Farewell win for Utd boss

Rafa Benitez is determined to end his Chelsea career with a bang.

Man Utd 2 Swansea 0

In Sir Alex Ferguson’s last ever match at Old Trafford, be sure the team and fans will be desperate to give him a perfect send-off. On the day when his team will receive a 20th league title, Swansea will find it hard to ruin what should be an emotional party for the champions.

Man City 4 Wigan 0 `

You have to feel for Wigan. They’ve had a tremendous run in the Cup but face a relegation fight. The FA Cup final is City’s only chance for silverware and it is one they will not waste. Roberto Mancini’s big guns Yaya Toure and Sergio Aguero will come to the fore.

Sunderland 1 Southampton 1

Paolo di Canio has earmarked this game as a must-win fixture as he tries to stave off the relegation monster. However, red cards to Stephane Sessegnon and Craig Gardner in successive games has robbed the Italian manager of two his most potent fighters. The Saints are in equally desperate search for points.

QPR 0 Newcastle 0

Newcastle’s descent down the Premiership table is premised on poor defending and a shambolic attack. If Papiss Demba Cisse doesn’t score, nobody does. One goal in the last four outings portends a drab affair against a Rangers outfit that is equally clueless in front of goal. I foresee a goalless stalemate.

Aston Villa 1 Chelsea 2

Paul Lambert’s young side are in good form, with five victories out of their last eight Premiership fixtures. Chelsea are in even better form, having won eight out of their last twelve fixtures, despite playing twice a week. Rafa Benitez is determined to end his Chelsea career with a bang. If Chelsea win or draw this, they will be guaranteed of a place in the Champions League next season.

Everton 2 West Ham 0

It has been another successful season for David Moyes’ charges, as their goalless stalemate at Liverpool literally sewed up sixth place. Big Sam Allardyce’s Hammers haven’t done too badly themselves but they are poor travelers. I expect Everton to claim all the spoils as their home record is impeccable.

Stoke City 0 Spurs 1

The Potters’ 1-1 draw with Sunderland took them to 41 points, which should be enough to preserve their Premiership status. I thus do not expect the intensity we’ve seen from Tony Pulis’ side in the last three weeks as they’ve turned their season around. Gareth Bale should do the business.

Fulham 1 Liverpool 1

Martin Jol will demand a reaction as the Cottagers were abysmal in their 2-4 capitulation to Championship bound Reading. Fulham have developed a harmful dependence on Dimitar Berbatov. It is time for players like Hugo Rodallega and Mladen Petric to show their worth. Liverpool should be good value for a point.

Norwich 2 West Brom 1

West Brom are dangerous and unpredictable opposition because they score goals. Giant Belgian teenager Romelu Lukaku has been a real revelation as the Brummies have secured their best ever position. For Norwich, this is a last chance to win only their third Premiership game in 19 outings and ensure top-flight survival.

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