West Ham v Fulham (12:45)
For the second weekend running West Ham get us off to an early start as they host Fulham, a full preview of this match can be read here. Despite both sides being busy in the transfer window I'd be shocked if too many changes were made from their previous game, in fact whilst West Ham may be desperate to play Andy Carroll and likewise with Fulham and Dimitar Berbatov I'd expect both to start, at best on the bench (due to a lack of match fitness). West Ham haven't started the season well, Fulham have.
Prediction 0-2
Swansea v Sunderland
The Swans have been the surprise package of the season having already picked up 6 points and bagged themselves 8 goals (whilst conceding 0) and with Michael Laudrup in charge the team looked really good. Amazingly Sunderland have only played once all season, a 0-0 with Arsenal on the opening day and struggled at the end of last season as well. With Martin O'Neill in charge Sunderland have become a hard team to beta though they don't score many themselves.
Prediction 1-0
Tottenham Hotspur v Norwich
Tottenham Hotspur have had a really faltering start to the season with an opening day loss to Newcastle followed by an uninspired draw with West Brom. Add those results to the losses of key creative players (Luka Modric and Rafael Van Der Vaart) and it's fair to say I'm starting to worry for Spurs. Tottneham's toothless attack however may be afforded a buffer of sorts as they take on the Canaries who have conceded 6 goals in the Premier League so far. Andre Villas-Boas will know that 3 points are required here.
Prediction 2-1
West Brom v Everton
This match sees two teams who are flying unexpectedly high (West Brom are 4th whilst Everton are 3rd) meeting off in a match that oddly promises a lot. West Brom started their season stealing a portion of the headlines with a 3-0 victory over Liverpool whilst Everton upset Manchester United just days later, amazing to think really that these two have done so well. Everton's overall game, for me, is the difference maker here, they simply have too many great players and are on "one of those runs".
Prediction 1-2
Wigan v Stoke
Wigan's start to the season hasn't been anything too surprisingly, a 2-0 loss to Chelsea and a 2-0 win over Southampton, however in neither game did they look particularly good, even the win over the Saints was flattering. Stoke however have been, well, Stoke. A 1-1 on the opening day against Reading saw Stoke conceding a late penalty whilst a 0-0 with Arsenal showed that Stoke's defense is still resolute. This is a game that on paper looks like it'll only be a goal (if that) that separates the two sides. Don't expect to be excited here.
Prediction 1-1
Manchester City v QPR (17:30)
Although Manchester City are unbeaten thus far they've looked less than their all conquering selves. Their defense has looked poor, the injury to "Kun" has left them lacking one true goal scorer however they've managed to pick up points, with some help from the likes of Martin Skrtel. QPR on the other hand have looked really, really poor. Their 5-0 thrashing on the opening day was painful to watch and their 1-1 draw with Norwich was sorely undeserved. Expect this match to be a painful watch for QPR fans. (note a full preview can be found here).
Prediction 3-0
All kicks offs are 15:00 unless otherwise stated.
Friday 31 August 2012
Premier League Week 3-Preview and prediction (Manchester City v QPR)
After a very busy end to the transfer window we finally have football back on out hands with that we also have the late kick off of the day as Premier League Champions Manchester City host the struggling QPR.
So far this season City haven't looked very good in all honesty. Whilst they are unbeaten they've struggled somewhat in both games an have actually been behind to both Southamtpon and Liverpool, had it not been for a Martin Skrtel goal they'd have like lost to Liverpool. This is something Roberto Mancini should be worried about, at the back City have looked very poor, defensively weak and whilst it's true that they only played 3 at the back against Liverpool they were still carved open far too easily. Thankfully for City however their attacking forces have been able to bail them out so far this season, though you can't afford, in this league, to score 2 goals in every game just for a point.
City's struggles this season are a far cry from last season where they had the best defensive record in the Premier League (conceding just 29 goals, the best in the league) whilst their attack was just as potent with 93 goals (again the best in the league). Whilst it's true that City have been more fun to watch for a neutral, I dare say that City fans aren't too happy about looking so weak at the back. And whilst we all know that Sergio Agüero is a big loss for City, he's not the cause of their problems so far which have all been at the back.
With City's late spate of activity in the transfer market bringing in the likes of Scott Sinclair, Javi Garcia, Maicon and the surprising Richard Wright yeah I didn't see that one coming either) it could take yet longer for City to finally settle into this Premier League season. Though of course when they do I expect them to start rolling over teams for fun.
Whilst it's true that Manchester City are having defensive issues, so to are QPR who opened the season with a 5-0 reverse to Fulham before scraping a point against Norwich with a 1-1 scoreline. 6 goals against and 1 goal for from the opening 2 games of the season isn't a good start for Mark Hughes who has, like Mancini brought in a lot of players over the summer months (including Stephane Mbia, Esteban Granero and Cesar-who may actually be the only one to start) QPR have got to hope that Cesar can help strengthen the team at the back or they will really be in trouble for the rest of the year.
With just 1 point from a maximum of 6 it's fair to say that QPR haven't been very good, even more damning is that their point has only come from a very soft penalty against Norwich (and even that was missed). Whilst they do have proven quality through their squad with the likes of Robert Green, Bobby Zamora, Park Ji-Sung, Djibril Cisse, Shaun Wright-Phillips and Jose Boswinga the team really haven't clicked and dare I say it, a number of those players are likely only there for the money offered by multi-millionaire Tony Fernandes.
As a big boxing fan I often see fights where 2 fighters have poor defenses however one of those fighters has a hell of a puncher. This match appears to look like one of those fights on paper. Neither team has looked good at the back, 10 goals conceded between the two teams so far this season, however City are good on the attack. The likes of Carlos Tevez, Edin Dzeko, Samir Nasri, David Silva and Mario Balotelli are a real force to be reckoned with. I expect this to be a painful day for QPR against a City team who know they have questions to answer.
Kick-Off: 17:30
Prediction: 3-0
Expected Line Ups:
Manchester City-
Hart, Zabaleta, Kompany, Lescott, Clichy, Milner, Y. Toure, Nasri, Tevez, Silva, Balotelli (4-2-3-1)
QPR-
Cesar, Bosingwa, Nelsen, Ferdinand, Fabio, Taarabt, Diakite, Park, Hoilett, Zamora, Cisse (4-4-2)
Notes:
These two met on the final day of last season as City came from 2-1 down to claim a famous 3-2 victory and seal the Premier League whilst in extra time. In that match we had everything including an on the pitch break down by the enigmatic Joey Barton. Expect that story to be mentioned a number of times tomorrow.
Expect goals! City at home last season scored a remarkable 55 goals, more than 3 a game! QPR away from home conceded 41, more than 2 a game!
Players to watch out for-
Manchester City:
Carlos Tevez-It's fair to say that the Argentinian forward is never happy for long but when he's happy he is something special. With the gift he received against Liverpool last weekend he has every reason to be happy. Expect Tevez to have a field day against the QPR defense who will struggle with his strength and creativity.
David Silva-The Spanish magician hasn't been up to his best so far but he's capable of turning a game on it's head when he's on form. Against QPR Silva will be able to get plenty of the ball and plenty of chances to control the match as he begins to look more and more confident.
QPR:
Cesar-The Brazilian shot stopped is expected to start against Manchester City though it's unlikely to take long for him to ask "what am I doing here?" Cesar could well be a very, very busy man against City who will be coming to restore normality in the Premier League. Whoever is in goal for QPR will be called into action a lot.
Djibril Cisse-The French attacker Djibril Cisse has all the traits to give any defense a nightmare. He's powerful, quick and can hit like a rocket. whilst he's certainly not looked his best so far this season, this is a big chance for him to make a mark against a top tier defense. If Cisse comes to the party expect him to be a constant threat on the break.
So far this season City haven't looked very good in all honesty. Whilst they are unbeaten they've struggled somewhat in both games an have actually been behind to both Southamtpon and Liverpool, had it not been for a Martin Skrtel goal they'd have like lost to Liverpool. This is something Roberto Mancini should be worried about, at the back City have looked very poor, defensively weak and whilst it's true that they only played 3 at the back against Liverpool they were still carved open far too easily. Thankfully for City however their attacking forces have been able to bail them out so far this season, though you can't afford, in this league, to score 2 goals in every game just for a point.
City's struggles this season are a far cry from last season where they had the best defensive record in the Premier League (conceding just 29 goals, the best in the league) whilst their attack was just as potent with 93 goals (again the best in the league). Whilst it's true that City have been more fun to watch for a neutral, I dare say that City fans aren't too happy about looking so weak at the back. And whilst we all know that Sergio Agüero is a big loss for City, he's not the cause of their problems so far which have all been at the back.
With City's late spate of activity in the transfer market bringing in the likes of Scott Sinclair, Javi Garcia, Maicon and the surprising Richard Wright yeah I didn't see that one coming either) it could take yet longer for City to finally settle into this Premier League season. Though of course when they do I expect them to start rolling over teams for fun.
Whilst it's true that Manchester City are having defensive issues, so to are QPR who opened the season with a 5-0 reverse to Fulham before scraping a point against Norwich with a 1-1 scoreline. 6 goals against and 1 goal for from the opening 2 games of the season isn't a good start for Mark Hughes who has, like Mancini brought in a lot of players over the summer months (including Stephane Mbia, Esteban Granero and Cesar-who may actually be the only one to start) QPR have got to hope that Cesar can help strengthen the team at the back or they will really be in trouble for the rest of the year.
With just 1 point from a maximum of 6 it's fair to say that QPR haven't been very good, even more damning is that their point has only come from a very soft penalty against Norwich (and even that was missed). Whilst they do have proven quality through their squad with the likes of Robert Green, Bobby Zamora, Park Ji-Sung, Djibril Cisse, Shaun Wright-Phillips and Jose Boswinga the team really haven't clicked and dare I say it, a number of those players are likely only there for the money offered by multi-millionaire Tony Fernandes.
As a big boxing fan I often see fights where 2 fighters have poor defenses however one of those fighters has a hell of a puncher. This match appears to look like one of those fights on paper. Neither team has looked good at the back, 10 goals conceded between the two teams so far this season, however City are good on the attack. The likes of Carlos Tevez, Edin Dzeko, Samir Nasri, David Silva and Mario Balotelli are a real force to be reckoned with. I expect this to be a painful day for QPR against a City team who know they have questions to answer.
Kick-Off: 17:30
Prediction: 3-0
Expected Line Ups:
Manchester City-
Hart, Zabaleta, Kompany, Lescott, Clichy, Milner, Y. Toure, Nasri, Tevez, Silva, Balotelli (4-2-3-1)
QPR-
Cesar, Bosingwa, Nelsen, Ferdinand, Fabio, Taarabt, Diakite, Park, Hoilett, Zamora, Cisse (4-4-2)
Notes:
These two met on the final day of last season as City came from 2-1 down to claim a famous 3-2 victory and seal the Premier League whilst in extra time. In that match we had everything including an on the pitch break down by the enigmatic Joey Barton. Expect that story to be mentioned a number of times tomorrow.
Expect goals! City at home last season scored a remarkable 55 goals, more than 3 a game! QPR away from home conceded 41, more than 2 a game!
Players to watch out for-
Manchester City:
Carlos Tevez-It's fair to say that the Argentinian forward is never happy for long but when he's happy he is something special. With the gift he received against Liverpool last weekend he has every reason to be happy. Expect Tevez to have a field day against the QPR defense who will struggle with his strength and creativity.
David Silva-The Spanish magician hasn't been up to his best so far but he's capable of turning a game on it's head when he's on form. Against QPR Silva will be able to get plenty of the ball and plenty of chances to control the match as he begins to look more and more confident.
QPR:
Cesar-The Brazilian shot stopped is expected to start against Manchester City though it's unlikely to take long for him to ask "what am I doing here?" Cesar could well be a very, very busy man against City who will be coming to restore normality in the Premier League. Whoever is in goal for QPR will be called into action a lot.
Djibril Cisse-The French attacker Djibril Cisse has all the traits to give any defense a nightmare. He's powerful, quick and can hit like a rocket. whilst he's certainly not looked his best so far this season, this is a big chance for him to make a mark against a top tier defense. If Cisse comes to the party expect him to be a constant threat on the break.
Premier League Week 3-Preview and prediction (West Ham v Fulham)
For the second week running the newly promoted West Ham will get the weekend off to a start featuring in Saturday's early kick off as they host fellow London rivals Fulham. Despite both teams winning their opening league fixtures, both lost last time out and will be looking to get back on the winning path at the others expense.
West Ham's opening day victory over Aston Villa seems to have flattered to deceive with Villa taking a 3-1 drubbing last weekend to Everton whilst the Hammers were rolled over by Michael Laudrup's exceptional Swansea team. Despite the loss to Swansea however West Ham did show some promise, especially from set pieces where they came close a number of times and they do appear to have goals in them.
Having won 2-0 in a mid-week League Cup match (against Crewe) West Ham may go into this match with some momentum however it appears one of those goal scorers, Nicky Maynard, is on his way out (expected to go to Cardiff). Though hopefully, regardless of whether Maynard moves or not West Ham will have rebuilt some of their confidence or Big Sam may find his players really doubting themselves, especially in front of goal.
With Matt Jarvis having made his Premier League debut for the Hammers and looking excellent it does appear that West Ham will create chances, but the bigger question is have they got someone to finish the chances? It seems as though this is biggest issue with the Hammers and although they scored freely in the Championship last year (81 goals, 2nd most) with Ricardo Vaz Te and Carlton Cole they do appear to be struggling this season. Vaz Te, an excellent Championship player, has struggled to score in the Premier League in the past and Cole's Premier League record is around 1 goal in every 5 appearances.
Despite having a number of Premier League level players they really do lack an out and out Premier League goalscorer, something that could really comeback to haunt them. It's the same problem that saw West Ham relegated 2 years ago when they scored a mere 43 Premier League goals (the 3rd worst) with their top League scorer being Demba Ba with just 7 goals. In fact West Ham's attack was so toothless that only 4 players scored 5 or more goals in their 38 League games.
Whilst West Ham are struggling for goals Fulham on the other hand are one of the Premier League's highest scoring teams with 7 goals from their 2 games far. They opened their league season with an excellent 5-0 over Norwich and were unlucky not to steal a point in their 3-2 loss to Manchester United weekend. Whilst they did lose in midweek (1-0 to Sheffield Wednesday) in the League Cup Martin Jol's intention will be for a successful Premier League campaign, not a League Cup one.
Like West Ham it doesn't appear that Fulham are done with the transfer market and whilst they have recently lost Mousa Dembele (selling him to Tottenham) it appears as if Bulgarian striker Dimitar Berbatov is on his way to raven Cottage. Rumours are also circulating that Keiran Richardson could also join Fulham before the transfer window closes in just over a day. If Jol can secure both of these signings than it will be a major coup for the Dutchman.
Despite selling Dembele (who gave Manchester United a headache last weekend) Fulham have a really promising team. Not only is Damien Duff looking close to his best but Mladen Petric looks deadly in front of goal and Alexander Kačaniklić looks like a very shrewd signing. Fulham could be a handful for anyone in the Premier League.
Going into this match both teams will be wanting to show they are a good team though out of the two only Fulham appear to be a good team, I'll be expecting an away win.
Kick-Off: 12:45
Prediction: 0-2
Expected Line Ups:
West Ham-
Jääskeläinen, Demel, Reid, Collins, McCartney, Diamé, Noble, Nolan, Vaz Te, Taylor, Cole (4-3-3)
Fulham-
Schwarzer, Hangeland, Hughes, Kelly, Briggs, Duff, Diarra, Kacaniklic, Sidwell, Petric, Ruiz (4-4-2)
Notes:The summer signings haven't yet finished for either team and it looks likely that Andy Carroll will be loaned to West Ham for the season whilst Dimitar Berbatov is set to sign for Fulham (note this preview is being written on Thursday) however it's unlikely either will be registered in time to play.
West Ham have only lost 2 of their last 23 competitive fixtures (one of those being their 3-0 loss to Swansea)
Fulham have only beaten West Ham once at Upton Park in the Premier League
Players to watch out for-
West Ham:
Kevin Nolan-The West Ham Captain is their key player and most of what they do goes through him. Nolan is the driving force behind West Ham so the Fulham defense and Midfield will look to keep Nolan from exerting his force on the game. Whilst he's the West Ham Midfield general he's also a threat in front of goal and acts not only as a poacher but also as a solid threat in the air meaning that he will need to be marked well at set pieces.
Ricardo Vaz Te-The Portuguese forward was one of, if not the, Player of the Season for West Ham after signing from Barnsley mid way through the season. His goal record for the club is tremendous and his work rate is through the roof, he will always pose a threat to defenses and he will be looking to open his scoring sooner rather than later for the season.
Fulham:
Mladen Petric-The new Striker Mladen Petric has looked a star since signing for Fulham and with 2 goals already this he looks like an excellent threat. He gave the Manchester United defense a head ache at times last time out and was unlucky not to have scored past David De Gea. Expect the West Ham defense to be given a real nightmare against him.
Damien Duff-The Irish Winger retired from international football at the start of the new season though has proven that there is still life in the old dog with a goal in both Premier League games that he has played in so far, giving him the same return as he had in the entire of last season. Duff will give the Hammers fits if he gets the ball.
West Ham's opening day victory over Aston Villa seems to have flattered to deceive with Villa taking a 3-1 drubbing last weekend to Everton whilst the Hammers were rolled over by Michael Laudrup's exceptional Swansea team. Despite the loss to Swansea however West Ham did show some promise, especially from set pieces where they came close a number of times and they do appear to have goals in them.
Having won 2-0 in a mid-week League Cup match (against Crewe) West Ham may go into this match with some momentum however it appears one of those goal scorers, Nicky Maynard, is on his way out (expected to go to Cardiff). Though hopefully, regardless of whether Maynard moves or not West Ham will have rebuilt some of their confidence or Big Sam may find his players really doubting themselves, especially in front of goal.
With Matt Jarvis having made his Premier League debut for the Hammers and looking excellent it does appear that West Ham will create chances, but the bigger question is have they got someone to finish the chances? It seems as though this is biggest issue with the Hammers and although they scored freely in the Championship last year (81 goals, 2nd most) with Ricardo Vaz Te and Carlton Cole they do appear to be struggling this season. Vaz Te, an excellent Championship player, has struggled to score in the Premier League in the past and Cole's Premier League record is around 1 goal in every 5 appearances.
