Crystal Palace 0-0 Fulham: A Goalless Stalemate at Selhurst Park
In a match that saw the return of Roy Hodgson to the dugout against his former club, Crystal Palace and Fulham played out a goalless draw. The 76-year-old Palace boss, who had missed the previous week’s game due to ill health, watched as his side were put under pressure by a dominant Fulham in the first half. The Cottagers, who Hodgson had coached for almost three years and even led to a Europa League final, forced three impressive saves from Palace’s goalkeeper, Sam Johnstone, before the break.
The second half saw Palace gain some control, but Johnstone was once again called into action, making a crucial save from Willian late in the game. This ensured both teams shared the spoils, leaving them level on eight points in the Premier League table.
The game was not without its moments of controversy. Referee Paul Tierney’s decisions drew attention, with four yellow cards being issued, giving the match the feel of a London derby. Palace’s best chance came just before half-time when Eberechi Eze narrowly missed the target. However, neither side could capitalise on their opportunities, with both teams lacking the final touch in crucial moments.
Fulham’s manager, Marco Silva, expressed his frustration post-match, believing his side were the better team and deserved all three points. On the other hand, Hodgson, while crediting Fulham’s organisation, took aim at the new refereeing directives, questioning their impact on the game.
Analysis: Sam Johnstone’s performance in goal for Palace was the highlight of the match. Despite the arrival of Dean Henderson from Manchester United, Johnstone has solidified his position as Palace’s number one. His form has not only won Hodgson’s trust but has also earned him a recall to the England squad.
Key Stat: Eberechi Eze has been directly involved in 51% of Crystal Palace’s shots in the Premier League this season, highlighting his importance to the team.
What’s Next? Crystal Palace will face Manchester United in the Carabao Cup, while Fulham will host Norwich in the same competition.
Luton 1-1 Wolves: Controversy and Drama at Kenilworth Road
In a match filled with drama and controversy, Luton Town secured their first point of the Premier League campaign with a 1-1 draw against a 10-man Wolverhampton Wanderers side. Pedro Neto’s solo brilliance gave Wolves the lead, but it was Carlton Morris’ penalty that ensured the Hatters shared the spoils.
The penalty decision was the main talking point of the match. Referee Josh Smith, officiating his first top-flight game, awarded Luton a spot-kick when Joao Gomes seemed to block Issa Kabore’s shot with a raised arm. However, replays showed the ball deflecting off a leg before hitting Gomes’ arm. Despite the contentious nature of the decision, VAR upheld the on-field call, leading to widespread debate and criticism.
Wolves’ afternoon was further marred by Jean-Ricner Bellegarde’s red card. The Frenchman was sent off for a clear kick out at Tom Lockyer, leaving his team a man down and under pressure for the majority of the match.
Luton, playing in front of a passionate Kenilworth Road crowd, were the dominant side from the outset. They were aggressive, played on the front foot, and looked the more likely to score. Despite their dominance, their finishing left much to be desired, with only four of their 20 attempts finding the target.
Wolves’ manager, Gary O’Neil, expressed his frustration post-match, particularly with the penalty decision, calling it “absolutely terrible” and urging referees to improve their standards. Luton’s manager, Rob Edwards, was proud of his team’s performance but acknowledged the need for better finishing in the final third.
Analysis: The match highlighted Wolves’ discipline issues, with Bellegarde’s red card being their eighth in the Premier League since the start of the previous season. Luton, on the other hand, showed signs of improvement and will be hoping to build on this performance in their upcoming fixtures.
Key Stat: All three of Luton Town’s Premier League goals this season have been scored in the second half, with Carlton Morris being their main penalty taker, having scored two from the spot this season.
What’s Next? Both teams turn their attention to the Carabao Cup, with Luton facing Exeter and Wolves taking on Ipswich Town. Their next Premier League fixtures see Luton travelling to Everton and Wolves hosting Manchester City.
Manchester City 2-0 Nottingham Forest: City’s Dominance Continues Despite Rodri’s Red
Manchester City continued their flawless Premier League campaign with a 2-0 victory over Nottingham Forest at the Etihad Stadium. The champions were in cruise control from the outset, with goals from Phil Foden and Erling Haaland within the first 15 minutes setting the tone for the match. Foden’s goal, a result of a 46-pass move, showcased City’s intricate build-up play, while Haaland’s header further cemented his reputation as one of Europe’s elite strikers.
