Premier League Festive Football: best matches
In the latest round of Premier League quick-fire-games, Boxing Day didn’t disappoint for goals or holidays entertainment! The Holidays always provides us a plethora of football: here’s our three picks for the best action.
Bournemouth 3-3 West Ham
Controversial yet compelling for the neutral supporter. West Ham have now reportedly made a formal complaint against referee Stuart Attwell. The contested late equaliser from Bournemouth costing two points for the Hammers. A frantic match which gave the viewer almost everything.
West Ham’s defender James Collins, AKA “The Ginger Pele”, began goalscoring proceedings with a powerful header from a corner. The Cherries then equalised then took the lead through their centre-back Nathan Ake. A horrendous slip and mishandle from ‘keeper Asmir Begovic handed West Ham the lead.
The game’s controversial moment, naturally, came from the 93rd minute equaliser from Callum Wilson. The header by Wilson was ruled a goal despite Assistant Referee being overruled as he flagged. This was despite the striker standing in an offside position when the ball was played, not to mention the ball brushing his arm.
"“The worst of it is the player put it in with his arm!”David Moyes – post game (BBC)"
This entertainment gives the Premier League its undeniable addictive nature. Although obviously disappointing even unfair for the West Ham contingent. In their next fixture against West Brom it could be they who profit from misfortune or luck. Video replay technology should again be brought into conversation as a consequence of Attwell’s decision.
Spurs 5-2 Southampton
Spurs are back with a bang, scoring eight in two games since losing at the Etihad Stadium. The wins, including two Harry Kane hat-tricks in as many games solidify the North London club’s rank of fifth in the Premier League. Southampton were only able to get their consolation goals after Tottenham were 4-0, then 5-1 up respectively.
The electrifying Son Heung-Min as an ever-present has breathed new life into Spurs’ play. Linking teammates with fluidity is apparently seamless as Mauricio Pochettino’s men stroll into the business end of the season. Wembley can now be the fortress the Spurs Support longed for.
Christian Eriksen has been instrumental in proceedings, the cool-headed Dane is imperative to league not to mention cup success. Another reason for victory to accentuate is the reemergence of Dele Alli’s impeccable quality, another strong contributing factor of their current good form. If he keeps his temper in check he will become an international star during the World Cup in June. The England midfielder bagged a goal with three assists in the Southampton demolition and the impressive 3-0 win at Burnley on Saturday.
Manchester United 2-2 Burnley
Sean Dyche’s star continues to rise, rightly so! The transformation made by a club which has a population of 70,000 in the town, is remarkable. Dyche’s progression is inspirational, career enhancing or defining. They could have been more positive in the second half rather than capitulating in their attempt to safeguard.
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The Red Devils again look more deadly in attack than secure in defence. Ashley Barnes had put The Clarets ahead after indecision from United’s backline. Then the defence went in to decisively: Ashley Young committing a rushed foul in a dangerous position. The resulting free-kick was dispatched beautifully by Steven Defour. He curled it “Beckham-esque” past arguably the world’s best goalkeeper, David De Gea, from 25 yards.
Man-in-form Jesse Lingard’s brace rescued Jose Mourinho’s men again. Five points from a possible nine for them is a mediocre return of points considering they played much lower placed sides. Their struggling £75 million striker Romelu Lukaku again fired a blank with multiple chances created by his team. Contrarily, Burnley will consider it a splendid point gained despite yielding a two goal lead.
Next: Kane wasn't the only player to shine...
"“There is nothing other than pride in what we’ve achieved today.”– Sean Dyche"