Tottenham Hotspur 0-1 Everton – Dominic Calvert-Lewin heads in a Lucas Digne cross to give Everton the victory as the Toffees win away at Spurs for the first time since November 2008. 

First half:

Despite Spurs being the home team, it was the Toffees who started the game the brighter and who also had the first big opportunity of the match which fell to Richarlison who beat Toby Alderweireld to the loose ball which put the Brazilian one on one with Hugo Lloris; however, Richarlison went round the French goalkeeper and somehow fired over the crossbar in what was a golden opportunity missed to take the lead for the Toffees early on. 

It was then the hosts turn to have a big opportunity when Heung-Min Son played in Dele Alli who was denied very well by Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford to keep the scores at 0-0 as Spurs were slowly starting to grow in to the match. 

Everton continued to look threatening in the match and came close to taking the lead when debutant James Rodriguez’ shot went just wide of Hugo Lloris’s far post as the Columbian midfielder was enjoying an impressive debut for Everton to this point. 

It was Tottenham Hotspur debutant Matt Doherty who came close this time after a lovely chipped through ball from Harry Kane; however, Doherty’s effort was denied by the legs of Jordan Pickford to keep Everton on level terms as both teams were starting to look more and more likely to grab the opening goal.

Second half: 

Ten minutes in to the second half and visitors Everton took the lead through Dominic Calvert-Lewin who scored his first goal since March 1st to give Everton a deserved lead at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. 

Everton controlled the game from this moment on as they looked more likely to add a second goal and the closest they came was when Brazilian winger Richarlison’ saw his curling shot go just wide of the far post; however, Everton saw out the game with ease as Spurs offered little to any threat at all after the Toffees scored the only goal of the game as Everton picked up a priceless victory away at Spurs. 

Full time 

Man of the match: 

James Rodriguez – This game showed the sort of form that James Rodriguez has lacked for such a long time at former clubs such as Real Madrid and Bayern Munich. Rodriguez looked in the mood from minute one and everything Everton did seemed to go through the Columbian in what as a fantastic debut which will get Everton fans very excited. 

Fascinating facts: 

This was the first time that Jose Mourinho has lost on the opening day of a Premier League season in after being unbeaten in his previous 10 opening day matches as a Premier League manager. 

This is the first time Everton have won away from home on the opening day of the season since winning away at Charlton Athletic back in 2001. 

This is the first time Dominic Calvert-Lewin has ever scored on the opening day of a Premier League season. 

This is the first time Spurs have lost on the opening day of the season at home since a 0-3 home loss to Sheffield Wednesday in 1998. 

This was the first time Everton have won away at a traditional top six club since December 2013 when they defeated Manchester United 0-1 at Old Trafford. 

Summary: 

Tottenham Hotspur – A very disappointing opening day performance from Tottenham Hotspur. They never looked like winning this game and were simply out played by the visitors throughout the 90 minutes. Jose Mourinho has work to do in the transfer window looking at this. 

Everton – This looks like it could be the best season the Toffees have had for a very long time and this performance will encourage Everton fans even more after a brilliant performance and victory away at Tottenham Hotspur where Everton controlled the game throughout the 90 minutes.

Liverpool 4-3 Leeds United – Mohammed Salah’s hattrick was enough for Liverpool to pick up three opening day points against last season’s Championship winners Leeds United in an opening day classic where Liverpool were pushed all the way by the Premier League new boys who were playing their first game in the top flight for 16 years. 

First half: 

It was last season’s Premier League winners Liverpool who had the better of the early going and were awarded a penalty when Mohammed Salah saw his shot blocked by the arm of debuting Leeds United defender Robin Koch. Mohammed Salah would then step up to take the penalty and make no mistake putting the champions 1-0 up against new boys Leeds United after just four minutes. 

Leeds United seemed to be showing no fear at Anfield themselves and the lack of fear was rewarded when Kalvin Phillips picked out a wonderful pass to winger Jack Harrison who then took the ball past Trent Alexander-Arnold and Joe Gomez to then unleash a shot past Alisson and equalise for visitors Leeds United who scored their first Premier League goal since May 8th 2004. 

The game was very much end to end stuff with both teams looking likely to score every time they attacked and it was Liverpool who took the lead again when Virgil Van Dijk headed in an Andrew Robertson corner and scored on the opening day of the season for the second year in a row to put Liverpool 2-1 up and once again in control of the game. 

Liverpool would only be in front for a further ten minutes after defender Virgil van Dijk’ uncharacteristically made a poor clearance which Patrick Bamford capitalized back on and slotted past Alisson to bring Leeds United level for the second time in the match as the Peacocks were looking at home in the top tier.

A chaotic first half then then saw a fifth goal go in and it was another one for the Premier League champions and Mohammed Salah who’s wonderful strike nestled in to the top corner to make it 3-2 at Anfield in a game where it never felt like the goals were going to stop in what was a first half to remember. 

Second half: 

The second half was a much more settled affair with both teams being far more relaxed in their approach; however, another goal was added in the game when Mateusz Klich fired Leeds United level again out of nowhere to stun the champions as Leeds United proved they would be a force in the top flight once again. 

Leeds United then came within inches of taking the lead for the first time in the match when Kalvin Phillips very nearly topped off his stellar performance with a wonderfully struck free kick; but unfortunately, his effort went just wide of Alisson Becker’s post as the score remained at 3-3. 

Leeds United were closing in on what would have been an amazing opening day point at Anfield; however, new Leeds United signing Rodrigo would clumsily bring down Fabinho in the penalty area which would award Liverpool their second penalty of the game and give them an opportunity to surely secure three opening day points. 

Mohammed Salah stepped up to take the penalty with a chance to score his hattrick and Mohammed Salah would score his hattrick by sending the goalkeeper the wrong way giving Liverpool three points and getting them off to a good start as they look to successfully defend their Premier League title. 

Full time 

Man of the match: 

Mohammed Salah – The Egyptian looked unplayable at times against Leeds United, and scored a hattrick that his performance deserved on the day. Liverpool fans will be hoping Salah can keep these performances up all season. 

Fascinating facts: 

Mohammed Salah’s hattrick was his first in the Premier League since December 2018 when he scored a treble away at Bournemouth. 

This was Patrick Bamford’s first ever Premier League away goal. 

