In the last game of Saturday’s Premiership program, Manchester United managed to beat Burnley on the road and to continue with solid performances.
Manchester Going Up
Solskajer’s boys posted their second win in a row, indicating that they might heal after a series of shaky performances. The Red Devils defeated Burnley with 0-2 at Turf Moore, playing a very good game against an opponent who is a tough nut to crack for any team in the league.
United had the first big chance in the 19th minute when Rashford’s shot scratched the post. The guests from Manchester were much better in the opening half, and they didn’t allow the hosts to be dangerous as they often know when playing in front of their own fans.
Anthony Martial had his first attempt in the 34th minute, but his shot was blocked by one of Clarets’ defenders. However, the French international broke the lock of the hosts one minute before the halftime, after Charlie Taylor’s massive mistake. Perreira found Martial almost immediately, and the pacey forward scored for 0-1.
The hosts headed for the locker room without a single big chance in front of United’s net.
During the second half, we haven’t seen that much action on the field, but it was obvious that United controlled the pace and the game flow.
Finally, once hosts opened and went all or nothing, the Red Devils made a superb counter-attack which resulted in Martial’s goal in the fifth minute of the injury time. It meant that United kept its invincibility against Burnley, extending it to nine matches.
Tottenham Escapes Death
Norwich was on the verge of trashing Tottenham and Jose Mourinho earlier today. The Canaries had a 1-0 lead after the first 45 minutes and could have scored at least once or twice more. In the end, the Spurs went home with one point in their pocket due to Eriksen’s and Kane’s goals.
Yet, this contest was also marked by a lot of controversies, as the referee had several pretty doubtful decisions. At first, he would disallow the goal for Norwich with 1-0 for the hosts. Allegedly one of their players was offside, but it couldn’t be told with confidence.
The second time, the situation which preceded Eriksen’s equalizer wasn’t checked, although Harry Kane found himself offside. Later on, the Spurs captain scored an equalizer from the penalty.
In the meantime, Serge Aurier scored an own goal.
In other games, Leicester defeated West Ham, 1-2, and force the Hammers management to fire Manuel Pellegrini. For some time, the experienced manager was under pressure to improve the team’s performance, but he failed in that intention. We’ll see what happens next with the team from London who will have a lot of problems in finding a new manager.
Earlier today, Watford smashed Aston Villa with 3-0. This is a win that brings back the Hornets to life and gives them a chance to fight to stay in the Premiership.
Southampton and Crystal Palace played 1-1, and in the opening match of the day, Brighton defeated Bournemouth 2-0.