However, the match wasn’t without its drama. Just 27 seconds into the second half, Rodri was shown a straight red card for a rash challenge on Morgan Gibbs-White. This incident shifted the dynamics of the game, with City forced to defend their lead with ten men. Despite this setback, Pep Guardiola’s men showcased their resilience, holding onto their lead and ensuring another clean sheet.
Nottingham Forest, who have been impressive on their travels this season, found it challenging to break down the City defence. Their counter-attacking prowess, which saw them take the lead at Old Trafford and defeat Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, was nullified by City’s tactical discipline.
Analysis: Manchester City’s performance was a testament to their depth and adaptability. Even with a man down, they managed to control the game and prevent Forest from creating clear-cut chances. Guardiola’s decision to switch to a 5-3-1 formation post the red card was a tactical masterstroke, allowing City to absorb pressure and hit on the counter. The reaction from the City players and the crowd at the final whistle was one of immense pride, showcasing their ability to handle adversity.
Key Stat: Erling Haaland has now netted 60 goals for Manchester City across all competitions since the start of the previous season, with 44 of those coming in the Premier League. His goal-scoring prowess remains unmatched in Europe’s top leagues.
What’s Next? Manchester City will face Newcastle in the Carabao Cup third round, while their next Premier League fixture sees them travel to Wolves. Nottingham Forest, on the other hand, will host Brentford in their upcoming league match.
Brentford 1-3 Everton: Calvert-Lewin Silences Critics in Toffees Triumph
Everton finally found their rhythm, clinching their first Premier League victory of the season with a 3-1 win over Brentford. The match, which took place under the lights of Saturday Night Football, saw Abdoulaye Doucoure open the scoring in the sixth minute, setting the tone for the Toffees. However, Brentford’s Mathias Jensen managed to level the score against the run of play. The second half witnessed James Tarkowski, returning to Brentford, heading in from Dwight McNeil’s corner, followed by Dominic Calvert-Lewin sealing the victory for Everton.
Calvert-Lewin’s goal was particularly poignant, given the jeers he faced from some fans after a previous injury. The England striker remarked on the fluctuating emotions of football, noting the contrast between being booed off in a previous match and being cheered on this time around.
The victory propelled Everton out of the relegation zone, placing them 15th, while Brentford slipped to 12th. The match showcased Everton’s potential firepower, with Calvert-Lewin’s return bolstering their attacking options.
Analysis: Everton’s performance was a testament to their resilience and ability to bounce back from a challenging start to the season. The team’s dominance was evident, and had they not secured the three points, questions would have arisen about their prospects for the season. Brentford, on the other hand, will be looking to regroup and address the gaps that were exposed during the match.
Key Stat: Since Sean Dyche took over Everton in February, Abdoulaye Doucoure has been the top scorer for the Toffees, netting seven goals.
What’s Next? Brentford will host Arsenal in the Carabao Cup third round, while Everton will face Aston Villa in the same competition. In the Premier League, Brentford will take on Nottingham Forest, and Everton will host Luton Town.
Burnley 0-1 Manchester United: Fernandes’ Magic Eases Pressure on Ten Hag
Manchester United managed to halt their three-game losing streak with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Burnley at Turf Moor. The highlight of the match was undoubtedly Bruno Fernandes’ exquisite volley, set up by Jonny Evans, who was making his first start for the Red Devils in over eight years. Evans’ involvement in the game was significant, having seen an earlier goal ruled out by VAR for offside.
The match was a tense affair, with Burnley showing glimpses of their attacking prowess. Zeki Amdouni, who had previously scored against Nottingham Forest, was a constant threat, forcing a brilliant save from United’s Andre Onana and later hitting the post. Despite Burnley’s efforts, it was Fernandes who made the difference, capitalising on Evans’ inch-perfect pass to volley home the winner.
