Premier League Notes - Week 38

Sports - Football - Premier League - Week 38

As explained in my pinned Tweet thread @Sonjahaha, it’s the end of an era for me, after waiting 30 years and writing/reporting/blogging/tweeting/predicting/losing for over 20 years, I can finally retire my pen from my bible and say: WE ARE THE CHAMP19NS! 

(And sorry, Google and Blogger updates have screwed up my last post, no links nor pics, ARGH! - edited and added a couple of links months later)

The 38th and final week of the 2019-2020 Premier League football season saw:

33 goals - most by Man City = 5

237 shots - most by Man City = 31

77 on target - most by Man City = 10

85 corners - most by Man City and Saints = 9 each

217 fouls - most by Wolves, Sheff United and West Ham = 16 each

32 bookings - most by Man United = 5

1 red card - Evans for Leicester

5 penalties - 5 scored (Aubameyang for Arsenal, Deeney for Watford, King for Bournemouth, Bruno Fernandes for Man United, Ings for Saints)

#ARSWAT

3-0 down after 33 minutes at the Emirates, managerless Watford confirmed the obvious: relegation. The Gunners fired home their first three shots on target: MOTM Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang netted their penalty for Craig Dawson’s clumsy foul on Alexandre Lacazette (5’ pen), assisted Kieran Tierney (24’), and then topped it all off with an overhead kick (33’). The Hornets tried their best and pulled one back from the spot, Troy Deeney converting it after David Luiz’s foul on Danny Welbeck (43’ pen), the former Arsenal man making it 3-2 from close range (66’). The hosts’ keeper Emiliano Martínez denied the former Gunner a late equalizer, leaving the relegated side gutted. All eyes are on their owners after last week’s sacking, whilst Mikel Arteta’s eighth-placed side ended their worst league season for 25 years on a high, all their eyes and European hopes now resting on the FA Cup final against Chelsea on Saturday.

#BURBHA

Yves Bissouma (20’) and Aaron Connolly (50’) helped Brighton to victory, which saw the Seagulls finish 15th on 41 points, their highest total in the Premier League, one better than 2017-18. The Clarets did make a match of it, Chris Wood firing in the equalizer just before the HT-break (44’), and Jay Rodriguez seeing his second equalizer chalked off thanks to the beloved VAR (59’). Their first home league defeat since New Year’s Day saw Sean Dyche’s men finish tenth, still an achievement despite the disappointing end to the season. The Burnley boss’ future at the club still remains in doubt, his frustration with the board and lack of squad depth and investment obvious and well known. 

#CHEWOL

Frank Lampard’s men made sure they finished in the top four with a comfortable win against Wolves. MOTM Mason Mount’s beautiful curling free-kick (45+1’) and Olivier Giroud’s finish from close range (45+4’), sealed the victory within 144 seconds just before the HT-break, placing the Londoners in fourth, behind Man United in third on goal difference. Nuno Espírito Santo’s side never really made a match of it at Stamford Bridge, having lost five of their six closing-day PL matches (winning only against Sunderland in 2009-10). The defeat saw the Wanderers finish seventh behind Tottenham on goal difference, but they still have some chance of European qualification if the Blues beat the Gunners in the FA Cup final on Saturday (or they win the Europa League themselves of course). 

#CRYTOT

Crystal Palace kept their unbeaten run of five final-day PL games going with a hard-fought draw against Tottenham (making it four wins and one draw the last five seasons’ final days). Harry Kane opened the scoring (13’), but Roy Hodgson’s men kept digging and looking to end their dire run of seven previous defeats. Jeffrey Schlupp capitalised on some poor Spurs defending, finishing from close range to level the score (53’). The visitors had more chances, but it stayed a goal and point each, the former England boss mourning the lack of quality and strength, especially upfront. The result saw José Mourinho’s side leapfrog Wolves into sixth and Europa League qualification. Not bad, to say that when the Portuguese took over last season’s Champions League finalists, they were 14th.

