Premier League Round-Up: 25-08-2010 - Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United & Manchester City the ‘Big Four’?
The last round of the Premier League matches was a mixed bag. It included plenty of small shocks, a few big score-lines, a great weekend for English youngsters and the possible coming of a new contender for the ‘Big Four’ elite.
The action began with the visit of champions Chelsea to the JJB to take on Wigan Athletic, who began their league campaign in dismal fashion against Blackpool. Wigan has, in recent years, pulled off some upsets like beating Chelsea but if they thought they could repeat the dose, they had another thing coming. With Frenchman Charles N'Zogbia's off-field tantrums interrupting Wigan preparations, the home team never had a chance against the free-scoring Londoners. Even though the Latics managed to keep Chelsea at bay for around 30 minutes, once Florent Malouda scored on 34 minutes, the floodgates opened. The Chelsea machine rumbled into action as Nicolas Anelka and Salomon Kalou scored braces while Yossi Benayoun finished off the scoring to complete a sixer for the Blues. With another six goals in the bag, Chelsea already has 12 for the season and are looking ominous for anyone who has aspirations for the title.
Bolton Wanderers completed a remarkable away win against West Ham United courtesy to a Matthew Upson own goal and a double from much-criticized striker Johan Elmander. Carlton Cole missed a crucial penalty and Bolton took full advantage going two up. Even though Mark Noble pulled one back, Elmander made the match safe in the 84th minute to give the Wanderers a valuable 3-1 away win.
West Bromwich Albion made a steady start to another campaign in the Premier League defeating Sunderland 1-0. In what was a grinding contest, the match remained scoreless until the 81st minute when Peter Odemwingie scored the winner. Darren Bent's Sunderland tried to rally back in the game but the home team stood strong and took away points which will massively help in their battle against relegation.
Stoke City were defeated at the Britannica by a Gareth Bale inspired Tottenham Hotspur. Bale gave the away team the lead in somewhat fortuitous fashion as the ball ricocheted off his head into the goal without him having a clue about what happened. As is typical of Stoke, they equalized through a set piece when a corner broke to Ricardo Fuller and he grabbed his opportunity with glee. However, it was not to be for Stoke as Bale smashed in a goal fit to win any match. Tottenham held on after what looked like a legitimate goal for Stoke was chalked off by the referee.
Wolverhampton Wanderers picked up a priceless point on the road at Goodison Park against Everton. The match ended in a draw with Time Cahill scoring for the home side and Ebanks-Blake equalizing for the Wolves in the 74th minute.
Birmingham City continued their magnificent run at home by defeating visiting Blackburn Rovers 2-1. Craig Gardner was the man of the moment for City as he scored both goals while Nzonzi was the one who opened the scoring for Blackburn. Sam Allardyce's men could not hold onto their lead as Birmingham won their home fixture.
At Ashburton Grove, Theo Walcott was in irresistible form as he stroked a hat-trick. His hat-trick helped Arsenal spank Blackpool 6-0 with further goals from Marouane Chamakh, Abou Diaby and Andrei Arshavin.
The third and final six of the weekend action was hit by Newcastle United, who demolished a hapless Aston Villa side 6-0 at St. James' Park. Another Englishman, Andy Carroll scored a hat-trick and Kevin Nolan scored two while Joey Barton started the scoring with a magnificent pile-driver.
Manchester United, looking to wrestle back the title, were given a set back at Craven Cottage as they were held to a late draw by Fulham. Brede Hangeland became a villain and then a hero as he redeemed his own-goal with an equalizing finish in the 89th minute as the match between the two sides ended 2-2.
Finally, Manchester City heralded the beginning of a new era by beating a team which looks to be resigned to history. City comfortably saw off the challenge of Liverpool 3-0 as they began to use their millions to effect changes on the field.
The top four now reads Chelsea, Arsenal, Manchester United and Manchester City. It could be an indicative order because who knows, come the end of the season, this is what the final table may also look like.
Tags: