The Premier League Review- Kane is Able

The Sport Space’s Sam Tonks is back for a double Premier League game-week and a focus on the latest managerial departure from the top flight as the business end of the season approaches. 

In a double game-week in the Barclays Premier League we witnessed two derbies, the end of an unwanted record, shining English talents and yet another managerial departure, all in a week’s work in the Premier League.  Sky and BT have announced new rights to show the Premier league till 2019 amounting to over £5 billion, so now the Premier League teams must really put the money where their mouths are.


PAUL LAMBERT SACKED

After an inexcusable run of results, Paul Lambert was relieved from his post at Villa Park on Wednesday.  In 25 games, Lambert’s men had tallied up a measly 12 goals which is a shocking statistic considering they boast a quick, young and talented frontline of Andi Weimann, Christian Benteke and Gabby Agbonlahor.  An unbeaten start in their first four games had led Villa fans into a false sense of security as they crumbled after defeat to Arsenal.  Villa went nearly 3 months without a win in the league after that, scoring just three goals in that time.  Benteke inspired back-to-back wins with his return from injury only for things to go downhill again.  December 7^th their last Premier League win with only victories over Championship opposition in the FA Cup to show for since.  Villa went seven and a half games without scoring from the New Year till February 7^th when Jores Okore breached the Chelsea net.  When your top scorer in all competitions has amassed four goals, you know there are problems somewhere in the club.  Benteke has struggled particularly to score goals with only three to show for this season, whilst top scorer Weimann hasn’t scored a Premier League goal since November.  Lambert has had limited funding from owner Randy Lerner who has made his intentions with the club clear that until he sells, funding will be limited.  Despite this, Lambert has a good squad of players but the style of football and constant injury problems has led to anxiety and anger within groups of fans.  A spine of Brad Guzan, Ron Vlaar, Fabian Delph and Benteke is a good one which should see Villa trying to push into the European mix from mid-table not fighting off impending relegation trouble.  But defeat to Hull, a team fighting their own troubles off at the bottom, was the final straw in a game which fired yet another blank for Villa.  10 league games without a win and a record of 92 goals in his 101 league games, Lambert really was in a position where the sack was a foregone conclusion.  Villa need someone who can motivate and lift the side who are in desperate need now where things can only really get better.

Credit: thesportspace.org

Premier League

Every fan of every football team immediately looks out for derby day or a match against bitter rivals as soon as the fixture lists were released.  So, when the games on the 27^th September and 7^th February came out, all fans of Liverpool, Everton, Arsenal and Spurs were bookmarking it in calendars, phones and diaries if that’s what you do.  Last weekend was ‘Derby Weekend’.  Spurs hosted Arsenal with both on good runs of form, both with just one defeat in eight and six wins in that time.  Everton had ended a run of six without a win with victory at Crystal Palace whilst Liverpool were on a seven game unbeaten run, picking three straight wins going into a trip over Stanley Park.  Spurs had not won a North London Derby since 2013 when Gareth Bale scored in a 2-1 win, so Arsenal went into this with a psychological edge, especially after racking five goals past Villa the week before.  But, they may have underestimated Spurs and Harry Kane.  Kane was the top Premier League scorer in all competitions after a double at West Brom took him to 18 goals, more than Aguero, more than Diego Costa and more than Alexis Sanchez.  In Kane they boasted one of the hottest talents in the country who was playing in his first Derby.  Arsenal had scored inside two minutes when they last visited Spurs, this time they took 11 minutes to beat Hugo Lloris.  A swift break led brilliantly by Danny Welbeck ended with Mesut Ozil volleying over Lloris as the away fans went into raptures.  However, Spurs controlled the rest of the game with possession, chances and territory.  David Ospina continually thwarted Spurs until he flapped a corner to the feet of, Kane.  His first goal in the derby brought a deserved equaliser and led a rally from Spurs for a winner.  Then, when Nabil Bentaleb picked the main man out, he excellently guided the header into the top corner to win the game for Spurs.  Arsenal were dejected as Derby Day belonged to Spurs.  The Merseyside Derby was less action-packed but the spotlight was on Steven Gerrard as he played his last derby.  Gerrard very nearly wrote his script by scoring but his superb overhead kick went just over.  Jordan Ibe lit up Goodison in his first derby after a promising loan spell at Derby as he rattled the post from a solo run and shot.  Ross Barkley entered the fray and nearly set up a winner for Seamus Coleman but Simon Mignolet came to the rescue.  Another stalemate in the battle of the Mersey duo means Everton seem to be turning a corner with an impressive defensive display.

