Giggs: We're nearly there now

RYAN GIGGS admits Manchester United are within touching distance of their 19th league title.

A 2-1 defeat of second placed Chelsea at Old Trafford put them six points clear with two games left, meaning just a point is needed to set an English record.

And with Blackburn away up next for Alex Ferguson's side, Giggs admits he would love to seal the silverware with a win — and a game to spare.

He said: "It's not mathematically over but we're nearly there.

"It will be a great atmosphere and, as always, we won't go for the draw, we'll go for the win. That's what we'll try to do."

If United secure the title, they will surpass the tally of 18 league titles they jointly hold with Liverpool.

Giggs added: "It's a great achievement by the team and by the manager to haul back our biggest rivals."

United were 1-0 up inside the first minute thanks to Javier Hernandez and two goals ahead after 23 minutes when Nemanja Vidic headed in.

Frank Lampard pulled a goal back for Chelsea in the 68th minute but Ferguson's men held on for the win.

United boss Alex Ferguson was delighted with his side's performance, despite the nerves brought about by that second half strike.

He said: "We could've scored six in the second half, but we expected a tough game and we got a tough game.

"We were brilliant — we got a great start but Cech made some fantastic saves.

"When we gave the ball away for their goal, we were a bit nervy but the fans helped us.

"We kept making chances and Rooney could've scored six today.

"It's fantastic to be the most successful team in the country.

"The minute we won that first title in 1992 the door opened, and we've been involved in the first two all throughout that period — it's a fantastic achievement.

"For the last 17 or 18 years it's been Arsenal and Chelsea as our nearest challengers, and the last few years it's been Chelsea.

"Arsenal made a great attempt this year but them losing today has finalised it.

"We deserve the title and hopefully we'll get that point now."

Opposite number Carlo Ancelotti admitted his side had given themselves an uphill battle from the start.

He said: "In the first minute we lost the game, we started so badly.

"It was very difficult after that to come back and try to win. The second half was better but United played better and deserved to win.

"We have to accept the defeat, today United were better and in general this season they were better than us. They deserve to win title, they will win and we have to try to maintain second place."