Analysis: The match showcased United’s grit and determination, especially after a series of disappointing results. The inclusion of Evans, a decision that raised eyebrows initially, proved to be a masterstroke. His experience and composure at the back were pivotal in ensuring United kept a clean sheet. Burnley, despite their efforts, will be ruing their missed chances and will be eager to get back to winning ways in their upcoming fixtures.
Key Stat: Jonny Evans’ assist for Fernandes’ goal was his first league assist for Manchester United since February 2013.
What’s Next? Burnley will face Salford City in the Carabao Cup third round, followed by a Premier League clash against Newcastle. Manchester United, on the other hand, will host Crystal Palace in both the Carabao Cup and the Premier League.
Arsenal 2-2 Tottenham: A North London Derby to Remember
The North London derby, always a fixture circled in the calendars of both Arsenal and Tottenham fans, did not disappoint this time around, ending in a thrilling 2-2 draw. Bukayo Saka and Heung-Min Son were the standout performers, with both players leaving an indelible mark on the game.
The match began with Arsenal taking the lead, courtesy of a deflected shot from Saka that found its way into the net off Cristian Romero. However, Tottenham, showing their resilience, managed to level the score just before half-time with Son capitalising on a brilliant assist from James Maddison. The drama continued in the second half when Romero’s handball gave Arsenal a penalty, which Saka confidently converted. But Spurs were quick to respond, with Son grabbing his second of the match after a mistake from Jorginho.
Analysis: The match was a testament to the quality and passion associated with the North London derby. Both teams showcased their attacking prowess, with the likes of Saka and Son stealing the limelight. Romero’s mixed performance, which included an own goal and a handball leading to a penalty, was a talking point, with Gary Neville questioning the penalty decision. On the other hand, Son’s leadership and ability to step up in crucial moments were lauded by Tottenham’s manager, Ange Postecoglou.
Key Stat: Heung-Min Son has now scored six times and provided two assists in his last eight Premier League North London derbies. His influence in the absence of Harry Kane has been pivotal for Spurs.
What’s Next? Arsenal will face Brentford in the Carabao Cup third round, followed by a Premier League clash against Bournemouth. Tottenham, meanwhile, will host Liverpool in their next Premier League fixture.
Brighton 3-1 Bournemouth: Mitoma’s Impact Turns the Tide
Brighton’s Kaoru Mitoma emerged as the hero, coming off the bench to score a second-half brace, ensuring a 3-1 comeback victory over Bournemouth. The Seagulls, perhaps still recovering from their European endeavours, looked lacklustre in the first half. Bournemouth capitalised on this, with Dominic Solanke chipping in a delightful goal. However, Brighton’s fortunes changed just before the break, as Milos Kerkez inadvertently headed the ball into his own net, levelling the score.
The introduction of Mitoma at half-time proved pivotal. Within 17 seconds of the restart, he found the back of the net, and later, he solidified Brighton’s lead with a close-range header. Despite Bournemouth’s efforts, Brighton’s defence, led by the indomitable Lewis Dunk, held firm.
Analysis: Brighton’s ability to bounce back, especially after a European fixture, speaks volumes about their squad depth and resilience. Mitoma’s impact was undeniable, showcasing the importance of having game-changers on the bench. Bournemouth, on the other hand, will be reflecting on their missed opportunities and defensive lapses.
Key Stat: Brighton’s Kaoru Mitoma scored just 16 seconds into the second half, marking the fastest goal by a substitute in a Premier League game since Sammy Ameobi’s eight-second strike for Newcastle United against Spurs in October 2014.
What’s Next? Brighton will face Chelsea in the Carabao Cup third round, followed by a Premier League clash against Aston Villa. Bournemouth, meanwhile, will host Stoke City in the Carabao Cup before welcoming Arsenal in their next league fixture.
Chelsea 0-1 Aston Villa: Blues’ Struggles Continue as Watkins Shines
In a match that further highlighted Chelsea’s faltering start to the season, Aston Villa emerged victorious with a 1-0 win at Stamford Bridge. Ollie Watkins, Villa’s talisman, was the difference-maker, netting a fine strike to secure all three points for the visitors. This marked the first time in 30 years that Villa have beaten Chelsea in consecutive league games.