Credit: ibtimes.com

Elsewhere, Manchester City faltered in their pursuit of Chelsea by having to rescue a point against Hull City but reacted by turning on the style in a 4-1 win at Stoke.  Chelsea have pulled seven points clear with wins over Villa and Everton as Jose Mourinho’s mean look unstoppable.  It was the end of a miserable away run for QPR as caretaker bosses Chris Ramsey and Kevin Bond managed to topple Sunderland and end the winless travels.  Southampton and Manchester United maintain top four places with Sadio Mane delivering a goal in the nick of time at Loftus Road.  United were saved by Daley Blind’s volley after some ‘direct tactics’, is that okay Louis?  Leicester continued to rue bad luck with valiant performances in defeats to Crystal Palace and Arsenal and it seems Nigel Pearson is feeling the heat after his shocking outburst at Palace’s Jason McArthur.  The stand-out tie of the midweek games was at Anfield as the ever controversial Mario Balotelli finally scored a Premier League goal in a five-goal thriller where Liverpool held off two fight-backs from Spurs.  The top four fight looks to be the tightest in Premier League history as up to six teams are vying for just two spots, the promised land of the Champions League is awaiting.



Sam Tonks

The Review- Bantams at The Bridge

The Sport Space’s Football Analyst Sam Tonks returns for a review of the past week’s action in the FA Cup and Capital One Cup.

It is well known that the FA Cup is a competition famous for upsets, shocks and giant-killings with historic results including Wrexham beating Arsenal, Leeds shocking Manchester United and of course the Crazy Gang defying the Culture Club.  So when the 4^th Round swung in to action this weekend, Bradford City, Middlesbrough, Brighton and Cambridge were looking to add themselves to the famous list with big name killers.  As well as this, the Capital One Cup final line-up was to be decided with the second-legs at Stamford Bridge and Bramall Lane host to two very close, exciting and enthralling semi-final deciders.

FA Cup

Let’s start on Friday night and the Abbey Stadium.  Cambridge United are in the middle of their first season back in the football league, but that was put on hold as the record FA Cup winners and English League title winners Manchester United were in town.  76 places separated the sides, the biggest gulf of a 4^th Round tie this year and with United running out their big guns, it looked very bleak for Cambridge.  Angel Di Maria, Radamel Falcao and Daley Blind were just a few star names turning out at the Abbey Stadium, with most not likely to have experienced anything quite as hostile, bobbly or enclosed in their professional careers so far.  You knew Cambridge couldn’t go pound for pound with Louis Van Gaal’s Reds in terms of attacking quality, but they could definitely soak up the pressure, throw their bodies in the way and defend like lions to earn that money spinning replay the fans and players desire just as much as the possibility of winning.  They were indeed lions on the pitch and despite Manchester United having 75% possession and 16 shots to 6 of Cambridge, they couldn’t breach the barrier that was Chris Dunn in goal.  United came closest in the final minutes as Adnan Januzaj weaved into the box superbly only to see his shot cannon away off Dunn.  Another shot came in, blocked by the excellent Josh Coulson.  Then the ball dropped to Di Maria and the end looked nigh for Cambridge, until the sprawling Dunn saved again.  Robin Van Persie spurned a sitter in the second half as did Falcao, but Cambridge back to front were sensational.  The work ethic, energy, determination and commitment to the cause was unquestionable and they deserved their dream replay at Old Trafford.  United were far from impressive and looked a side devoid of cutting edge and lacked quality to break down a side newly promoted to League 2, but the focus should be on just how well Cambridge played.  The fact that the Cambridge players couldn’t swap shirts as there were no replacements so they would’ve had to pay £40 to replace it, sums up the gulf between the two and how great this result was to Richard Money’s men.

Credit: thesportspace.org

Cambridge set the tone for the weekend, Bradford and Middlesbrough went in to their games with some confidence and hoped that they could go one step further.  Chelsea and Manchester City, the Premier League’s top two were overwhelming favourites, but Bradford have history of being a cup giant-killer and Boro were flying high in the Championship.  At the Etihad, City were leaving nothing to chance and started the regulars such as David Silva, Sergio Aguero and Fernandinho.  City seemed shaken from their loss to Arsenal the week before but chose to fly off to Dubai for a warm-weather training camp, even if they arrived just 20 hours before the match.  This may have seemed arrogant and obnoxious from City’s point of view but it’s part of their commercial deal.  Boro were not turning up to be whipping boys and in Lee Tomlin had a man constantly toying and troubling City’s defences.  Tomas Meijas was a former player under Manuel Pellegrini at Real Madrid and came back to bite as he produced great saves in the first half to keep Boro in the tie, most notably from David Silva.  In the second half, Boro came to the party and Tomlin ran the game.  After countless City chances in the first, Boro quickly made those misses count.  Fernando gave it to Albert Adomah who managed to clip the ball over Willy Caballero.  As Fernando chased to clear the ball away, in came Paddy Bamford to block the ball in, the away fans went nuts behind the goal and the upset was on.  Frank Lampard came on and nearly wrote his name into another City match but his effort deflected onto the post.  Tomlin had similar luck, his majestic roll of the ball past the helpless Eliquem Managala couldn’t be finished as he bended the ball onto the inside of the post.  Yet, Boro were to seal the deal, a slick break cut open the Premier League champions.  Bamford rolled in Kike who finished with aplomb to complete the cup shock, City out to a Championship side for the second year running. 

