After a 2 week break, the EPL returned to offer a bucket load
of excitement. We had controversial goals, dubious penalties,sending
offs, crazy own goals, spectacular strikes, last minute action and
plenty of talking points.
Chelsea went into their match
against Palace looking to solidify their grip on top of the table. The
blues were without Costa due to injury and Mourinho brought in Remy in
his place. When Oscar opened the scoring early on with a delightful
free-kick, it looked like Chelsea would have an easy day.But Palace
responded well with resolute defending coupled with quick counter attacks. And
when Azpilicueta was shown a straight red for dangerous play, Palace
had the opportunity to capitalise. The one man advantage was however
quickly wiped out when Palace themselves were reduced to ten men shortly
after. The second Chelsea goal did eventually arrive and when it
did, it was a beauty. Palace scored a late consolation but the scoreline
flattered them. This was a comfortable win for Chelsea. The blues still
look unbeatable and it remains to be seen who will put a halt to their
seemingly unstoppable march towards the title. Next up is Manchester
United. Chelsea enter into a phase where they are likely to be without their main
striker Costa and it will be interesting to see how they
cope.
Jones was caught out and Rafael
was left chasing shadows. The most disappointing thing for United was
that this was after a period in which they were absolutely dominant.
Before the baggies scored their second, United had produced some of the
best attacking football they have played this season but without a goal
to show for the efforts.
Blind's late leveller saved
United from another away defeat but this was more a case of two dropped
points than one gained. United enter into a phase where they will be
facing Chelsea, Man City and Arsenal in their next few matches. If they
are to get anything from these games a lot has to improve. The defence
has to be a lot tighter and solid than it currently is. United arguably
started their strongest back four of Rafael, Rojo, Jones and Shaw
against West Brom. Taking into account the available options, this was their
strongest back four and i would continue to play them. With time they
will get used to each other. Shaw looks way below his best form and he
needs to improve fast. In midfield,i am in the minority that does not
rate Januzaj that high. I actually think he is over-rated. He is a
delightful prospect who will be a star in the future but i think he
dwells on the ball too much, doesn't do much defensively and is at times
selfish. He reminds me of a younger Ronaldo but slower, lighter and a
bit lazy. For me Valencia will always be first choice in the right
flank.He offers more defensively, works hard, and keeps the opposing
full back occupied.
Arsenal were once again their usual
self, a lot of play, majority of possession, enough chances but not
enough sharpness and incisiveness. Arsene Wenger was forced to put
together a patched up defence due to injuries. Monreal was a center
half and teenager Bellerin started at right back in the absence of
Koscielny and Chambers. As if to complete the script, Arsenal picked up
another injury when Wilshere was taken off injured. Arsenal need to get
back at least two or three of their injured defenders back to stop the
bad run they have had. Alexis Sanchez was a bright spot for Arsenal and
you just think he has to be starting for Arsenal regularly. He scored a
brilliant goal and did superbly to st up Welbeck's injury time
equalizer. He looks well worth the amount Arsenal spent on him. Flamini
for me doesn't command the midfield the way he used to. On more than one
occasion this season, opposing attackers have gotten past him a bit too
easily.
Liverpool were extremely lucky to get all
three points against QPR. Balotelli divides opinions but for me he is
not the reason Liverpool are struggling. The players are simply not
performing. Lovren and Lallana continue to prove that Southampton
transfer business was shrewd.
Sturridge's latest injury
set back is a big blow to Liverpool. Balotelli still hasn't fit into
Liverpool's system and style. Individually he can be good but Rogers
needs to fit him into the system. I would play 2 strikers, Balotelli and
either Borini or Lambert with Balotelli playing in a withdrawn position
behind the main striker. He doesn't seem to thrive in the lone striker
role for Liverpool.
Manchester City were impressive
in their 4-1 thrashing of Tottenham. Aguero finally seems to have gotten
past his past injury struggles. He is some player when fully fit and he
seems to be enjoying himself scoring goals at will. City look the most
likely challengers to Chelsea and on this performance, it is easy to see
why.
Team of the Week:
Hart, Coleman, Jagielka, Dawson, Baines, Fabregas, Diame, Tadic, A.Sanchez, Aguero, Pelle
Player of the Week:
Sergio Aguero
Aguero is a beast!!
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