Saturday’s Premier League Goalfest

By Thomas O'Loughlin | 27th September 2009

Saturday's Premier League Goalfest | read this item

fulham Saturday’s Premier League action provided us with some very entertaining action with no shortage of goals. While the Premier League table once again has a familiar look, the attacking quality this weekend has compensated for this.

Firstly the new league leaders Manchester United grabbed a two goal win over Stoke. Key to the game was the introduction of Ryan Giggs in place of the poor Nani. Giggs continued the brilliant form he produced in the Manchester derby by making a great run to setup Berbatov for the first and then providing an excellent cross for John O’Shea to finish the game. After 17 years of Premier League action Giggs is still showing he is among the best players in the game.

Former league leaders Chelsea suffered a humiliating 3-1 loss to Wigan. Wigan finally broke their duck of never having beaten a top four side. Peter Cech’s sending off turned the game back in Wigan’s favor after they had lost their first half lead. Cech was once considered to be the best goalie in the business but since the incident with Steven Hunt a few years ago his game is now far more shaky. He is vulnerable under crosses and his judgement is not what it once was. Today’s challenge on Rodallega might have been inevitable given the fact that Cech had to make some form of challenge to stop Rodallega from scoring. The questions regarding his confidence and ability will linger on, though.

Liverpool’s resurgence after their poor start continued as they thumped Hull 6-1. Fernando Torres once again showed why he is the best striker in the world by scoring a marvelous hat trick. Hull, on the other hand, are half way between a rock and a hard place with problems throughout the side. Eleven goals conceded in a week is not a good indication and it is hard to see how they can stay up with such a poor side. Phil Brown’s days could be numbered, although his chairman maintains his loyalty to his manager. Brown’s behaviour is always questionable and criticizing players like Caleb Folan after sending him out on loan is not the way to act as manager. The fake tan does not help his cause nor does pointing allegations at other managers instead of concentrating on his own inadequacies.

The other top four team – Arsenal – had a fortuitous victory over Fulham, with goalie Vito Mannone to thank for numerous saves that kept Fulham scoreless. Arsenal are not to be discounted from the title race as their two losses have been away from home against top opposition – Manchester City and Manchester United. They are always a threat going forward and their footballing style always can cut open opposition.

Tottenham got their season back on track after consecutive defeats by beating Burnley 5-0. Robbie Keane provided four goals to remind us how he is one of the best forwards in the league. Spurs should be in contention for a Champions League spot as they are a well balanced team and have one of the strongest strike forces in the league.

In the other games Bolton had an excellent away victory at Birmingham, and Everton continued their rise up the table by beating Portsmouth 1-0. Pompey were much improved but once again they were not good enough to register their first points of the season. The January transfer window cannot come soon enough for their manager Paul Hart. Aston Villa’s good run of form ended with Blackburn getting a much needed win that moves them up the table. Let’s hope the rest of the weekend’s fixtures are as entertaining as Saturday’s encounters.

What was Saturday’s match of the day? Have your say below.