Manchester United have won back-to-back-to-back Premier League titles for the second time since the leagues’ inception by getting the point they needed against Arsenal – but they had to fight for it against a Gunners side who dominated possesion in an otherwise uneventful game.
Robin van Persie and Cesc Fabregas both wasted opportunities to drag the title race into its final week and leave United with more work to do at relegation-threatened Hull City on the last day of the season as nerves jangled in the closing stages. But despite this onslaught, United’s defence, so often the bedrock of their success this season, delivered another clean sheet when Ferguson needed it most. Man U will likely field a weakened side ahead of the Champions League Final, but have said that they will be doing the Tigers no favors next week.
Wayne Rooney missed United’s best chance with a first-half header, and there was an intriguing cameo when Old Trafford voiced its resounding disapproval when the popular Carlos Tevez was substituted in what could prove to be his final home appearance, a series of events that could yet overshadow some of United’s acheivements this season.
But nothing could overshadow United’s achievement – or the joy of players, fans and management – as the presentations were made after the final whistle with club captain Gary Neville lifting the Barclays Premier League trophy. United saw off a strong challenge from an improving Liverpool this season to once again set the standard, despite a stumble when defeats against Rafael Benitez’s side and Fulham threatened to undermine their challenge. United’s squad were introduced individually as the presentations began, but the biggest ovation of all was reserved for Ferguson, who has marshalled his team to an 11th Premier League title, the same number as acheived in the Scotsman’s time at the helm. And as the pyrotechnics flashed around Old Trafford, Ferguson could begin his preparations for further glory as he attempts to make United the first club to successfully defend the Champions League when they meet Barcelona in the final in Rome, and seal their 5th competetive trophy this season (including the Community Shield).
Sir Alex, speaking after the success, now claims that he could stay on for “at least 5 more years”, and that he will only retire when “his health tells him to”.
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