#EVEBOU

The Cherries ended up heartbroken despite winning 1-3 at Goodison Park, the other results going against them and confirming their five-year stay in the top-tear has come to an end. Eddie Howe’s men gave it their all and took the lead thanks to Joshua King’s penalty after Richarlison handled the ball in the box (13’ pen). Moise Kean equalised against the run of play, tapping in Theo Walcott’s cross (41’). But Dominic Solanke headed Bournemouth back in front just before the HT-break (45+1’). It was a tense second half until Jordan Pickford let through Junior Stanislas’ soft shot to make it 1-3 and give the visitors a nice cushion (80’). The win ended a run of nine consecutive away PL defeats. But the fight they showed was too late, the Cherries falling, 18th, whilst the Toffees failed, finishing 12th, their lowest place at the end of a season in 16 years. Carlo Ancelotti has a lot of work to do. 

#LEIMUN

The Foxes flopped and dropped out of the top four, where they had sat for 325 days this season, handing the Red Devils the Champions League spot after a disappointing defeat at the King Power Stadium. Plenty of chances were wasted by the hosts before Bruno Fernandes gave OGS’ side the lead from the spot after Anthony Martial tumbled between Wes Morgan and Jonny Evans (71’). Surprise, surprise: It was United’s 14th penalty of the season, the most for a side in PL history. The latter Fox saw red late on to add to Brendan Rodgers’ and co’s misery (90+4’). And sub Jesse Lingard put salt onto the wound, robbing the ball off keeper Kasper Schmeichel to net the second goal (90+8’). A miserable end to the season for Leicester, whilst it will be a happy return to Old Trafford for the visitors, feeling they’re back where they belong. 

#MCINOR

Talking about miserable: Bottom side Norwich were taken apart at the Etihad, Man City thrashing Daniel Farke’s men 5-0 as a farewell present from the Premier League. Gabriel Jesus (11’), MOTM Kevin de Bruyne (45+1’, 90’), Raheem Sterling (79’) and Riyad Mahrez (83’) all added to the show, legend and skipper David Silva’s last appearance for the club after ten glittering years. The Citizens have scored 100+ league goals in a top-flight season for a fifth time, an English record (also 1936-37, 1957-58, 2013-14 and 2017-18). Boss Pep Guardiola will now focus on the Champions League with Real Madrid being their next visitors in the second leg of their last-16 clash next week. 

#NEWLIV

Dwight Gayle gave the Magpies an unexpected lead after just 25 seconds off Jonjo Shelvey’s quickly taken free-kick (1’), the quickest goal on a PL final day. That’s the only time the hosts touched the ball in the Reds’ box in the first half. The champions, starting without their star front three, were level before the break thanks to MOTM VVD’s header (38’). Divock Origi banged the Reds ahead from 20 yards out (59’), before sub Sadio Mané curled in a late third to seal the win (89’). Jürgen Klopp’s men finished top on 99 points after their club record 14th PL away win this season, 18 points ahead of City in second, whilst Steve Bruce is left sour and waiting about Newcastle’s takeover (breaking news today that the Arabs have pulled out), his side safe from the drop but picking up only two points from the last six games. Contrast. 

#SOUSHU

MOTM Ché Adams’ brace (50’, 71’) and Danny Ings' penalty (84’) turned the game around for Southampton to beat Sheffield United 3-1 at St Mary’s. John Lundstram had given the visitors the lead from close range as the Blades were on top (26’). But for only the second time this season, the Saints overturned a HT-deficit, Ralph Hasenhüttl’s men finishing the season in 11th, whilst Chris Wilder’s side dropped to ninth, still their highest finish in the Premier League, in their first season back in the top tier since 2007. Not bad. 

#WHUAVL

Aston Villa ensured their survival at the cost of Bournemouth after a draw at West Ham was enough to avoid the drop. Skipper, hero and MOTM Jack Grealish had put the Villans ahead with a smacker of a strike (84’). 100 seconds later, Andriy Yarmolenko’s deflected shot levelled the score (85’) and shot up the nerves for the final minutes at the London Stadium (and false hopes for the Cherries). But Dean Smith’s men survived and could breathe a sigh of relief, whilst the Hammers had already secured their safety in 16th last match-week. In his 19 games in charge, David Moyes has recorded one more PL point than his predecessor Manuel Pellegrini did in the previous 19 games (20-19). The former Everton boss was full of praise for the young and fresh - hinting on more, as in more newbies incoming?

My Predictions - Actual Results

I was working on Sunday, made it home just in time for the second half, then realising that for the first time this season I forgot to make my predictions. So, I just put 0:0 on all. I’m happy I beat my dad in our final season of predictions - end of an era after 20 years! See my Twitter thread mentioned at the top for more on that, just search Sonjahaha and you'll find me.

