Two goals from Michael Ballack earned the Blues a thrilling victory over leaders Manchester United at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, hauling Chelsea level on points with United at the top of the table.

A misplaced pass from defender Ricardo Carvalho looked to have gifted United a vital point when Wayne Rooney took full advantage to equalise in 55th minute.

But Ballack scored a spotkick winner after Michael Carrick handled and Grant now believes his side can go on to win the title even though they are still relying on United slipping up in either of their two remaining matches given their inferior goal difference.

very competitive

Grant said: "I am optimistic but we need to win our last two games and hope Manchester lose one point. If you come to this stage and you are not optimistic you should not be in sport.

"My players were very competitive. They wanted to win. When you concede a goal like we did it is a little bit disappointing but we were full of energy. They wanted to win the game and football is a game of emotion. We did what we had to do. We deserved to win and more than 2-1. I am happy with the result and the way we did it. I enjoy winning games and I enjoyed the spirit and courage of the players today."