Race for the Champions League 2000-01


CURRENT STANDINGS
TEAM	PLAYED	POINTS	GOAL DIFFERENCE
3. IPSWICH 4. LEEDS 5. LIVERPOOL	35 34 33	62 59 56	+ + +

IPSWICH TOWN
28 April v Charlton (away) 5 May v Man City (home) 19 May v Derby (away)
Form: LWWLWWDWWW
Ipswich have been the surprise team of the Premier League this season, but they went through a bad run earlier on in the year, losing 6 games in the first 6 weeks of 2001, including 4-1 defeats on three separate occasions. Probably have the easier fixtures of the 4 teams, and with no cup distractions they look to be favourites if they can continue as they have been playing recently.

LEEDS UNITED
24 April v Chelsea (home) 5 May v Arsenal (away) 13 May v Bradford (away) 19 May v Leicester (home)
Form: DLDWWWWWLW
After starting the year in 13th place, Leeds have worked their way up the table and have probably been the most consistent performers in the league since Christmas. Dominating displays against Man United and at Anfield recently have allowed them to show what they're capable of but a tough schedule combined with a difficult Champions League semi final make it hard for them. The 2 games against high flying Chelsea and Arsenal will be the key games.

LIVERPOOL
28 April v Coventry (away) 1 May v Bradford (away) 5 May v Newcastle (home) 9 May v Chelsea (home) 19 May v Charlton (away)
Form: WDWDWDLWWW
Liverpool have had another inconsistent league season, losing 9 games so far. With more games than their rivals because of cup competitions and games in hand, Liverpool will have to be at the top of their game to close the gap on Ipswich and win 3rd place. The Chelsea and Coventry games look crucial with both opponents in good form, and with one fighting for a Champions League place and the other fighting for Premier League survival.

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