Arsenal 0:0 Watford - 3:2

Burnley 0:0 Brighton - 1:2

Chelsea 0:0 Wolves - 2:0

C Palace 0:0 Tottenham - 1:1

Everton 0:0 Bournemouth - 1:3

Leicester 0:0 Man United - 0:2

Man City 0:0 Norwich - 5:0

Newcastle 0:0 Liverpool - 1:3

Southampton 0:0 Sheff United - 3:1

West Ham 0:0 Aston Villa - 1:1 

All facts and stats were taken from the BBC match reports, ByTheMin, RMC and Sky Sports coverage - see the previous posts for links.

Premier League Notes - Week 36

Sports - Football - Premier League - Week 36

The 36th week of the Premier League football action saw:

25 goals - most by Tottenham and West Ham = 3 each

255 shots - most by Liverpool = 24

75 on target - most by Liverpool = 8

107 corners - most by Liverpool = 13

113 fouls - most by Everton and Man United = 15 each

26 bookings - most by Tottenham and Arsenal = 3 each

0 red cards

1 penalty - 1 scored (Wood for Burnley)

#CHENOR

Olivier Giroud headed the dominant Blues ahead just before the half-time break (45+3’). Disappointing defending by relegated Norwich after a strong first-half performance frustrating the hosts. The Canaries were a bit more adventurous and pushing in the second half, but not much, Chelsea stayed on top and banked the three points to keep them in third place. 

#BURWOL

The home side made it as cagey and difficult as possible for Nuno Espírito Santo’s men to find any way through. But Raúl Jiménez whacked in the breakthrough for Wolves, netting the rebound off Matt Doherty’s saved shot (75’). Eventful final minutes of stoppage time: Just after they missed a golden chance, headed wide, Burnley won a penalty. Overhead kick?! No foul! Offside? No, handball! The VAR confirmed the spot kick, Chris Wood banged it in to the right side netting to level the score (90+6’). One goal and one point each, Sean Dyche must be the happier.

#MCIBOU 

David Silva’s stunning free kick into the top corner gave the Citizens the lead early on (6’). But the Cherries hit back, Junior Stanislas with a gem of a free kick, but Ederson and the post did enough to keep it out. Seconds later Gabriel Jesus doubled City’s lead, working his way through everyone, finishing nice and low into the far corner (39’). The visitors had the ball in the back of the net again after the break, but the VAR found Joshua King’s toe offside. Jesus’ penalty shout was rightly called off by the VAR as the Brazilian was the one stepping on the defender Steve Cook’s foot, correct call for a change (74’). David Brooks finally pulled one back, fully deserved for the visitors (88’). But it stayed 2-1, harsh on Eddie Howe and his men, who worked harder and produced more, just not the result. That’s what counts most, as the ex-champions know as well.

#NEWTOT

Son Heung-min gave Spurs the lead at St James’ Park, low and through DeAndre Yedlin’s legs (27’). And the South Korean could have had another goal seconds later, hit from 25 yards, pulling a high-flying save out of Martin Dúbravka. But the Magpies didn’t stay down, creating chances, worrying and working Hugo Lloris hard, Dwight Gayle denied by the woodwork. Matt Ritchie found the equaliser after the half-time break, sublime whack across the box and in (56’). Harry Kane restored the visitors’ lead shortly after, unmarked, easy header down and in, his 200th in 350 appearances (60’). And the record striker put another one in to make it 201 and 1-3, off another save off Erik Lamela’s shot, easy central and from close range but painful one clashing with a defender on the way (90’). Costly defeat, points and injuries for Steve Bruce and co, after playing and working so well and hard.

#ARSLIV

Early dominance by the champions was nearly rewarded through Emiliano Martínez’s cock-up with the ball, which found Roberto Firmino’s high leg and went just wide, just, off the post (13’). Sadio Mané broke the deadlock from close range after great buildup by Andrew Robertson and Firmino, bing, bang, boom (20’). Virgil van Dijk was left complaining after he lost the ball off Reiss Nelson for Alexandre Lacazette to whack in the equaliser, seconds after the Frenchman had a goal chalked off for offside (23’). There was nothing there, a rare soft giveaway by the big Dutchman, handing the Gunners their first shot of the match. And Nelson smashed Arsenal ahead, across and into the far corner, off Lacazette from the right, after Liverpool messed up again, a throw-in to Alisson, the keeper gave it away (44’). Two presents, two goals, the hosts ahead against the run of play. The Reds have gone in behind at half-time despite scoring the opening goal for the first time since December 2016 vs West Ham; that game was also the last time they made two errors leading directly to a goal in the opening half. The visitors dominated after the break, possession, chances, but the only real save Martínez had to make wasn’t until added time. Jürgen Klopp was understandably not happy, the champions’ third defeat of the season, lots of records out of the window with it. Click here for ByTheMinLFC coverage.