Virgil Van Dijk has been on the winning side in every single Premier League game he has scored in for Liverpool. 

This was the first time Leeds United had conceded 4 goals in a match in 2020. 

Summary: 

Liverpool – Despite, being very shaky at the back, Liverpool got off to a good start as they look to defend the Premier League trophy for the first time ever as they found a way to grab three points on the opening day for the third season running. 

Leeds United – Even in defeat, this performance was very encouraging for Leeds United who pushed the Premier League champions all the way to the end as well as playing some exciting football. Marcelo Bielsa’s team might well be the ones to watch this campaign.

Arsenal 2-1 Chelsea – The Gunners come from behind to defeat London rivals Chelsea in the FA Cup Final thanks to a Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang double which gave Mikel Arteta his first trophy as Arsenal manager and secured the Gunners 14th FA Cup triumph.

First half: 

The first opportunity of the final fell to the Gunners when Arsenal left wing back Ainsley Maitland Niles cross was headed just wide of the post by Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang missing a very good chance to give the Gunners the perfect start to the FA Cup final.

Chelsea’s first effort of the game was courtesy of Mason Mount after stealing the ball off Granit Xhaka in midfield; however, the English midfielder saw his shot from outside of the box pushed wide of the post by Gunners goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez to keep the score goalless early on. 

Just under five minutes in to the 2020 FA Cup Final; it was Chelsea who took an early lead when former Arsenal striker Olivier Giroud set up American winger Christian Pulisic who slotted past Emiliano Martinez from close range to give the blue side of London the perfect start to Frank Lampard’s first cup final in charge of Chelsea. 

Chelsea were beginning to look more threatening after taking the lead and came close to adding a second when Christian Pulisic’s impressive solo run ended in an effort that needed to be saved and eventually held by Emiliano Martinez as there were early signs that the FA Cup final could turn out to be a long 90 minutes for Arsenal especially with the mood Christian Pulisic was in early on.

Arsenal slowly began to grow back in to the game and the Gunners thought they drew level in the 24th minute when winger Nicolas Pepe’s shot nestled in to the top corner; however, the goal was flagged offside due to Ainsley Maitland-Niles being offside in the build-up much to disappointment of the Gunners and to the relief of Chelsea.

Just moments later and the Gunners did get some joy this time round as Arsenal were awarded a penalty when Chelsea defender Cesar Azpilicueta bought down Arsenal forward Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang in what was uncharacteristically a clumsy challenge from the Spaniard to give Arsenal a chance to draw level in the final. 

It was Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang himself who stepped up and made no mistake from 12 yards out sending Willy Caballero the wrong way and bringing the Gunners level with 27 minutes on the clock with a goal that Arsenal most certainly needed to get back in to the game.

The rest of the first half turned relatively cagey as both teams seemed rather happy to go in to the break all square and start again in the second half in what was a very finely poised 2020 FA Cup final at Wembley Stadium.

Second half: 

Less than a minute in to the second half and Chelsea had a big chance to regain the lead when Christian Pulisic ran through on goal; however, in a double blow for Chelsea, Pulisic put the ball wide of the far post and pulled his hamstring in the process forcing the American winger to go off injured in the final causing Chelsea to lose their brightest player in the match so far.

67 minutes in to the 2020 FA Cup final and it was Arsenal who took the lead for the first time in the match when Nicolas Pepe set up Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang who took the ball past Kurt Zouma and then chipped the ball beyond Willy Caballero to put the Gunners 2-1 in front and in the driver’s seat to perhaps give Mikel Arteta his first trophy as Arsenal manager.

Just over five minutes later and Chelsea had even more misery piled on them when midfielder Matteo Kovacic was sent off for a second bookable offense after fouling Granit Xhaka, making the blue side of London’s chances of getting back in to the FA Cup final look near impossible at this point. 

Arsenal saw out the remainder of the FA Cup final fairly comfortably with Chelsea not having any other meaningful opportunities to draw level and Chelsea also saw a bad injury received by a man on his way out of the club in Pedro to add to their misery. This victory meant that Arsenal were confirmed as FA Cup winners for the 14th time in the club’s history which is two more triumphs than any other club.

Full time:

Arsenal 2-1 Chelsea

Man of the match: 

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang – Where would Arsenal be without this man? Arsenal’s Gabonese striker has now scored 29 goals in all competitions this season and not surprisingly the forward turned out to be the Gunners match winner in the FA Cup final by bagging a brace to see of London rivals Chelsea, Aubameyang was easily the stand out on the Wembley pitch. 

Fascinating facts: 

This was Arsenal’s third FA Cup final victory over Chelsea in the 21st Century with the years being 2002, 2017, and 2020. 

Chelsea have won six and lost three of their FA Cup finals in the 21st century with all three of them defeats coming against Arsenal.

This was the first time that Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has scored in a cup final for Arsenal in his third attempt at the club. 

This was the first time that Christian Pulisic has scored in a final for Chelsea. 

Frank Lampard has now lost both of his finals as a manager in the two seasons he has managed including one with Derby County (Championship playoff final) 2019 and (FA Cup final) 2020 with Chelsea.

This was the first FA Cup final in which the two managers have been former players of each club since 2012 when Chelsea met Liverpool and the two managers were Roberto Di Matteo (Chelsea) and Kenny Dalglish (Liverpool).

Talking points: 

Will Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang now remain an Arsenal player after winning his first trophy at the club? Keeping hold of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang seems to be undoubtedly the Gunners biggest task this summer and despite a disappointing 8th place finish in the Premier League, winning a trophy might well be the thing Arsenal needed to do to convince Aubameyang to remain a Gunners player in the 2020/2021 Premier League season. 

Chelsea have a trophyless season for the first time since 2015/2016 – Frank Lampard has endured a fairly mixed first season in charge of Chelsea, despite finishing in the top 4, Lampard has given Chelsea their first season without a trophy in four years it will now be interesting to see how Lampard does next season with a transfer window under his belt. 

Mikel Arteta wins first trophy at Arsenal despite only managing 28 games at the club – If you were to say that to Arsenal fans when Mikel Arteta took over back in December that the Gunners would end the season lifting a trophy, they would never have believed you but that is exactly what Mikel Arteta has done and this shows promise for the Gunners going forward under the Spaniard who has delivered the first Gunners trophy in three years. 

