Chelsea celebrate second successive title
(Reuters)
Updated: 2006-04-30 09:13

LONDON, April 29 - Chelsea became only the second team to win back-to-back Premier League titles when they crushed Manchester United 3-0 at Stamford Bridge on Saturday.

Chelsea's manager Jose Mourinho (L) drinks from a champagne bottle as Damien Duff (2nd L), Arjen Robben (2nd R) and John Terry (R) look on after winning the English Premier League and their soccer match against Manchester United at Stamford Bridge in London, April 29, 2006.
Chelsea's manager Jose Mourinho (L) drinks from a champagne bottle as Damien Duff (2nd L), Arjen Robben (2nd R) and John Terry (R) look on after winning the English Premier League and their soccer match against Manchester United at Stamford Bridge in London, April 29, 2006. [Reuters]

Their victory over the only other club to retain the crown since England's top flight changed its name for the 1992/93 season left them 12 points clear of United with two games left.

"It's a fantastic feeling...that's the second in England after two in Portugal," Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho told Sky Sports, before Terry lifted the trophy.

Mourinho also won successive titles in his native Portugal with Porto, as well as the Champions League.

Defender William Gallas gave Chelsea a perfect start, nipping in to head past Edwin van der Sar after four minutes when Didier Drogba knocked on Frank Lampard's corner.

A magnificent goal by Joe Cole past the hour made it 2-0 and Ricardo Carvalho finished off a sweeping move with a fierce shot after 73 minutes to put the title party in full swing.

The one blot on the occasion was United and England striker Wayne Rooney being carried off on a stretcher after a fair challenge from Paul Ferreira in the 78th minute that left him clutching his foot in pain.

SORE FOOT

Rooney left the stadium on crutches with United manager Alex Ferguson confirming the 20-year-old had injured his foot, describing it as "sore".

Chelsea skipper John Terry also hobbled out of the stadium having had 10 stitches inserted in a gash in his shin following a clash with Rooney.

Mourinho drew a contrast between Chelsea's two successful title campaigns -- their first since they won the championship for the first time way back in 1955.

"Last season was different, no one believed we would win, last season we were six, seven points ahead and still people doubted," said Mourinho.
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