#EVEAVL

Early injury woos and change for the Toffees, both sides struggled fitness-wise, not much produced, created or shown by either side. This had 0-0 written all over it. But Villa stuck around, created opportunities as well. And the Villans scored with their first shot on target: A free-kick whipped in, cracking delivery from Conor Hourihane, and Ezri Konsa poked out a long leg and just about got it over the line (72’). But it was not to be. A cross to the back post, Theo Walcott looped a header across goal and Konsa did his best to clear it with an overhead kick, but his contact only sent it over the line before Pepe Reina could get anything on it. The ref's watch confirmed the clear goal, 1-1, the hosts’ first shot on target as well (87’). A goal and point each, a bit of pride for one side, heartbreak for the other.

#LEISHU

Leicester on top, took a deserved lead, youngster Luke Thomas with an assist on his debut, picking out Ayoze Pérez with a beauty of a pass from the left, the Spaniard took a touch and then nailed a low shot through the legs of John Egan and into the bottom corner (29’). Demarai Gray doubled the Foxes’ lead with a lovely shot across Dean Henderson and in (79’). The result keeps Brendan Rodgers' men in Champions League qualification, whilst Chris Wilder's side's European hopes are left hanging, two points behind Wolves in 6th.

#CRYMUN

A Palace penalty appeal was ignored shortly before Marcus Rashford gave the Red Devils the lead just before the half-time break with a lovely move into the box and turn around the Eagles defenders and keeper and in (45+1’). Bruno Fernandes the provider, of course. Jordan Ayew’s equaliser was disallowed by the lovely VAR - both his and the defender’s toes were on the same line FFS (55’)! It took over two minutes for the call! Ridiculous! Time out?! Fernandes hit the woodwork a couple of minutes before Anthony Martial on a charge doubled United’s lead (78’). Harsh. Patrick van Aanholt was down and out after that, had to be replaced, Roy Hodgson must have been counting his demons. OGS’ side ended up on top, but with a lot of help from modern technology. 

#SOUBHA

Neal Maupay put the Seagulls ahead, finishing off a fine move off Tariq Lamptey's long throw, headed on by Glenn Murray, through the heart of the Saints’ defence and in by the Frenchman, a nice reverse shot from eight yards out, wrong-footing Alex McCarthy (18’). A great counter saw the home side level, Danny Ings on the charge off Nathan Redmond, left-footer into the bottom right from the centre of the box, nice one (66’). It ended a goal and point each, Brighton edging their way to safety, leaving Southampton more disappointed, dropping points after dominating once again. 

#WHUWAT

Michail Antonio gave the Hammers an early lead, one-touch take nutmegging the Watford keeper Ben Foster (6’). Tomáš Souček doubled the hosts’ lead soon after, heading in a superb cross by Jarrod Bowen (10’). Dream start for David Moyes and co. Declan Rice smashed in the third across and in from over twenty yards out into the top right corner (36’). Beauty. With that, West Ham have scored more Premier League goals in their last five games (12) than in their previous 11 games combined. The Hornets hit back after the break, Troy Deeney smashing in the rebound off Abdoulaye Doucouré’s good run past a couple of defenders and low shot off the post to make it 3-1 (49’). Foster kept out Sébastian Haller’s superb take trying to catch out the keeper out of position from distance, seconds after the West Ham man came on (73’). Nigel Pearson was in agony seeing his side create chance after chance, but just unable to add more to the scoreboard. It ended 3-1, crucial points for the Hammers, leaving Watford sweating, three points separating them from the drop zone with two games left to play. 