Arsenal have now won four out of their last seven FA Cups – Arsenal love winning the FA Cup, in fact the Gunners have now won seven in the 21st Century alone and 14 in the competitions history so it is fair to say it is their competition.

Tottenham Hotspur 1-0 Everton – Michael Keane’s unfortunate first half own goal separates the two sides in a rather dull affair at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium with both teams producing a low quality encounter. 

First half: 

It was the hosts Tottenham Hotspur who came the closest to scoring in the early stages of the match when winger Lucas Moura’s strike didn’t miss Jordan Pickford’s post by much as the Brazilian wingers wait for a Premier League goal in 2020 continued for the time being. 

Tottenham Hotspur did open the scoring in the 24th minute of the match when midfielder Giovani Lo Celso turned and shot inside the box and despite the Argentinian’s shot that looked to be going wide it was inadvertently deflected in to his own net by Toffees defender Michael Keane as Spurs opened the scoring in a game that certainly felt like it needed a goal to spark in to life. 

The closest Everton came to a first half goal was just before half time when Richarlison found space to turn and shoot, however, the Brazilian shot just wide of the post as Everton would go in to the half time break trailing 1-0 after a rather toothless first half display from the Toffees who would be hoping for a much better second half performance. 

Half time 

The second half was played out in a similar way to the first as the tempo of the game continued to be rather slow with both sides far from their best, but it was Tottenham Hotspur who had the first big chance of the half when winger Son Heung-Min broke in behind the Everton defence but the South Korean would see his low shot saved by goalkeeper Jordan Pickford who kept the score at only 1-0 for now. 

It was Son Heung-Min who once again came close for Spurs just a few minutes later when the Tottenham winger cut inside on his right foot and fired a shot wide of the Everton post as Tottenham Hotspur’s search for a second and a killer goal inthe game continued. 

Spurs would go on to have one more chance to add a second goal and seal the 3 points when which was once again an opportunity for Son Heung-Min this time on his left foot however, the South Korean once again saw his shot parried away by Jordan Pickford. Despite failing to make the most of some second half chances it was Tottenham Hotspur who held on for a 1-0 win to get all 3 points against a toothless Everton team who hardly laid a glove on Tottenham Hotspur throughout the 90 minutes. This was far from a classic encounter but an important 3 points for the North London side Tottenham Hotspur who get back on track after their loss to Sheffield United. 

Full time 

Man of the match: 

Giovani Lo Celso – In a game of few standouts it was Tottenham’s Argentine midfielder who was the brightest spark on the pitch with a promising performance being one of his best in a Spurs shirt to date, and it was also Lo Celso who had the effort which deflected in off Michael Keane for the only goal of the game. 

Fascinating facts: 

Everton now haven’t won away at Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League in their last 11 attempts, a run that stretches all the way back to November 2008. 

This was the first own goal of Michael Keane’s Premier League career. 

Tottenham Hotspur have now kept back to back Premier League clean sheets at home for the first time this season. 

Everton haven’t won a Premier League away game against any team that is currently above them in the Premier League table. 

This is the first time that Harry Kane has failed to score against Everton in 5 Premier League appearances against the Toffees. 

Jordan Pickford continues his record of never keeping a clean sheet for Everton against Tottenham Hotspur. 

Talking points: 

Everton poor record away at the traditional big 6 continues, is this down to a poor mentality? Everton haven’t won a Premier League game away at any of the traditional big 6 teams (Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United, and Tottenham Hotspur) since December 2013 when they won 0-1 at Old Trafford against Manchester United, and that run showed no signs of ending in a toothless display from the Toffees away at Tottenham Hotspur, why is the Toffees mentality so poor away at the big teams, even under a manager who has won everything in Carlo Ancelotti? 

An unconvincing performance from Tottenham Hotspur but a win nonetheless as they stay in contention for a place in Europe next season – This was far from a convincing performance from Tottenham Hotspur, however, it was a game they probably just about did enough to win against a very below par Everton side as Spurs still remain with a fighting chance of getting a place in Europe next season as they are now just a point behind North London rivals Arsenal in 7th. 

Son Heung-Min and Hugo Lloris scrap just after the half time whistle – In a rather bizarre half time incident, Tottenham Hotspur team mates Hugo Lloris and Heung Min-Son had to be separated as the two men were involved in a heated war of words for unknown reasons despite the fact Tottenham Hotspur were leading, the two men were not happy with one another. 

Are these the toughest job both Carlo Ancelotti and Jose Mourinho have ever taken on? Both Carlo Ancelotti and Jose Mourinho have been hugely successful managers throughout their careers, however, both managers are currently taking on unfamiliar jobs where they have to build mid-table teams up to the top and at this stage of both Ancelotti and Mourniho’s careers this could be the hardest jobs they have ever had. 

Both managers with big transfer windows ahead for their respective clubs – Tottenham Hotspur and Everton came in to this fixture both 10th and 11th respectively and those are positions where neither of these clubs would want to be at this stage of the Premier League season and judging by the performance of both teams, it will take a huge transfers window in the summer to improve things at both clubs. 

Unfortunate own goal separates the two teams on the day – In a game that was extremely low on quality it seemed pretty fitting that it was a scrappy own goal that separated the two teams with Michael Keane being the unfortunate player.

Manchester City 4-0 Liverpool – Manchester City ran out easy winners against newly crowned Premier League champions Liverpool at the Etihad Stadium with a convincing win by 4 goals to 0. 

First half: 

It was the newly crowned Premier League champions Liverpool who had the better of the opening stages of the game when they conjured up the first big opportunity when Egyptian winger Mohammed Salah’s shot come back off the post with Sadio Mane also failing to turn in the reboundthanks to a heavy touch as champions Liverpool showed no signs of slacking off in the early going at the Etihad Stadium. 

Despite Liverpool having the better of the opening stages of the game, the game took a turn when hosts Manchester Citywere awarded a penalty in the 24th minute when Liverpool defender Joe Gomez bought down former Liverpool winger Raheem Sterling in a clumsy challenge which allowed referee Anthony Taylor to point to the spot and award Manchester City a penalty which the Belgium midfielder Kevin De Bruyne stepped up and made no mistake sending Liverpool keeper Alisson the wrong way to put the hosts in front. 