Credit: telegraph.co.uk

Then, Stamford Bridge.  Jose Mourinho said on Friday, “For me, it would be a disgrace it you lose to a lower league team.”  Enter Bradford.  Chelsea rested the likes of Eden Hazard, Cesc Fabregas, John Terry and Diego Costa but still had a very strong side.  Bradford have proven they are up to the big occasion, knocking Arsenal and Aston Villa over two legs out of the Capital One Cup two years ago.  So, when Chelsea strolled into a 2-0 first half lead, everyone thought it was over.  If Bradford were to add Chelsea to their scalps, it would be the biggest shock in FA Cup history.  Just before half-time John Stead incredibly fired a goal back after Chelsea cleared a corner.  Bradford sensed a chance and came out ready to take Chelsea on in the second half.  Into the last 15 minutes, still 2-1.  Bradford were becoming more dangerous and won a throw-in by the corner flag.  James Hanson flicked on the throw, but Petr Cech denied Billy Knott.  As the ball came out, the ex-Chelsea youth Filipe Morais smashed the ball into the gaping net, from 2-0 down, Bradford had levelled.  You’d of thought that was that, the lower league side would hold for a replay, oh no!  City came again, great work down the right put fans on the edge of their seat, TVs were back on and Bradford fans up in belief.  John Stead once again involved as he laid off for Andy Halliday who beautifully curled the ball into the far corner, it was too good to be true.  Chelsea 2-3 Bradford City.  The Bradford fans couldn’t contain themselves, Captain Andrew Davies had jumped onto his team-mates on the bench, but the game was not finished.  As Soccer Saturday announced a sixth goal, surely it had to be a Chelsea equaliser with the big guns on, far from correct.  Bradford picked Chelsea apart as Stead again played a part, Mark Yeates the recipient of a brilliant spin and pass, Mourinho had conceded four for the first time in his career.  The greatest FA Cup upset ever was complete, Chelsea 2-4 Bradford City.

Credit: thesportspace.org

Elsewhere, the holders Arsenal edged a thrilling tie as they beat Brighton 3-2, showing they seem the team to beat this year.  Liverpool and Sunderland were made to go to replays by Bolton and Fulham.  Leicester dumped Spurs out as Crystal Palace stunned Southampton.  West Ham and Aston Villa avoided replays and Reading made it past fellow Championship side Cardiff.



Capital One Cup
It was breath-taking, exciting, dramatic and edgy but finally, it was Chelsea and Spurs who reached the first cup final of the season.  Chelsea needed extra-time to see off a dogged Liverpool who arguably deserved the win over two legs.  Spurs held off a second-leg comeback from Sheffield United to send themselves to an all-London final on March 1^st.



Sam Tonks

The Premier League Review- Away Days Masterclass

The Sport Space’s Football Analyst Sam Tonks is back for the latest in a weekly supply of football reviews, this time covering the Premier League and Capital One Cup semi-finals.

It was a weekend of great away days in the Premier League, with a record 7 away wins over the weekend and a draw, making the travelling away supporter’s trip worthwhile.  In the Capital One Cup, it was the big guns and a David versus Goliath tie as Liverpool faced Chelsea and Spurs entertained cup specialists Sheffield United.

Premier League
It was a weekend which narrowed down the fight for European football further.  With up to 7 teams fighting for three spots in the Champions League next season and it’s becoming impossible to call.  Southampton have shocked us all with their character, resilience and quality in how they not only kept pace with the chasers, but maintained their unbelievable start by holding on to a Champions League place up to now.  West Ham have defied the odds to even be in the top half, never mind put their name in the hat for spot, which just emphasises how good a job Big Sam has been doing from when he brought the Hammers up from the Championship.  Then the experienced veterans Liverpool, Manchester United and Arsenal are amongst it as always despite heavily inconsistent seasons.  Their experience in Champions League scraps and end of season twists puts them ahead of the rest in the race.  Then Spurs, the club who doesn’t quite know where they belong.  Every season, the Champions League is the Holy Grail, yet a realistic push would be for the top six.  But, every season they find some form and hopes get rejuvenated of a possible tilt at that top four again.  After arguably the result of the season toppling leaders Chelsea 5-3, they have momentum which makes them a force against any side and they must be considered.

