Matchweek 11 of the Premier League is now history with last weekend’s set of fixtures producing some astonishing results and high drama.
Almost every single game in the latest round of Premier League fixtures lived up to its billing. A total of 15 goals were scored across the 10 games, which featured four draws—Leicester City vs Crystal Palace, Fulham vs Bournemouth, Southampton vs West Ham and Manchester United vs Newcastle United.
Without further ado, let’s take a look at the talking points from Premier League Matchday 11.
-
Manchester City no more invincible
Manchester City’s unbeaten start to the season finally came to an end in a 1-0 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield.
VAR controversy took the centre-stage in the second half, as Phil Foden’s goal was disallowed following Erling Haaland’s foul on Fabinho in the buildup. This spurred Liverpool, who despite being on the back foot for the majority of the first 45 minutes, rarely allowed Man City to settle into their rhythm.
Jurgen Klopp’s side looked a real threat on the counter and came close to scoring through Mohamed Salah, only for Ederson to heroically deny the Egyptian. But minutes later a mistake from Joao Cancelo following a long kick from Alisson allowed Salah to capitalise and score past Ederson, sending the Anfield crowd wild as a result.
Not only did Liverpool end City’s unbeaten run but also showed there is life in Klopp’s forces yet.
-
Newcastle United prove their defensive acumen
A lot has been written on Newcastle United’s high-pressing, tempo and attacking style of play this season, but the foundation laid down by their defence has been equally worth noting.
The Magpies’ backline, along with goalkeeper Nick Pope, frustrated Manchester United and kept their richly assembled attack at bay on Sunday afternoon at Old Trafford. Not only did the centre-backs contain Ronaldo but also the full-backs successfully nullified the threat of Antony, Sancho and later Rashford.
While Rashford had a glorious opportunity to win the game for the hosts in the stoppage time, a point, in the end, was a fair result for both sides with Eddie Howe’s team taking another big step in their progress.
-
Arsenal show character at Elland Road
Arsenal’s showdown against Leeds United was delayed by about 40 minutes due to a power cut and loss of VAR communication. Once the game got underway, the Gunners showed why they are the league leaders and controlled the game well.
A bizarre decision to switch play from Rodrigo was punished ruthlessly by the visitors, with Bukayo Saka winning the ball higher up the pitch, playing a quick one-two with Martin Odegaard and smashing the ball into the roof of the net.
Strong in the first half, it was mostly survival mode after the break as VAR took the centre stage. Patrick Bamford blazed a second-half penalty wide for Leeds and had another spot-kick overturned on review. In a game that saw tempers boiling, VAR controversy and poor officiating, Arsenal held onto all three points at a raucous Elland Road and proved their mettle in the Premier League title race.