Despite having a number of Premier League level players they really do lack an out and out Premier League goalscorer, something that could really comeback to haunt them. It's the same problem that saw West Ham relegated 2 years ago when they scored a mere 43 Premier League goals (the 3rd worst) with their top League scorer being Demba Ba with just 7 goals. In fact West Ham's attack was so toothless that only 4 players scored 5 or more goals in their 38 League games.
Whilst West Ham are struggling for goals Fulham on the other hand are one of the Premier League's highest scoring teams with 7 goals from their 2 games far. They opened their league season with an excellent 5-0 over Norwich and were unlucky not to steal a point in their 3-2 loss to Manchester United weekend. Whilst they did lose in midweek (1-0 to Sheffield Wednesday) in the League Cup Martin Jol's intention will be for a successful Premier League campaign, not a League Cup one.
Like West Ham it doesn't appear that Fulham are done with the transfer market and whilst they have recently lost Mousa Dembele (selling him to Tottenham) it appears as if Bulgarian striker Dimitar Berbatov is on his way to raven Cottage. Rumours are also circulating that Keiran Richardson could also join Fulham before the transfer window closes in just over a day. If Jol can secure both of these signings than it will be a major coup for the Dutchman.
Despite selling Dembele (who gave Manchester United a headache last weekend) Fulham have a really promising team. Not only is Damien Duff looking close to his best but Mladen Petric looks deadly in front of goal and Alexander Kačaniklić looks like a very shrewd signing. Fulham could be a handful for anyone in the Premier League.
Going into this match both teams will be wanting to show they are a good team though out of the two only Fulham appear to be a good team, I'll be expecting an away win.
Kick-Off: 12:45
Prediction: 0-2
Expected Line Ups:
West Ham-
Jääskeläinen, Demel, Reid, Collins, McCartney, Diamé, Noble, Nolan, Vaz Te, Taylor, Cole (4-3-3)
Fulham-
Schwarzer, Hangeland, Hughes, Kelly, Briggs, Duff, Diarra, Kacaniklic, Sidwell, Petric, Ruiz (4-4-2)
Notes:The summer signings haven't yet finished for either team and it looks likely that Andy Carroll will be loaned to West Ham for the season whilst Dimitar Berbatov is set to sign for Fulham (note this preview is being written on Thursday) however it's unlikely either will be registered in time to play.
West Ham have only lost 2 of their last 23 competitive fixtures (one of those being their 3-0 loss to Swansea)
Fulham have only beaten West Ham once at Upton Park in the Premier League
Players to watch out for-
West Ham:
Kevin Nolan-The West Ham Captain is their key player and most of what they do goes through him. Nolan is the driving force behind West Ham so the Fulham defense and Midfield will look to keep Nolan from exerting his force on the game. Whilst he's the West Ham Midfield general he's also a threat in front of goal and acts not only as a poacher but also as a solid threat in the air meaning that he will need to be marked well at set pieces.
Ricardo Vaz Te-The Portuguese forward was one of, if not the, Player of the Season for West Ham after signing from Barnsley mid way through the season. His goal record for the club is tremendous and his work rate is through the roof, he will always pose a threat to defenses and he will be looking to open his scoring sooner rather than later for the season.
Fulham:
Mladen Petric-The new Striker Mladen Petric has looked a star since signing for Fulham and with 2 goals already this he looks like an excellent threat. He gave the Manchester United defense a head ache at times last time out and was unlucky not to have scored past David De Gea. Expect the West Ham defense to be given a real nightmare against him.
Damien Duff-The Irish Winger retired from international football at the start of the new season though has proven that there is still life in the old dog with a goal in both Premier League games that he has played in so far, giving him the same return as he had in the entire of last season. Duff will give the Hammers fits if he gets the ball.
Thursday 30 August 2012
Premier League-Team of the Week, Week 2
With all the players having played again for their clubs, it's time for us to look at our "Team of the Week" for week 2. Week two was, like the opening week, a surprising week in some ways but some performances really stood out:
Goalkeeper-Ali Al Habsi (Wigan)
The Omani Goalkeeper often seems to be one of the most of the most over-looked players in the Premier League but he was certainly responsible for Wigan taking home 3 points last weekend. The excellent stopper made a number of notable saves including an excellent one early on to deny Adam Lallana from breaking the deadlock. Fantastic performance.
Defence-Rafael (Manchester United)
The Manchester United wing back has often been criticised for his defensive skill though showed excellent ability both at the back and attacking as United defeated Fulham. Not only did Rafael show great attacking promise bagging a goal but he was also a key part of United's defense.
Defence-Gary Cahill (Chelsea)
Chelsea's centre defense may have revolved around John Terry for years but it now seems like Gary Cahill is becoming the new rock at the back for the Blues. Cahill was solid at the back helping Chelsea to completely neutralise Demba Ba and Papiss Cisse and really proved just why Chelsea opened the cheque book to sign him.
Defence-Glen Johnson (Liverpool)
I'll admit I'm not a big Glen Johnson fan, especially at national level but his performance against Manchester City showed just how good Johnson on his day can be. He neutralised many of the Manchester City threats and linked up amazingly well with Raheem Sterling (see below) as Liverpool showed a huge improvement on their opening day fixture.
Defence-Angel Rangel (Swansea)
Swansea appear to be the surprise team of Premier League so far. Having already scored 8 goals it'd be easy to forget how good they've been at the back but they're yet to concede a goal thanks to the likes of Rangel who helped put the Swans up against West Ham at the weekend.
Midfielder-Eden Hazard (Chelsea)
The young Belgian already looks like the signing of the summer and the Chelsea new boy was again one of the keys to Chelsea's continued success. Not only did he create numerous opportunities against Newcastle (including Fernando Torres' goal) but he also opened his own account for Chelsea thanks to a penalty. Expect there to be much, much more to com from Hazard.
Midfielder-Marouane Fellaini (Everton)
Everton have gotten off to an excellent start to the season and much of that has been down to the continued threat of the Midfielder pairing of Steven Pienaar and Marouane Fellaini. Whilst Pienaar ran much of the game it was the worry about Fellaini that helped give the South African so much time and space to work his magic.
Midfielder-Shinji Kagawa (Manchester United)
Attacking midfielder Shinji Kagawa not only opened his Premier League account but again pulled the strings for Manchester United. Many had claimed that Kagawa was only at United to sell shirts, but it's quickly become apparent that he's there to score and create chances which he did excellently here.
Midfielder-Raheem Sterling (Liverpool)
Wow. It was hard to describe the performance of Liverpool's youngster any other way than "wow" or "amazing". The youngster had a game to remember against Manchester City and really looked sensational down the wing pushing the Blues back. Whilst he had a man of the match performance I wouldn't rush him as he could end up taking a knock, but using him sparingly will bring Liverpool a lot of success.
Attack-Fernando Torres (Chelsea)
Well it suddenly appears that the sleeping giant has awoken. After receiving an unfortunate yellow card against Newcastle we suddenly saw the Torres of old as the Spaniard ripped the defenders to pieces before scoring a wonderful goal after linking with Eden Hazard. Torres looks to finally be enjoying his football once again and looks like a real threat once more. The Premier League has been warned.
Attack-Nikica Jelavic (Everton)
Everton's team really did look exceptional (not only with Pienaar and Fellaini in the middle but also Leighton Baines and Phil Neville at the back) and up front Nikica Jelavic once again proved that he's deadly on the ball. It was Jelavic's goal before half time against Aston Villa that secured the 3 points but his attacking run in the second half had the Villa defense on edge and saw Ciaran Clarke getting sent off, further secure Everton's place. near the top of the League table.
Manager of the Week-Brendon RodgersWhat a difference a week makes in the world of professional football. A week ago Liverpool were humiliated by a rampant West Brom side and yet this past weekend Liverpool were hugely unfortunate not to have taken 3 points against Manchester City, in fact barring a stupid mistake by Martin Skrtel Liverpool should have taken all 3 points. Rodger's men looked a completely different team, their passing was generally excellent and the work rate they showed was fantastic.
Goalkeeper-Ali Al Habsi (Wigan)
The Omani Goalkeeper often seems to be one of the most of the most over-looked players in the Premier League but he was certainly responsible for Wigan taking home 3 points last weekend. The excellent stopper made a number of notable saves including an excellent one early on to deny Adam Lallana from breaking the deadlock. Fantastic performance.
Defence-Rafael (Manchester United)
The Manchester United wing back has often been criticised for his defensive skill though showed excellent ability both at the back and attacking as United defeated Fulham. Not only did Rafael show great attacking promise bagging a goal but he was also a key part of United's defense.
Defence-Gary Cahill (Chelsea)
Chelsea's centre defense may have revolved around John Terry for years but it now seems like Gary Cahill is becoming the new rock at the back for the Blues. Cahill was solid at the back helping Chelsea to completely neutralise Demba Ba and Papiss Cisse and really proved just why Chelsea opened the cheque book to sign him.
Defence-Glen Johnson (Liverpool)
I'll admit I'm not a big Glen Johnson fan, especially at national level but his performance against Manchester City showed just how good Johnson on his day can be. He neutralised many of the Manchester City threats and linked up amazingly well with Raheem Sterling (see below) as Liverpool showed a huge improvement on their opening day fixture.
Defence-Angel Rangel (Swansea)
Swansea appear to be the surprise team of Premier League so far. Having already scored 8 goals it'd be easy to forget how good they've been at the back but they're yet to concede a goal thanks to the likes of Rangel who helped put the Swans up against West Ham at the weekend.
Midfielder-Eden Hazard (Chelsea)
The young Belgian already looks like the signing of the summer and the Chelsea new boy was again one of the keys to Chelsea's continued success. Not only did he create numerous opportunities against Newcastle (including Fernando Torres' goal) but he also opened his own account for Chelsea thanks to a penalty. Expect there to be much, much more to com from Hazard.
Midfielder-Marouane Fellaini (Everton)
Everton have gotten off to an excellent start to the season and much of that has been down to the continued threat of the Midfielder pairing of Steven Pienaar and Marouane Fellaini. Whilst Pienaar ran much of the game it was the worry about Fellaini that helped give the South African so much time and space to work his magic.
Midfielder-Shinji Kagawa (Manchester United)
Attacking midfielder Shinji Kagawa not only opened his Premier League account but again pulled the strings for Manchester United. Many had claimed that Kagawa was only at United to sell shirts, but it's quickly become apparent that he's there to score and create chances which he did excellently here.
Midfielder-Raheem Sterling (Liverpool)
Wow. It was hard to describe the performance of Liverpool's youngster any other way than "wow" or "amazing". The youngster had a game to remember against Manchester City and really looked sensational down the wing pushing the Blues back. Whilst he had a man of the match performance I wouldn't rush him as he could end up taking a knock, but using him sparingly will bring Liverpool a lot of success.
Attack-Fernando Torres (Chelsea)
Well it suddenly appears that the sleeping giant has awoken. After receiving an unfortunate yellow card against Newcastle we suddenly saw the Torres of old as the Spaniard ripped the defenders to pieces before scoring a wonderful goal after linking with Eden Hazard. Torres looks to finally be enjoying his football once again and looks like a real threat once more. The Premier League has been warned.
Attack-Nikica Jelavic (Everton)
Everton's team really did look exceptional (not only with Pienaar and Fellaini in the middle but also Leighton Baines and Phil Neville at the back) and up front Nikica Jelavic once again proved that he's deadly on the ball. It was Jelavic's goal before half time against Aston Villa that secured the 3 points but his attacking run in the second half had the Villa defense on edge and saw Ciaran Clarke getting sent off, further secure Everton's place. near the top of the League table.
Manager of the Week-Brendon RodgersWhat a difference a week makes in the world of professional football. A week ago Liverpool were humiliated by a rampant West Brom side and yet this past weekend Liverpool were hugely unfortunate not to have taken 3 points against Manchester City, in fact barring a stupid mistake by Martin Skrtel Liverpool should have taken all 3 points. Rodger's men looked a completely different team, their passing was generally excellent and the work rate they showed was fantastic.
Sunday 26 August 2012
Premier League Week 2-Write up Liverpool v Manchester City
Liverpool 2-2 Manchester City
After being thumped 3-0 on the opening day of the season many, including myself had real fear for Liverpool as reigning Premier League champions Manchester City came to visit in the late kick off on Sunday. Although City themselves hadn't looked particularly good on their opening league fixture they had managed to defeat Southampton 3-2 in a very fun to watch fixture.
Things started badly for Brendon Rodgers' side with Lucas going off injured inside the first 5 minutes however Liverpool showed a real unity and drive and looked like a team with a point to prove. Lead by the Midfield pairing of Steven Gerrard and new signing Joe Allen, Liverpool quickly looked like the better team and with their wing backs raiding forward it seemed only a matter of team before the Red's would take the lead. Liverpool would eventually take the lead in around 34 minutes into the game thanks to a rocket header by Martin Skrtel following a Liverpool corner.
Going into half time Brendon Rodgers would have felt the job was half done, Liverpool had not only taken the lead but bossed the game and looked to be in charge. Their lead was undone around 20 minutes into the second half as Carlos Tevez's cross was finished off by Yaya Toure thanks to some very poor defending by Liverpool who appeared to switch off and were punished as a result.
It would take Liverpool just 3 minutes retake the lead as a Luis Suarez free kick from just outside the penalty area was perfectly placed into the bottom corner giving Joe Hart no chance at all. It was once again looking like Liverpool were in charge and they came close to going 3-1 up on a number of occasions though couldn't finish any of the chances off.
With 10 minutes of the match left Martin Skrtel went from hero to zero as he passed to Carlos Tevez who had no issues in going around Pepe Reina to equalise once more. From then on the game turned into an end-to-end struggle with both teams attacking hard looking for a winner though no one could score the decisive goal to seal 3 points.
Liverpool fans should be very happy at the performance, it was a massive improvement from their opening fixture however they will also feel massively disappointed by taking the 3 points from the match. They were the better team and they created the better chances however they twice shot themselves in the foot for the 2 Manchester City goals which were pretty much gifts for city. It'll be a bittersweet day for both Brendon Rodgers and Martin Skrtel, however the positives were there for Liverpool. Gerrard, Suarez, Allen and youngster Raheem Sterling were all excellent and hardly put a foot wrong between them, the team passed wonderfully and looked much like the team that Rodgers would have been wanting them to be. If they continue to improve they could be a very good team, however if this was just a case of "playing up to the champions" then I'd worry, sadly however we won't know about that for at least another week.
For Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini he will be very happy at earning a point here, though he will certainly see this as a point given to them rather than one they truly deserved. Up front they look good, Tevez came close with a shot that rolled across the line and though the strikers rarely got solid chances as the Liverpool defense held them well they looked like they had goals in them. Yaya Toure was again impressive (then again when isn't he?) and after coming on Jack Rodwell, Edin Dzeko and David Silva all changed the flow of the game. Sadly however the talking point about City isn't there attackers but instead their defense which again conceded two goals. This will need to be tightened up and soon if City are going to retain the Premier League title, you simply cannot expect to score 3 goals a game just to win matches. If they can sort out at the back then they certainly should be able to retain the title, if they keep conceding then they are really going to be in trouble
After being thumped 3-0 on the opening day of the season many, including myself had real fear for Liverpool as reigning Premier League champions Manchester City came to visit in the late kick off on Sunday. Although City themselves hadn't looked particularly good on their opening league fixture they had managed to defeat Southampton 3-2 in a very fun to watch fixture.
Things started badly for Brendon Rodgers' side with Lucas going off injured inside the first 5 minutes however Liverpool showed a real unity and drive and looked like a team with a point to prove. Lead by the Midfield pairing of Steven Gerrard and new signing Joe Allen, Liverpool quickly looked like the better team and with their wing backs raiding forward it seemed only a matter of team before the Red's would take the lead. Liverpool would eventually take the lead in around 34 minutes into the game thanks to a rocket header by Martin Skrtel following a Liverpool corner.
Going into half time Brendon Rodgers would have felt the job was half done, Liverpool had not only taken the lead but bossed the game and looked to be in charge. Their lead was undone around 20 minutes into the second half as Carlos Tevez's cross was finished off by Yaya Toure thanks to some very poor defending by Liverpool who appeared to switch off and were punished as a result.
It would take Liverpool just 3 minutes retake the lead as a Luis Suarez free kick from just outside the penalty area was perfectly placed into the bottom corner giving Joe Hart no chance at all. It was once again looking like Liverpool were in charge and they came close to going 3-1 up on a number of occasions though couldn't finish any of the chances off.
With 10 minutes of the match left Martin Skrtel went from hero to zero as he passed to Carlos Tevez who had no issues in going around Pepe Reina to equalise once more. From then on the game turned into an end-to-end struggle with both teams attacking hard looking for a winner though no one could score the decisive goal to seal 3 points.
Liverpool fans should be very happy at the performance, it was a massive improvement from their opening fixture however they will also feel massively disappointed by taking the 3 points from the match. They were the better team and they created the better chances however they twice shot themselves in the foot for the 2 Manchester City goals which were pretty much gifts for city. It'll be a bittersweet day for both Brendon Rodgers and Martin Skrtel, however the positives were there for Liverpool. Gerrard, Suarez, Allen and youngster Raheem Sterling were all excellent and hardly put a foot wrong between them, the team passed wonderfully and looked much like the team that Rodgers would have been wanting them to be. If they continue to improve they could be a very good team, however if this was just a case of "playing up to the champions" then I'd worry, sadly however we won't know about that for at least another week.
For Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini he will be very happy at earning a point here, though he will certainly see this as a point given to them rather than one they truly deserved. Up front they look good, Tevez came close with a shot that rolled across the line and though the strikers rarely got solid chances as the Liverpool defense held them well they looked like they had goals in them. Yaya Toure was again impressive (then again when isn't he?) and after coming on Jack Rodwell, Edin Dzeko and David Silva all changed the flow of the game. Sadly however the talking point about City isn't there attackers but instead their defense which again conceded two goals. This will need to be tightened up and soon if City are going to retain the Premier League title, you simply cannot expect to score 3 goals a game just to win matches. If they can sort out at the back then they certainly should be able to retain the title, if they keep conceding then they are really going to be in trouble
Premier League Week 2-Write up Stoke v Arsenal
Stoke 0-0 Arsenal
Everyone who watches the Premier League knows about the love-hate relationship between Arsene Wenger and Stoke City, it's fair to say that this match will not ease his dislike of a team that seem to have become his nemesis in recent years.