Manchester City then took control of the game from their and added a second goal just 10 minutes later when former Liverpool winger Raheem Sterling scored against Liverpool in the Premier League for the first time and made it 2-0 toCity to put the hosts in a good position at the Etihad against the newly crowned Premier League champions who looked all over the place at the back. 

Manchester City completed a dominant first half display when in form City youngster Phil Foden played a clever one two with Kevin De Bruyne which then allowed Foden go one on one with the goalkeeper and finish past Alisson and complete a wonderful first half display for City who were running riot on a usual flawless Liverpool defence. 

Second half: 

Manchester City continued to dominate the second half whilst trying to push on for more goals and they got their reward in the 66th minute when Raheem Sterling’s shot that looked to be going wide was accidentally turned in to his own net by Liverpool substitution Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain to put Manchester City 4-0 to continue a dominant and clinical City performance. 

Manchester City saw the game out after going 4-0 up and they even thought they added a 5th goal right at the end of the game when substitute Riyad Mahrez managed to squeeze in a shot at the near post, however, a VAR check on the goal showed that the ball unfortunately was touched by Phil Foden’s arm as the City youngster fell to the floor which VAR then intervened and ruled the goal out as Manchester City had to settle for just a 4-0 win over the newly crowned Premier League champions Liverpool who had chances but didn’t seem to have the usual 100% commitment in their game. 

Full time 

Man of the match: 

Kevin De Bruyne – The Manchester City midfielder might well be the best on the planet at this moment in time and this performance was another stellar one as De Bruyne ran the show at the Etihad by putting through defence splitting passes all game and playing with a confidence only the best defence can. 

Fascinating facts: 

This was the first time Liverpool have been losing by 3 or more goals at half time in a Premier League game since the final day of the 2014/2015 season when they were 5-0 down away at Stoke City. 

This was Raheem Sterling’s first Premier League goal against Liverpool in his ninth appearance against his former club since leaving in the summer of 2015. 

Liverpool have now only won 2 out of their last 20 Premier League visits away to both Manchester clubs. 

This was the first time that Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson Becker has ever conceded 4 goals in a game while playing for Liverpool. 

Manchester City now haven’t conceded a home Premier League goal in their last 4 matches with this being the first time this has happened since 2015. 

This was the first time Liverpool defender Joe Gomez has been on the losing side in a Premier League game since January 22nd 2018 when Liverpool were beaten 1-0 by Swansea City. 

This was Liverpool’s heaviest Premier League defeat since September 9th 2017 which was also away at Manchester City when the Reds were beaten 5-0. 

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain becomes the first player to score an own goal in a Premier League game against Manchester City since January 2019 which was Wolves defender Conor Coady.  

Talking points: 

Newly crowned Premier League champions Liverpool thrashed by former champions Manchester City – In the opening 20 minutes of this game it looked as though Liverpool were showing no signs of slacking despite being the newly crowned Premier League winners, however, once City scored the opening goal it was one way traffic from there in favour of the hosts who ran out easy 4-0 winners while playing Liverpool off the park. 

Phil Foden once again shows he is a true talent – Phil Foden has now scored 4 goals despite only starting 2 games since the Premier League returned, impressive considering Foden only ever having 1 Premier League career goal to his name before that. Phil Foden put in yet another impressive performance and continues to have an effect on games every time he plays for Manchester City and the 20 year old could well be the perfect replacement for David Silva when he leaves at the end of the season. 

Is there a better midfielder in the world right now than Kevin De Bruyne? Kevin De Bruyne ran the show once again in this match with another stellar midfield display as Liverpool simply couldn’t live with De Bruyne’s constant defence splitting passes that only the best can pull off, the Belgian midfielder also bagged his 17th assist of the season putting him just 3 behind Thierry Henry’s record of 20 in a Premier League season. 

Liverpool already having the title won definitely made them slack off once the first goal went in – Usually when Manchester City and Liverpool face each other, we get a high quality game from two very good teams, however with Liverpool already having the Premier League title in the bag, this one felt much less intense from the away side especially after Manchester City took the lead, the Reds were making uncharacteristic defensive errors all game and never at all looked their usual spirited selves at the Etihad Stadium which made what is usual a great game much less interesting.

Arsenal 4-0 Norwich City – Arsenal stroll to a win at the Emirates against bottom of the table Norwich City thanks to a double from top scorer Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang who is closing on the Premier League golden boot, a goal from Granit Xhaka, and a debut goal from Cedirc Soares who scored just four minutes in to Gunners debut after coming on as a substitution, as a careless Norwich City side look to be all but relegated to the Championship after another poor performance. 

First half: 

The opening stages of the game were largely dominated by Arsenal in terms of possession as you would expect, however, the closest either side came to opening the scoring was the visitors Norwich City when Ben Godfrey let fly from long range and unfortunately struck the post in what would have been a spectacular goal by the Norwich City centre back who came within inches of giving the Canaries a shock lead at the Emirates. 

The opening goal of the game came when Norwich City goalkeeper Tim Krul uncharacteristically was guilty of failing to get rid of the ball and was caught by Arsenal top scorer Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang who took advantage of the opportunity and scored his 18th goal of the season and his 50thfor the club to give Arsenal the breakthrough in the 33rdminute. 

Four minutes later and the Gunners were 2-0 in front when midfielder Granit Xhaka was set up by Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang inside the box to shoot through the legs of Tim Krul as Arsenal began to take full control of the match after a very well worked goal. 

Norwich City did come close to pulling a goal back just before half time when Kenny McLean’s free kick was well saved by Arsenal goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez who was continuing to do a good job between the sticks in the absence of the injured Bernd Leno. 

A couple of promising moments for Norwich City from long range efforts in the first half, however, in a familiar story for the Canaries this season they were losing as Arsenal went in to the half time break with a fairly comfortable 2-0 lead. 

Second half: 

It was the visitors Norwich City who had the first opportunity of the second half when substitute Adam Idah nearly made an instant impact when his low down shot had to be smartly saved once again by Emiliano Martinez who was having a solid game in goal for the Gunners denying Norwich City at every opportunity. 

Arsenal had a rather quiet opening 20 minutes to the second half then added a third goal in the 67th minute when half timeNorwich City substitute Josip Drmic carelessly played a pass to Arsenal striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang who made no mistake in slotting the ball in to the net as Aubameyang had his second goal of the game given to him courtesy of a Norwich City error. 