My Predictions - Actual Results 

Chelsea 3:0 Norwich - 1:0

Burnley 1:1 Wolves - 1:1

Man City 3:0 Bournemouth - 2:1

Newcastle 2:2 Tottenham - 1:3

Arsenal 2:2 Liverpool - 2:1

Everton 2:1 Aston Villa - 1:1

Leicester 2:1 Sheffield United - 2:0

Crystal Palace 1:2 Man United - 0:2

Southampton 1:0 Brighton - 1:1

West Ham 3:2 Watford - 3:1

Click here for my previous Premier League Notes.

All pictures, facts and stats were taken from the BBC match reports, ByTheMin, RMC and Sky Sports coverage.

Premier League Notes - Week 34

Sports - Football - Premier League - Week 34

The 34th week of the Premier League football action saw:

26 goals - most by Man City = 5

243 shots - most by Man City = 23

79 on target - most by Man City = 9

115 corners - most by Tottenham = 13

209 fouls - most by Norwich and Liverpool = 15 each

33 bookings - most by Norwich and Liverpool = 4 each

1 red card - Nketiah for Arsenal 

2 penalties - 1 scored (Bruno Fernandes for Man United)

#CRYCHE

Olivier Giroud put the Blues ahead controversially, Palace not happy as Gary Cahill went down with an obvious hamstring injury in the buildup (6’), and had to be replaced thereafter. It wasn’t that obvious, the former Chelsea man just couldn’t keep up with the run of the provider Willian, tough luck. Christian Pulisic doubled their lead shortly after the first drinks break with a lovely left-footer, too easy (27’). Wilfried Zaha smacked one back, what a screamer from far out, wow (35’). Tammy Abraham made it 1-3, tight but on and in, VAR confirmed (71’). I hardly finished the last note, Christian Benteke tapped one back, his first goal at Selhurst Park since 2018, brilliantly set up by Patrick van Aanholt, 2-3 and game on (73’). Palace thought they levelled the score in stoppage time, but Scott Dann’s header hit the woodwork! Frank Lampard’s men were relieved to hear the FT whistle.

#WATNOR

Emiliano Buendía put the bottom side ahead early on with a lovely curler after a quick counter by the Canaries (4’), Ben Foster grabbing thin air. Craig Dawson headed the Hornets level point blank soon after (8’). Danny Welbeck’s spectacular overhead kick put the home side ahead (55'), top quality and very very crucial turnaround in their battle for survival. 

#ARSLEI

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang got his 20th of the season, set up by Bukayo Saka, quick move, great pickup, quality goal, clinical (21’). Kasper Schmeichel denied Alexandre Lacazette with just over half an hour gone, the Gunners all over the Foxes. Jamie Vardy set up Kelechi Iheanacho from the left, but the goal got disallowed for a foul in the buildup (35’). Arsenal corner by Dani Ceballos, David Luiz header down, Lacazette put it in and was sure of himself, but the flag was up and it was confirmed offside (68’). The ref went to the screen to double-check, rare in the PL! Moments after coming on, Eddie Nketiah was then sent off instead of just a yellow for his lash out at James Justin, on the knee, it wasn’t near the ball, harsh maybe but no surprise (76’). Vardy turn and goal, offside (80’). Four minutes later, lovely ball into the box by Demarai Gray, Vardy netted it, offside again?! Replays, lines and checks and more replays... It stood, 1-1 (87’). EIGHT minutes added on for all that malarkey - it stayed at one goal and one point each, the CL qualification spot chase staying on. It's only Leicester’s second ever away point against Arsenal.

#MCINEW

Gabriel Jesus left unmarked in the box, you’re asking for trouble, a present of an opener, set up by David Silva from the left (10’). The second goal was the same again, this time Kevin De Bruyne from the left, providing an unmarked Riyad Mahrez with an easy finish (21’). Too easy. Quality own goal: Jesus dancing into the box, Magpies defender Federico Fernández tried to nick the ball, curled it into the corner of his own net instead to make it 3-0 (58’). Silva made it four with a left-footed free kick around the wall and in (65’). The same Silva again in the buildup, handed Raheem Sterling a present to make it 5-0 in stoppage time. Th-r-ash.

#SHUWOL

The home side were more threatening at times, but that soon ebbed down. Rúben Neves hit the woodwork with a lovely curling free-kick with just over half an hour played. Goal for Billy Sharp, but offside, shame (53’). John Egan rose the highest off a corner and headed in the winner in the final seconds of stoppage time. A crucial late winner in the race for Europe.