Stoke have made a habit of not losing games over the past few seasons and have an excellently drilled defense that often refuses to be breached and that's again what happened as they bent and buckled but refused to snap to relentless Arsenal pressure. In fact it was Arsenal's defense that seemed to be broken early in the game as Jonathan Walters put the ball in the Arsenal net inside the first 10 minutes before the goal was ruled out. It was as close as either team came to breaking the dead lock.
Arsenal, via Santi Cazorla and Mikael Arteta dominated the game with two Spaniards pulling all the strings in the middle though the organised Stoke back 4 managed to hold out and really limited the solid chances Arsenal had. Whilst at the other end Peter Crouch was effectively played out of the gme by Per Mertesacker and Thomas Vermaelen who seemed to show Steve Pulis' men that Arsenal had manned up this year.
For Steve Pulis this was a point well earned as his team were on the back foot for much of the game and they proved that they are defensively as sound as ever. Whilst they couldn't really get into the game going forward with only a handful of half chances they proved to be resolute and solid at the back. The Stoke fans may feel a slight aggreived not to have had a penalty in the second half but it would have been very soft to have awarded a penalty for the coming together in question and all in all they were lucky to get apoint.
Arsene Wenger hasn't tried to hide his dislike of Stoke over the years and he will again be seething whilst feeling that his team had enough chances to bag all 3 points. He knows Stoke are physical however he'll have been pleased by the fact that his players refused to be kicked off the pitch however the wasted chances will really annoying him, especially given how much of the game they bossed. Once again Santi Cazorla looked exceptional and controlled the game for the second match running however it was Mikael Arteta who perhaps deserved all the plaudits as he was the one who was fidning Cazorla in space.
Notes-
Arsenal have been involved in both of the 0-0's so far
Stoke failed to get a single corner whilst Arsenal had double figures.
Everyone who watches the Premier League knows about the love-hate relationship between Arsene Wenger and Stoke City, it's fair to say that this match will not ease his dislike of a team that seem to have become his nemesis in recent years.
Stoke have made a habit of not losing games over the past few seasons and have an excellently drilled defense that often refuses to be breached and that's again what happened as they bent and buckled but refused to snap to relentless Arsenal pressure. In fact it was Arsenal's defense that seemed to be broken early in the game as Jonathan Walters put the ball in the Arsenal net inside the first 10 minutes before the goal was ruled out. It was as close as either team came to breaking the dead lock.
Arsenal, via Santi Cazorla and Mikael Arteta dominated the game with two Spaniards pulling all the strings in the middle though the organised Stoke back 4 managed to hold out and really limited the solid chances Arsenal had. Whilst at the other end Peter Crouch was effectively played out of the gme by Per Mertesacker and Thomas Vermaelen who seemed to show Steve Pulis' men that Arsenal had manned up this year.
For Steve Pulis this was a point well earned as his team were on the back foot for much of the game and they proved that they are defensively as sound as ever. Whilst they couldn't really get into the game going forward with only a handful of half chances they proved to be resolute and solid at the back. The Stoke fans may feel a slight aggreived not to have had a penalty in the second half but it would have been very soft to have awarded a penalty for the coming together in question and all in all they were lucky to get apoint.
Arsene Wenger hasn't tried to hide his dislike of Stoke over the years and he will again be seething whilst feeling that his team had enough chances to bag all 3 points. He knows Stoke are physical however he'll have been pleased by the fact that his players refused to be kicked off the pitch however the wasted chances will really annoying him, especially given how much of the game they bossed. Once again Santi Cazorla looked exceptional and controlled the game for the second match running however it was Mikael Arteta who perhaps deserved all the plaudits as he was the one who was fidning Cazorla in space.
Notes-
Arsenal have been involved in both of the 0-0's so far
Stoke failed to get a single corner whilst Arsenal had double figures.
Premier League Week 2-As it Happens (Sunday)
Full-time
Liverpool 2-2 Manchester City
A much improved performance by Liverpool after the West Brom match last week and in fairness they will feel they deserved all 3 points. The huge blunder by Martin Skrtel saw him going from hero to zero and he was effectively the reaosn that Liverpool didn't claim all 3 points. Roberto Mancini really needs to see this as a point won and not 2 points lost but in all honesty he needs to worry. His defense has now let in 4 goals in 2 games and they cannot keep conceding goals like this if they are to repeat the succes of last year.
Yellow Card
Luis Suarez gets the first yellow card of the game for aguing with the referee.
Manchester City Corner
We are half way into stoppage time and Manchester City have a corner. It eventually falls for Carlos Tevez who hits his shot wide.
End to end action now as both teams go for the win, we have just a few minutes of stoppage time left but both teams seem to feel they can win it!
Liverpool Corner
Corner crossed in and rebounds around the around the area before it's hit on target, big appeal for hanball turned down by the referee. Liverpool really seeking a winner.
Liverpool Corner
Liverpool break and get a corner, it gets turned behind for another
Manchester City half chance
Edin Dzeko gets half a chance but hits his shot wide
Liverpool Substitution
Fabio Borini comes off and is replaced by Andy Carroll
Liverpool half chance
The homeside are trying to go back in the lead and play the ball around City's penalty area before a shot by Jonjo Shelby goes over the bar.
Goal!
What was Martin Skrtel doing? He calmly passes the ball to Carlos Tevez who cooly slows the ball past Pepe Reina as Liverpool fans ask what their defender was doing there.
Liverpool 2-2 Manchester City
Skrtel (34)
Y. Toure (63)
Suarez (66)
Tvez (80)
Mancester City Substitute
David Silva comes on with about 15 minutes left as he replaces James Milner.
Penalty Appeal
Liverpool look almost certain to be given a penalty as Glen Johnson goes down but the referee doesn't blow the whistle.
Liverpool half chance
Fabio Borini breaks down the side and tries to lay in a cross but it's cut out as Liverpool look to kill off the game.
Liverpool free kick and Substitution
Martin Kelly goes off to be replaced by Jose Enrique as Liverpool prepare for a free kick following a handball. The free kick, taken by Luis Suarez is perfectly placed as Liverpool retake the lead.
Liverpool 2-1 Manchester City
Skrtel (34)
Y. Toure (63)
Suarez (66)
Goal!
The substitution of Edin Dzeko seems to have automatically revitalised the Manchester City attack and a cross from the left leaves the Liverpool defense looking clueless as Yaya Toure bangs in an equaliser
Liverpool 1-1 Manchester City
Skrtel (34)
Y. Toure (63)
Manchester City Substitution
Edin Dzeko comes on to replace Mario Ballotelli
Manchester City Substitution
Jack Rodwell comes on for Samir Nasri who has been rather quiet today after being excellent last weekend.
Liverpool half Chance
Mario Ballotelli gives the ball away in a dangerous position but Luis Suarez makes the wrong decision.
Manchester City Corner
Mario Ballotelli was annoyed not to get a free kick but he did manage to earn a corner for his team whilst being angrily booed by the Kop faithful.
Manchester City Free kick
The visitors get a free kick from wide on the attack right but it goes over everyone and sails out for a goal kick.
...and we're back off for the second half at Anfield.
Half Time
Liverpool 1-0 Manchester City
Brendon Rodgers will have to be a very, very happy man. His team were humiliated last weekend but came out firing today and made their intentions well known early on. Although they lost Lukas inside the first 5 minutes they had none stop desire all over the place. Really incredible performance as Liverpool show no signs of having played just a few days ago.
Manchester City do look like they have goals in them though with only 3 men at the back they do look defensively weak and perhaps feel a little unlucky not to have conceded more than just the 1. Whilst Carloz Tevez came incredibly close with a magical moment Liverpool's defense has stopped almost everything else without too many problems. Robert Mancini will be telling his players that they need to take the chances when they get them and if they do there will be no way that this ends 1-0
Manchester City Free kick
Manchester City get a free kick in a promising position but it goes straight in to the wall before the referee blows the whistle for half time.
Manchester City Corner
Manchester City are looking an equaliser before half time as hey get a second successive corner but it's easily defended by Liverpool
Manchester City Corner
City get a corner but it fails to beat the first man.
Liverpool Chance
Luis Suarez has half a chance but hits it over the bar as Liverpool push for a second goal before half time.
Liverpool Corner and Goal!
Liverpool were unlucky just seconds earlier as Vincent Kompany got lucky in front of his own goal, but the resulting corner was excellent and Martin Skrtel gets his head on it and gives Joe Hart no chance.
Liverpool 1-0 Manchester City
Skrtel (35)
Lucky Boy!Vincent Kompany almost puts one into the back of his own net, though it goes behidn for a Liverpool corner.
Manchester City Chance
End to end action here with Liverpool feeling they deserve a free kick at one end before Mario Ballotelli gets a chance at the other end. Brilliant action at times with a much improved Liverpool to the one who were humiliated last weekend.
Liverpool Corner
Liverpool showing real desire and get a corner...which doesn't go how they want.
Manchester City Free kick
City get a freekick in an excellent position which is crossed but it goes out before anyone gets a touch.
Penalty Appeal
The Manchester City fans appeal for a handball against Martin Skrtel, referee has none of it.
How did that not go in?
Carlos Tevez hits a ball that literally goes along the Liverpool goal line before hitting the far post and rolling out as several City players watch idly. Should have been a Manchester City goal.
Liverpool Chance
Fabio Borini gets the first notable chance of the game but blasts wide as Liverpool open up the Manchester City back 3.
Penalty Appeal
The Liverpool fans appeal for a handball against Aleksandar Kolarov, nothing is given however.
Manchester City Free kick
A foul by Liverpool gives the visitors a free kick which is easily saved by Pepe Reina.
Liverpool Substitution
Lukas hobbles off inside the first 5 minutes and is replaced by Jonjo Shelvey
...and we have kick off in our 16:00 kick off!
With a 0-0 in the early kick off we are all expecting goals in the late kick off as we go to Anfield for Liverpool v Manchester City in what promises to be an excellent and enthralling match up.
Full Time
Stoke 0-0 Arsenal
Stoke Free Kick
We have 3 minutes of extra time and Stoke have another chance to launch a free kick in the penalty area. The set piece however is cleared with ease.
Arsenal Shot!
Oliver Giroud sees Asmir Begovic off his line and attempts and outrageous shot which only just misses the net. Probably as close as either team has come in the second half.
Stoke Free kickStoke get a free kick due to a foul by Mikael Arteta in a nice position, the ball is floated in but cleared easily by Per Mertesacker
Stoke Half Chance
Stoke break through the Arsenal defence but the shot is poor.
Just 5 minutes left at the Britannia Stadium with the scores still 0-0, will Arsenal have their second goalless draw of the season?
Arsenal Corner
This one is poor and misses everyone.
Arsenal Corner
Another Arsenal corner leads to yet another Arsenal corner.
Arsenal Corner
Arsenal get yet another corner, this one is threatening but Per Mertesacker's header goes well over.
Arsenal Substitution
Aaron Ramsey comes to replace Santi Corzola
Stoke Subsitition
Glenn Whelan goes off for Wilson Palacios as Stoke make their final change.
Penalty Appeal
The Stoke crowd appeal for a penalty against Carl Jenkinson
Stoke Substitution
Peter Crouch goes off for Ryan Shotton
Stoke Half Chance
Peter Crouch delivers a cross but the resulting header is disappointing. Stoke showing some belief now.
Arsenal Chance
Abou Diaby finds himself in the Stoke are with the ball at his feet but sadly he fails to get his shot on target. A great chance.
Arsenal Subsitutions
Gervinho and Lukas Podolski both go off to be replaced by Theo Walcott and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain as Arsenal look in add some pace to their attack.
Arsenal Half Chance
Gervinho predicts and error but can't quite get to the ball befor Asmir Begovic.
Arsenal Corner
Yet another corner for Arsenal this one falls to Oliver Giroud in the penalty area but the Frenchman has to go for the spectacular and it sails over.
Stoke Half Chance
A Stoke cross finds Peter Crouch at the far post but the gentle giant can't pop in what was a very tough chance.
Stoke Substitution
Jermain Pennant off and Cameron Jerome on for the home side.
Arsenal Free kick and Yellow Card
Arsenal keep the pressure on the Stoke defense and Andy Wilkinson gets booked as he makes a very rash challenge inside the D. Very promising position for a free kick but Mikael Arteta's shot is straight into the wall.
Arsenal Free kick
A needlessly given away free kick ends a possible Stoke counter but Arsenal don't manage to do much with the free kick.
Arsenal Corner
Stoke have a chance but Arsenal quickly break and get themselves a corner. It's half cleared.
Stoke Half Chance
A long ball by Stoke seems to catch the Arsenal defense off guard but the eventual cross by Michaek Kightly is poor to say the least.
Penalty Appeal
Stoke appeal for a penalty after Jermain Pennant and Kieran Gibbs come close but the referee and linesman ignore the appeal. Stoke are starting to make their presence known once again.
Arsenal Corner
Arsenal get their first corner of the second half and despite having some serious height they fail make much of the corner.
Arsenal Chance
Gervinho gets himself into a great position but sadly his shot is lacking.
...And we're off for the second half at the Britannia Stadium for the second half.
Half time
Stoke 0-0 Arsenal
Arsenal have been much the better side in the opening half but despite a number of half chances they've failed to break the deadlock. Stoke are the only seam so far to have the ball in the net though it was pretty clearly offside.
So far it's been Santi Carzola who has been pulling the strings and the Spaniard looks a class above everyone on the pitch controlling the pace of the game excellently though he will be wanting someone up front to finish off the chances he creates. Stoke are being physical but are lacking a serious threat and Peter Crouch has been all but played out of the match so far.
Arsenal Corner
Arsenal get a corner from the other side and this one comes to nothing as the whistle blows and that's half time.
Arsenal Corner
We enter stoppage time with an Arsenal corner after Gervinho is challenged. It goes into the area and out the other end for another corner.
Arsenal Corner
Arsenal counter after a solid Stoke attack and get a corner after an excellent challenge on Kieran Gibbs.
Stoke Free kick
Stoke have a free kick in a promising position but it's headed straight out by the Arsenal defense. Stoke appear to be making their way into this game.
Arsenal Corner
The corner following Santi Carzola's shot comes to absolutely nothing as the referee notices an infringement by Arsenal.
SAVE!
Mikael Arteta is fouled not far from the half way line but the referee plays advantage and Santi Carzola takes a brilliant shot forcing Asmir Begović into action as he turns it behind for a corner.
Free kick
After having their best series of play Stoke are again on the back foot and Santi Carzola gets given a bit more of the Britannia treatment. The free kick is played short and the resulting shot goes out for a goal kick.
Stoke Chance
Michael Kightly, on his home debut for Stoke has a chance but smashes it straight at Vito Mannone.
Arsenal Chance
Only a half chance this time which Lukas Podolski whacks over from just outside the penalty area. This is starting to look like one way traffic so far with Diaby and Carzola being the bosses of the game up to now.
Arsenal Chance
The visitors split open Stoke's defense but the final pass is too hard and too high. Arsenal really are bossing this so far.
Freekick and Yellow Card
Lukas Podolski is driving towards the Stoke penalty area until Robert Huth takes him down and gets the first booking of the match. Arsenal fancy their chances from a very promising position but Santi Carzola's free kick hits the bottom of the wall.
Arsenal Chance
Arsenal bringing a lot of pressure to the Stoke defense with Santi Corzola pulling the strings already in and around the Stoke penalty area. A chance goes begging but it's looking like only a matter of time.
Arsenal Corner
Arsenal get there first chance to throw the big defenders up into the Stoke penalty area but nothing comes from the set piece.
Arsenal Chance
A slip in the Stoke defense lets Arsenal in and but Lukas Podolski's shot is blocked, looks to be a handball but only given as a corner.
Goal!...or not
Stoke have the ball in the Arsenal net but a flag is up and it's ruled out. That's been the first major goal mouth action from the opening 7 or 8 minutes.
Free kick
Less than 2 minutes into the game and we see Stoke's physicality coming into play already as Santi Carzola is given a Britannia Stadium welcome.
Kick off
13:30-And we have kick off in the battle some are dubbing as "Beauty against the Beast".
Our second Sunday of the Premier League season sees us beginning the day's at the Britannia Stadium as Stoke City host Arsenal. This well talked about styles clash is always engaging for the neutral fans who get to see the passing play of Arsenal set up against the physicality of Stoke. With both teams starting their season with a draw they will be hunting the 3 points here in what should be a key fixture for both as they seek their first win of the season.
Following the game at the Brittania we are off to Anfield as Brendon Rodgers looks for his first points as Liverpool manager following the humiliating 3-0 opening day defeat to West Brom. Sadly for Rodgers, and the Kop, Liverpool will be playing against the defending champions Manchester City who will look to put Liverpool to the sword and really raise the pressure on Rodgers.
Liverpool 2-2 Manchester City
A much improved performance by Liverpool after the West Brom match last week and in fairness they will feel they deserved all 3 points. The huge blunder by Martin Skrtel saw him going from hero to zero and he was effectively the reaosn that Liverpool didn't claim all 3 points. Roberto Mancini really needs to see this as a point won and not 2 points lost but in all honesty he needs to worry. His defense has now let in 4 goals in 2 games and they cannot keep conceding goals like this if they are to repeat the succes of last year.
Yellow Card
Luis Suarez gets the first yellow card of the game for aguing with the referee.
Manchester City Corner
We are half way into stoppage time and Manchester City have a corner. It eventually falls for Carlos Tevez who hits his shot wide.
End to end action now as both teams go for the win, we have just a few minutes of stoppage time left but both teams seem to feel they can win it!
Liverpool Corner
Corner crossed in and rebounds around the around the area before it's hit on target, big appeal for hanball turned down by the referee. Liverpool really seeking a winner.
Liverpool Corner
Liverpool break and get a corner, it gets turned behind for another
Manchester City half chance
Edin Dzeko gets half a chance but hits his shot wide
Liverpool Substitution
Fabio Borini comes off and is replaced by Andy Carroll
Liverpool half chance
The homeside are trying to go back in the lead and play the ball around City's penalty area before a shot by Jonjo Shelby goes over the bar.
Goal!
What was Martin Skrtel doing? He calmly passes the ball to Carlos Tevez who cooly slows the ball past Pepe Reina as Liverpool fans ask what their defender was doing there.
Liverpool 2-2 Manchester City
Skrtel (34)
Y. Toure (63)
Suarez (66)
Tvez (80)
Mancester City Substitute
David Silva comes on with about 15 minutes left as he replaces James Milner.
