Molde hold nerve to seal consecutive titles

Molde FK have claimed back-to-back Norwegian titles after a 1-0 victory against Hønefoss BK, coupled with a defeat for challengers Strømsgodset IF, sealed the championship.

With four matches to play, the title race seemed to be heading for a nail-biting climax between Molde, Strømsgodset and Rosenberg BK. Rosenberg fell away following losses to their two title rivals, however, and with Strømsgodset losing 2-1 at Sandnes Ulf on Sunday, Ole Gunnar Solskjær's men were able to clinch their second ever title with a game to spare.

Goals from Christian Gytkjaer and Avni Pepa made the difference for Sandnes Ulf, and that meant a win for Molde against Hønefoss would take them four points clear. Substitute Daniel Chima struck the only goal of the game in the 59th minute to kick-start Molde's celebrations.

"The boys have been very focused," said Solskjær. "There was much talk of us not being able to win the league again, but we have proved them wrong." The 39-year-old, who played for Molde before joining Manchester United FC, has stayed with the club despite interest from a number of teams on the continent, and he is now looking to the future. "We intend to strengthen the squad. Some changes are always for the good."