#WHUBUR

Scrappy match, more frustrating for David Moyes watching Burnley take advantage as the Hammers struggled to break down their opponents. Jay Rodriguez snuck in the opener, a header that bounced in off the crossbar, nicely set up by Charlie Taylor (38’). Chris Wood thought he had doubled his side’s lead, to be disallowed, marginally offside (76’). The Hammers kept digging, chance after chance, their own grave in the end as they suffered another defeat. 

#BHALIV

Keeper Mat Ryan and Davy Pröpper messed up between each other, handing the ball to Naby Keïta, who put it straight across the box for Mo Salah to bang it in and give the champions the lead (6’). The skipper made it two seconds later: Georginio Wijnaldum to Salah, to Jordan Henderson, who placed it across and into the left corner to make it 0-2 in his 350th PL appearance (8’). Beautiful.‬ Leandro Trossard and Neal Maupay pushed the Reds after the first drinks break, Graham Potter said something right, but Red youngster Neco Williams and keeper Alisson and co coped well. ‪The hosts pulled one back eventually, deserved after the drinks break! Whacked in by Trossard off a lovely cross by Pascal Groß, Alisson no chance, game on‬ (44’). After a more settled and even second half restart, Salah headed in a corner, bottom right to make it 1-3 (76’). Not an easy but quality win for Jürgen Klopp’s men, their record-breaking 30th league win of the season. Potter’s side tried their best to stay in the match, but fell to the record breaking champions in the end. Click here for my full ByTheMinLFC coverage.

#BOUTOT

The only thing of note happening in the first half was Harry Kane going down in the box and not getting a penalty for a change! After the break, Adam Smith got knocked out cold after colliding with Ben Davies and had to come off around the hour-mark, a long delay without any replays, you know it’s bad. Hope he's okay. Bournemouth shaken, Tottenham lucky. Callum Wilson’s overhead kick put the hosts ahead in the final minutes of normal time - or so they thought, apparently there was a handball on its way in, harsh, good old VAR. Twelve minutes added on. It ended goalless, not a single shot on target for José Mourinho’s men, Eddie Howe and co will be left wondering how costly the VAR calls and injuries will be in their fight for survival. It was the first time after 186 PL games for the Cherries not to concede a single shot on target. 

#EVESOU

Saints thought they had broken the deadlock when Stuart Armstrong fired the ball into the roof of the net off Ché Adams, but the flag’s up, offside (7’). Softer than soft penalty given against the Toffees, James Ward-Prowse leaning in on André Gomes, goes down, gets the spot kick for it, but he hit the crossbar, relief for Jordan Pickford and co after the visitors kept getting closer and closer, chance after chance, keeping the hosts’ woodwork busy (28’). A couple of minutes later, the flag was up again but the VAR confirmed this time everything and everyone was in line, Danny Ings putting the visitors ahead fair and square (31’). Richarlison pinged in the equaliser over the keeper and in, top finish (44’). Feisty game, end to end, no one holding back. It stayed so high paced after the restart, Pickford with a couple of good saves. Around an hour gone, the VAR spared last man Jan Bednarek from a red, yellow instead for bringing down Richarlison, no goal scoring opportunity from 20 yards out apparently. It stayed a goal and point each.

#AVLMUN

Villa started brightly, stronger, creating chances, but not good enough finishes, Anwar el Ghazi the closest hitting the woodwork (25’). Another penalty to the Red Devils, Bruno Fernandes tripped even though he was was the one treading on the Villan Ezri Konsa’s ankle. Pf. The Portuguese netted the spot kick sending the keeper the wrong way, giving the visitors the lead against the run of play (27’). And Mason Greenwood doubled United’s lead from the semi-circle, bang in after a clinical counter involving Anthony Martial and Fernandes (45+5’). Harsh harsh scoreline, harsh on Villa. Marcus Rashford lined up a shot from outside the box, hammered it home, but Paul Pogba was offside and in the way of keeper Pepe Reina. Goal did not stand (56’). But Pogba netted one seconds later, Villa covering nothing and no one off a corner, too easy for the Frenchman, bang 0-3 (58’). Martial hit the crossbar (61’). Vila boss Dean Smith looked like he was going to kill someone, I suspect the officials and at least half of his team will be on his hit list. Down and out? United move within a point of fourth, Villa stay four points away from safety. They have a huge game against Palace on Sunday.