The icing was put on the cake for Arsenal in the 81st minute when on loan right back Cedric Soares made it 4-0 to Arsenal on his debut with a very well hit left footed strike from outside of the box which flew past Tim Krul in to the corner as Arsenal capped off what was in the end a very good day as surely now Norwich City look as though they will once again be playing Championship football next season after another defeat. 

Full time

Man of the match: 

Dani Ceballos – The Arsenal midfielder who is on loan from Real Madrid played one of his best games for a very long time in a Gunners shirt in an all-round very impressive display in the middle of the park, a performance that Arsenal fans would love to see more of from Ceballos. 

Fascinating facts: 

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang becomes the fastest Arsenal player to reach 50 Premier League goals for Arsenal having achieved it in just 79 appearances since signing in January 2018. 

Granit Xhaka continues his record having never lost a game which he has scored in for the Gunners. 

Cedric Soares scores his first Premier League goal since December 2018 when he scored for Southampton in a 2-2 draw with Manchester United at St Mary’s. 

Cedric Soares becomes the first Arsenal defender to score on his Premier League debut since Thomas Vermaelen in August 2009 in a 1-6 win away at Everton. 

Arsenal score 4 goals in a Premier League game for only the second time this season with the other being in a 4-0 home win against Newcastle United on February 16th. 

Norwich City have only scored one Premier League away goal in 2020. 

Norwich City haven’t scored a first half Premier League away goal from open play since December when Teemu Pukki scored away at Leicester City in a 1-1 draw. 

Norwich City have only scored 6 away Premier League goals all season which is five fewer than the next worst team which is Watford. 

Talking points: 

Norwich City punished for individual errors – Arsenal scored 4 goals in the game but there is no denying that two of them goals were gift wrapped for them by Norwich City thanks to individual errors from Tim Krul and Josip Drmic. Being let down by individual errors and being poor defensively has been the story of Norwich City’s season and is a massive reason why the Canaries sit bottom of the Premier League. 

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang faster to 50 goals than the great Thierry Henry – Arsenal striker Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored his 50th goal for the Gunners today since signing for the club in January 2018 Aubameyang now has 51 goals in just 79 appearances. Aubameyang even managed to score 50 Premier League goals in four less games than club legend Thierry Henry which is some achievement. 

A dream debut for Cedric Soares – Cedric Soares, who recently had his loan deal extended from Southampton made his Gunners debut against Norwich City and likely was just sent on to see the game out and get some minutes behind him, however, the right back not only got the minutes behind him, he topped off his debut with a fantastic goal and one that he could only have dreamed of scoring just four minutes in to his debut for the Gunners. 

Norwich City getting closer to Championship football next season – It seems only a matter of time until Norwich City’s relegation is confirmed from the Premier League after another convincing loss, the Canaries were only being promoted to the Premier League last season when they won the Championship, Norwich City look like a team who are going down unless a miracle happens and the results go their way in the remaining games. 

Back to back Premier League wins for Arsenal and Mikel Arteta – Arsenal began the restart with back to back defeats away at both Manchester City and Brighton, however, the Gunners have responded by now defeating both Southampton (A) and Norwich City (H) being wins that it feels like Arsenal most certainly needed to get back on track after the restart, there is still no doubt Arsenal will need a big transfer window, but this performance felt like a step in the right direction for the Gunners who could still make a Europa League place at the end of the season.

Brighton 0-3 Manchester United – Manchester United put in an impressive display to ease past a below par Brighton at the Amex Stadium as the Red Devils continue to push for a Champions League place after a convincing away win. 

First half: 

The visitors Manchester United were in control of the first half from minute one and the closest they came in the opening minutes was when Portuguese midfielder Bruno Fernandes’s strike from outside the box struck the post and then fellow midfielder Paul Pogba had his follow up blocked as it seemed only a matter of time before United broke the deadlock early on. 

Manchester United did get a deserved breakthrough in 16thminute when talented youngster Mason Greenwood’s shot crept in at the near post give Manchester United the lead with just over a quarter of an hour gone as 18 year old Mason Greenwood continues to look a future star in the making with a very well taken goal. 

29 minutes played and Manchester United were then 0-2 up when Paul Pogba set up Bruno Fernandes just outside the box and Fernandes’s shot took a deflection off Alexis Mac Allister to beat goalkeeper Matt Ryan once again at his near post as a dominant Manchester United were making easy work of the Seagulls at the Amex Stadium in the opening half an hour. 

Manchester United dominated the rest of the first half without creating any more clear-cut chances as Brighton had a first half to forget as they barely laid a glove on the Red Devils in a rare toothless first 45 minutes from the hosts who were being out played by the much superior visitors. 

Second half: 

Manchester United picked up where they left off after the half time break by adding a third goal just 5 minutes in to the second half when a fantastic counter attack by the Red Devils ended with a Mason Greenwood cross which was volleyed home by Bruno Fernandes for his second goal of the game and Manchester United’s third to surely seal the 3 points already just 50 minutes in, this was a goal that was just like the old days from Manchester United. 

Brighton did start to grow in to the game after they went 0-3 down but it was too little too late and they came relatively close when Alexis Mac Allister’s well worked free kick found an unmarked Lenandro Trossard whose left footed shot flashed wide of the far post. 

Brighton came close again not long after when forward Aaron Connolly turned and hit a shot that seemed top corner bound was very well tipped over the crossbar by David De Gea to keep his clean sheet intact for the time being. 

Brighton had one last close attempt in the game when substitute Neal Maupay’s left footed shot was deflected and once again David De Gea had to make a save to keep his and Manchester United’s clean sheet intact. 

Manchester United did manage to maintain their clean sheet in the end as the Red Devils came away from the Amex Stadium with a dominant 0-3 victory against a Brighton sidewho posed little threat to Manchester United’s now 8 Premier League match undefeated streak. 

Full time: 

Man of the match: 

Bruno Fernandes – What an impact this man has made at Manchester United since joining in January. This was another inspiring performance from the Portuguese midfielder putting in tremendous work rate all game and bagging two goals in an all-round excellent midfield display. 

Fascinating facts: 

This was the first time Manchester United have ever avoided defeat at the Amex Stadium after losing there in the last two Premier League seasons (1-0), and (3-2). 

