Arsenal turned the screw on their Premier League title rivals with a professional 3-0 win over a dogged Sunderland, opening up a massive nine point gap at the summit after a dramatic Saturday of action that saw Manchester United’s revival continue and Tottenham’s discipline unravel.
Gunners Show Patience to Pull Clear
Mikel Arteta’s league leaders were forced to bide their time against a well organised Sunderland at the Emirates, with the breakthrough only coming three minutes before half time. Leandro Trossard’s clever cut back found Martin Zubimendi, who steered a composed finish into the corner to ease the growing tension.
The points were sealed by the impact of Arteta’s bench. Substitute Kai Havertz, on for the tiring Trossard, squared for fellow replacement Viktor Gyokeres to tap home a second just after the hour. The Swedish striker, a constant menace since his introduction, grabbed his second deep into stoppage time, latching onto a through ball to round off a win that sends a formidable message. With Manchester City travelling to Anfield tomorrow, the Gunners have piled the pressure on.
United March On as Romero Sees Red
At Old Trafford, Manchester United made it four wins from four under Michael Carrick with a 2-0 victory over Tottenham, a match defined by Cristian Romero’s moment of madness. The Spurs captain, who has been vocal about the club’s recent transfer business, was shown a straight red card in the 29th minute for a reckless, studs up challenge on Bruno Fernandes.
United made the numerical advantage count before the break, Bryan Mbeumo firing home after a slick move. They controlled the second half and sealed the win late on, Bruno Fernandes converting from Diogo Dalot’s cross to complete a miserable afternoon for Thomas Frank’s side, whose top four hopes took another hit.
Palmer Hat Trick Fires Chelsea, Brentford Stun Newcastle
Cole Palmer was the star of the show at Molineux, netting a first half hat trick, including two penalties to fire Chelsea to a 3-1 win at Wolves. Liam Rosenior’s Blues have now won four league games on the bounce, surging up the table with a new found ruthlessness.
The result of the day, however, belonged to Brentford. They emerged from a five goal thriller at St James’ Park with a stunning 3-2 win over Newcastle. The lead changed hands twice before Dango Ouattara slammed home a late winner to lift the Bees to seventh, heaping more pressure on Eddie Howe.
Around the Grounds
Aston Villa’s title charge stalled after being held 1-1 at Bournemouth.
Everton came from behind to beat Fulham 2-1 thanks to a cruel late own goal from Bernd Leno.
West Ham boosted their survival hopes with a crucial 2-0 win at doomed looking Burnley.
Leeds gave their survival bid a huge lift with a 3-1 Friday night win over Nottingham Forest.
The table now has a formidable look for Arsenal, while the chase for Europe and the fight for survival grew even more intense. All eyes now turn to Anfield today, where Liverpool host Manchester City in a match that could decide if the title race is truly over.