Penalty Appeal
Liverpool look almost certain to be given a penalty as Glen Johnson goes down but the referee doesn't blow the whistle.
Liverpool half chance
Fabio Borini breaks down the side and tries to lay in a cross but it's cut out as Liverpool look to kill off the game.
Liverpool free kick and Substitution
Martin Kelly goes off to be replaced by Jose Enrique as Liverpool prepare for a free kick following a handball. The free kick, taken by Luis Suarez is perfectly placed as Liverpool retake the lead.
Liverpool 2-1 Manchester City
Skrtel (34)
Y. Toure (63)
Suarez (66)
Goal!
The substitution of Edin Dzeko seems to have automatically revitalised the Manchester City attack and a cross from the left leaves the Liverpool defense looking clueless as Yaya Toure bangs in an equaliser
Liverpool 1-1 Manchester City
Skrtel (34)
Y. Toure (63)
Manchester City Substitution
Edin Dzeko comes on to replace Mario Ballotelli
Manchester City Substitution
Jack Rodwell comes on for Samir Nasri who has been rather quiet today after being excellent last weekend.
Liverpool half Chance
Mario Ballotelli gives the ball away in a dangerous position but Luis Suarez makes the wrong decision.
Manchester City Corner
Mario Ballotelli was annoyed not to get a free kick but he did manage to earn a corner for his team whilst being angrily booed by the Kop faithful.
Manchester City Free kick
The visitors get a free kick from wide on the attack right but it goes over everyone and sails out for a goal kick.
...and we're back off for the second half at Anfield.
Half Time
Liverpool 1-0 Manchester City
Brendon Rodgers will have to be a very, very happy man. His team were humiliated last weekend but came out firing today and made their intentions well known early on. Although they lost Lukas inside the first 5 minutes they had none stop desire all over the place. Really incredible performance as Liverpool show no signs of having played just a few days ago.
Manchester City do look like they have goals in them though with only 3 men at the back they do look defensively weak and perhaps feel a little unlucky not to have conceded more than just the 1. Whilst Carloz Tevez came incredibly close with a magical moment Liverpool's defense has stopped almost everything else without too many problems. Robert Mancini will be telling his players that they need to take the chances when they get them and if they do there will be no way that this ends 1-0
Manchester City Free kick
Manchester City get a free kick in a promising position but it goes straight in to the wall before the referee blows the whistle for half time.
Manchester City Corner
Manchester City are looking an equaliser before half time as hey get a second successive corner but it's easily defended by Liverpool
Manchester City Corner
City get a corner but it fails to beat the first man.
Liverpool Chance
Luis Suarez has half a chance but hits it over the bar as Liverpool push for a second goal before half time.
Liverpool Corner and Goal!
Liverpool were unlucky just seconds earlier as Vincent Kompany got lucky in front of his own goal, but the resulting corner was excellent and Martin Skrtel gets his head on it and gives Joe Hart no chance.
Liverpool 1-0 Manchester City
Skrtel (35)
Lucky Boy!Vincent Kompany almost puts one into the back of his own net, though it goes behidn for a Liverpool corner.
Manchester City Chance
End to end action here with Liverpool feeling they deserve a free kick at one end before Mario Ballotelli gets a chance at the other end. Brilliant action at times with a much improved Liverpool to the one who were humiliated last weekend.
Liverpool Corner
Liverpool showing real desire and get a corner...which doesn't go how they want.
Manchester City Free kick
City get a freekick in an excellent position which is crossed but it goes out before anyone gets a touch.
Penalty Appeal
The Manchester City fans appeal for a handball against Martin Skrtel, referee has none of it.
How did that not go in?
Carlos Tevez hits a ball that literally goes along the Liverpool goal line before hitting the far post and rolling out as several City players watch idly. Should have been a Manchester City goal.
Liverpool Chance
Fabio Borini gets the first notable chance of the game but blasts wide as Liverpool open up the Manchester City back 3.
Penalty Appeal
The Liverpool fans appeal for a handball against Aleksandar Kolarov, nothing is given however.
Manchester City Free kick
A foul by Liverpool gives the visitors a free kick which is easily saved by Pepe Reina.
Liverpool Substitution
Lukas hobbles off inside the first 5 minutes and is replaced by Jonjo Shelvey
...and we have kick off in our 16:00 kick off!
With a 0-0 in the early kick off we are all expecting goals in the late kick off as we go to Anfield for Liverpool v Manchester City in what promises to be an excellent and enthralling match up.
Full Time
Stoke 0-0 Arsenal
Stoke Free Kick
We have 3 minutes of extra time and Stoke have another chance to launch a free kick in the penalty area. The set piece however is cleared with ease.
Arsenal Shot!
Oliver Giroud sees Asmir Begovic off his line and attempts and outrageous shot which only just misses the net. Probably as close as either team has come in the second half.
Stoke Free kickStoke get a free kick due to a foul by Mikael Arteta in a nice position, the ball is floated in but cleared easily by Per Mertesacker
Stoke Half Chance
Stoke break through the Arsenal defence but the shot is poor.
Just 5 minutes left at the Britannia Stadium with the scores still 0-0, will Arsenal have their second goalless draw of the season?
Arsenal Corner
This one is poor and misses everyone.
Arsenal Corner
Another Arsenal corner leads to yet another Arsenal corner.
Arsenal Corner
Arsenal get yet another corner, this one is threatening but Per Mertesacker's header goes well over.
Arsenal Substitution
Aaron Ramsey comes to replace Santi Corzola
Stoke Subsitition
Glenn Whelan goes off for Wilson Palacios as Stoke make their final change.
Penalty Appeal
The Stoke crowd appeal for a penalty against Carl Jenkinson
Stoke Substitution
Peter Crouch goes off for Ryan Shotton
Stoke Half Chance
Peter Crouch delivers a cross but the resulting header is disappointing. Stoke showing some belief now.
Arsenal Chance
Abou Diaby finds himself in the Stoke are with the ball at his feet but sadly he fails to get his shot on target. A great chance.
Arsenal Subsitutions
Gervinho and Lukas Podolski both go off to be replaced by Theo Walcott and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain as Arsenal look in add some pace to their attack.
Arsenal Half Chance
Gervinho predicts and error but can't quite get to the ball befor Asmir Begovic.
Arsenal Corner
Yet another corner for Arsenal this one falls to Oliver Giroud in the penalty area but the Frenchman has to go for the spectacular and it sails over.
Stoke Half Chance
A Stoke cross finds Peter Crouch at the far post but the gentle giant can't pop in what was a very tough chance.
Stoke Substitution
Jermain Pennant off and Cameron Jerome on for the home side.
Arsenal Free kick and Yellow Card
Arsenal keep the pressure on the Stoke defense and Andy Wilkinson gets booked as he makes a very rash challenge inside the D. Very promising position for a free kick but Mikael Arteta's shot is straight into the wall.
Arsenal Free kick
A needlessly given away free kick ends a possible Stoke counter but Arsenal don't manage to do much with the free kick.
Arsenal Corner
Stoke have a chance but Arsenal quickly break and get themselves a corner. It's half cleared.
Stoke Half Chance
A long ball by Stoke seems to catch the Arsenal defense off guard but the eventual cross by Michaek Kightly is poor to say the least.
Penalty Appeal
Stoke appeal for a penalty after Jermain Pennant and Kieran Gibbs come close but the referee and linesman ignore the appeal. Stoke are starting to make their presence known once again.
Arsenal Corner
Arsenal get their first corner of the second half and despite having some serious height they fail make much of the corner.
Arsenal Chance
Gervinho gets himself into a great position but sadly his shot is lacking.
...And we're off for the second half at the Britannia Stadium for the second half.
Half time
Stoke 0-0 Arsenal
Arsenal have been much the better side in the opening half but despite a number of half chances they've failed to break the deadlock. Stoke are the only seam so far to have the ball in the net though it was pretty clearly offside.
So far it's been Santi Carzola who has been pulling the strings and the Spaniard looks a class above everyone on the pitch controlling the pace of the game excellently though he will be wanting someone up front to finish off the chances he creates. Stoke are being physical but are lacking a serious threat and Peter Crouch has been all but played out of the match so far.
Arsenal Corner
Arsenal get a corner from the other side and this one comes to nothing as the whistle blows and that's half time.
Arsenal Corner
We enter stoppage time with an Arsenal corner after Gervinho is challenged. It goes into the area and out the other end for another corner.
Arsenal Corner
Arsenal counter after a solid Stoke attack and get a corner after an excellent challenge on Kieran Gibbs.
Stoke Free kick
Stoke have a free kick in a promising position but it's headed straight out by the Arsenal defense. Stoke appear to be making their way into this game.
Arsenal Corner
The corner following Santi Carzola's shot comes to absolutely nothing as the referee notices an infringement by Arsenal.
SAVE!
Mikael Arteta is fouled not far from the half way line but the referee plays advantage and Santi Carzola takes a brilliant shot forcing Asmir Begović into action as he turns it behind for a corner.
Free kick
After having their best series of play Stoke are again on the back foot and Santi Carzola gets given a bit more of the Britannia treatment. The free kick is played short and the resulting shot goes out for a goal kick.
Stoke Chance
Michael Kightly, on his home debut for Stoke has a chance but smashes it straight at Vito Mannone.
Arsenal Chance
Only a half chance this time which Lukas Podolski whacks over from just outside the penalty area. This is starting to look like one way traffic so far with Diaby and Carzola being the bosses of the game up to now.
Arsenal Chance
The visitors split open Stoke's defense but the final pass is too hard and too high. Arsenal really are bossing this so far.
Freekick and Yellow Card
Lukas Podolski is driving towards the Stoke penalty area until Robert Huth takes him down and gets the first booking of the match. Arsenal fancy their chances from a very promising position but Santi Carzola's free kick hits the bottom of the wall.
Arsenal Chance
Arsenal bringing a lot of pressure to the Stoke defense with Santi Corzola pulling the strings already in and around the Stoke penalty area. A chance goes begging but it's looking like only a matter of time.
Arsenal Corner
Arsenal get there first chance to throw the big defenders up into the Stoke penalty area but nothing comes from the set piece.
Arsenal Chance
A slip in the Stoke defense lets Arsenal in and but Lukas Podolski's shot is blocked, looks to be a handball but only given as a corner.
Goal!...or not
Stoke have the ball in the Arsenal net but a flag is up and it's ruled out. That's been the first major goal mouth action from the opening 7 or 8 minutes.
Free kick
Less than 2 minutes into the game and we see Stoke's physicality coming into play already as Santi Carzola is given a Britannia Stadium welcome.
Kick off
13:30-And we have kick off in the battle some are dubbing as "Beauty against the Beast".
Our second Sunday of the Premier League season sees us beginning the day's at the Britannia Stadium as Stoke City host Arsenal. This well talked about styles clash is always engaging for the neutral fans who get to see the passing play of Arsenal set up against the physicality of Stoke. With both teams starting their season with a draw they will be hunting the 3 points here in what should be a key fixture for both as they seek their first win of the season.
Following the game at the Brittania we are off to Anfield as Brendon Rodgers looks for his first points as Liverpool manager following the humiliating 3-0 opening day defeat to West Brom. Sadly for Rodgers, and the Kop, Liverpool will be playing against the defending champions Manchester City who will look to put Liverpool to the sword and really raise the pressure on Rodgers.
Saturday 25 August 2012
Week 2-Predictions (Sunday)
Due to other commitments I've not managed to preview either of Sunday's games, I will however give a short preview of both games as well as a preview in here.
Stoke v Arsenal (13:30)
It's probably fair to say that Stoke v Arsenal is one of those weird games that draw the neutrals in due to the fact one of the managers (in this case Arsene Wenger) publicly hates the other teams. Stoke are a physical side and this has upset Wenger repeatedly in the past as he feels his players get given a particularly hard time by the Potters who often feel Wenger's men need to "man up". I have a feeling that this time around Wengers men will man up. I have a feeling Lukas Podolski will enjoy the physical match up and may even thrive in this fixture as Arsenal put the draw with Sunderland behind them and play catch up with Chelsea.
Whilst the Britannia Stadium may be seen as a fortress Wenger's men have a point to prove.
Prediction 2-0 Arsenal
Liverpool v Manchester City (16:00)
Losing isn't an option for Brendon Rodgers' team however Manchester City don't make a habit of dropping points. Rodgers will know that the everybody is watching his first game in charge at Anfield and he will also know that Liverpool need at least a point just to kick start their season after a horror show against West Brom. Sadly Rodgers doesn't appear to have added much to Liverpool yet and they looked decidedly disorganised against West Brom. Unless they tightened up considerably here they could be onto a hiding to nothing against a Manchester City team who love to score. Yes City looked poor against the Saints last weekend but they won, it's unlikely they will play that badly here.
Prediction 1-3 Manchester City
Stoke v Arsenal (13:30)
It's probably fair to say that Stoke v Arsenal is one of those weird games that draw the neutrals in due to the fact one of the managers (in this case Arsene Wenger) publicly hates the other teams. Stoke are a physical side and this has upset Wenger repeatedly in the past as he feels his players get given a particularly hard time by the Potters who often feel Wenger's men need to "man up". I have a feeling that this time around Wengers men will man up. I have a feeling Lukas Podolski will enjoy the physical match up and may even thrive in this fixture as Arsenal put the draw with Sunderland behind them and play catch up with Chelsea.
Whilst the Britannia Stadium may be seen as a fortress Wenger's men have a point to prove.
Prediction 2-0 Arsenal
Liverpool v Manchester City (16:00)
Losing isn't an option for Brendon Rodgers' team however Manchester City don't make a habit of dropping points. Rodgers will know that the everybody is watching his first game in charge at Anfield and he will also know that Liverpool need at least a point just to kick start their season after a horror show against West Brom. Sadly Rodgers doesn't appear to have added much to Liverpool yet and they looked decidedly disorganised against West Brom. Unless they tightened up considerably here they could be onto a hiding to nothing against a Manchester City team who love to score. Yes City looked poor against the Saints last weekend but they won, it's unlikely they will play that badly here.
Prediction 1-3 Manchester City
Premier League Week 2-Write up Chelsea v Newcastle
Chelsea 2-0 Newcastle
In the late kick off of the day Chelsea tried to reclaim their position at the top of the Premier League table and win a 3rd Premier League match inside a week. To do that however they'd have to defeat a Newcastle side that had beaten them in the same fixture last season.
The match started slowly with very little to talk about in the first 15 minutes or so as both teams battled it out in the middle of the park and limited each other to decent shooting opportunities. In fact many of the early shots from both teams blazed over the bar as neither team could fathom a decent half between them.
The came alive around the midway point of the first half with Newcastle launching an attack that earned them a corner, the first corner of the match. The corner it's self did little for Newcastle and Chelsea broke quickly before Fernando Torres was brought down in the penalty area by Vernun Anita. It was to be Chelsea's 3rd penalty in as many games, though with normal penalty taker Frank Lampard being rested the duty fell to Eden Hazard who calmly slotted in the spot kick and scored his first goal for Chelsea.
The opening goal saw the game open up slightly and gave the likes of Hazard and Torres more time on the ball. After being booked in the 39th minute for a dive Torres appeared to get angry and played like a man possessed. The Spaniard gave the Newcastle defenders a real headache before scoring a beautifully crafted goal as Hazard linked with him just before half time as the Blues doubled their lead.
In the second half Chelsea crafted yet more chances as Torres and Hazard ran the Newcastle defense ragged with the two men linking together time and time again, though Chelsea couldn't add to their lead.
Roberto Di Matteo will be a very happy man. Chelsea are sitting happy atop the Premier League table with a maximum of 9 points, they are looking like an ever improving team and looked genuinely sensational at times today. Fernando Torres looked like a man on a mission to prove that he was worth the astronomical transfer fee that Chelsea payed for him and his link up play with Eden Hazard was genuinely sensation as they two men seem to be able to read each others mind now. Hazard, for the 3rd game in a row looked great, he looks like he's getting better, though really it was the return of the Torres of old that stood out as he looked like he was having real fun out there. It's scary to think just how fun Chelsea will be to watch when the whole team is settled together.
Newcastle will need to lick their wounds here and admit they were simply beaten by a much better team. Whilst they did have the odd chance here and their they didn't deserve to take anything from this game as they were always second best. Pardew will know his team were out played and although he may blame the trip to Greece on Thursday he knows his team, at their best, would still have struggled with the side Chelsea put out. Despite the loss Hatem Ben Arfa was once outstanding and appears to be playing with confidence, a scary thought for the rest of the Premier League.
In the late kick off of the day Chelsea tried to reclaim their position at the top of the Premier League table and win a 3rd Premier League match inside a week. To do that however they'd have to defeat a Newcastle side that had beaten them in the same fixture last season.
The match started slowly with very little to talk about in the first 15 minutes or so as both teams battled it out in the middle of the park and limited each other to decent shooting opportunities. In fact many of the early shots from both teams blazed over the bar as neither team could fathom a decent half between them.
The came alive around the midway point of the first half with Newcastle launching an attack that earned them a corner, the first corner of the match. The corner it's self did little for Newcastle and Chelsea broke quickly before Fernando Torres was brought down in the penalty area by Vernun Anita. It was to be Chelsea's 3rd penalty in as many games, though with normal penalty taker Frank Lampard being rested the duty fell to Eden Hazard who calmly slotted in the spot kick and scored his first goal for Chelsea.
The opening goal saw the game open up slightly and gave the likes of Hazard and Torres more time on the ball. After being booked in the 39th minute for a dive Torres appeared to get angry and played like a man possessed. The Spaniard gave the Newcastle defenders a real headache before scoring a beautifully crafted goal as Hazard linked with him just before half time as the Blues doubled their lead.
In the second half Chelsea crafted yet more chances as Torres and Hazard ran the Newcastle defense ragged with the two men linking together time and time again, though Chelsea couldn't add to their lead.
Roberto Di Matteo will be a very happy man. Chelsea are sitting happy atop the Premier League table with a maximum of 9 points, they are looking like an ever improving team and looked genuinely sensational at times today. Fernando Torres looked like a man on a mission to prove that he was worth the astronomical transfer fee that Chelsea payed for him and his link up play with Eden Hazard was genuinely sensation as they two men seem to be able to read each others mind now. Hazard, for the 3rd game in a row looked great, he looks like he's getting better, though really it was the return of the Torres of old that stood out as he looked like he was having real fun out there. It's scary to think just how fun Chelsea will be to watch when the whole team is settled together.
