Matchday 19: continued
Welcome to the second part of this article and today I’ll be reviewing the remaining matches of matchday 19. Without further ado, let’s get started.
West Ham United vs West Bromwich Albion: 2–1
Sam Allardyce has had even more pressure placed on him, after his Baggies team loses yet again. The only team worse than them is Sheffield United, which is something NOT to be proud of. West Ham, on the other hand, clinched yet another win as they continue to overachieve under David Moyes, which is something to be proud of. Their tactics were on point, and Michail Antonio’s return helped as he assisted one goal and scored the other. However, my MOTM is Jarrod Bowen. The former Hull City hitman has sealed his place in the starting 11, and seems to be one of the best signings West Ham have made in recent times. If he keeps up his electrifying form, he may even get a move to a bigger club.
Leicester City vs Chelsea: 2–0
This result was potentially the largest one, but most people at the time didn’t know that, including me. Why, you ask? Apparently, this was the last nail in Frank Lampard’s coffin, as he was sacked just a few days ago, and Has been replaced by Thomas Tuchel. Leicester City were miles ahead of Chelsea in terms of tactics, and James Maddison scored YET again to solidify his importance to the Foxes. Obviously, my MOTM is James Maddison, who has been playing amazingly in recent weeks. The Englishman has proven himself to be one of the hottest talents in the PL, and will aim to further improve himself as the title race and top 4 race heats up.
Manchester City vs Aston Villa: 2–0
Manchester City showed their class again as they defeated a strong Villa side to inch closer to the PL title, but the game was marred by an incorrect VAR decision, which led to Bernando Silva’s goal. Other than that, the Citizens played really well, and will be satisfied with the result. Aston Villa, however, will be hugely disappointed since they had played so well till that horror goal, after which all hell broke loose. My MOTM is Bernando Silva. Despite his goal being questionably illegal, it still was a good one, and his great performance continues his rich vein of form. He has been consistently good for the Sky Blues, but is one of a few players who have improved massively this season as he takes his game to the next level.
Fulham vs Manchester United: 1–2
The result was expected, but what was not expected that Fulham would put up such a fight. Manchester United continue their title challenge with the win, after Edinson Cavani and Paul Pogba both bagged goals for the Manchester side. Fulham, on the other hand, played extremely well, but struggled to finish off any creative moves, highlighting the need for a new striker. My MOTM has to be Edinson Cavani. The Urugayan has had a good start to life in the PL, netting multiple times for the Red Devils despite being mainly used as a sub. His three-match ban showed us how Man Utd really required an out-and-out striker, and they will be happy he’s back, and he’s also continued scoring.
Everton vs Leicester City: 1–1
This match wasn’t as lively as expected, but was exciting nevertheless. Brendan Rodgers’ men were clearly the better side, but Everton maximized opportunities even if they got a very small chunk of possession. Both teams played well, but i can’t help but feel the Foxes deserved the 3 points. My MOTM is James Rodriguez, who put on a great display as he netted once again to hand Everton a point. The Columbian had been in electrifying form till last December , but the exhausting schedule caught up with him as he didn’t really churn out the numbers he used to, until now. This goal will be hugely motivating for him, and he’ll hope to continue to provide goals and assists for the Toffees.
Tottenham vs Liverpool: 1–3
what a surprise. Liverpool, Jurgen Klopp’s high-pressing team has won Jose’s bus-parkers. In Mourinho’s defence, this performance was truly a tactical masterclass by Jurgen Klopp, and Liverpool performed way better than they did in the FA Cup. The Reds barely edged the Lilywhites in terms of stats, but their offensive play was miles ahead of the Spurs, and thus Jose’s defenders literally struggled to cope. They tried their best in the first half, but all hell broke loose in the second. Jose better up his game, or he may have a hard time convincing Levy that he is the man for the Tottenham job. My MOTM has to be Trent Alexander-Arnold, who finally showed his talents fully against the Spurs. This season has been tough on TAA, and he will be happy to be back on the scoresheet.
My POTW is James Maddison, who bagged two goals this matchday, and has been one of the most in-form players in the Premier League. The young Englishman has been amazing these past few weeks, and will be a crucial player in the title race.
So, that’s all for MatchDay 19. I hope you enjoyed the reviews, and do look out for the next reviews on Matchday 20 and 21. Till next time, ciao.