This was the first time that Bruno Fernandes has scored twogoals in a game for Manchester United. 

Manchester United midfielder Paul Pogba bagged his first assist for Manchester United since the opening day of the Premier League season which was against Chelsea at Old Trafford. 

Mason Greenwood’s assist for Bruno Fernandes was the 18 year olds first ever assist in the Premier League. 

Brighton have now failed to score in 4 of their last 5 Premier League games. 

This was Brighton forward Alexis Mac Allister’s first start for Brighton at the Amex Stadium. 

This was the first time that Brighton have conceded 3 goals in a Premier League home match this season. 

Talking points: 

Is this the most promising Manchester United have looked in a while? Manchester United fans being excited hasn’t been a regular thing since the departure of Sir Alex Ferguson in 2013, but with now being 15 games unbeaten in all competitions and playing some free flowing football with the likes of Bruno Fernandes and Paul Pogba linking up in midfield, is this finally a time Manchester United fans can start thinking about challenging for the big trophies again? It might be too early to say just yet, but things are certainly looking promising for the Red Devils especially after this display at Brighton which was full of quality. 

How good will 18 year old Mason Greenwood become in the future? Mason Greenwood has now scored 13 goals in all competitions this season and 6 of them have been in the Premier League, the 18 year old proved with this performance that he is some talent and right now there seems no stopping him from becoming the next big thing at Manchester United or even the next big thing in Europe, the 18 year old seems to have the world at his feet. 

Bruno Fernandes fantastic once again – Since joining Manchester United, Bruno Fernandes has made a huge impact and pretty much turned this team around in a big way with his work rate, his creativity, and his eagerness to win matches which are all traits you need to be a Manchester United player and once again away at Brighton, Fernandes was instrumental and the star of the show. 

Manchester United keep up the pressure on 4th place Chelsea – Manchester United closed the gap on 4th place Chelsea to just 2 points even know the Red Devils have played a game more, keeping the pressure on at this point of the season is crucial and Manchester United right now look as though they could take the race to the very end in their quest to get back in the Champions League next season continues. 

Would Brighton’s performance have been so lacklustre if the crowd were present? Brighton have beaten Manchester United on the last two occasions that the Red Devils have visited the Amex Stadium but on this occasion the hosts barely posed a threat on Manchester United, but with Brighton needing one or two more wins to make sure of their Premier League status next season would the crowd have motivated the Seagulls more here to better performance? Not saying Brighton would have won the game but surely they would have performed with more intensity than they did in the 90 minutes.

Leicester City 0-1 Chelsea – Chelsea’s half time substitute Ross Barkley comes on to net a second half winner as Chelsea advance to the semi-finals of the FA Cup in a game rather low on quality at the King Power Stadium. 

First half: 

Chelsea began the first half in a rather sloppy manner constantly giving the ball away to the hosts Leicester City, however, the Foxes luckily for Chelsea never managed to capitalize on this as they lacked in front of goal all game especially when the first opportunity they had when Harvey Barnes took a heavy touch in the penalty area which ran through to Willy Caballero, a better touch and the Foxes could have taken the lead in the opening seconds. 

Leicester City continued to have opportunities when Youri Tielemans shot was saved by Chelsea goalkeeper Willy Caballero, and it was then Jonny Evans who missed a great chance from a header when the Northern Ireland defender put it wide from close range, as the Foxes continued to be wasteful for the remainder of the first half to the frustration of manager Brendan Rodgers with nothing paying off in front of goal for the Foxes despite the sloppiness of Chelsea, you could almost see Leicester being punished for missing their opportunities in the first half. 

Despite Leicester City having the better of the majority of the first half it was the visitors Chelsea who conjured up the best chance of the half when Mason Mount found Christian Pulisic inside the box however, the Americans shot was very well saved by Leicester City goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel to keep out what would have been a Chelsea goal against the run of play. 

Leicester City then went on to have another couple of other opportunities to score firstly when Harvey Barnes went through on goal but unfortunately the Foxes winger couldn’t compose himself enough as he blasted the ball over with his left foot much to the relief of Chelsea once again. The next big chance for the hosts fell to main man and top scorer Jamie Vardy but unfortunately for him and Leicester City, he couldn’t finish as the Premier League top scorer shot wide with his left foot in a chance Vardy never looked comfortable with as the game was goalless going in to the break, a much needed one for Chelsea. 

Second half: 

Frank Lampard made a triple substitution at half time to try and change things for a Chelsea team who struggled in the first half but despite that it was Leicester City who came closest at the start of the second half when Chelsea transfer target Ben Chilwell’s cross ended up hitting the top of the cross bar as the left back gave Chelsea an unintentional scare. 

The deadlock was eventually broken after 63 minutes when midfield substitute Ross Barkley who made a run in to the box to get on the end of Willian’s cross and steer the ball beyond Kasper Schmeichel and despite being second best for near enough the entire game so far it was the visitors who were in front at the King Power Stadium as one Lampard’s half time substitutes worked a treat for now by providing the opening goal of this FA Cup tie. 

Leicester City had a couple of attempts to respond to the Chelsea goal, firstly when Ben Chilwell’s long range shot was comfortably held by Willy Caballero, and then the best chance Leicester City had all game fell to Turkish centre back Caglar Soyuncu who had a free header at the back post to put in to an empty net after Willy Caballero misjudged a cross, but fortunately for Chelsea the header ended up coming off the head of Cesar Azpilicueta which then sent the ball over the crossbar, a missed chance that left Soyuncu and no doubt Foxes fans watching at home very frustrated with a huge miss. 

Chelsea had a great opportunity to make it two and put the game beyond Leicester City when Wilfed Ndidi was caught in possession by Ross Barkley and Chelsea then had a four against two counter attack but unfortunately for Chelsea, Ross Barkley’s pass was behind Ruben Loftus-Cheek who then had to play the ball back to Barkley who’s shot was uniquely but very well saved by Kasper Schmeichel to keep Leicester in the tie, a huge missed opportunity for Chelsea. 

Leicester City tried to push for a late equaliser but ultimately failed in the end as the visitors Chelsea held out for a 0-1 win at the King Power Stadium, not a great performance Frank Lampard’s men but a win that he will certainly take, as for Leicester they were made to pay for missed chances in the end as they exited the FA Cup in the Quarter Final and now have to turn their attention to securing a Champions League spot for next season. 