Chelsea, despite their efforts, were unable to find the net, marking their third consecutive Premier League match without a goal. Emiliano Martinez, Villa’s shot-stopper, was in inspired form, making several crucial saves to deny the Blues. The match took a turn for the worse for Chelsea when Malo Gusto was shown a straight red card for a challenge on Lucas Digne. Initially given a yellow, the decision was upgraded to a red after VAR intervention.
Analysis: Chelsea’s woes in front of goal continue to be a major concern for Mauricio Pochettino. The Blues have now failed to score in 13 Premier League matches in 2023, a worrying statistic for a team with their attacking prowess. Aston Villa, under Unai Emery, showcased their defensive solidity, with only Manchester United boasting more clean sheets since Emery’s arrival.
Key Stat: Chelsea have won just one of their opening six games in a Premier League season for the first time since the 2000-01 campaign. Their struggles are reminiscent of the 2015-16 season, where they also suffered three defeats in their first six games.
What’s Next? Chelsea will face Brighton in the Carabao Cup third round, followed by a Premier League clash against Fulham. Aston Villa, on the other hand, will host Everton in the Carabao Cup before welcoming Brighton in their next league fixture.
Liverpool 3-1 West Ham: Reds Rise to Second with Nunez’s Brilliance
Anfield was treated to a spectacle as Liverpool secured a 3-1 victory over West Ham, maintaining their unbeaten start and moving up to second in the Premier League table. Mohamed Salah’s penalty set the tone for the Reds, but West Ham’s Jarrod Bowen ensured the visitors were level before half-time. However, the game’s turning point came from Darwin Nunez, whose stunning volley restored Liverpool’s lead. Diogo Jota, coming off the bench, added the finishing touch, ensuring the three points stayed at Anfield.
Jurgen Klopp was full of praise for Nunez, highlighting his significant development in recent weeks. The Uruguayan’s defensive contributions, coupled with his attacking prowess, have made him an integral part of Liverpool’s setup. West Ham, despite their valiant efforts, couldn’t find a way back into the game. The Hammers, who had previously defeated Chelsea and Brighton, showcased their potential but were undone by Liverpool’s quality.
Analysis: Liverpool’s midfield creativity was on full display, with Alexis Mac Allister’s delightful pass setting up Nunez’s goal. The balance in Liverpool’s midfield, with the likes of Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai, offers a blend of defensive solidity and attacking flair. This creativity has ensured that Liverpool have now scored in their last 16 Premier League games.
Key Stat: Mohamed Salah has been directly involved in goals in his last 12 Premier League appearances, with six goals and nine assists to his name.
What’s Next? Liverpool will host Leicester City in the Carabao Cup third round, followed by a Premier League clash against Tottenham Hotspur. West Ham, meanwhile, will face Lincoln City in the Carabao Cup before hosting Sheffield United in the league.
Sheffield United 0-8 Newcastle: A Day of Records and Reflection
In a match that will be remembered for years to come, Newcastle United delivered a record-breaking 8-0 thrashing of Sheffield United at Bramall Lane. The Magpies were in scintillating form, with the Blades looking completely out of their depth from the outset.
Sean Longstaff opened the scoring for Newcastle, and goals from Dan Burn and Sven Botman soon followed, leaving Sheffield United reeling before half-time. The onslaught continued in the second half, with Callum Wilson, Anthony Gordon, Miguel Almiron, Bruno Guimaraes, and Alexander Isak all finding the net.
Analysis: Sheffield United’s performance was a stark reminder of the challenges newly-promoted teams can face in the Premier League. Their defence was porous, and they lacked any real attacking threat. Newcastle, on the other hand, showcased their attacking prowess, with a variety of players getting on the scoresheet. Eddie Howe’s side looked confident and clinical, a stark contrast to their opponents.
Key Stat: This was Newcastle’s biggest ever away win in the league and Sheffield United’s largest ever defeat in their league history. The Magpies have only ever won by a greater margin once in their league history, via their 13-0 win over Newport County in October 1946.
What’s Next? Sheffield United, still without a Premier League win this season, will be looking to bounce back when they visit West Ham next Saturday. Newcastle, riding high after this emphatic victory, will face Manchester City in the Carabao Cup third round before hosting Burnley in the Premier League.
