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Football: Stop this man
Sunday Mirror, May 11, 2008 by CASCARINO
THE Premier League trophy will be handed out today after Manchester United and Chelsea both win their final games.
But it should not be winging it's way to Old Trafford tonight.
The League table will say both teams have 87 points after 38 games, exactly the same tally over a long, hard season, which is some going.
But United will take the trophy because they have a superior goal difference - and that's not a fair way to decide a league title.
Some people will disagree, but I think they should play each other in a one-off game, probably in Wembley.
If you argue it shouldn't happen because they are going to meet again in the Champions League final, fine - but how many times will that realistically happen again?
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Leagues can be this tight on a far more common basis so it's worth considering.
Goals shouldn't be taken into account when deciding a title, because football is about many things - not just goals.
A one-off game could be as good a way as any to decide the title, and why not? - it's not as if the whole world decides league titles on the same criteria.
In Spain when the top two teams are tied they decide the title on head-to-head, so why not advocate something different in England?
If it was head-to-head United would win. And to be honest, because my dream playoff idea won't come in today, they will win anyhow.
Their remaining game is against Wigan, and while it will be tough, they can do it.
Steve Bruce is the Wigan boss and there's a small chance he won't want to annoy Sir Alex Ferguson too much - because he's likely to be on the list to replace the Scotsman at Old Trafford!
Fergie will have a big say in who takes over and without adding fuel to the fire of conspiracy theorists, that could have some effect.
Wigan's players will probably play their hearts out though, because it's easier when there's nothing to play for.
I recall three years ago putting a few shillings on Norwich when they went to Fulham on the last day of the season, fighting against relegation.
But they got hammered 6-0 and it was a good sign of how good a team can be with nothing to play for.
West Ham did it to United some years ago, to cost them the title, so it's not impossible.
Wigan are on an unbeaten run right now, and they can be tough to play, especially on their own pitch.
It wouldn't be the biggest shock of all time, but I still expect United to come through.
Chelsea are a home banker against Bolton, but ultimately it won't matter.
They lost the title when the league chiefs decided to split teams on goal difference.
Interview: CIARAN O RAGHALLAIGH
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