Full time 

Man of the match: 

Ross Barkley – It is rare that a substitute gets given the man of the match award, but on this occasion there is simply no doubt that Ross Barkley’s introduction completely sparked life in to Chelsea and the English midfielder also turned out to be the match winner at the King Power Stadium in an inspiring display from the former Everton man. 

Fascinating facts: 

The last two occasions Chelsea have beaten Leicester City in an FA Cup Quarter Final, the Blues have gone on to lift the trophy back in both 2012 and 2018. 

Leicester City have never beaten Chelsea in an FA Cup tie in 9 attempts which includes replays. 

This is the first time Frank Lampard has beaten Brendan Rodgers as a manager with both Premier League meetings this season ending in a draw. 

Ross Barkley has scored four goals this season with three of them coming in the FA Cup. 

Ross Barkley’s goal was the first that Leicester City have conceded all season in the FA Cup. 

Chelsea were the first Premier League opposition that Leicester City have faced this season in the FA Cup. 

Talking points: 

Frank Lampard’s half time substitutes work a treat for Chelsea – Frank Lampard clearly unhappy with Chelsea’s sloppy first half performance took off Reece James, Billy Gilmour, and Mason Mount all young talented Chelsea players but on this day this turned out to be a stroke of genius from Frank Lampard as the players he bought on who were Ross Barkley, Cesar Azpilicueta, and Ruben Loftus-Cheek all made a huge impact to settle Chelsea down in the game and also one of his changes in bringing on Ross Barkley won Chelsea the match. 

Leicester City pay for failing to capitalize on a below par Chelsea – Leicester City had more than enough chances to win the game an advance to the FA Cup semi-finals, but unfortunately the Foxes failed to take advantage of many missed chances which ultimately cost them the game and allowed Chelsea to win. 

Jamie Vardy’s poor form continues – Jamie Vardy has only scored two goals since Christmas which both came in a substitute appearance against Aston Villa and this performance against Chelsea today just summed up his form in front of goal at the moment as Vardy once again Vardy was pretty much anonymous all game. 

Finally a winner between Rodgers and Lampard in a managerial battle – Both Premier League meetings between Chelsea and Leicester City this season ended in a draw with nothing to separate the managers then on this occasion there had to be a winner and there was in Frank Lampard who takes Chelsea to a semi-final for the first time.

Aston Villa 0-1 Wolverhampton Wanderers – Leander Dendoncker scores a 62nd minute goal to give Wolves a very important away win to close the gap on 4th place to 2 points as Aston Villa remain in big trouble in the relegation zone after taking just 2 points out of a possible 12 since the restart of the Premier League. 

First half: 

Like many games since the restart of the Premier League the first half of the midlands rivalry was rather cagey with both sides seeming reluctant to take a risk but it was Wolves who had the better of the half and the first slight opportunity when Raul Jimenez headed on Joao Moutinho’s free kick straight at Villa goalkeeper Orjan Nyland to keep the score 0-0 early on. 

Wolves then continued to push for an opening goal when right back Matt Doherty ran through towards the Villa goal after a lucky break off an Aston Villa player; however, Doherty lashed his shot in to the side netting as Wolves once again failed to open the scoring but were certainly looking the more promising out of the two teams. 

Aston Villa’s first proper slightly troubling attempt on the Wolves goal came from the main man Jack Grealish when the English midfielder’s attempt from outside the box was comfortably held by Portuguese goalkeeper Rui Patricio.  

The best opportunity in the first half for both sides came for the visitors Wolves when Aston Villa goalkeeper Orjan Nyland got away with an horrendous error when the Aston Villa goalkeeper’s attempt to throw the ball went horribly wrong however, luckily for Nyland Diogo Jota failed to capitalize and blasted the ball harmlessly over the crossbar in a huge let off for Aston Villa and goalkeeper Nyland as the first half would go on to end goalless. 

Second half:

62 minutes in to this Midlands derby and it was the visitors Wolverhampton Wanderers who took the lead when Belgian midfielder Leander Dendoncker scored his first away goal of the season with a fantastic left footed finish right in the corner to give Wolves a priceless lead at Villa Park. 

The rest of the second half had very little if any entertainment or chances of note to talk about as Wolverhampton Wanderers saw the game out comfortably to make it 3 wins out of 3 since the return of the Premier League as Aston Villa continued to struggle at the wrong end of the table with yet another below par performance. 

Full time 

Man of the match: 

Leander Dendoncker – This might well have been the best performance that the Belgian midfielder has produced in a Wolves shirt as Dendoncker bossed the midfield and caused Aston Villa problems all game with a fantastic performance which was capped off with a wonderful goal to give Wolves yet another win. 

Fascinating facts: 

Wolves have now won 3 Premier League games in a row for the first time this season. 

Wolves have now kept 7 clean sheets in their last 8 Premier League games. 

Aston Villa have now gone 4 Premier League home games without a win which is their longest winless run at Villa Park all season. 

This was the first time Leander Dendoncker has scored an away Premier League goal since a 1-3 away win at Everton in February 2019. 

This is the first time Wolves have ever done a Premier League double over Aston Villa. 

Talking points: 

Wolves continue to push for a Champions League place –Wolves have been the form team since the return of Premier League with 3 wins out of 3 and not conceding a single goal in the process and are now only 2 points behind Chelsea in 4thplace despite the Blues having a game in hand things are certainly looking promising for Nuno Espirito Santo’s side going forward. 

Aston Villa put in a toothless performance in Midlands derby – Things may have started well for Wolves since the return of the Premier League however the same can unfortunately be said for Aston Villa who have only take 2 points from a possible 12 available to them since the restart as Dean Smith’s side remain without a win since the return and the performance at home against Wolves would have been one to infuriate the Aston Villa faithful as the team barely laid a glove on Wolves throughout the 90 minutes. 

Leander Dendoncker the hero in the Midlands derby – From the first whistle onwards this had the feel of a game that was going to need a great goal to win the game and that is exactly what happened on 62 minutes when Leander Dendoncker’s excellent left footed strike in to the corner gave Wolves the lead and that turned out to be enough to win the game for Wolves in what was a game of few chances for both. 