So, there really is only one place this week’s reviews can pin its focus on, the Etihad, Manchester City, Arsenal, Pellegrini and Wenger.  It was a clash which could change Arsenal’s season and possibly people’s view of them and Monsieur Wenger.  Arsenal’s record against the ‘big teams’ has been heavily quoted, mentioned and thrown around in the media, they’ve only won once against Chelsea, Manchester United, Liverpool and City in the last 9 visits, that was a 2-0 win over Liverpool in 2012.  That record was just worsened with last season’s abominations at Anfield, Stamford Bridge and indeed the Etihad conceding 17 goals in three games, scoring 4.  Surely, after so long playing ambitious, daring football and getting blown away time after time, Wenger must settle for a more defensive minded strategy with pressure mounting on his job and tactics more than ever.  Injuries have only contributed to Arsenals worst starts under Wenger and fans calling for his head.  Despite this he’s stayed as calm and professional as ever and maintains faith in his players, some questionably.  Wenger gave starts to youngsters Hector Bellerin and Francis Coquelin, the latter who has revelled in faith shown to him since his return from a loan spell at Charlton because of injuries.  But, this was a test some thought would be too great for him in David Silva.  The playmaker has been instrumental in City’s catch-up with runaway leaders Chelsea, making this game just as important to City as Arsenal.  Everyone knew what Arsenal needed to do, could they do it?  Could Coquelin handle Silva?  Would Aguero or Sanchez steal the show? 

Credit: theguardian.com

 Well, as it goes Arsenal delivered.  The performance Arsenal fans had been calling for, the team work, determination, fight and quality all came together and City couldn’t handle it.  Possession may have been in City’s favour, but in chances and goals Arsenal were the victors.  No Yaya Toure means City don’t win these days, defeats to Stoke and West Ham and a home draw to Burnley has been without their man mountain.  Sergio Aguero and Vincent Kompany were rushed back and clearly not fit enough as Arsenal suffocated Aguero out of the game and terrorised Kompany.  Arsenal controlled the game without the ball, if that makes sense.  City didn’t once cause panic in the Arsenal rear-guard and every counter spelled danger for the champions.  It proved that Coquelin could be more than a match for Silva and was like a rash all over him.  Arsenal have been calling for a defensive midfielder for nearly a decade, Coquelin’s performance against the champions has given hope of a future prospect for the vacancy.  Sanchez wasn’t at his best but his work rate covers for that and makes his performances at a consistent standard.  But, one man has been the catalyst for the last two months, Santi Cazorla.  His performances have been improving game after a game and has been the star of the side.  On Sunday I reached new levels and was arguably his best game in an Arsenal shirt, 101 touches, 91% pass accuracy, a penalty and the assist for Olivier Giroud capping an extroadinary day for Arsenal.  City have work to do, its crunch time in two weeks, a visit to Chelsea.

 

Elsewhere, Chelsea showed their best bits in embarrassing and humiliating Swansea in a 5-0 humbling.  Wilfried Bony has gone and Swansea need a plan B, could that be Bafetimbi?  Alan Pardew produced the comeback of the season at Turf Moor with his new Crystal Palace team 2-0 down, Dwight Gayle and Jason Puncheon combined to turn it around and get back-to-back wins for Pardew, something Newcastle will be ruing.  They lost again, 2-1 to the ever improving Southampton as the managerial mystery doesn’t seem to be resolving itself at St James’.
Finally, there was drama at Goodison as Everton’s dreadful season continued and was summed up with a penalty fiasco.  Kevin Mirallas self-elected penalty taker missed the crucial kick with regular take Leighton Baines bemused and baffled along with the rest of the players, staff and fans, he ended being subbed off at half time.
Capital One Cup
The first-leg of the semi-finals occurred as the chance of a Wembley final started to become a vision to the players of the four teams involved.  Liverpool were outstanding but unable to beat down Chelsea and were held to a 1-1 scoreline with Thibaurt Courtois superb.  Sheffield United have made their name as the cup specialists with QPR, Aston Villa and Southampton all on the end of cup shocks and Spurs struggled to a 1-0 lead going to Bramall Lane.  Both are in the balance and could go either way with the second legs next week.