Newcastle will need to lick their wounds here and admit they were simply beaten by a much better team. Whilst they did have the odd chance here and their they didn't deserve to take anything from this game as they were always second best. Pardew will know his team were out played and although he may blame the trip to Greece on Thursday he knows his team, at their best, would still have struggled with the side Chelsea put out. Despite the loss Hatem Ben Arfa was once outstanding and appears to be playing with confidence, a scary thought for the rest of the Premier League.
Premier League Week 2-Write up Norwich v QPR
Norwich 1-1 QPR
Last weekend saw both Norwich and QPR embarrassed as they each suffered humiliating 5-0 defeats. This weekend they played each other as they both tried to get their season's off to a positive start following their opening day nightmares.
It took only 11 minutes for the deadlock to be broken as Norwich completed a genuinely fantastic move thanks to a Simeon Jackson and it looked as if we could have another goal fest on our hands. Sadly for Norwich their lead lasted just 8 minutes as they conceded a controversial penalty for a foul on Frenchman Djibril. Whilst the penalty it's self was saved excellently by John Ruddy the Norwich keeper couldn't keep out the follow up by Bobby Zamora.
At 1-1 after just 19 minutes it looked like we were going to have another goal fest but sadly neither team could find the back of the net. Norwich did however come close to bagging another goal with Robert Green making a fine save in the first half whilst the bar came to QPR's rescue late in the second half. After last weekend's fixture's it's fair to say that both teams are just happy to secure their first point of the season and put their 5-0 losses behind them, however Norwich certainly looked to be the better team here.
Norwich's manager Chris Hughton has every right to feel aggrieved by QPR's penalty which appeared to be a poor decision by the often criticised Mark Clattenburg however Norwich had the chances to score a second and couldn't manage it. They were have excellent in Midfield with some genuinely delightful passages of play that oddly looked like Arsenal or Spain, with great movement, fantastic short balls and some eye catching 1-touch passing. At the heart of the attacks was summer signing Robert Snodgrass who looked to be instrumental in much of Norwich's attacking play.
QPR's Mark Hughes will be glad his team have gotten a point though probably feels slightly lucky that not were they given a penalty but encroachment by Zamora wasn't spotted by the referee. He should feel lucky that Norwich didn't manage finish off one of their chances as they created a number of them. QPR are a clear work in progress, though the two big questions are "will Hughes be there long enough to finish?" and "How long will they take to gel?" Having brought in a number of new players over summer it could be a while before we see just how good this QPR team can be.
Last weekend saw both Norwich and QPR embarrassed as they each suffered humiliating 5-0 defeats. This weekend they played each other as they both tried to get their season's off to a positive start following their opening day nightmares.
It took only 11 minutes for the deadlock to be broken as Norwich completed a genuinely fantastic move thanks to a Simeon Jackson and it looked as if we could have another goal fest on our hands. Sadly for Norwich their lead lasted just 8 minutes as they conceded a controversial penalty for a foul on Frenchman Djibril. Whilst the penalty it's self was saved excellently by John Ruddy the Norwich keeper couldn't keep out the follow up by Bobby Zamora.
At 1-1 after just 19 minutes it looked like we were going to have another goal fest but sadly neither team could find the back of the net. Norwich did however come close to bagging another goal with Robert Green making a fine save in the first half whilst the bar came to QPR's rescue late in the second half. After last weekend's fixture's it's fair to say that both teams are just happy to secure their first point of the season and put their 5-0 losses behind them, however Norwich certainly looked to be the better team here.
Norwich's manager Chris Hughton has every right to feel aggrieved by QPR's penalty which appeared to be a poor decision by the often criticised Mark Clattenburg however Norwich had the chances to score a second and couldn't manage it. They were have excellent in Midfield with some genuinely delightful passages of play that oddly looked like Arsenal or Spain, with great movement, fantastic short balls and some eye catching 1-touch passing. At the heart of the attacks was summer signing Robert Snodgrass who looked to be instrumental in much of Norwich's attacking play.
QPR's Mark Hughes will be glad his team have gotten a point though probably feels slightly lucky that not were they given a penalty but encroachment by Zamora wasn't spotted by the referee. He should feel lucky that Norwich didn't manage finish off one of their chances as they created a number of them. QPR are a clear work in progress, though the two big questions are "will Hughes be there long enough to finish?" and "How long will they take to gel?" Having brought in a number of new players over summer it could be a while before we see just how good this QPR team can be.
Premier League Week 2-Write up Tottenham Hotspur v West Brom
Tottenham Hotspur 1-1 West Brom
Tottenham Hotspur started their Premier League season off with a disappointing 2-1 defeat at the hands of Newcastle in a game they were probably the better side in. In their second game they faced Liverpool's conqueror's West Brom who had surprised everybody in securing a 3-0 victory over Liverpool.
The home side, playing their first league game at White Heart Lane under Andre Villas-Boas looked the better team through the opening half as they dominated possession and created numerous chances that fell by the way side. The second half however saw West Brom coming alive and they grew into the game.
It appeared as if Tottenham had taken the lead in the 65th minute through Jermain Defoe, only for the referees assistant to rule the goal out with Defore standing clearly offiside as the ball was played into him. Just 10 minutes later Spurs did take the lead thanks to Benoit Assou-Ekotto's long range effort that took a deflection en-route to beating Ben Foster. It appeared as if the points were Tottenham's though, as we all know, Spurs don't have luck on their side and the visitors pushed hard to try and get an equaliser. As the match entered injury time West Brom managed to bag the necessary goal thanks to James Morrison who earned the Baggies a point.
This match will have been a hard pill for Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas to swallow as he came so close to securing his first win as Tottenham manager following the summer sacking of Harry Redknapp, a decision the fans didn't agree with. Despite the late equaliser Tottenham looked the better team however their play in the attack third was lacking cohesion and this left them perhaps not looking as much of a threat as one would expect. It was a long day for Defoe who rarely looked himself and the attack looked really toothless. At the back however Jan Vertonghen looked like a player who will be a commander in defense and looks to be a really impressive signing.
Steve Clarke will feel proud of his players for the second weekend running. They were incredible last weekend as they defeated Liverpool and they were brilliant again here in a match that they refused to accept they were beaten in. Despite looking poor for the first 45 minutes they really warmed to the occasion and looked like a team determined to get something from the match. If Clarke can keep the desire in his players to get something from every game then they could be a real handful for anyone.
Tottenham Hotspur started their Premier League season off with a disappointing 2-1 defeat at the hands of Newcastle in a game they were probably the better side in. In their second game they faced Liverpool's conqueror's West Brom who had surprised everybody in securing a 3-0 victory over Liverpool.
The home side, playing their first league game at White Heart Lane under Andre Villas-Boas looked the better team through the opening half as they dominated possession and created numerous chances that fell by the way side. The second half however saw West Brom coming alive and they grew into the game.
It appeared as if Tottenham had taken the lead in the 65th minute through Jermain Defoe, only for the referees assistant to rule the goal out with Defore standing clearly offiside as the ball was played into him. Just 10 minutes later Spurs did take the lead thanks to Benoit Assou-Ekotto's long range effort that took a deflection en-route to beating Ben Foster. It appeared as if the points were Tottenham's though, as we all know, Spurs don't have luck on their side and the visitors pushed hard to try and get an equaliser. As the match entered injury time West Brom managed to bag the necessary goal thanks to James Morrison who earned the Baggies a point.
This match will have been a hard pill for Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas to swallow as he came so close to securing his first win as Tottenham manager following the summer sacking of Harry Redknapp, a decision the fans didn't agree with. Despite the late equaliser Tottenham looked the better team however their play in the attack third was lacking cohesion and this left them perhaps not looking as much of a threat as one would expect. It was a long day for Defoe who rarely looked himself and the attack looked really toothless. At the back however Jan Vertonghen looked like a player who will be a commander in defense and looks to be a really impressive signing.
Steve Clarke will feel proud of his players for the second weekend running. They were incredible last weekend as they defeated Liverpool and they were brilliant again here in a match that they refused to accept they were beaten in. Despite looking poor for the first 45 minutes they really warmed to the occasion and looked like a team determined to get something from the match. If Clarke can keep the desire in his players to get something from every game then they could be a real handful for anyone.
Premier League Week 2-Write up Southampton v Wigan
Southampton 0-2 Wigan
Southampton started their season in midweek with a baptism of fire as they took on current Premier League champions Manchester City and lets be honest they surprised everyone putting up not only a good fight but actually took the lead. They looked too build on the good showing against City with a positive result against Wigan, sadly however they failed to get that result.
The Saints started brightly and came close to opening the scoring inside just 14 minutes as an Adam Lallana shot forced Ali Al Habsi to make an excellent save. Sadly however Southampton's bright start came to nothing as Al Habsi put on an excellent performance.
The deadlock was broken early in the second half as Franco Di Santo put the visitors in the lead finishing off an excellent move for the Latics who came into the match following their open game loss to Chelsea. Southampton tried to equalise and dominated much of the match after going behind but the closest they came was the cross bar with a little over 10 minutes remaining. With a little over a minute of normal time left Wigan doubled their lead and secured the points as Arouna Kone took the ball from Jose Fonte around the halfway line and drove past Kelvin Davis at his nearest post.
This isn't the result any Southampton fan would have wanted, especially not after their excellent performance against the reigning Champions. It was an awful way to mark their first home Premier League fixture in 7 years, however Nigel Adkins shouldn't be too dismayed really as Southampton were the better team even if they did lack a finish to the chances they created. In all honesty the least Southampton deserved was a point and they were unlucky not to get it. It's a lesson to the Southampton players that this league is about finishing your chances as you don't get many of them. Sadly however it'll be Jose Fonte's mistake losing the ball to Kone that will likely be the lasting memory of this match.
Wigan may have lost Victor Moses to Chelsea but with Kone and Di Santo they looked solid in attack and put away the chances that they had, something they have learned over the years. Roberto Martinez however will need to be thankful not to his strikers but to the excellent Al Habsi who's early save kept Wigan in the match, in fact it's fair to say that the keeper is one of the stand out Wigan players and is worth a few points every season due to his ability between the posts. Wigan will likely try to add to their squad with the money from the Moses transfer, and they probably do need it, though Martinez will be proud his men bounced back from last weeks loss against Chelsea and the loss of Moses himself.
Southampton started their season in midweek with a baptism of fire as they took on current Premier League champions Manchester City and lets be honest they surprised everyone putting up not only a good fight but actually took the lead. They looked too build on the good showing against City with a positive result against Wigan, sadly however they failed to get that result.
The Saints started brightly and came close to opening the scoring inside just 14 minutes as an Adam Lallana shot forced Ali Al Habsi to make an excellent save. Sadly however Southampton's bright start came to nothing as Al Habsi put on an excellent performance.
The deadlock was broken early in the second half as Franco Di Santo put the visitors in the lead finishing off an excellent move for the Latics who came into the match following their open game loss to Chelsea. Southampton tried to equalise and dominated much of the match after going behind but the closest they came was the cross bar with a little over 10 minutes remaining. With a little over a minute of normal time left Wigan doubled their lead and secured the points as Arouna Kone took the ball from Jose Fonte around the halfway line and drove past Kelvin Davis at his nearest post.
This isn't the result any Southampton fan would have wanted, especially not after their excellent performance against the reigning Champions. It was an awful way to mark their first home Premier League fixture in 7 years, however Nigel Adkins shouldn't be too dismayed really as Southampton were the better team even if they did lack a finish to the chances they created. In all honesty the least Southampton deserved was a point and they were unlucky not to get it. It's a lesson to the Southampton players that this league is about finishing your chances as you don't get many of them. Sadly however it'll be Jose Fonte's mistake losing the ball to Kone that will likely be the lasting memory of this match.
Wigan may have lost Victor Moses to Chelsea but with Kone and Di Santo they looked solid in attack and put away the chances that they had, something they have learned over the years. Roberto Martinez however will need to be thankful not to his strikers but to the excellent Al Habsi who's early save kept Wigan in the match, in fact it's fair to say that the keeper is one of the stand out Wigan players and is worth a few points every season due to his ability between the posts. Wigan will likely try to add to their squad with the money from the Moses transfer, and they probably do need it, though Martinez will be proud his men bounced back from last weeks loss against Chelsea and the loss of Moses himself.
Premier League Week 2-Write up Aston Villa v Everton
Aston Villa 1-3 Everton
It maybe early in the season with just 2 games gone but alarm bells need to be ringing at Villa Park with their team really struggling. Their opening day defeat to West Ham made Villa look toothless, they didn't look any better here as Everton put them to the sword and showed that they didn't just fluke their victory over Manchester United.
The Villa defense looked awful last weekend and they didn't look much better here as Everton took them to the cleaners in the opening half. It took less than 3 minutes for Everton to open the scoring for the day as Steven Pienaar netted a real beauty from outside the penalty area. Whilst the shot it's self was near unstoppable Pienaar was allowed too much space and took full advantage. Everton doubled their lead a little thanks to a major mistake by Shay Given who let Marouane Fellaini's header go right through him. Whilst Given didn't stand a chance for the first goal, he should have stopped the second. Everton added a 3rd before half time thanks to Nikica Jelavic who escaped from his man to put in a Leighton Baines cut back and seal the points.
Things went from bad to worse for Villa when Ciaran Clark got sent off in the second half for a foul on Jelavic who appeared to be through on goal. With 10 men Villa did manage to show something and scored their first goal of the season as new signing Karim El Ahmadi opened his account, however in all honesty Tim Howard should have saved the shot.
Villa fans will be sick to death with their managerial merry-go-round that has plagued them in recent years, sadly however Paul Lambert isn't looking like the man for the job. Lambert has brought in a host of new signings and sadly it seems none of them have really settled yet, in fact it seems like no one is settled. Defensively Villa look awful and up front they simply have no penetration, in fact they only managed a single shot on target in the first 45 minutes. It may be early but Lambert may well be leading the sack race.
Before the season kicked off I really doubted Everton, I thought the loss of Tim Cahill would really make the team struggle. Instead however it seems to have really lit a fire under Marouane Fellaini who was once again exceptional as Everton dominated for the second game in a row. In attack Everton look genuinely scary, Fellaini, Jelavic and Pienaar all look like they will be bagging goals for fun this year and at the back Leighton Baines and Phil Neville look like they are having roaming up and down the flanks. This Everton team are already showing signs of a team going places. Despite their almost crippling financial position the team look brilliant and David Moyes needs to be seriously applauded for getting the usually starting Everton off to a fantastic start this season.
It maybe early in the season with just 2 games gone but alarm bells need to be ringing at Villa Park with their team really struggling. Their opening day defeat to West Ham made Villa look toothless, they didn't look any better here as Everton put them to the sword and showed that they didn't just fluke their victory over Manchester United.
The Villa defense looked awful last weekend and they didn't look much better here as Everton took them to the cleaners in the opening half. It took less than 3 minutes for Everton to open the scoring for the day as Steven Pienaar netted a real beauty from outside the penalty area. Whilst the shot it's self was near unstoppable Pienaar was allowed too much space and took full advantage. Everton doubled their lead a little thanks to a major mistake by Shay Given who let Marouane Fellaini's header go right through him. Whilst Given didn't stand a chance for the first goal, he should have stopped the second. Everton added a 3rd before half time thanks to Nikica Jelavic who escaped from his man to put in a Leighton Baines cut back and seal the points.
Things went from bad to worse for Villa when Ciaran Clark got sent off in the second half for a foul on Jelavic who appeared to be through on goal. With 10 men Villa did manage to show something and scored their first goal of the season as new signing Karim El Ahmadi opened his account, however in all honesty Tim Howard should have saved the shot.
Villa fans will be sick to death with their managerial merry-go-round that has plagued them in recent years, sadly however Paul Lambert isn't looking like the man for the job. Lambert has brought in a host of new signings and sadly it seems none of them have really settled yet, in fact it seems like no one is settled. Defensively Villa look awful and up front they simply have no penetration, in fact they only managed a single shot on target in the first 45 minutes. It may be early but Lambert may well be leading the sack race.
Before the season kicked off I really doubted Everton, I thought the loss of Tim Cahill would really make the team struggle. Instead however it seems to have really lit a fire under Marouane Fellaini who was once again exceptional as Everton dominated for the second game in a row. In attack Everton look genuinely scary, Fellaini, Jelavic and Pienaar all look like they will be bagging goals for fun this year and at the back Leighton Baines and Phil Neville look like they are having roaming up and down the flanks. This Everton team are already showing signs of a team going places. Despite their almost crippling financial position the team look brilliant and David Moyes needs to be seriously applauded for getting the usually starting Everton off to a fantastic start this season.
Premier League Week 2-Write up Manchester United v Fulham
Manchester United 3-2 Fulham
Having lost in their opening fixture away to Everton, Manchester United knew they would need a win in their first home Premier League game. Going into this match however they were facing a confident Fulham who had breezed aside Norwich 5-0 just a week earlier in one of the most impressive performances of the opening week.
The confidence of Fulham showed from the opening whistle and after just 141 seconds Fulham had raced out to a 1-0 lead thanks to a Damien Duff finish inside the penalty area from a Bryan Ruiz free kick. Their lead however was to be short lived and less than 8 minutes later Robin Van Persie would open his account for United as he banged in a beauty.
After equalising United pushed hard for another goal and their pressure told as they scored their second of the match with new signing Shinji Kagawa putting in from close range after a Mark Schwarzer save landed at his feet. It seemed after this goal that United would want to put Fulham to the sword and bag themselves as many as they could get. Just minutes after taking the lead the ball was in the net again thanks to Rafael, though it was ruled offside as United sought to increase their lead. The pressure eventually told as they claimed a 3rd goal before half time, again it was Rafael who put the ball in the net, this time he was onside as United appeared to have the game in the bag before half time.
Sadly for Manchester United fans their team has a habit of making life harder than it needs to be and midway through the second half goal keeper David De Gea and captain Nemanja Vidic collided in mid air going for the same cross. Somehow the ball caught Vidic on the heel before rolling into the net in what will like be one of the most bizarre own goals of the season. This seemed to give the Fulham attack some real hope and they searched for an equaliser in the final 25 minutes though United just did enough to thwart the Fulham attack. Sadly the defensive duties did have a casualty as Wayne Rooney suffered a nasty gash in stoppage time that will likely keep him out for around a month.
