The Premiership battle: Chelsea

The English title race is one of the most exciting in years, with three teams still battling for the top spot with two games to go. Which opposition do Chelsea face? Here’s an overview.

By beating Manchester United last weekend, Chelsea are all back in the Premiership title race. The Blues do still have a big problem though; they depend on United to drop points in one of their remaining matches.

Chelsea play their penultimate match against Newcastle United on Monday. The extra day allows them to get some rest after the undoubtedly nerve-wrecking Champions League match with Liverpool tonight.

Newcastle are twelfth in the Premiership and have actually done rather well in recent matches. The last time the Magpies were beaten, was at Liverpool, no less than eight matches ago.

But against Chelsea, Newcastle haven’t won a match since May 2006. The last four meetings had one draw and three Chelsea wins as result. In December, the Londoners won 2-1 at Stamford Bridge.

Newcastle have little to play for on Monday, as they are too far away from both the UEFA Cup zone and the relegation zone.

Therefore, Soccerway’s prediction is:

Newcastle United 1-2 Chelsea

Chelsea’s Premiership campaign ends on Sunday, May 11th. Bolton Wanderers will be visiting Stamford for what could decide this year’s championship.

Bolton have had a disappointing season and occupy the 16th place, but did earn two wins and a draw in their last three games.

Unlike Newcastle, Bolton will show motivation as they still risk relegation at the end of the season.

But Chelsea have proven to be tough opponents for the Wanderers. Of the last eight meetings, Chelsea won six and two ended in a draw. Bolton’s last win – which was at Stamford Bridge – was in December of 2003.

Based on those facts, Soccerway’s prediction:

Chelsea 2-1 Bolton Wanders

It’s likely to be a narrow and hard-fought win for Chelsea. Whether it’s enough to take the Championship, remains to be seen. Main rivals Manchester United have a better goal record and should be expected to win their last two games as well. However, we’ll only know on May 11th.

Visit us again tomorrow to see what we think will happen to Arsenal in the coming two games.

You have a different opinion on the outcome of these matches? Use the ‘discuss’ option below!