Credit: thesportspace.org

Sam Tonks

Half-Time Reports

Half-Time Grades

Arsenal:

Alexis Sanchez has been the best part of their season.  Signings are needed in January to ensure they don’t miss out on the top four.  They have been very inconsistent and continue to be hit by injury after injury to many key players.  Grade: C+

Aston Villa:

Good start which may have misguided fans that this season would be different.  But after defeat to Arsenal, 11 points out of a possible 45 has shown that things have only got worse.  12 goals this season is very worrying, trouble ahead.  Grade: F

Burnley:

Slow starters but finding goals in Ings and Barnes with Vokes returning as well is massive plus for Sean Dyche.  Battling spirit is a platform for survival.  Grade: D+

Chelsea:

Ignoring the blip at Spurs, Chelsea have been excellent and miles clear of the rest, signings superb and current crop stepping up.  In Eden Hazard they have one of the best players in world football, more cover for Matic and success should be guaranteed in May.  Grade: A*

Crystal Palace:

Pulis leaving put them in a difficult position, wins over Everton and Liverpool highs but need consistency, Pardew can steady the ship.  With his tactical know-how and experience, survival should be attainable.  Grade: D-

Everton:

Martinez’s style failing and ageing players running out of steam, Barkley and Lukaku yet to shine with team starting to resemble Martinez’s relegated Wigan.  Need to make Goodison Park a fortress again.  Grade: D

Hull City:
A shadow of the battling, feisty side of last campaign, signings not clicking, a lot of injuries to key players means lack of consistency.  Jelavic needs help with supplying goals but Steve Bruce should guide them to safety.  Grade: E+

Leicester City: D-,

Have shown in spells they can live with top teams but not enough goals and too many errors.  Can’t live on that 5-3 win and need to win more games against teams around them.  Grade: D+

Liverpool:

The loss of Suarez was never going to be easy to replace with signings not filling the void.  Loss of Sturridge has been key to slump, but need a striker who can deliver consistently and retain a working system. Grade: C-

Manchester City:

Outstanding Aguero has put them in a great position to challenge domestically and in Europe.  Yet, they’re weak at the back without Kompany and need to see games out.  Lampard loan could be key.  Grade: A

Manchester United:

De Gea covering for hopeless defending and injury crisis.  Attacking players starting to flourish together, Rooney in a deeper role impressive.  Defensive signings and with no European football whisper of a title push?  Grade: B-

Newcastle United:

Horrendous start but superb recovery.  Loss of Pardew is massive as they will struggle to find someone who will do as good of a job.  Signings have been hit and miss, they need to keep Sissoko. Grade: C

QPR:
Home form has carried them to just above drop zone, away form extreme concern as they are yet to earn a single point outside Loftus Road.  Their over reliance on Austin means they need more signings.  Grade: E

Southampton:

Incredible season considering the loss of players in summer.  Koeman has done a fine job improving success and quality of signings, especially Pelle and Tadic.  Retention of Schneiderlin pivotal to a European push.  Grade: B+

Stoke City:

Mark Hughes has transformed Stoke to a side that can play good football, Bojan can play on a cold night in Stoke.  Home form backed by improving away days, seen by win at Everton, easy mid table finish.  Grade: B-

Sunderland:  

Very inconsistent and a lack of goals with signings not working out.  Fletcher pivotal to survival and a considerable reduction in previous individual errors.  Grade: D-/E+

Swansea City:

Improved massively from struggle last year with Monk doing a terrific job.  Bony becoming one of the best in the league and relationship with Sigurdsson key to success, need to find alternative during his absence.  Grade: B

Tottenham Hotspur:

Pocchetino starting to improve team by giving young English talents chances, like Kane, Mason and Dier.  Considerable improvement in home form this year will see them push for European spots.  Grade: C-

West Brom:

Always going to be down there with inexperienced coach and lack of quality in team.  Cashing in on Berahino will create funds for Pulis.  His appointment a master-stroke which considerably boost survival chances.  Grade: E

West Ham:

A completely changed team with fantastic additions and now an array of quality attacking options.  Central defence could need possible improvement and keeping Cresswell and Jenkinson fit, European push?  Grade: A

This season is shaped for a dramatic and unpredictable end with up to three teams chasing the title, up to six chasing European football and just as many fighting for survival.  There were two sackings and a managerial departure within the space of a week last month, who's to say there won't be anymore.

Sam Tonks

Liverpool Hit a Brick Wall

Gameweek 16 of the Premier League and nearly half way through the season.  Now we can start to see teams who are in line for a title charge, top four race or relegation scrap, however anything can still change.  This week had an unfortunate focus on the officials, with numerous decisions in numerous games coming to light and possibly proven important in the different battles up and down the league.  This week, there was diving, chipping and a lot of saving, particularly at Old Trafford.   

