17:03
The
pair are not only level on points, but on goals scored, goals conceded, wins,
draws and defeats.
In an
astonishing quirk, Chelsea lead the way by alphabetic virtue.
If
this were to be the case at the end of the season, both sides would need to
play-off in a one-off clash to determine who lifts the Premier League
crown.
The match
would be played at a neutral venue chosen by the Premier League Board of
Directors and agreed by both clubs as soon as viable after the season
finishes.
A
play-off remains highly unlikely, but would serve as an exciting crescendo for
supporters up and down the country.
The FA
rules state: 'If at the end of the season either the League champions or the
clubs to be relegated or the question of qualification for other competitions
cannot be determined because two or more clubs are equal on points, goal
difference and goals scored, the clubs concerned shall play off one or more
deciding League matches on neutral grounds, the format, timing and venue of
which shall be determined by the Board.'
A
play-off has never been played before, although league officials did plan for a
title-decider between Manchester United and Newcastle at the end of the 1995-96
season.
The
match would have taken place on either May 16 or 21 at Wembley but United beat
Middlesbrough on the final day of the season and Newcastle drew at Tottenham,
leaving the Red Devils four points clear at the top of the table.
If a
play-off were to happen this season a venue away from London would likely be
chosen.
THE FA LAWS
C.4.
The position of Clubs in the table shall be determined by the number of points
scored in that Season, the Club having scored the highest number of points
being at the top of the table and the Club having scored the lowest number of
points being at the bottom.
C.5.
If any 2 or more Clubs have scored the same number of points their position in
the table shall be determined on goal difference, that is to say, the
difference between the total number of goals scored by and against a Club in
League Matches in that Season, and the higher or highest placed Club shall be
the Club with the higher or highest goal difference.
C.6.
If any 2 or more Clubs have scored the same number of points and have the same
goal difference the higher or highest placed Club shall be the Club having
scored the most goals in League Matches in that Season.
C.7.
Subject to Rule C.17, if any 2 or more Clubs have scored the same number of
points, have the same goal difference and have scored the same number of goals
in League Matches in that Season they shall be deemed to occupy the same
position in the table.
C.17.
If at the end of the Season either the League Champions or the Clubs to be
relegated or the question of qualification for other competitions cannot be
determined because 2 or more Clubs are equal on points, goal difference and
goals scored, the Clubs concerned shall play off one or more deciding League
Matches on neutral grounds, the format, timing and venue of which shall be
determined by the Board.