My Predictions - Actual Results 

Palace 1:1 Chelsea - 2:3

Watford 1:0 Norwich - 2:1

Arsenal 2:1 Leicester - 1:1

Man City 2:0 Newcastle - 5:0

Sheff United 2:3 Wolves - 1:0

West Ham 2:2 Burnley - 0:1

Brighton 0:1 Liverpool - 1:3

Bournemouth 2:1 Tottenham - 0:0

Everton 2:2 Southampton - 1:1

Aston Villa 0:2 Man United - 0:3

Click here for my previous Premier League Notes.

All pictures, facts and stats were taken from the BBC match reports, ByTheMin, RMC and Sky Sports coverage.

Premier League Notes - Week 33

Sports - Football - Premier League - Week 33

The 33rd week of the Premier League football action saw:

26 goals - most by Man United = 5

234 shots - most by Man City = 26

79 on target - most by Man United = 10

99 corners - most by Man City = 13

216 fouls - most by Leicester and Liverpool = 18 each

27 bookings - most by Arsenal = 4

0 red cards

3 penalties - 3 scored (Rashford for United, King for Bournemouth, Willian for Chelsea)

#NORBHA

Lovely run and cross by Aaron Mooy from the right, Leandro Trossard swept it in from close range, past all the yellow shirts, keeper Tim Krul nowhere near (25’). Plenty of chances for both sides after that, the woodwork was the busiest at Carrow Road. It stayed at just the one goal, Brighton safe, Norwich gone, surely.

#LEICRY

James Justin hit the woodwork early on for the hosts, but neither side created much, no shots on target at the HT break in the King Power Stadium. Superb Youri Tielemans run and cross from the left, knocked in by Kelechi Iheanacho to open the scoring (50’). Jamie Vardy doubled the Foxes’ lead, an easy tap in against some awful defending, his 100th Premier League goal (76’). And he made it 101, running clear from the halfway line, and finding the right corner with a lovely finish past the hopeless Palace keeper Vicente Guaita (90+4’). Three goals and three much-needed points for Brendan Rodgers and co to stay in the top four.

#MUNBOU

Junior Stanislas gave the Cherries the lead at Old Trafford, from close range, nutmegging Harry Maguire and beating David de Gea at his near post, after another chance got blocked but not cleared, the Red Devils unable to deal with it (17’). Mason Greenwood smashed in the equaliser, in off Aaron Ramsdale (29’). Adam Smith conceded a penalty with an obvious handball off a United corner, Marcus Rashford smashed the spot kick in to turn the game around, 2-1 (35’). It’s his 20th goal this season (all comps) - no English player has reached that total for Man Utd since Wayne Rooney in 2011-2012. Anthony Martial hit in an absolute beauty, across from left outside the box, into the top right corner of the net, to make it 1-3 (47’). And that made it the first time since 2011 that two United players have scored over 20. Wow. Bournemouth came out swinging after the HT break, saw a shot blocked, then Arnaut Danjuma hit the post. A spot kick was given for an Eric Bailly handball, or shoulder, the VAR took their time as always, penalty given eventually. Joshua King beat de Gea, just, to the keeper’s left, 3-2 (49’). Equaliser by Danjuma was flagged offside seconds later, confusing, mad. Greenwood whacked another one in off the keeper’s glove to make it 4-2 (55’). Bruno Fernandes slashed in a free kick from about 15 yards out to make it five for the Red Devils (59’). Rashford poked in the sixth - flagged offside, another VAR check, all the lines concluded, offside, so it stayed 5-2 (66’). No goals the last half an hour-ish, hard defeat for the visitors stuck in 19th, happy smash for OGS and co keeping them in the race for Europe.

#WOLARS

Super save with his left boot by the Portuguese Wolves stopper Rui Patrício against Eddie Nketiah, before ‪Bukayo Saka was left unmarked in the centre of the box, easy swing with his left foot and smash in to put the Gunners ahead (43’). Lovely. His maiden Premier League goal was the first Wolves have conceded in the competition in 448 minutes of action since a Serge Aurier strike in March (Week 28). Rocket. Alexandre Lacazette sealed the win slotting home the second into the far corner (86’). This is Arsenal's first away league win against a team they started the day below in the table since September 2015, putting them up to seventh and back in the European race.