That is where the focus is this week, Old Trafford and the most historic and recognised game in English football between the two most decorated clubs, Manchester United and Liverpool.  Manchester United have been on fantastic form, picking four wins in a row, including three wins in last week’s hectic run of games.  Louis Van Gaal’s men haven’t been brilliant, but have got the results.  Wins at Arsenal and Southampton were ones where they were second best by far, but took their chances and had a keeper at the top of his game in David De Gea.  Liverpool have been quite bad to say the least with just two wins in the last 12 games in all competitions.  Brendan Rodgers has struggle to integrate new signings with Mario Balotelli yet to score in the league and other signings Dejan Lovren, Adam Lallana, Lazar Markovic, Emre Can and Alberto Moreno mustering 4 goals between them.  Gary Neville said on the previous Monday Night Football that this game would resemble a pub team game, “it’ll be like the Dog and Duck versus the Red Lion.”

United have been blighted by injuries and have had many different combinations in front of the brilliant De Gea.  Marcos Rojo, Luke Shaw, Rafael and Chris Smalling current absentees from a depleted backline which saw Michael Carrick step in on Sunday.  Antonio Valencia and Ashley Young have been regular wing backs in a makeshift back three or five.  Liverpool may have fancied their chances against this changed defence, but with De Gea in goal, they were constantly denied at the last.  Raheem Sterling had the first chance but De Gea superbly stood tall and saved, 25 seconds later, Valencia beat Joe Allen and found Wayne Rooney who scored against Liverpool again.  Rooney is now the highest scoring player against Liverpool in the Premier League as the Scouse born United skipper continued their run of scoring in every home game this season.  Liverpool continued to probe and fail, Sterling again the man denied.  United took advantage again.  Ashley Young’s delivery flicked on by Robin Van Persie and finished by Juan Mata, 2-0 United, Liverpool seemingly beaten.  Although, a clear offside was not seen as Mata wheeled away which really cost Liverpool the game to an extent.  The second half brought more of the same, De Gea incredibly saving from Sterling once more and then starting a battle with Mario Balotelli, which he won.  If they hadn’t learnt already, Liverpool were punished again, United broke quickly with Mata, Rooney and Van Persie.  Lovren completely mishit a clearance, Mata played in Van Persie, fooling everyone in doing so and he scored. 3-0 was the result, Liverpool dejected, defeated and defied by the inspirational Spaniard in goal.

Elsewhere, Arsenal bounced back in style sweeping Newcastle aside 4-1 with a brace a piece for Santi Cazorla and Olivier Giroud.  Manchester City won again as Frank Lampard equalled the tally of Thierry Henry in 175 Premier League goals with the winner.  Chelsea hit back with a grinded 2-0 win over Hull.  The officials again were in the spotlight as not one, two but three Chelsea players sited diving, only two booked.  Gary Cahill, on a booking dived in the box, yet was not sent off, a shocking decision which infuriated Steve Bruce who said it looked like, “Swan Lake.”  Spurs struck late again at Swansea, Christian Eriksen scoring away once more as Spurs’ away revival continued.  Burnley added further woe to Southampton, compounding them to a fourth straight defeat with Ashley Barnes’ goal for Sean Dyche.  There were also wins for QPR, Everton and West Brom and draws at Sunderland and Crystal Palace.

Champions League Draw: 

Arsenal vs Monaco

PSG vs Chelsea

Manchester City vs Barcelona

I predict tough ties for all three English sides.  Arsenal should have too much for Monaco who got through with a record low four goals, but only one conceded.  At the Emirates, I think Arsenal can put the tie beyond the visitors ahead of the second leg.  Chelsea will have a tough ride in Paris, as they did last year.  PSG have many qualities but are not the best in Europe and are beatable as Chelsea found out last year, I expect Chelsea to edge it.  City never have it easy it seems as they drew Barcelona for the second year in a row.  If Aguero is fully fit, City have every chance, without him I can only see one winner, well maybe three by the name of Messi, Suarez and Neymar.

Britannia Beating and Rocking Rangers

People say that Christmas time is the busiest time of year, people running around getting presents, travelling to family gatherings up and down the country or being the ones who have the ordeal of hosting.  It is certainly hectic in the Barclays Premier League, with teams facing five games in just 19 days and with injury problems mounting for sum, it could be a telling period in the fate of many sides come May.  Three games have been played over the last week or so which has seen the end of the run of this season’s ‘Unbeatables’, a fan-base outrage and most importantly, goals and lots of them.   

