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The climax of the English Premiership soccer season last Sunday brought tears of joy for some and tears of despair for others.

The last 90 minutes were a roller coasterrideforsometeamsandnothing was decided until the final whistle.

First of all, a big well-done to Manchester United who claimed the Premiership title for the second season running - and the 10th time overall - with a 2-0 win over Wigan Athletic.

There had been some concerns before the game that Wigan’s manager Steve Bruce (a former Manchester United captain) might do his old club a favour; but Wigan put up a valiant fight that dispelled any such ideas and there was doubt that United had to earn their victory.

Meanwhile, second-place rivals Chelsea went into their final game against Bolton Wanderers knowing that their only chance of snatching the league title lay with Wigan pulling off a win or draw against United.

However, it was not to be and Chelsea had to settle for second place; the 1-1 final score against Bolton was almost irrelevant in the circumstances.

Now they can turn their attention to the Champions’ League final against Manchester United in Moscow on May 21st, and hope for better things to come.

Arsenal ended their disappointing season with a 1-0 win at Sunderland, which leaves them in third place.

Fourth-place Liverpool also ended the season with a win, 2-0 at Tottenham Hotspur.

Fifth place, and a UEFA Cup spot, go to Everton, who beat Newcastle United 3-1.

At the other end of the table, the big story of the day was Fulham, who a few weeks ago seemed certain to be relegated.

They have now pulled off the great escape of the season thanks to a dramatic win - courtesy of a late goal - which has ensured them another season of Premiership soccer.

Its 1-0 win at Portsmouth was enough to condemn both Reading and Birmingham City to relegation, along with Derby County, even though ReadingandBirminghambothfinishedtheir season with a win. Reading thrashed poor old Derby County 4-0, a result which left Derby with a season total of just 11 points, the lowest ever amount in Premiership history.

Birmingham City brushed aside Blackburn Rovers 4-1, but it wasn’t enough to save them.

Mid-table rivals West Ham United and Aston Villa served up a treat for their fans at Upton Park as they fought out an entertaining 2-2 draw.

The shock result of the day came at the Riverside Stadium: visitors Manchester City, known for their strong defence, were overwhelmed by Middlesborough who romped to an incredible 8 (yes, eight)-1 win.

No sooner has the season finished than the rumours start to fly: several managers may be looking for a new job as owners of various soccer clubs seek to improve their chances in the 2008/09 season, which is set to kick off in August.