Pennant Fever

Since the 1994-95 season, only three teams have won the English Premier League:  Manchester United, Arsenal, and Chelsea.  But Manchester City -- which haven't won the English crown since 1967-68 -- are now only one victory from the title.  In a tense, nervous game before over 52,000 people in Newcastle, the Sky Blues edged Newcastle United 2-0 with goals in the 70th and 89th minutes.  Man City needed this win, because Man Utd also won -- meaning that the two rivals have the same record, although City lead on goal differential (which is the tie-breaker).  If City wins their last game -- and United doesn't makes up a difference of eight goals -- City will take the crown.  Sunday's result may also prevent Newcastle from reaching next year's Champions' League, as they are in fifth place with only one game left -- and only the top four can qualify.

Chelsea is the only contender who didn't play a league match this weekend, as they won the F.A. Cup from Liverpool on Saturday by the score of 2-1.  This was Chelsea's fourth trip to the F.A. Cup final since 2005-06, and they have won all four times.  Ironically,  Chelsea will now travel to Liverpool for their next-to-last league match on Tuesday.

Here are the current standings:

1.  Man City:  27-5-5 (86 points) (goal differential of 63)
2.  Man Utd:  27-5-5 (86 points) (goal differential of 55)
3.  Arsenal:  20-10-7 (67 points)
4.  Spurs:  19-9-9 (66 points)
5.  Newcastle:  19-10-8 (65 points)
6.  Chelsea:  17-9-10 (61 points)