Gameweek 13 

The first of three quick-fire games in the Premier League brought about many close games and crucial results at the top and bottom.  Chelsea were unable to batter down the Sunderland barricades and failed to score for the first time this season.  Lee Cattermole was particularly inspirational in earning a massive point for Gus Poyet’s men.  A major flashpoint came when Diego Costa kicked out at John O’Shea and subsequently was booked, but should it of been more?  Yes.  Arsenal bounced back from a horrendous defeat to Manchester United with a battling win at the Hawthorns over West Brom, following their impressive victory over Borussia Dortmund, Arsene Wenger’s men were fighting back.  Danny Welbeck grabbed the goal to compound another blow to Alan Irvine’s West Brom, a third defeat in a row.  Manchester City were maintaining their attempts in keeping up with Chelsea with a superb 3-0 win at Southampton, further illustrating the class of Sergio Aguero and return to form of Yaya Toure.  Aguero with two assists not playing the shining role but showing he has more to his game than goals, setting up Toure and then a first City goal for Gael Clichy.  City may not have had the most consistent start with disappointments at West Ham and at home to Newcastle and Stoke City.

The stand out game came from Loftus Road in a topsy-turvy, end to end relegation dogfight between QPR and Leicester.  Both have had mixed seasons, QPR’s recent form has improved, whilst Leicester’s has dropped after an impressive start.  Yet, Leicester led within the first five minutes through their International veteran Esteban Cambiasso.  QPR were caught cold but responded well and were hammering at the door and made pay with the pressure as Leicester skipper Wes Morgan put past his own keeper.  A game which saw a whopping 51 attempts on goal between the two just highlighted the importance of the three points at Loftus Road.  Leroy Fer then smashed QPR in front just before half time after main man Charlie Austin was denied.  But, in the second half, Leicester came again as Jamie Vardy hit the bar then came their equaliser, a wonderful shot from Jeffery Schlupp into the bottom corner brought it to 2-2.  At this point, it was in the balance until that man Austin sealed the deal with a close range header after a scramble in the Leicester area.  Matty James was inches from snatching a point but they were edged out by Rangers, who continued their recently impressive home form.

The Rest 

Burnley 1-1 Aston Villa

Liverpool 1-0 Stoke

Manchester United 3-0 Hull City

Spurs 2-1 Everton

Swansea 1-1 Crystal Palace

West Ham 1-0 Newcastle

Gameweek 14 & 15 

From Tuesday to Monday, Premier League teams were travelling up and down the country with two more games to play last week.  Some fared better than others over this fixture pile up which meant some gained momentum into the Christmas period, whilst some began to worry.  Arsenal had picked up a vital 1-0 win over Southampton then headed to the Britannia Stadium where they had won once in their previous eight visits.  So Arsene Wenger was going into the game hoping to continue Arsenal’s run of three clean sheets with rookie keeper Emi Martinez impressing.  Although, in a changed back four with Hector Bellerin shoved into the fray and Laurent Koscielny strangely benched, this was then put to the sword in 18 seconds as Arsenal were a shambles and Peter Crouch profited.  Two more in an atrocious first half for Arsenal from star man Bojan and John Walters.  Arsenal were abysmal, Olivier Giroud missed a glorious chance at 1-0 which could’ve changed the game, but other than that he was a bystander as Chambers and Bellerin in particular had a torrid half with captain Per Mertersacker lost at sea.  Arsenal plucked up their ideas and restored dignity to the score line after Bojan had a fourth disallowed, which shouldn’t have been to be fair, with Santi Cazorla scoring his first league goal since January.  After that softly awarded penalty, Aaron Ramsey bagged his first goal since August with a sumptuous volley.  Arsenal had the game in their hands and looked set to complete an unlikely comeback until Calum Chambers was sent off for a silly second booking.  Arsenal couldn’t regain firm control and methods of long ball didn’t prosper.  A 3-2 defeat sparked wild roars of protest against Arsene Wenger which swept social media.  It is below the belt the abuse Wenger has faced and deserves some respect for what he’s done the club.  He may have made mistakes but sacking him is not the answer, a quick fix in January can restore hope for Arsenal that the season can be salvaged.

Elsewhere, it was the end of the unbeaten Blues as Chelsea couldn’t follow up a 3-0 win over Spurs and lost at a resurgent Newcastle 2-1, the big difference being no Nemanja Matic.  Manchester United completed a great couple of weeks with a smash and grab at St Marys with Robin Van Persie in the goals.  City won but lost Aguero for the next three weeks, a big blow to their title challenge.  Liverpool and Spurs stuttered again both drawing 0-0, but QPR again beat a relegation rival.  Fer and Austin providing, whilst Aston Villa picked up a huge win over Leicester.