#CHEWAT

Olivier Giroud slashed home the opener, top quality, past a fighting but helpless defense and keeper Ben Foster (29’). Christian Pulisic was charged down by Étienne Capoue in the box, the ref didn’t hesitate, penalty, netted confidently by Willian just before the break to make it 2-0 to the Blues (43’). Kepa Arrizabalaga made some impressive blocks and stops, but Ross Barkley sealed the win in stoppage time (90+2’), nice turn, control and left-footed take, unmarked in the box, to make it three goals and three points for Frank Lampard and co.

#BURSHU

James Tarkowski put the home side ahead with a slide in from close range (43’). John Egan levelled the score late on, unmarked, across and into the top far corner of the net (80’). Share of spoils, Burnley moved up to ninth, overtaking United who played better but not good enough to take the lead. 

#NEWWHU

Michail Antonio gave the Hammers an early lead thanks to some awful defending and fine cross into the box by Jarrod Bowen (4’). Miguel Almirón was left with an easy touch in to level the score for the Magpies after some lovely buildup play by Allan Saint-Maximin and Emil Krafth (17’). Pace and play stayed relentless after that competitive start, David Moyes’ men with more chances and possession of the ball. But Saint-Maximin was everywhere for the hosts, keeping Steve Bruce’s side competing in the match. Tomáš Souček smashed in the rebound of Declan Rice’s header that came back off the woodwork to put the visitors ahead (66’). Jonjo Shelvey levelled the score seconds later, hitting the ball across and in, after slashing through the Hammers’ back line thanks to a nice one-two with Dwight Gayle in the buildup (67’). Moyes and co couldn’t believe their eyes. His side kept pushing, pressing, trying, but it ended two goals and a point each.

#LIVAVL

The ref Paul Tierney was poor, but more to Villa’s advantage, Mo Salah was fouled more than once, but nothing given. Dire half overall, the Reds nowhere, the Villans definitely the happier of the two. Naby Keïta's pass found Sadio Mané in the box, after a bit of ping pong, the ball went off the crossbar and in, from close range (71’). Finally, the Villa deadlock was broken, something to cheer about for the Reds. It's the Senegalese’s 50th goal at Anfield. ‪His Egyptian team mate headed the ball down to young sub Curtis Jones in centre of the box, unmarked, had enough time and space to put it into the bottom left corner and make it 2-0 with his first goal for the club (89’)‬. Three more points for Jürgen Klopp’s record breakers, keeping their unbeaten run at home going and points total rolling. Click here for my full ByTheMinLFC coverage.

#SOUMCI

Ché Adams payed more attention than anyone else, won the ball near the centre circle, saw Ederson out of position, right foot shot up and over the City keeper and in to give the Saints the lead (16’). It’s his first ever PL goal in his 25th appearance and 22nd shot. The other stopper Alex McCarthy made save after save after save, sublime. Philip Foden and Kevin De Bruyne came on with just under an hour gone (59’). But the Saints kept blocking, blocking and blocking, whatever the Sky Blues fired at them. Outstanding defending. Unbelievable. With that win, Ralph Hasenhüttl’s men are safe on 43 points, condemning Pep Guardiola’s side to their ninth defeat of the season. 

#TOTEVE

Scabby opener, Everton unable to clear the ball, Giovani Lo Celso effort went in off Michael Keane, giving Jordan Pickford no chance and putting Spurs ahead (24’). The Toffees enjoyed more possession and chances end of the first half, but the Londoners stayed ahead at the break, however there was a bust-up between two of their players on their way out. Keeper and skipper Hugo Lloris had to be held back by his own team mates having a dispute with Son Heung-min. That was the only thing worth mentioning that happened on the pitch. After the break, nothing of note happened, dire game, the own goal the decider, that says it all. The drag win saw José Mourinho’s side up to ninth, whilst Carlo Ancelotti and co stay 11th.

My Predictions - Actual Results 

Norwich 1:2 Brighton - 0:1

Leicester 1:1 Palace - 3:0

Man United 2:0 Bournemouth - 5:2

Wolves 1:2 Arsenal - 0:2

Chelsea 1:1 Watford - 3:0

Burnley 1:1 Sheff United - 1:1

Newcastle 3:2 West Ham - 2:2

Liverpool 4:0 Aston Villa - 2:0

Southampton 0:2 Man City - 1:0

Tottenham 2:2 Everton - 1:0

Click here for my previous Premier League Notes.

All pictures, facts and stats were taken from the BBC match reports, ByTheMin, RMC and Sky Sports coverage.