Arsenal lose

Chelsea look destined to become English champions for the first time in 50 years after a 2-0 win at Tottenham Hotspur left them 10 points clear at the top of the Premier League on Saturday.

Two Frank Lampard goals and a shock 1-0 defeat for reigning champions Arsenal in the late game at Bolton Wanderers means only a sudden collapse can deny Chelsea, quoted as 1-9 hot favourites by bookmakers, an historic end to their Centenary season.

Chelsea, who also became the first club to win six consecutive Premier League games without conceding a goal, did just what their title hopes needed after 10-man Manchester United won 1-0 at Liverpool in the day8217;s early kickoff. They are now top with 58 points, with Arsenal on 48 and United third on 47, pressing Arsene Wenger8217;s side for the second automatic slot in next season8217;s Champions League. Elsewhere, Newcastle United skipper Alan Shearer returned from a 12-match injury lay-off to convert a penalty in a 2-1 win over Southampton, Aston Villa were 3-0 winners over Norwich City and Manchester City beat Crystal Palace 3-1. Blackburn Rovers won 1-0 win at nine-man Portsmouth, who had striker Lomana LuaLua and midfielder Amdy Faye dismissed in the second half.