#7 Newcastle United 1995-96
In the early years of the Premier League, Manchester United were the side to beat. However, Newcastle United gave them a run for their money in 1995-96 when they started the second half of the season with a 12-point lead at the top. Kevin Keegan had transformed the team from second division rabble to serious title contenders and the Magpies looked set to win their first league title since 1926-27.
However, Newcastle started buckling under pressure and their 12-point lead became eight by February. They met their closest competition, Manchester United, in March, and after their 1-0 defeat were only ahead by a single point. As the Red Devils continued to build momentum, Newcastle’s season fizzled out. The Old Trafford outfit had a three-point lead at the top by the end of March but it was the Magpies who had the advantage with a game in hand.
(Video Courtesy: gr8footy YouTube Channel)
In spite of their three-game winning streak in April, Keegan’s side drew both of their final games giving Manchester United the upper hand who wrapped up the season with a 3-0 victory over Middlesbrough. Coming a close second, the season was Newcastle’s best chance of lifting the league trophy and haven’t come as close since.