Special Edition- Thiery Henry: Legend's End

As New York Red Bulls lost in the MLS Play-Offs to New England Revolution, the MLS lost one of the greatest players to grace American soccer in Thierry Henry.  After 122 games and 51 goals, Henry announced he’d played his last game after their play-off defeat.  Two Eastern Conference titles and a key influence in boosting the reputation and popularity of the MLS signalled a successful period in the States.  But, as Henry ponders over his next step in his glittered career including spells at Juventus, Arsenal and Barcelona, I will dig out five of the best goals scored by the Frenchman that sum up his qualities.

 

5)  Henry vs Toronto FC 2012

If people had doubted the general game of Henry, this performance in 2012 put that to rest.  His side 3-1 up after assisting all three through total unselfishness, he decided to get in on the act.  Superbly sent away by Kenny Cooper, who happened to be the recipient of two Henry assists himself now returning the favour.  Henry had the freedom of the left hand side but saw the keeper a few yards off his line and went for the spectacular.  20 plus yards out, he curled the ball over the stranded keeper and into the far corner with ease.  The performance in this game showing Henry was not just a goal-scorer but a team player, as well as producing moments of genius and class.

 4)  Henry vs Liverpool 2006

Some were saying Henry may have been past his best towards the end of his Arsenal career, but at the age of 28, he still had many years to go.  Maybe he’d lost that extra yard of pace, however that was not evident with this brilliant solo goal, not his first solo number against Liverpool either.  From the centre circle he knocked the ball at least 20 yards to the left channel and left him in a race with Jamie Carragher.  Carragher with a 5 yard headstart was put to the floor by Henry who showed great pace to beat him there.  He carried into the penalty area, skinned Daniel Agger and fired into the bottom corner past Jerzy Dudek.  People may forget just how quick Henry was or maybe still is but this shows it. 

 3)  Henry vs Real Madrid 2006

Jose Mourinho famously said that Henry was not a big game player, ironically this was shortly before his Chelsea side played Arsenal, where Henry scored twice.  If there was ever a definition of a big game, they don’t come bigger than playing Real Madrid.  Arsenal were looked at as overwhelming underdogs and left with no chance of beating the Galacticos.  Yet, when Henry decided to turn on the after-burners there were few defenders in world football who could stop him.  In the centre circle, he shoved off ‘The Ronaldo’, brushed Fernando Gago aside and walked past Guti’s lunge.  With Segio Ramos spirting to cover, Henry slid the ball in the opposite corner of Iker Casillas and score arguably one of the greatest goals in Arsenal’s history.  The competition, the stage, the team all considered, it is a goal that shows the determination, strength and composure of Thierry which in the end won Arsenal the tie. 

 

 

 

2)  Henry vs Manchester United

Thierry Henry was clearly confident in his own ability, however the amount of confidence and ability to attempt this effort was quite sensational.  In a game which was built up as a meeting of the title favourites, it normally means moments of quality or a mistake decides the game, in this case quality decided it.  The ball was rolled into him by Giles Grimandi and Henry was with his back to goal level with the ‘D’ of the penalty box.  Dennis Irwin thought he had him under control, then a deft flick of his right foot popped the ball past Irwin for a second.  Henry had the space to unleash a shot all in one fluid movement.  The audacious volley looped over the helpless Fabien Barthez.  Manchester United looked shell-shocked, but it was in no doubt that Henry intended to do exactly what he produced.  Technically, one of the best goals of the Premier League era, certainly in Henry’s era. 

 

1)  Henry vs Spurs 2002

Everyone knows the rivalry between Arsenal and Spurs.  Over the last few years, the gap between the two have been closer and closer and the games competitive and edgy.  However, back in the days of Thierry Henry, Dennis Bergkhamp and co.  Spurs did well to get a point from the Gunners.  The class difference of the two was shown by this quite unbelievable solo stunner from Thierry Henry.  This goal shows the pace, skill, strength, confidence, passion and most of all, clinical nature that the Frenchman oozes.  Outside his team’s penalty box, he took down a Patrick Vieira header and left Matty Etherington for dead.  Etherington tried to track him back and Henry held him off and held him off until he gave up.  Henry was left running at the heart of Spurs’ defence at their peril.  Stephen Carr showed him on his left foot, thinking he couldn’t muster the effort after the lung-bursting run.  Yet, Henry side stepped him and curled it into the corner past Kasey Keller.  You’d think he was out of breath, but he had just enough to roar back down the touchline all the way to the Spurs fans behind his own goal.  The passion of Henry emphasised by the celebration, the man will forever remain one of the greatest players to play in the Premier League and the best striker to play for Arsenal. 

 As for his future, a return to Arsenal seems likely.  Whether he finishes off with one last stint at the Emirates to end his star-studded career or retires and returns as a coach.  Henry’s legacy is always there with his bronze statue, but he says he has unfinished business to possibly guide Arsenal to gold while he still can.