Liverpool hanging on
Liverpool proved in their match against Watford that they have exactly what it takes to be crowned champions (Spurs take note). The current leaders came out of the blocks full of desire and energy with the incredible Mane leading the charge. Klopp’s men wasted little time finding the net as Mane scored to put the home side ahead after 9 minutes of play.
His second goal followed shortly on the 20th minute and what a goal it was. It will definitely go down as one of the greatest goals scored in the premier league history (yes i said it!!!). He sublimely back healed the ball past the out-rushing Watford goalkeeper after his controlled first touch set up the opportunity. Watford had it all to do and rarely gave Liverpool any worries. Van Dyke also joined in on the fun banging in two headed goals and Origi got in on the act also. The game ended 5-0 to Liverpool and deservedly so.
It was a good day for Arsenal also who are pushing for the final champions league spot as they easily saw of Bournemouth at the emirates. The game saw the return of the ever neglected Mesut Ozil and the German international marked his return to first team action with a goal in the 4th minute. Arsenal fired on all cylinders and won the game 5-1.
Manchester United are also fighting for the 4th spot along with Chelsea respectively and both teams won their respective matches. Man Utd won 3-1 against Crystal Palace with Young and Lukaku grabbing the goals. Chelsea won 2-0 at home to Tottenham leaving them 3 points from 4th place. Spurs let themselves down again and played poorly against Chelsea. I think it’s safe to say that the title dream is permanently over for Tottenham.
In the other games, Manchester City won 1-0 against West Ham, Southampton beat Fulham 2-0, Everton won 3-0 against Cardiff, Newcastle United won 2-0 against Burnley, Huddersfield defeated Wolves at home 1-0 and Leicester won 2-1 against Brighton.
Other News
Fulham have sacked boss Claudio Ranieri after 17 matches. Ranieri will be succeeded by Scott Parker who takes the helm as caretaker manager until the end of the season. The tinkerman only managed 3 wins in 17 matches which is a far cry from the heroics and miracle he performed with Leicester in their premier league winning campaign.
As much as we all love Ranieri, unfortunately you get judged on results. The 2-0 defeat against Southampton proved enough for the club’s hierarchy to take action and relief him of his duties at Craven Cottage.
Whilst we say goodbye to one manager we are happy to welcome another to the premier league. Brenda Rodgers has been confirmed as the new Leicester City manager having left Celtic. Much has been written about his Celtic legacy, however the premier league offers a different Challenge and he will be very aware of what to expect.
Rodgers previously managed Swansea and Liverpool and almost won the league with the latter if not for the now infamous Steven Gerrard slip (the memories!!!). He will be ready and chomping at the bit am sure (lets hope he lasts longer than 5 minutes).
Arrivederci Ranieri!!!
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