The Run-In...BEL19VE

I realize it's been 3 months since my last post, but a project at work and computer problems had me hog-tied.  It's now over and I can focus more on my footy addiction.

The EPL run-in is only 5 games from completion.  Manchester United are still atop the table with a 6-point margin on Chelski and Arsenal (who have fallen to third based on goal differential).  The Gunners have stuttered down the stretch (as is usual for them this time of year) and Chelscummers have seen fit to win their games in recent weeks after stuttering for most of the season.

United are also still vying for the Champions League crown after seeing off Chelski in the quarterfinals.  Next up is Schalke 04, who's remarkable staying power in the CL masks their poor performance in the Bundesliga (10th in the table, 29 pts out of 1st).  The German side has one power forward in Raul, the former legend and fan-favorite of Real Madrid.  Failing to make an impact on Los Merengues in recent years, the 33-yr-old made a move to Gelsenkirchen to rejuvenate his career.  It has worked for him, but if Die Konigsblauen fail to advance against United, then their season will be a disappointment.
Also known as Die Knappen (the miners), Schalke has seen off some good teams during the CL Group Stage and Knockouts.  Most notably the holders of the trophy, Inter Milan.  But the Inter of last year and this year (now without blowhard manager Jose Mourinho) are two completely different animals.  So that leaves us United fans with a *shrugs shoulders* not-too-sure idea of Schalke's abilities.

The Champions League title is very important.  Barcelona and Real Madrid (who have played each other 3 times this year and still have 2 more matches to go in the next few weeks) will meet in the semis, with the winner taking on the United/Schalke winner.  The Final will be played in Wembley Stadium, London, so United supporters are hoping for a home advantage, should they see off the Miners.  Here's hoping we give them the shaft... :)

As I said above, the CL title is important, but my main focus is always the EPL crown.  The record-breaking 19th title is within grasp so our Reds just need to focus in the last 5 and bring that trophy back to Old Trafford.  Seeing it adorned with blue ribbons last year was....WRONG.  Let's hope Sir Alex's men can carry it through the streets of Manchester with its proper accoutrement...RED RIBBONS.