Barclays English Premier League Season Review 2007-2008 Part 3

Since a 2-0 defeat by the Red Devils at Old Trafford, Chelsea had lost just once in the Premier League and they put themselves firmly in the title race when they won the reverse fixture on 26 April. Michael Ballack's double put them level on points with Man Utd, but it was the defending champions who went on to lift the trophy after winning their last two matches. Ryan Giggs' calm finish sealed a 2-0 triumph over Wigan Athletic on the final day and he lifted his and Manchester United's 10th Premier League trophy. Ronaldo scored his 31st league goal of the season in the win – a joint-record in a 38-match campaign. On the same day as Chelsea's 2-1 win over United, Fulham started one of the greatest escapes from relegation in Premier League history. They were five points adrift of safety with three matches left and were 2-0 down at Man City with 20 minutes remaining. On the brink of the drop, Diomansy Kamara and Danny Murphy levelled the match at the Etihad Stadium before Kamara struck again with a last-gasp winner. Fulham then beat Birmingham at home and secured their safety when Murphy's header sealed a 1-0 win against FA Cup winners Portsmouth on the final day. Reading went down on goal difference despite a 4-0 rout of already-relegated Derby County, who amassed a record-low of 11 points during the Premier League season. Birmingham were also consigned to the drop, even though they beat Blackburn Rovers 4-1. The final day also saw Middlesbrough thrash Man City 8-1.