London, January 29:

Liverpool’s bid for a first English Premiership title since 1990 suffered a setback as they were held to a 1-1 draw at Wigan.

A late penalty equaliser from Mido earned Wigan a deserved point and enabled Chelsea, 2-0 winners over Middlesbrough, to reclaim second place from Liverpool, courtesy of their superior goal difference. Both clubs however will be acutely aware that the title is now Manchester United’s to lose with the champions, who thrashed West Brom 5-0 on Tuesday, two points clear of both their nearest rivals with a game in hand.

Arsenal’s chances of a return to the Champions League next season suffered another blow as they were held to a 1-1 draw at Everton. It could have been worse for the Gunners but for Robin van Persie’s stoppage time equaliser, which cancelled out Tim Cahill’s opener for Everton.

A double from Salomon Kalou gave Chelsea their win over Middlesbrough. Blackburn came from two goals down to rescue a point against local rivals Bolton with Benni McCarthy making amends for a missed penalty by notching the equaliser.

Robinho set up Shaun Wright-Phillips for Manchester City’s opening goal in a 2-1 win over Newcastle. Newcastle’s cause was not helped by the loss of Michael Owen, who limped off midway through the first half, and Craig Bellamy made sure of the three points with a left-foot drive 13 minutes from time. Andy Carroll pulled a goal back for Newcastle. West Ham extended their unbeaten run to seven matches by beating Hull 2-0 with goals from David Di Michele and Carlton Cole.