Matchweek 4 of the 2020-21 Premier League season perhaps had the most shocking results in recent history, which could have major ramifications in the immediate futures of certain clubs. 41 goals were scored in the 10 games, with two games ending with more than 5 goals scored by one team.
Let’s take a look at the major talking points from Matchweek 4 of the Premier League.
Mighty Liverpool humbled
Premier League defending champions Liverpool, succumbed to a shock 7-2 loss at the hands of Aston Villa at Villa Park. Jurgen Klopp’s men were run ragged by a clinical – and a little lucky – Villa side, that took a 4-1 lead at half-time, and ended the game with 7 goals to their name.
The Reds’ defeat in Matchweek 4 could be attributed to their high defensive line, which has worked wonders for them in the past, but Dean Smith’s side exploited it on Sunday night. It didn’t help the champions that they did not have first-choice keeper Alisson, who will be on the sidelines for a while, while captain Jordan Henderson was rested too.
Manchester United crumble further
Manchester United’s capitulation at the hands of Tottenham would have been the most talked-about result if not for Liverpool’s loss. The Red Devils went down to 10 men in the first half after Anthony Martial was sent off, but they were troubled by the Spurs attack even before the sending off.
Eric Bailly played in place of Victor Lindelof in defence, but he didn’t make much of a difference to the woeful Manchester United backline, while captain Harry Maguire had a game to forget as he made numerous errors. The Red Devils will have to strengthen their defence, or at least try something different, as most teams know what their Achilles heel is.
No Moyes, no problem for West Ham
West Ham lost their opening two league games of the season, and most predicted that the Hammers would be prime relegation candidates. But, they have turned things around in the last two games, that too against strong teams that are expected to challenge for European places. Manager David Moyes was once again not on the touchline as he is isolating after being infected by Coronavirus.
But, the Hammers have played well in their manager’s partial absence, defeating Leicester City 3-0 at the King Power Stadium. Things are looking up for the London side after their initial slow start.
Everton at their impressive best
Everton are one of two teams to be undefeated in the league this season, the other being Aston Villa. The Toffees are top of the table with four wins from four games, and the Merseyside club put on their best performance of the season against Brighton.
While Brighton aren’t the most imperious of opponents, they did dominate the game against Manchester United, and play a brand of football that can cause trouble for many teams. What made Everton’s win even more impressive was that they did it without their two midfield stars – Allan and Andre Gomes, who missed the game due to injury. Up next for the Toffees will be their toughest test yet – Liverpool.
Sheffield United’s disastrous start continues
Fulham and West Bromwich Albion, two sides who were promoted to the Premier League earlier this year, were expected to be in a relegation dogfight. But, not many thought that Sheffield United, who had a fantastic 2019-20 season in the league, would be in the relegation zone.
Chris Wilder’s men have lost all four of their games so far, with their latest loss coming against Arsenal. What will worry the Blades manager is that his forwards have been goal shy, scoring just one goal in their four league games this season. The signing of Rhian Brewster from Liverpool could perhaps remedy that issue, but that will be a lot to expect from a 20-year-old who has yet to play a single game in the Premier League.