Championship football next season looks increasingly likely for Aston Villa – Aston Villa who were promoted last season after beating Derby County in the Championship play-off final but unfortunately for Villa fans it looks like it might be a brief stay in the top flight after yet another disappointing result. Aston Villa have not won in 8 Premier League games and with many toothless performances since the restart it would be a surprise if that changed any time soon. 

Is the Wolves defence underrated? Wolverhampton Wanderers have now kept 7 clean sheets in their previous 8 Premier League games with Conor Coady, Willy Boly, Romain Saiss, and goalkeeper Rui Patricio appearing in 6 of them 7 games where Wolves have kept a clean sheet, does this Wolves defence deserve just as much credit as Raul Jimenez and Adama Traore get given for their recent efforts?

Chelsea 2-1 Manchester City – Chelsea beat Manchester City to get a vital 3 points in the race for top 4 as Liverpool are now confirmed as Premier League champions after this Manchester City defeat at Stamford Bridge. 

First half: 

It was the visitors Manchester City who saw most of the ball early on as expected and it was the visitors who had the first big opportunity when the Brazilian Fernandinho headed on a Riyad Mahrez free kick which was well tipped the crossbarover by goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga to keep the score goalless. 

Despite Manchester City largely having the better of the opening 36 minutes it was Chelsea who took the lead when City left back Benjamin Mendy inexcusably gave the ball away on the half way line which allowed winger Christian Pulisic to run through and slot the ball past Ederson and put Chelsea a goal up in a vital game. 

The goal appeared to give Chelsea some confidence for the rest of the half the Blues managed to see it through rather comfortably till half time and be a goal up going in to the break, a lead that was popular at both Stamford Bridge and Anfield as Liverpool were 45 minutes away from the Premier League title. 

Second half: 

Manchester City knew it was going to take a special performance in the second half to come away from Stamford Bridge with all 3 points and just 10 minutes in to the second half former Chelsea midfielder Kevin De Bruyne returned to Stamford Bridge and scored a spectacular free kick to bring Manchester City level to scored his second goal in two starts since the restart of the Premier League. 

A couple minutes later and Manchester City missed a massive opportunity to take the lead when Riyad Mahrez put through fellow winger Raheem Sterling who unfortunately for the visitors went on to hit the post as Sterling failed to end his record of never scoring a goal at Stamford Bridge. 

Chelsea had a chance to retake the lead when Christian Pulisic went through and took the ball round Ederson, however, Pulisic saw his finish amazingly blocked on the line by Kyle Walker in what was one of the best goal line clearances you are ever likely to see by the Manchester City and England right back to deny Chelsea what looked a certain goal. 

The biggest moment of the game came in the 77th minute when in a mighty scramble in the Manchester City box ended with Fernandinho handling the ball to stop Tammy Abraham from scoring, the referee didn’t give the penalty but VAR did and not only was it a penalty for Chelsea, it was a red card for Fernandinho also to give Chelsea a massive opportunity to win the game. Willian stepped up for the penalty and made no mistake to give Chelsea a 2-1 lead as the Blues were on course to go 5 points clear in the top 4 race and perhaps hand Liverpool the title in the process. 

Manchester City had no answers for the remainder of the game as Chelsea held on for a vital 2-1 win as Chelsea went 5 points clear of 5th place and this Manchester City defeat meant their two year grip on the Premier League trophy was now relinquished and Liverpool were now Premier League champions for the first time in 30 years. 

Full time 

Man of the match: 

Christian Pulisic – The Chelsea winger was a constant threat to the Manchester City defence all game by worked tirelessly, and then topping off his performance with a fine finish to open the scoring in what might have been Christian Pulisic’s most important Chelsea goal to date. 

Fascinating facts: 

Pep Guardiola has now lost 3 out of his 4 meetings at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League. 

This was only Christian Pulisic’s second goal at Stamford Bridge. 

Kevin De Bruyne has now scored in his last two appearances at Stamford Bridge with both goals coming outside to penalty area. 

This was the first time Willian has scored a penalty at Stamford Bridge since in the Premier League since December 2017 when he scored in a 5-0 home win against Stoke City. 

Manchester City have lost 8 Premier League games this season which is the most ever under Pep Guardiola. 

This was the first time Frank Lampard has defeated Pep Guardiola in his managerial career. 

A Chelsea result has now officially decided where the Premier League title ends up in 4 of the last 6 Premier League seasons. 

Talking points: 

Liverpool are Premier League champions – Yes, Liverpool did not even kick a ball in this match, however, how can this not be the main talking point? Liverpool for the first time in 30 years have won the top flight of English football thanks to this Chelsea victory at Stamford Bridge. 

Huge victory for Chelsea in the race for Champions League places – Chelsea regained their 5 point gap ahead of Manchester United and Wolverhampton Wanderers in the race for 4th place with this victory and Lampard may look back on this victory at the end of the season as a massive moment of significance. 

Huge Benjamin Mendy mistake the key moment to setChelsea on their way to victory – Manchester City’s left back Benjamin Mendy has struggled defensively at times this season and this trip to Stamford Bridge was no different with the Frenchmen needlessly giving the ball away to allow Christian Pulisic to open the scoring in what was a massive turning point of this game. 

Kevin De Bruyne special free kick – The Belgian midfielder may have been on the losing side but that didn’t stop him producing one of the best free kicks of the season to equalise for Manchester City in a goal that deserves to be replayed many times in the future. 

Raheem Sterling miss at 1-1 a huge missed chance for Man City – Raheem Sterling went one on one with Kepa just after the equaliser and the Englishmen unfortunately for the visitors hit the post and had this gone in it might well have given Manchester City the confidence to go on and win the match. 

VAR 100% correct to award Chelsea a penalty and send off Fernandinho – Referee Stuart Attwell originally never noticed a blatant Fernandinho hand ball which stopped a certain Tammy Abraham goal, however, with VAR introduced looking at the replays it seemed very obvious that it was a penalty and a red card for Fernandinho which VAR correctly gave which Willian then converted and gave Chelsea the win. Manchester City relinquish their Premier League crown – Manchester City have been the champions of England for the last two seasons accumulating a record total of 198 points in two seasons, however this was the day where Pep Guardiola and Manchester City said goodbye to the Premier League title for a year at least even if it was a case of when not if this season.