1. Rogers and Emery Combine for Heist
Do the final scores tell the whole story? That is the question. The Villans' triumphant run persisted with a win over Manchester United, accompanied by the nagging doubts. They were the lesser team by a number of key indicators – a lower shot count (12-15), a smaller share of the ball (43-57), fewer big chances (2-3). Once again, the victory was by a narrow margin. In keeping with form, statistical models sided with the opposition: reports suggest United edged it 1.31-1.02. However, supporters understand games are decided on the pitch, not on spreadsheets. They are won by cohesive units, shrewd management and moments of magic – and Villa have all three. The young forward may be their sole standout, but he is performing as a timely gift. The Villa manager is crafty, battle-hardened, significantly more advanced of the United boss. The fact Rogers took advantage from a positional error, that was probably because the coach had detected that his opponent was uncomfortable, and directed his attacker to take up a wide position, move infield and torment him. Skill and strategy, in perfect harmony.
2. Persistent Problems for Amorim's United
Back in October after defeating Brighton 4-2 on 25 October, their fans began to believe again. They had won three league games on the bounce for the initial occasion under their manager. They ascended to fourth. And the wins were solid results – over Brighton (a traditionally tricky opponent), Liverpool (at Anfield!) and Sunderland (at Old Trafford, against a promoted club, but still – an untroubled victory). Their keeper provided stability, Bryan Mbeumo offered threat and there was a positive mood. But then United returned to poor form. In a run of eight matches, two wins, six disappointing results. In the recent fixture they were superior for large periods without ever looking like winning. Yes, their forward scored a fine effort, but he also missed a sitter. Yes, United were unlucky with injuries (to important midfielders), but they gave away cheap scores. Since his arrival in England, the coach continues to struggle with how to win consistently.
3. Arsenal Grind Out a Vital Victory
It was an evening fixture on the Saturday before Christmas but a distinct lack of quality in the attacking areas made for a forgettable match. For Everton, the issue was predictable with offensive players absent, and Jack Grealish struggling to lift an entire team by himself. In many respects it is astonishing that Everton were in fifth place in the table recently given they have played the whole campaign without a reliable number nine. For Arsenal and their manager, while he enjoyed a merited victory and ascending to the summit of the table, the deficiency should be of similar concern given their designs on the Premier League. The manager claimed that positive results will inevitably be more emphatic with dedication and persistence. But it is fairly soon in the season for a team that can start with international stars, while leaving exciting options on the bench, to be dependent on scrappy victories.
4. Guardiola’s Festive City Investigations
Over the festive period the Catalan coach will conduct fitness tests to ensure his Manchester City players have not enjoyed excessive celebrations. Guardiola said his squad requested to have a rest day after their latest win but he refused because the performance was insufficient. So the schedule involves rehabilitation, sessions for the fringe men, and post-holiday, then 48 hours of preparation for the next fixture. He explained how improvements can be made. “My strength is deciphering what happens in the game, locating the gaps – if the players were in optimal spots, we could generate more chances.” The boss also plans to enjoy a rest: “I'm taking a break with the family and champagne. I'm going to Barcelona – it's highly recommended, the food is excellent.”
5. A Costly Goal: Isak's Injury Mars Liverpool Win
Alexander Isak’s goal at Tottenham felt, for a brief instant, like an arrival. This was exactly what Liverpool paid all that money for him to do, to break tight games with his clever positioning and composure, and the assurance with which he converted from an incisive ball was highly promising. So the image of him leaving immediately, the victim of a reckless attempt, was a huge concern for Arne Slot and disappointing for the spectator who would like to see a top-class forward reach his peak again. There are fears Isak has suffered a broken leg and he probably endures a extended spell on the sidelines. It would be a huge loss with Slot’s team having steadily climbed towards the top four, putting together a six-game unbeaten run bookended by Isak’s first Premier League goals in their colours. Their prospects appear tied up with those of their prize asset.
6. Penalty Debate Rages After Newcastle Draw
Managers often complain about controversial calls as a means of diverting the narrative from matters they would prefer were not talked about. The numerous points Newcastle have dropped from winning positions this season is a prime example. Their manager certainly did not seem overly keen to mention that problematic pattern following his side’s inability to hold onto a 2-0 lead against Chelsea in a game they ended up drawing. Yet the Magpies' boss was surely correct to highlight a decision made by the referee not to award his team a penalty following a clear obstruction on Anthony Gordon. With the score then 2-1, a spot-kick could have altered the outcome. Was the decision to offer the defender the benefit of considerable doubt informed by the player's history for being skilled at winning penalties and sometimes going down too easily? The take of a former England striker was notable. “He anticipates the contact,” he said. “He knows the challenge is coming and he’s waiting for it. I think he’s ready to go down. But the force and aggression there … it's more than just defending.”
7. A 99.17% Certainty
Brentford’s initial success on their travels this season spelled a welcome result for their manager. More than just enjoying the victory, Andrews expressed empathy for Wolves, the club he started his career with. “My formative years were here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is beyond dire; data analysts state – perhaps generously – their chances of relegation at virtually certain, leaving little tangible to fight for beyond honour. A experienced defender brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
