2005/06 season is going to be one of the most entertaining seasons in EPL history. The blues (Chelsea) will be looking to hold on to their precious crown. The gunners(Arsenal) will be looking for redemption. Manchester united will be trying hard to forget their trophy less performance of the last season. Then there is the Liverpool side that stunned the world by winning the epic Champion’s league clash with A.C. Milan after going down by three goals in the first half.
Chelsea was largely overshadowed by Arsenal in the early stages of the previous season. Arsenal created a record by not losing 49 consecutive matches. But things began to take a U turn from the 50th game. A loss at the hands of their arch rivals Manchester United shook the London side which went on to loose to Liverpool which was not in great form themselves. What followed Arsenal was a series of drawn matches that they could have won otherwise.
Their loss at the hands of Manchester United at Highbury, their home ground was a nail in the coffin as far as their title hopes were concerned. Chelsea took this opportunity with open hands. They were doing nothing wrong at this point of time. By the third quarter of the season they had a lead of over ten points over their nearest rivals Manchester United. Manchester United would have finished the season as runners up had they not lost their way in the twilight of the season. Also a late surge by Arsenal did not help either. Liverpool was overshadowed by their neighbours Everton, who despite losing Wayne Rooney impressed everyone with their performance. They found a new star in Australian striker Tim Cahill. By their performance they were able to notch a 4th place finish that ensured their place in the Champion’s league next season.
The EPL battle won’t be a three sided battle this season. Liverpool, if they are consistent will be a huge threat to Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United. Also watch out for Everton and Middlesbrough to spring up some surprises. All in all one can surely hope that EPL fans will have a treat watching one of the most entertaining seasons. Added to that the players will be performing their best in order to attract their national coaches as the world cup is around the corner.