.

David Bentley's goal in the 90th minute did little more than ruin Green's shutout bid, as the Rovers dropped their second consecutive Premiership match.

Middlesbrough will close out the weekend's action on Monday when they travel to Manchester City.