Whilst Alex Ferguson will be happy at the 3 points he won't be happy at the fact United made the game hard for themselves and almost threw it away. Their defensive woes are frightening at the moment and they really need to do something about it or it will again cost them points like it did last season. The absence of Rooney, any other season would have been really catastrophic for the Red Devils however new signings Robin Van Persie and Shinji Kagawa proved in the first half that United probably don't need to rely on Rooney as much this year. In fact it seems likely that Kagawa, who looked tremendous again, will be their key player this season and can really pull the strings with complete ease.
Martin Jol may feel unlucky his team didn't manage to steal a point, they were certainly the better team in the second half and forced a great save from De Gea just before half time, however he will take solace in they way his men played. They refused to give up at 3-1 down like some other teams would have, they refused to accept the game was lost and they showed real character once again. Moussa Dembele put on an excellent performance and could well be the key to the Fulham attack over the coming season and Mladen Petric once again looked a threat and was close to scoring before being subbed off. Jol has got a strong team here and I wouldn't be surprised if they challenge for a Europa League place at the end of the year.
Notes-
This match saw the first Premier League start for Robin Van Persie in a Manchester United Shirt
Damien Duff scored in a second successive game
Having lost in their opening fixture away to Everton, Manchester United knew they would need a win in their first home Premier League game. Going into this match however they were facing a confident Fulham who had breezed aside Norwich 5-0 just a week earlier in one of the most impressive performances of the opening week.
The confidence of Fulham showed from the opening whistle and after just 141 seconds Fulham had raced out to a 1-0 lead thanks to a Damien Duff finish inside the penalty area from a Bryan Ruiz free kick. Their lead however was to be short lived and less than 8 minutes later Robin Van Persie would open his account for United as he banged in a beauty.
After equalising United pushed hard for another goal and their pressure told as they scored their second of the match with new signing Shinji Kagawa putting in from close range after a Mark Schwarzer save landed at his feet. It seemed after this goal that United would want to put Fulham to the sword and bag themselves as many as they could get. Just minutes after taking the lead the ball was in the net again thanks to Rafael, though it was ruled offside as United sought to increase their lead. The pressure eventually told as they claimed a 3rd goal before half time, again it was Rafael who put the ball in the net, this time he was onside as United appeared to have the game in the bag before half time.
Sadly for Manchester United fans their team has a habit of making life harder than it needs to be and midway through the second half goal keeper David De Gea and captain Nemanja Vidic collided in mid air going for the same cross. Somehow the ball caught Vidic on the heel before rolling into the net in what will like be one of the most bizarre own goals of the season. This seemed to give the Fulham attack some real hope and they searched for an equaliser in the final 25 minutes though United just did enough to thwart the Fulham attack. Sadly the defensive duties did have a casualty as Wayne Rooney suffered a nasty gash in stoppage time that will likely keep him out for around a month.
Whilst Alex Ferguson will be happy at the 3 points he won't be happy at the fact United made the game hard for themselves and almost threw it away. Their defensive woes are frightening at the moment and they really need to do something about it or it will again cost them points like it did last season. The absence of Rooney, any other season would have been really catastrophic for the Red Devils however new signings Robin Van Persie and Shinji Kagawa proved in the first half that United probably don't need to rely on Rooney as much this year. In fact it seems likely that Kagawa, who looked tremendous again, will be their key player this season and can really pull the strings with complete ease.
Martin Jol may feel unlucky his team didn't manage to steal a point, they were certainly the better team in the second half and forced a great save from De Gea just before half time, however he will take solace in they way his men played. They refused to give up at 3-1 down like some other teams would have, they refused to accept the game was lost and they showed real character once again. Moussa Dembele put on an excellent performance and could well be the key to the Fulham attack over the coming season and Mladen Petric once again looked a threat and was close to scoring before being subbed off. Jol has got a strong team here and I wouldn't be surprised if they challenge for a Europa League place at the end of the year.
Notes-
This match saw the first Premier League start for Robin Van Persie in a Manchester United Shirt
Damien Duff scored in a second successive game
Premier League Week 2-Write up Swansea v West Ham
Swansea 3-0 West Ham
Things went from good to better for new Swansea manager Michael Laudrup who's team will sit atop the Premier League for at least a couple of hours having won the early kick off of the day. The Swans have not only collected a maximum 6 points from their opening 2 games but also netted an impressive 8 goals which conceding 0 and looked very impressive so far.
Early in the match it was West Ham who looked impressive starting fast with new signing Matt Jarvis almost setting up Kevin Nolan inside 90 seconds or so. Quickly however West Ham's impetus faded and Swansea grew into the game before grabbing the lead thanks to a huge blunder by Finnish keeper Jussi Jääskeläinen who effectively tipped a Angel Rangel shot into his own net. It took little time for West Ham to shoot themselves in the foot for a second time as James Collins (who was awful throughout the game) allowed Michu an easy opportunity to double the lead and he duly took it netting his 3rd Premier League goal in just 2 games.
West Ham finished the first half they way they started it, looking very dangerous. They had 3 corners one after the other as the Swansea defense struggled to cope with the threat in the air. They came close during this spell of pressure with Carlton Cole having a shot cleared off the line by Neil Taylor though couldn't breach the defense as Swansea held on for dear life hoping to go into the half time without conceding.
Thankfully for Swansea the half time effectively killed West Ham's threat and the visitors rarely looked like scoring in the second half with the nearest they came being a chance that Carlton Cole tried to bicycle kick but missed completely. Whilst West Ham looked like an ever more toothless team Swansea looked to increase their lead and came close a number of times before Danny Graham sealed the game with the 3rd goal of the match. After this the game was all but over and West Ham were greeted to some rather unflattering chants by the Swansea fans who were willing to describe the West Ham players in a way they saw fitting.
For Swansea this is a perfect start to their season and one that no one could have expected. 6 points and 8 goals is just something no Swansea fan would have dreamed of though it's something that will see them marking their cards. It's amazing to think that the story of Scott Sinclair not even being on the bench will be completely forgotten following this result and the Swans won't care if he stays or not.
Although Michael Laudrup will be understandably chuffed to pieces it's fair to say that Sam Allardyce won't be anywhere near as happy. Last week his team didn't look anything special but still easily beat Aston Villa, this weekend however his team looked genuinely awful. Matt Jarvis aside there was little positive to take from this game for West Ham who perhaps feel lucky it was only 3-0 following a nightmare for their defense. It's fair to say the Hammers will just want to put this behind them and look towards their next match.
Notes-
Michu becomes the Premier Leagues Highest Scorer so far with 3 goals
This match featured 6 yellow cards, tied most for a fixture this season.
Although the opening goal was originally put down as an own goal, it appears the "dubious goals panel" has awarded it to Rangel.
Things went from good to better for new Swansea manager Michael Laudrup who's team will sit atop the Premier League for at least a couple of hours having won the early kick off of the day. The Swans have not only collected a maximum 6 points from their opening 2 games but also netted an impressive 8 goals which conceding 0 and looked very impressive so far.
Early in the match it was West Ham who looked impressive starting fast with new signing Matt Jarvis almost setting up Kevin Nolan inside 90 seconds or so. Quickly however West Ham's impetus faded and Swansea grew into the game before grabbing the lead thanks to a huge blunder by Finnish keeper Jussi Jääskeläinen who effectively tipped a Angel Rangel shot into his own net. It took little time for West Ham to shoot themselves in the foot for a second time as James Collins (who was awful throughout the game) allowed Michu an easy opportunity to double the lead and he duly took it netting his 3rd Premier League goal in just 2 games.
West Ham finished the first half they way they started it, looking very dangerous. They had 3 corners one after the other as the Swansea defense struggled to cope with the threat in the air. They came close during this spell of pressure with Carlton Cole having a shot cleared off the line by Neil Taylor though couldn't breach the defense as Swansea held on for dear life hoping to go into the half time without conceding.
Thankfully for Swansea the half time effectively killed West Ham's threat and the visitors rarely looked like scoring in the second half with the nearest they came being a chance that Carlton Cole tried to bicycle kick but missed completely. Whilst West Ham looked like an ever more toothless team Swansea looked to increase their lead and came close a number of times before Danny Graham sealed the game with the 3rd goal of the match. After this the game was all but over and West Ham were greeted to some rather unflattering chants by the Swansea fans who were willing to describe the West Ham players in a way they saw fitting.
For Swansea this is a perfect start to their season and one that no one could have expected. 6 points and 8 goals is just something no Swansea fan would have dreamed of though it's something that will see them marking their cards. It's amazing to think that the story of Scott Sinclair not even being on the bench will be completely forgotten following this result and the Swans won't care if he stays or not.
Although Michael Laudrup will be understandably chuffed to pieces it's fair to say that Sam Allardyce won't be anywhere near as happy. Last week his team didn't look anything special but still easily beat Aston Villa, this weekend however his team looked genuinely awful. Matt Jarvis aside there was little positive to take from this game for West Ham who perhaps feel lucky it was only 3-0 following a nightmare for their defense. It's fair to say the Hammers will just want to put this behind them and look towards their next match.
Notes-
Michu becomes the Premier Leagues Highest Scorer so far with 3 goals
This match featured 6 yellow cards, tied most for a fixture this season.
Although the opening goal was originally put down as an own goal, it appears the "dubious goals panel" has awarded it to Rangel.
Premier League Week 2-As it Happens (Saturday)
Full Time
Chelsea 2-0 Newcastle
Chelsea have returned to the top of the Premier League having secured a maximum 9 points from their 3 games so far.
Stoppage time
David Luiz is in the wars again down in his own penalty area as the 4th official's board shows a minimum of 4 minutes stoppage time.
Chelsea Substitution
Frank Lampard comes on to replace Raul Meireles with less than 3 minutes of normal time remaining.
Newcastle Chance
Demba Ba has the best chance for Newcastle but he can't beat Petr Cech from close range.
Chelsea Corner
Ryan Bertrand's powerful shot is judged as having touched Tim Krul before going behind giving Chelsea a corner. It comes to nothing.
Newcastle Substitution
Yohan Cabaye comes off as Newcastle make their final change bringing on James Perch.
Free kick
Chelsea get another promising free kick and after a short discussion betweem Raul Meireles and David Luiz over who's going to take it, Raul Meireles blasts it over the bar.
Newcastle Substitution
Davide Santon has been replaced by Sylvain Marveaux with around 15 minutes left.
Free kick
Chelsea get a free kick in a nice position but David Luiz hits it over the bar.
Free kick
Ryan Taylor delivers an excellent free kick that seemed to almost be perfect bu no Newcastle attacker could get the touch it needed.
Chelsea Substitution
Juan Mata is replaced with 25 minutes left by Ramires
Newcastle Corner and Subsitution
Ryan Taylor comes on to replace Danny Simpson prior to Newcastle taking a corner that incidentally taken by Taylor. Much better than the previous one but Chelsea cut it out without too many worries.
LOVELY!
Fernando Torres is having a bit of fun now as he starts to abuse the Newcastle defense with his skill. His cross to Eden Hazard gets intercepted but idea was wonderful. This, football fans, is Torres getting back to his best.
Newcastle Corner
Newcastle get a corner...but it's awful and very easy for Chelsea to clear. It's positive however that they managed to make something happen up front.
After starting the second half well Chelsea have slowed and appear to be letting Newcastle get back into the game somewhat.
Second Half
We're off for the second half now at Stamford Bridge as Newcastle try to fight back from 2 down.
Half Time
Chelsea 2-0 Newcastle
Despite a very slow start to the match which so very few chances being created the game warmed up nicely midway through the half. Whilst Eden Hazard will likely grab the headlines once again for me, it seems like Fernando Torres has started to look his old self. It was Torres who was fouled leading to the penalty (that Hazard put away) and it was Torres who was terrifying the Newcastle defense. The link up play between Hazard and Torres has been the difference and I wouldn't be surprised to see either of them adding a 3rd Chelsea goal in the second half.
Roberto Di Matteo may have been concerned when Raul Meireles and David Luiz went down one after the other though they both soldiered on and finished off the half looking perfectly fine. If anything Di Matteo will have to be happy at the performance of both Hazard and Torres who have been so influential in the half. The Chelsea defense hasn't really been tested as their Midfield has generally neutralised all the Newcastle attacks and as a result Chelsea are bossing the game.
Newcastle manager Alan Pardew has a lot to do in the half time team talk, he will really struggle to turn this around especially considering how good Chelsea are looking. He has got some positives to take from the match so far as Hatem Ben Arfa looks threatening when he has managed to get the ball though generally he's struggled to get much of it due to Chelsea's Midfield which have controlled much of the match. Pardew will need to hope that Chelsea drop the pace for his team to have a chance.
Goal!
Since being booked Fernando Torres has looked like a man posessed and some excellent interplay with Eden Hzard results in an excellent finish for Torres who is showing glimpses of being back to his best.
Chelsea 1-0 Newcastle
Hazard (22)-Pen
Torres (45)
Corner
Chelsea may feel like they deserve another penalty but instead they receive a corner, the corner however goes to waste.
Stoppage time
We will have 4 minutes of stoppage time at Stamford Bridge due to lengthy stoppages following incidents involving Raul Meireles and David Luiz.
Newcastle Chance
Newcastle get their first chance but it's hit straight at Petr Cech who makes an easy save.
Yellow Card
The referee shows the first yellow card of the game as he books Fernando Torres for diving. Whilst the Spaniard was caught he went down very extravagantly from just a minimal touch by Fabricio Coloccini.
Chelsea Chance
Eden Hazard looks to slide in Fernando Torres but the ball gets cut out. The Chelsea attack are starting to open the Newcastle defense up almost at will now.
Ouch!
Raul Meireles looks to be in some pain and Frank Lampard warms up. After being off for a minute or two Raul Meireles returns to the pitch.
Penalty and Goal!
We finally have life in this game as Chelsea go from defending the corner to attack and Fernando Torres goes down in the penalty area. With no Frank Lampard on the pitch the honour is given to Eden Hazard who slots home his first Premier League goal.
Chelsea 1-0 Newcastle
Hazard (22)-Pen
Newcastle Corner
The first notable set piece of the match see's Newcastle gaining a corner, but it goes to waste.
Very little to report from the first 15 minutes at Stamford Bridge as the Midfield battle has so far dominated the match. Chelsea have looked the better team but have yet to create a clear cut goal scoring opportunity instead needing to take long range shots. So far it's been under-whelming but it does feel like the match could see a goal is one of the attacking players springs into life.
BREAKING NEWS
Wayne Rooney will be out for 4 weeks following his nasty gash suffered late in the match against Fulham
And we're off at The Bridge!
So with the 6 fixtures done and one postponed we just have one match left to go today with the late kick off and that will see European Champions Chelsea facing Newcastle in what promises to be a real 6 point battle. A full preview of that game can be read here. As with the early kick off this will be more in depth than our 3PM kick offs.
Full time
Manchester United 3-2 Fulham
Full time
Southampton 0-2 Wigan
Full time
Aston Villa 1-3 Everton
Full time
Tottenham 1-1West Brom
Goal!
West Brom leave it late but they steal a point thanks to a very late goal by James Morrison.
Tottenham Hotspur 1-1 West Brom
Assou-Ekotto (74)
Morrison (90)
OUCH!
Wayne Rooney is left with a nasty gash on his leg following an accident as he attempts to block a shot. It looks deep and painful and Manchester United will be hoping that it looks worse than it is.
Full time
Norwich 1-1 QPR
Goal!
With just minutes left Wigan secure the points against The Saints as they double their lead thanks to Arouna Kone.
Southampton 0-2 Wigan
De Santo (51)
Kone (89)
Yellow Card
Steven Reid becomes the 3rd player to be booked at White Heart Lane where West Brom are looking for an equaliser against Tottenham Hotspur
Yellow Card
Anton Ferdinand gets his name taken into the referees book joining team-mate Clinton Hill in the Norwich v QPR match
Yellow Card
It's a mixed bag now for Karim El Ahmadi who adds a yellow card to his goal, getting booked just minutes after giving Aston Villa a life line.
Goal!
Is the most unlikely of comebacks on at Villa Park? I'll admit that it's unlikely but Karim El Ahmadi's goal will give the Aston Villa fans some hope with about 15 minutes left to play.
Aston Villa 1-3 Everton
Piernaar (3)
Fellaini (31)
Jelavic (44)
Ahmadi (75)
Goal!
Finally the deadlock is broken at White Heart Lane with Benoît Assou-Ekotto putting Tottenham Hotspur in the lead.
Tottenham Hotspur 1-0 West Brom
Assou-Ekotto (74)
Goal!
The points aren't in the bag for Manchester United after all as Nemanja Vidic scores an embarrassing own goal and now we appear to have a game on our hands at Old Trafford.
Manchester United 3-2 Fulham
Duff (3)
Van Persie (10)
Kagawa (36)
Rafael (41)
Vidic (64)-O.G.
Red Card!
Things go from bad to worse for Aston Villa. If it wasn't bad enough being 3-0 to Everton they are now also a man down thanks to a straight red being shown to Ciaran Clark.
Goal!
The deadlock is broken at St Mary's with Southampton conceding against Wigan thanks to a thunderbolt by Franco Di Santo.
Southampton 0-1 Wigan
De Santo (51)
Yellow Card
The first yellow card of the second half is shown in London as Tottenham Hotspur's Jan Vertonghen is booked against West Brom.
HALF TIME
It's now half time in all of the 3PM kicks offs so here are the scores at the breaks:
Manchester United 3-1 Fulham
Aston Villa 0-3 Everton
Norwich 1-1 QPR
Southampton 0-0 Wigan
Tottenham Hotspur 0-0 West Brom
Goal!
With just minutes to go until half time Everton effectively finish the game off thanks to Nikica Jelavić who makes it 3-0 against Aston Villa
Aston Villa 0-3 Everton
Piernaar (3)
Fellaini (31)
Jelavic (44)
Goal!
...and now it is 3-1 to Manchester United as Rafael does manage to get one that does count.
Manchester United 3-1 Fulham
Duff (3)
Van Persie (10)
Kagawa (36)
Rafael (41)
Goal! No
Manchester United think they have a third when Rafael pops the ball in but it's ruled out due to an offside...
Goal!
Normal service has resumed at Old Trafford thanks to Shinji Kagawa who scores his first for Manchester United after tidying up the pieces following a Tom Cleverly.
Manchester United 2-1 Fulham
Duff (3)
Van Persie (10)
Kagawa (36)
Yellow Card
Brede Hangeland gets shown the first card at Old Trafford.
Goal!
Everton's Belgian star Marouane Fellaini just can't help but steal the headlines and manages to double the lead for the Toffees against Aston Villa
Aston Villa 0-2 Everton
Piernaar (3)
Fellaini (31)
Yellow Card
West Brom's Youssouf Mulumbu receives the first yellow card in the Tottenham Hotpsur v West Brom game.
After 4 goals in the opening 15 minutes of the 3PM kick off's we've only seen 1 goal in the following 15 minutes as things have calmed down a little across the league.
Yellow Card
The first yellow card of the 3PM kicks off's is shown to QPR defender Clint Hill.
Penalty and Goal!
QPR get a questionable penalty after Djibril Cissé is brought down in the penalty area. The Frenchman takes the spot kick but Norwich keeper John Ruddy saves it. Sadly for Ruddy his effort isn't enough and Bobby Zamora bangs in the rebound.
Norwich 1-1 QPR
Jackson (11)
Zamora (19)
Goal!
In a game between last weekends whooping boy's Norwich take the lead thanks to Simeon Jackson. QPR really have had a nightmare start to the season.
Norwich 1-0 QPR
Jackson (11)
Goal!
Manchester United score their first goal of the season as they equalise against Fulham thanks to an excellent goal by Robin Van Persie who opens his Manchester United account with a beauty.
Manchester United 1-1 Fulham
Duff (3)
Van Persie (10)
Goal!
Everton surprised us all on Monday night when they beat Manchester United 1-0 it hasn't take them long to take the lead again this time over Everton thanks to Steven Pienaar.
Aston Villa 0-1 Everton
Pienaar (3)
Goal!
Things go from bad to worse for Manchster United who have already conceded against Fulham who, like Swansea have gotten off to an excellent start to the season
Manchester United 0-1 Fulham
Duff (3)
15:00
We now have kick off in our 3PM kick offs however we have one casualty with the Sunderland v Reading game postponed due to a water logged pitch. Again due to the number of games on at once I will merely be updating goals and cards for these games.
Full-Time
Swansea City 3-0 West Ham This will not be the result that West Ham fans were expecting on their way to way to Wales this morning though they have no one to blame but their own players who were poor. Despite a bright start, especially by new signing Matt Jarvis, they simply couldn't live with Swansea for much of the game who bossed it from the middle. Despite Swansea playing well with Michu being a threat throughout the game West Ham's woes were all self inflicted with some awful defending, especially by James Collins who was genuinely awful. As well Collins having a bad game veteran keeper Jussi Jääskeläinen also failed to cover himself in any glory. It was a well deserved win for the Swans who will be the top of the League until the 15:00 kick offs finish.
Full Match report can be read here
West Ham Corner
With about 5 minutes left West Ham get a corner but it leads to nothing and Swansea start a break.
Swansea Substitution
Swansea make their final substitution bringing on Ben Davies for Neil Taylor. This is the senior debut for Davies.
Yellow Card
A clear hand ball by Winston Reid is punished with a yellow card.
Swansea Substitution
Wayne Routledge is replaced with 10 minutes left by Luke Moore as Swansea look to run down the clock
Chant
The Swansea fans have started the always popular "You're shit and you know you are" chant towards West Ham who are doing little to prove otherwise at the moment.
Swansea Substitution
Swansea make their first substitution of the day as Kemy Agustien replaces Jonathan de Guzmán.
West Ham Substitution
West Ham make their 3rd and final substitution of the the day as Mohamed Diamé is replaced by Alou Diarra.
Yellow Card
Chico Flores becomes the second Swansea player into the referees book after he pushes his luck once too often. The resulting free kick is on target but Michael Vorm makes a very comfortable save.
Freekick
Swansea get a free kick in a nice position following a foul on Nathan Dyer though the drifted ball drifts too far and it leads to nothing. It appears as if Swansea want another one.
GOAL!
Swansea appear to have secured the game and the 3 points as Danny Graham takes advantage of some poor defending and nets past Jääskeläinen who has looked unexpectedly poor today. Yet another defensive mistake has cost West Ham.
Swansea 2-0 West Ham
Jääskeläinen (20)-O.G.
Michu (29)
Graham (64)
West Ham Substitution
Sam Allardyce takes off the rather poor looking Carlton Cole and replaces him Modibo Maïga
Swansea Chance and Corner
Swansea again go close to a 3rd before the ball is turned behind for another corner. Like the previous Swansea corners they don't really cause much panic in the West Ham area.
Yellow Card The day keeps getting worse for James Collins who not only gifted Swansea their second but has been booed every time he touches the ball by Swansea fans who remember he used to be at Cardiff. He's now picked up West Ham's third booking of the day.
Swansea Chance
Danny Graham beats the offside trap and looks to have a great chance against Jääskeläinen tough his shot falls just wide of the post as Swansea go close to increasing their lead.
Yellow Card
West Ham pick up the first booking of the second half with Kevin Nolan joining team mate Carlton Cole in the book. Swansea hoof the resulting free kick up the other end but the flag goes up against them.
West Ham Chance
The ball bounces around the Swansea penalty area and Carlton Cole goes for the spectacular bicycle kick though completely misses the ball which is easily collected by Michael Vorm.
Swansea Corner
The Swans get the first corner of the second half as Jääskeläinen is forced into action turning the ball behind from a sided footed effort by Swansea.
West Ham Substitution
West Ham make a half time substitution bringing on Ricardo Vaz Te to replace James Tomkins. A very positive change by Sam Allardyce.
...and we're off for the second half!
Half Time
Swansea 2-0 West Ham
Swansea may have started and ended the half on the back foot though it's what they did in a 10 minute spell in the middle of the half that separates the 2 teams at the break. Although both goals will go down as defensive mistakes with Jääskeläinen turning the ball into his own and James Collins making a blunder to let Michu in for the second, Swansea certainly do deserve their lead.
Michael Laudrup will be be very happy at his team leading and that Michu has netted his 3rd goal in 2 games, however he will be worried about the threat West Ham showed just prior to have time when they had a series of very threatening corners.
Whilst Sam Allardyce will feel annoyed at the defensive mistakes which have cost West Ham he will certainly feel encouraged by the promise his men showed just prior to the end of the half. He will also feel very happy about Matt Jarvis who has looked very bright on the ball and could have have had a goal and an assist himself.
This game maybe 2-0 but it's certainly not over yet.
West Ham Corner
A third West Ham corner inside about a minute, this time it's cleared off the line as Swansea hold on to their 2 goal advantage.
West Ham Corner
West Ham's previous corner gives the Swansea defense nightmares and it gets turned around for another.
West Ham Corner
A poor pass by Chico lets West Ham in with a chance before it's knocked behind for their first corner.
Yellow Card
West Ham now pick up their first booking as hitman Carlton Cole catches Swansea's Chico with his arm in an area challenger.
Swansea Corner
Swansea come close to a 3rd before Jääskeläinen makes a save and turns it over for a corner. The corner leads to nothing.
West Ham Chance
A free kick from the middle of the pitch provides Matt Jarvis with half a chance, the ball then sits loose in the Swansea penalty area before it's hoofed away. The second goal seems to have awoken West Ham.
Yellow Card
Just seconds after doubling their lead Swansea pick up the first booking of the match courtesy of Angel Rangel who gives away a free kick. The Swans clear the trouble.
GOAL!
Swansea double their lead as Spaniard Michu scores his 3rd goal in 2 games. The attacking midfielder could have been booked a few minutes earlier for a rash challenge and seems to have rattled West Ham's Kevin Nolan now he's rattled the whole West Ham team.
Swansea 2-0 West Ham
Jääskeläinen (20)-O.G.
Michu (29)
GOAL!
The home team open the scoring as Angel Rangel's shot deflects in from veteran keeper Jussi Jääskeläinen and this will likely go down as an Own Goal, the first of the season. Whilst West Ham started very brightly Swansea have played well and taken a deserved lead.
Swansea 1-0 West Ham
Jääskeläinen (20)-O.G.
Swansea Corner
Swansea get their second corner of the match, this time from their left, though like the previous one it leads to nothing.
West Ham Injury
West Ham's Winston Reid takes a knock after clashing with a team mate. He appears shaken but all right and after going through the formality of leaving the pitch soon returns.
Swansea Corner
Swansea get the first corner of the match though it leads to nothing an West Ham clear it.
West Ham Chance
Matt Jarvis makes an early impact as his cross is almost inch perfect for Kevin Nolan sadly for the Hammers their captain can't convert. Bright start for the visitors.
Swansea v West Ham
And we have Kick Off in the early Premier League game and the first game of "Week 2".
A week ago we were all excited about the Premier League kick and who would have expected what we saw last weekend. On just the opening day we had an amazing 19 goals in the Premier League, with 2 matches featuring 5 goals and since then we've had a further14 goals including another 5 goals match and a 6 goal game. Lets be honest honest, goals have been flying in in fact we've had an average of 3 a match!
As well as the goals we've seen a lot of penalties (a surprising 7 penalties already) 2 red cards, several notable upsets and of course the late season signings, of which their has been a spate of in recent days. It's one of those signings that the eyes of the Premier League will be on in the early kick off with West Ham new boy Matt Jarvis now expected to start against Swansea. Jarvis, West Ham's record signing will be hoping to make an immediate impact for his new team and I wouldn't put it beyond him. Though lets see as we get ready for kick off!
An early preview of the early match, written last night can be read here.
Chelsea 2-0 Newcastle
Chelsea have returned to the top of the Premier League having secured a maximum 9 points from their 3 games so far.
Stoppage time
David Luiz is in the wars again down in his own penalty area as the 4th official's board shows a minimum of 4 minutes stoppage time.
Chelsea Substitution
Frank Lampard comes on to replace Raul Meireles with less than 3 minutes of normal time remaining.
Newcastle Chance
Demba Ba has the best chance for Newcastle but he can't beat Petr Cech from close range.
Chelsea Corner
Ryan Bertrand's powerful shot is judged as having touched Tim Krul before going behind giving Chelsea a corner. It comes to nothing.
Newcastle Substitution
Yohan Cabaye comes off as Newcastle make their final change bringing on James Perch.
Free kick
Chelsea get another promising free kick and after a short discussion betweem Raul Meireles and David Luiz over who's going to take it, Raul Meireles blasts it over the bar.
Newcastle Substitution
Davide Santon has been replaced by Sylvain Marveaux with around 15 minutes left.
Free kick
Chelsea get a free kick in a nice position but David Luiz hits it over the bar.
Free kick
Ryan Taylor delivers an excellent free kick that seemed to almost be perfect bu no Newcastle attacker could get the touch it needed.
Chelsea Substitution
Juan Mata is replaced with 25 minutes left by Ramires
Newcastle Corner and Subsitution
Ryan Taylor comes on to replace Danny Simpson prior to Newcastle taking a corner that incidentally taken by Taylor. Much better than the previous one but Chelsea cut it out without too many worries.
LOVELY!
Fernando Torres is having a bit of fun now as he starts to abuse the Newcastle defense with his skill. His cross to Eden Hazard gets intercepted but idea was wonderful. This, football fans, is Torres getting back to his best.
Newcastle Corner
Newcastle get a corner...but it's awful and very easy for Chelsea to clear. It's positive however that they managed to make something happen up front.
After starting the second half well Chelsea have slowed and appear to be letting Newcastle get back into the game somewhat.
Second Half
We're off for the second half now at Stamford Bridge as Newcastle try to fight back from 2 down.
Half Time
Chelsea 2-0 Newcastle
Despite a very slow start to the match which so very few chances being created the game warmed up nicely midway through the half. Whilst Eden Hazard will likely grab the headlines once again for me, it seems like Fernando Torres has started to look his old self. It was Torres who was fouled leading to the penalty (that Hazard put away) and it was Torres who was terrifying the Newcastle defense. The link up play between Hazard and Torres has been the difference and I wouldn't be surprised to see either of them adding a 3rd Chelsea goal in the second half.
Roberto Di Matteo may have been concerned when Raul Meireles and David Luiz went down one after the other though they both soldiered on and finished off the half looking perfectly fine. If anything Di Matteo will have to be happy at the performance of both Hazard and Torres who have been so influential in the half. The Chelsea defense hasn't really been tested as their Midfield has generally neutralised all the Newcastle attacks and as a result Chelsea are bossing the game.
Newcastle manager Alan Pardew has a lot to do in the half time team talk, he will really struggle to turn this around especially considering how good Chelsea are looking. He has got some positives to take from the match so far as Hatem Ben Arfa looks threatening when he has managed to get the ball though generally he's struggled to get much of it due to Chelsea's Midfield which have controlled much of the match. Pardew will need to hope that Chelsea drop the pace for his team to have a chance.
Goal!
Since being booked Fernando Torres has looked like a man posessed and some excellent interplay with Eden Hzard results in an excellent finish for Torres who is showing glimpses of being back to his best.
Chelsea 1-0 Newcastle
Hazard (22)-Pen
Torres (45)
Corner
Chelsea may feel like they deserve another penalty but instead they receive a corner, the corner however goes to waste.
Stoppage time
We will have 4 minutes of stoppage time at Stamford Bridge due to lengthy stoppages following incidents involving Raul Meireles and David Luiz.
Newcastle Chance
Newcastle get their first chance but it's hit straight at Petr Cech who makes an easy save.
Yellow Card
The referee shows the first yellow card of the game as he books Fernando Torres for diving. Whilst the Spaniard was caught he went down very extravagantly from just a minimal touch by Fabricio Coloccini.
Chelsea Chance
Eden Hazard looks to slide in Fernando Torres but the ball gets cut out. The Chelsea attack are starting to open the Newcastle defense up almost at will now.
Ouch!
Raul Meireles looks to be in some pain and Frank Lampard warms up. After being off for a minute or two Raul Meireles returns to the pitch.
Penalty and Goal!
We finally have life in this game as Chelsea go from defending the corner to attack and Fernando Torres goes down in the penalty area. With no Frank Lampard on the pitch the honour is given to Eden Hazard who slots home his first Premier League goal.
Chelsea 1-0 Newcastle
Hazard (22)-Pen
Newcastle Corner
The first notable set piece of the match see's Newcastle gaining a corner, but it goes to waste.
Very little to report from the first 15 minutes at Stamford Bridge as the Midfield battle has so far dominated the match. Chelsea have looked the better team but have yet to create a clear cut goal scoring opportunity instead needing to take long range shots. So far it's been under-whelming but it does feel like the match could see a goal is one of the attacking players springs into life.
BREAKING NEWS
Wayne Rooney will be out for 4 weeks following his nasty gash suffered late in the match against Fulham
And we're off at The Bridge!
So with the 6 fixtures done and one postponed we just have one match left to go today with the late kick off and that will see European Champions Chelsea facing Newcastle in what promises to be a real 6 point battle. A full preview of that game can be read here. As with the early kick off this will be more in depth than our 3PM kick offs.
Full time
Manchester United 3-2 Fulham
Full time
Southampton 0-2 Wigan
Full time
Aston Villa 1-3 Everton
Full time
Tottenham 1-1West Brom
Goal!
West Brom leave it late but they steal a point thanks to a very late goal by James Morrison.
Tottenham Hotspur 1-1 West Brom
Assou-Ekotto (74)
Morrison (90)
OUCH!
Wayne Rooney is left with a nasty gash on his leg following an accident as he attempts to block a shot. It looks deep and painful and Manchester United will be hoping that it looks worse than it is.
Full time
Norwich 1-1 QPR
Goal!
With just minutes left Wigan secure the points against The Saints as they double their lead thanks to Arouna Kone.
Southampton 0-2 Wigan
De Santo (51)
Kone (89)
Yellow Card
Steven Reid becomes the 3rd player to be booked at White Heart Lane where West Brom are looking for an equaliser against Tottenham Hotspur
Yellow Card
Anton Ferdinand gets his name taken into the referees book joining team-mate Clinton Hill in the Norwich v QPR match
Yellow Card
It's a mixed bag now for Karim El Ahmadi who adds a yellow card to his goal, getting booked just minutes after giving Aston Villa a life line.
Goal!
Is the most unlikely of comebacks on at Villa Park? I'll admit that it's unlikely but Karim El Ahmadi's goal will give the Aston Villa fans some hope with about 15 minutes left to play.
Aston Villa 1-3 Everton
Piernaar (3)
Fellaini (31)
Jelavic (44)
Ahmadi (75)
Goal!
Finally the deadlock is broken at White Heart Lane with Benoît Assou-Ekotto putting Tottenham Hotspur in the lead.
Tottenham Hotspur 1-0 West Brom
Assou-Ekotto (74)
Goal!
The points aren't in the bag for Manchester United after all as Nemanja Vidic scores an embarrassing own goal and now we appear to have a game on our hands at Old Trafford.
Manchester United 3-2 Fulham
Duff (3)
Van Persie (10)
Kagawa (36)
Rafael (41)
Vidic (64)-O.G.
Red Card!
Things go from bad to worse for Aston Villa. If it wasn't bad enough being 3-0 to Everton they are now also a man down thanks to a straight red being shown to Ciaran Clark.
Goal!
The deadlock is broken at St Mary's with Southampton conceding against Wigan thanks to a thunderbolt by Franco Di Santo.
Southampton 0-1 Wigan
De Santo (51)
Yellow Card
The first yellow card of the second half is shown in London as Tottenham Hotspur's Jan Vertonghen is booked against West Brom.
HALF TIME
It's now half time in all of the 3PM kicks offs so here are the scores at the breaks:
Manchester United 3-1 Fulham
Aston Villa 0-3 Everton
Norwich 1-1 QPR
Southampton 0-0 Wigan
Tottenham Hotspur 0-0 West Brom
Goal!
With just minutes to go until half time Everton effectively finish the game off thanks to Nikica Jelavić who makes it 3-0 against Aston Villa
Aston Villa 0-3 Everton
Piernaar (3)
Fellaini (31)
Jelavic (44)
Goal!
...and now it is 3-1 to Manchester United as Rafael does manage to get one that does count.
Manchester United 3-1 Fulham
Duff (3)
Van Persie (10)
Kagawa (36)
Rafael (41)
Goal! No
Manchester United think they have a third when Rafael pops the ball in but it's ruled out due to an offside...
Goal!
Normal service has resumed at Old Trafford thanks to Shinji Kagawa who scores his first for Manchester United after tidying up the pieces following a Tom Cleverly.
Manchester United 2-1 Fulham
Duff (3)
Van Persie (10)
Kagawa (36)
Yellow Card
Brede Hangeland gets shown the first card at Old Trafford.
Goal!
Everton's Belgian star Marouane Fellaini just can't help but steal the headlines and manages to double the lead for the Toffees against Aston Villa
Aston Villa 0-2 Everton
Piernaar (3)
Fellaini (31)
Yellow Card
West Brom's Youssouf Mulumbu receives the first yellow card in the Tottenham Hotpsur v West Brom game.
After 4 goals in the opening 15 minutes of the 3PM kick off's we've only seen 1 goal in the following 15 minutes as things have calmed down a little across the league.
Yellow Card
The first yellow card of the 3PM kicks off's is shown to QPR defender Clint Hill.
Penalty and Goal!
QPR get a questionable penalty after Djibril Cissé is brought down in the penalty area. The Frenchman takes the spot kick but Norwich keeper John Ruddy saves it. Sadly for Ruddy his effort isn't enough and Bobby Zamora bangs in the rebound.
Norwich 1-1 QPR
Jackson (11)
Zamora (19)
Goal!
In a game between last weekends whooping boy's Norwich take the lead thanks to Simeon Jackson. QPR really have had a nightmare start to the season.
Norwich 1-0 QPR
Jackson (11)
Goal!
Manchester United score their first goal of the season as they equalise against Fulham thanks to an excellent goal by Robin Van Persie who opens his Manchester United account with a beauty.
Manchester United 1-1 Fulham
Duff (3)
Van Persie (10)
Goal!
Everton surprised us all on Monday night when they beat Manchester United 1-0 it hasn't take them long to take the lead again this time over Everton thanks to Steven Pienaar.
Aston Villa 0-1 Everton
Pienaar (3)
Goal!
Things go from bad to worse for Manchster United who have already conceded against Fulham who, like Swansea have gotten off to an excellent start to the season
Manchester United 0-1 Fulham
Duff (3)
15:00
We now have kick off in our 3PM kick offs however we have one casualty with the Sunderland v Reading game postponed due to a water logged pitch. Again due to the number of games on at once I will merely be updating goals and cards for these games.
Full-Time
Swansea City 3-0 West Ham This will not be the result that West Ham fans were expecting on their way to way to Wales this morning though they have no one to blame but their own players who were poor. Despite a bright start, especially by new signing Matt Jarvis, they simply couldn't live with Swansea for much of the game who bossed it from the middle. Despite Swansea playing well with Michu being a threat throughout the game West Ham's woes were all self inflicted with some awful defending, especially by James Collins who was genuinely awful. As well Collins having a bad game veteran keeper Jussi Jääskeläinen also failed to cover himself in any glory. It was a well deserved win for the Swans who will be the top of the League until the 15:00 kick offs finish.
Full Match report can be read here
West Ham Corner
With about 5 minutes left West Ham get a corner but it leads to nothing and Swansea start a break.
Swansea Substitution
Swansea make their final substitution bringing on Ben Davies for Neil Taylor. This is the senior debut for Davies.
Yellow Card
A clear hand ball by Winston Reid is punished with a yellow card.
Swansea Substitution
Wayne Routledge is replaced with 10 minutes left by Luke Moore as Swansea look to run down the clock
Chant
The Swansea fans have started the always popular "You're shit and you know you are" chant towards West Ham who are doing little to prove otherwise at the moment.
Swansea Substitution
Swansea make their first substitution of the day as Kemy Agustien replaces Jonathan de Guzmán.
West Ham Substitution
West Ham make their 3rd and final substitution of the the day as Mohamed Diamé is replaced by Alou Diarra.
Yellow Card
Chico Flores becomes the second Swansea player into the referees book after he pushes his luck once too often. The resulting free kick is on target but Michael Vorm makes a very comfortable save.
Freekick
Swansea get a free kick in a nice position following a foul on Nathan Dyer though the drifted ball drifts too far and it leads to nothing. It appears as if Swansea want another one.
GOAL!
Swansea appear to have secured the game and the 3 points as Danny Graham takes advantage of some poor defending and nets past Jääskeläinen who has looked unexpectedly poor today. Yet another defensive mistake has cost West Ham.
Swansea 2-0 West Ham
Jääskeläinen (20)-O.G.
Michu (29)
Graham (64)
West Ham Substitution
Sam Allardyce takes off the rather poor looking Carlton Cole and replaces him Modibo Maïga
Swansea Chance and Corner
Swansea again go close to a 3rd before the ball is turned behind for another corner. Like the previous Swansea corners they don't really cause much panic in the West Ham area.
Yellow Card The day keeps getting worse for James Collins who not only gifted Swansea their second but has been booed every time he touches the ball by Swansea fans who remember he used to be at Cardiff. He's now picked up West Ham's third booking of the day.
Swansea Chance
Danny Graham beats the offside trap and looks to have a great chance against Jääskeläinen tough his shot falls just wide of the post as Swansea go close to increasing their lead.
Yellow Card
West Ham pick up the first booking of the second half with Kevin Nolan joining team mate Carlton Cole in the book. Swansea hoof the resulting free kick up the other end but the flag goes up against them.
West Ham Chance
The ball bounces around the Swansea penalty area and Carlton Cole goes for the spectacular bicycle kick though completely misses the ball which is easily collected by Michael Vorm.
Swansea Corner
The Swans get the first corner of the second half as Jääskeläinen is forced into action turning the ball behind from a sided footed effort by Swansea.
West Ham Substitution
West Ham make a half time substitution bringing on Ricardo Vaz Te to replace James Tomkins. A very positive change by Sam Allardyce.
...and we're off for the second half!
Half Time
Swansea 2-0 West Ham
Swansea may have started and ended the half on the back foot though it's what they did in a 10 minute spell in the middle of the half that separates the 2 teams at the break. Although both goals will go down as defensive mistakes with Jääskeläinen turning the ball into his own and James Collins making a blunder to let Michu in for the second, Swansea certainly do deserve their lead.
Michael Laudrup will be be very happy at his team leading and that Michu has netted his 3rd goal in 2 games, however he will be worried about the threat West Ham showed just prior to have time when they had a series of very threatening corners.
Whilst Sam Allardyce will feel annoyed at the defensive mistakes which have cost West Ham he will certainly feel encouraged by the promise his men showed just prior to the end of the half. He will also feel very happy about Matt Jarvis who has looked very bright on the ball and could have have had a goal and an assist himself.
This game maybe 2-0 but it's certainly not over yet.
West Ham Corner
A third West Ham corner inside about a minute, this time it's cleared off the line as Swansea hold on to their 2 goal advantage.
West Ham Corner
West Ham's previous corner gives the Swansea defense nightmares and it gets turned around for another.
West Ham Corner
A poor pass by Chico lets West Ham in with a chance before it's knocked behind for their first corner.
Yellow Card
West Ham now pick up their first booking as hitman Carlton Cole catches Swansea's Chico with his arm in an area challenger.
Swansea Corner
Swansea come close to a 3rd before Jääskeläinen makes a save and turns it over for a corner. The corner leads to nothing.
West Ham Chance
A free kick from the middle of the pitch provides Matt Jarvis with half a chance, the ball then sits loose in the Swansea penalty area before it's hoofed away. The second goal seems to have awoken West Ham.
Yellow Card
Just seconds after doubling their lead Swansea pick up the first booking of the match courtesy of Angel Rangel who gives away a free kick. The Swans clear the trouble.
GOAL!
Swansea double their lead as Spaniard Michu scores his 3rd goal in 2 games. The attacking midfielder could have been booked a few minutes earlier for a rash challenge and seems to have rattled West Ham's Kevin Nolan now he's rattled the whole West Ham team.
Swansea 2-0 West Ham
Jääskeläinen (20)-O.G.
Michu (29)
GOAL!
The home team open the scoring as Angel Rangel's shot deflects in from veteran keeper Jussi Jääskeläinen and this will likely go down as an Own Goal, the first of the season. Whilst West Ham started very brightly Swansea have played well and taken a deserved lead.
Swansea 1-0 West Ham
Jääskeläinen (20)-O.G.
Swansea Corner
Swansea get their second corner of the match, this time from their left, though like the previous one it leads to nothing.
West Ham Injury
West Ham's Winston Reid takes a knock after clashing with a team mate. He appears shaken but all right and after going through the formality of leaving the pitch soon returns.
Swansea Corner
Swansea get the first corner of the match though it leads to nothing an West Ham clear it.
West Ham Chance
Matt Jarvis makes an early impact as his cross is almost inch perfect for Kevin Nolan sadly for the Hammers their captain can't convert. Bright start for the visitors.
Swansea v West Ham
And we have Kick Off in the early Premier League game and the first game of "Week 2".
A week ago we were all excited about the Premier League kick and who would have expected what we saw last weekend. On just the opening day we had an amazing 19 goals in the Premier League, with 2 matches featuring 5 goals and since then we've had a further14 goals including another 5 goals match and a 6 goal game. Lets be honest honest, goals have been flying in in fact we've had an average of 3 a match!
As well as the goals we've seen a lot of penalties (a surprising 7 penalties already) 2 red cards, several notable upsets and of course the late season signings, of which their has been a spate of in recent days. It's one of those signings that the eyes of the Premier League will be on in the early kick off with West Ham new boy Matt Jarvis now expected to start against Swansea. Jarvis, West Ham's record signing will be hoping to make an immediate impact for his new team and I wouldn't put it beyond him. Though lets see as we get ready for kick off!
An early preview of the early match, written last night can be read here.
Friday 24 August 2012
Week 2-Predictions (Saturday)
My predictions for week one were simply awful. I got the right "outcome" just 4 times from the first 11 games (though I did get 3 of the most recent 4 games correct) and didn't get a single right result. So lets try again for week 2:
Swansea V West Ham (12:45 KO)
Saturday's early fixture is one of the two matches I've done a full preview of for Saturday as Swansea look to continue their impressive start to the season as they host West Ham. After defeating QPR 5-0 away from home it's easy to get over-exited about Swansea though with Michael Laudrup in charge expect the players to keep their feet on the ground and defeat a rather thin West Ham team who are likely to start with new signing Matt Jarvis on the bench. West Ham may have managed a 1-0 win over Aston Villa but hardly looked like they got going until the final 20 minutes or so in what was a bit of a stinker in all honesty.
Prediction 2-0 Swansea
Aston Villa V Everton
Aston Villa will go into the game hoping to put their 1-0 defeat at the hands of West Ham last weekend behind them whilst Everton will be looking to build on their surprise 1-0 victory over perennial title challengers Manchester United. The moods at the two teams could hardly be more different. For Villa last weekend must have been filled with genuine disappointment in not only losing but playing really badly against West Ham, whilst Everton, thanks to a man of the match performance by Marouane Fellaini dominated Manchester United. I have a feeling that momentum for both teams going into this game will play a big part in the match.
Prediction 1-0 Everton
Manchester Utd V Fulham
If Villa and Everton are clubs with polar opposite starts what about Manchester United and Fulham? United, as mentioned above, unexpectedly lost to Everton and looked very poor, especially at the back and in the middle, whilst Fulham got off to a flyer with a 5-0 victory over poor Norwich who were taken to the cleaners by Mladen Petric. With United getting back to Old Trafford I think we'll see their fortunes return to normal as they bag their first points of the season. Expect Robin Van Persie to start and United to look rather angry up front after being held to nil by Everton.
Prediction 3-0 Manchester United
Norwich V QPR
Whilst the two matches above saw teams starting in polar opposites, these two teams certainly started in the same way, in fact their start to the season was almost identical. With 10 goals in the opening day games featuring these two teams it's just a shame neither team managed to bag one themselves as both QPR and Norwich went down 5-0. Despite both teams getting laughably slaughtered QPR certainly looked the better team than Norwich and I'd fancy them, under the guidance of Mark Hughes to get at least a point here. Don't expect a goal fest but maybe a goal each.
Prediction 1-1
Southampton V Wigan
Southampton may have felt unfortunate for their first game back in the Premier League to have been against reigning champions Manchester City however they fought wonderfully well and were surprisingly in the lead at half time before going down 3-2. That game should have given them a lot of confidence to take into this match against a Wigan side who were all but losers after just 10 minutes against as the European Champions secured a 2-0 victory. Southampton will have little to fear here and I think they will show their confidence from the City game with a single goal win.
Prediction 1-0 Southampton
Sunderland V Reading
Both of these teams secured a point on the opening day of the season with the Blackcats unexpectedly holding Arsenal to the only goalless game of the season so far whilst Reading earned a late point against Stoke. Since then however Reading gave Chelsea a real test before losing to the relatively unfair scoreline of 4-2. Having both shown some fine form and excellent defensive traits so far it'd be stupid to expect much in the way of goals here however Sunderland at home last season did score goals.
Prediction 1-0 Sunderland
Tottenham Hotspur V West Brom
Tottenham started their season off with a 2-1 loss to Newcastle though for much of the game actually looked the better side, even if they were rather toothless. Since then they have re-signed Emmanuel Adebayor who really will help give the Spurs' attack some added impetus alongside Jermain Defoe. Prior to Spurs losing we had seen arguably the upset of the weekend as West Brom put Brendon Rodger's Liverpool team to the sword in an excellent 3-0 victory, a victory that will have filled the players with confidence and belief that they can hold their own with anyone. Sadly for the Baggies, Spurs will be out for blood.
Prediction 2-0 Tottenham
Chelsea V Newcastle (17:30)
The late kick off is the second game I've previewed for Saturday and like the days earlier kick off it features two unbeaten teams looking to keep their perfect winning records. The European Champions Chelsea will be having their 3rd game inside a week and despite taking 6 points so far they have looked a little bit out of sorts despite beating Wigan 2-0 and Reading 4-2. On paper they look like great results but in actuality the performances, on the whole, were poor with a dodgy decision helping them beat Reading. However Eden Hazard has been a sensation for Chelsea and will look to show his class once again. Newcastle, who played just a couple of days ago in Greece will be looking to build on their 2-1 victory over Spurs though this match will be much, much tougher for them against a Chelsea team with real attacking promise.
Prediction 2-1 Chelsea
All kicks offs 15:00 unless otherwise stated
Swansea V West Ham (12:45 KO)
Saturday's early fixture is one of the two matches I've done a full preview of for Saturday as Swansea look to continue their impressive start to the season as they host West Ham. After defeating QPR 5-0 away from home it's easy to get over-exited about Swansea though with Michael Laudrup in charge expect the players to keep their feet on the ground and defeat a rather thin West Ham team who are likely to start with new signing Matt Jarvis on the bench. West Ham may have managed a 1-0 win over Aston Villa but hardly looked like they got going until the final 20 minutes or so in what was a bit of a stinker in all honesty.
Prediction 2-0 Swansea
Aston Villa V Everton
Aston Villa will go into the game hoping to put their 1-0 defeat at the hands of West Ham last weekend behind them whilst Everton will be looking to build on their surprise 1-0 victory over perennial title challengers Manchester United. The moods at the two teams could hardly be more different. For Villa last weekend must have been filled with genuine disappointment in not only losing but playing really badly against West Ham, whilst Everton, thanks to a man of the match performance by Marouane Fellaini dominated Manchester United. I have a feeling that momentum for both teams going into this game will play a big part in the match.
Prediction 1-0 Everton
Manchester Utd V Fulham
If Villa and Everton are clubs with polar opposite starts what about Manchester United and Fulham? United, as mentioned above, unexpectedly lost to Everton and looked very poor, especially at the back and in the middle, whilst Fulham got off to a flyer with a 5-0 victory over poor Norwich who were taken to the cleaners by Mladen Petric. With United getting back to Old Trafford I think we'll see their fortunes return to normal as they bag their first points of the season. Expect Robin Van Persie to start and United to look rather angry up front after being held to nil by Everton.
Prediction 3-0 Manchester United
Norwich V QPR
Whilst the two matches above saw teams starting in polar opposites, these two teams certainly started in the same way, in fact their start to the season was almost identical. With 10 goals in the opening day games featuring these two teams it's just a shame neither team managed to bag one themselves as both QPR and Norwich went down 5-0. Despite both teams getting laughably slaughtered QPR certainly looked the better team than Norwich and I'd fancy them, under the guidance of Mark Hughes to get at least a point here. Don't expect a goal fest but maybe a goal each.
Prediction 1-1
Southampton V Wigan
Southampton may have felt unfortunate for their first game back in the Premier League to have been against reigning champions Manchester City however they fought wonderfully well and were surprisingly in the lead at half time before going down 3-2. That game should have given them a lot of confidence to take into this match against a Wigan side who were all but losers after just 10 minutes against as the European Champions secured a 2-0 victory. Southampton will have little to fear here and I think they will show their confidence from the City game with a single goal win.
Prediction 1-0 Southampton
Sunderland V Reading
Both of these teams secured a point on the opening day of the season with the Blackcats unexpectedly holding Arsenal to the only goalless game of the season so far whilst Reading earned a late point against Stoke. Since then however Reading gave Chelsea a real test before losing to the relatively unfair scoreline of 4-2. Having both shown some fine form and excellent defensive traits so far it'd be stupid to expect much in the way of goals here however Sunderland at home last season did score goals.
Prediction 1-0 Sunderland
Tottenham Hotspur V West Brom
Tottenham started their season off with a 2-1 loss to Newcastle though for much of the game actually looked the better side, even if they were rather toothless. Since then they have re-signed Emmanuel Adebayor who really will help give the Spurs' attack some added impetus alongside Jermain Defoe. Prior to Spurs losing we had seen arguably the upset of the weekend as West Brom put Brendon Rodger's Liverpool team to the sword in an excellent 3-0 victory, a victory that will have filled the players with confidence and belief that they can hold their own with anyone. Sadly for the Baggies, Spurs will be out for blood.
Prediction 2-0 Tottenham
Chelsea V Newcastle (17:30)
The late kick off is the second game I've previewed for Saturday and like the days earlier kick off it features two unbeaten teams looking to keep their perfect winning records. The European Champions Chelsea will be having their 3rd game inside a week and despite taking 6 points so far they have looked a little bit out of sorts despite beating Wigan 2-0 and Reading 4-2. On paper they look like great results but in actuality the performances, on the whole, were poor with a dodgy decision helping them beat Reading. However Eden Hazard has been a sensation for Chelsea and will look to show his class once again. Newcastle, who played just a couple of days ago in Greece will be looking to build on their 2-1 victory over Spurs though this match will be much, much tougher for them against a Chelsea team with real attacking promise.
Prediction 2-1 Chelsea
All kicks offs 15:00 unless otherwise stated
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