Premier League Review Week 4

Bolton Wanderers 0 - 5 Manchester United

With Javier Hernandez back in the United starting line up it looked an even more attack minded starting eleven that put 8 past Arsenal. It was to be a long day for the Bolton team and the home fans in the Reebok stadium. With this being a local derby some poor tackles were made early on, in particular by Kevin Davies. His sliding challenge form behind on Tom Kleverly resulted in a free kick for United, but should of warranted a yellow card. A few minutes later Kleverly limped from the field unable to play a further part in proceedings, - he was replaced by Michael Carrick. United continued to probe for the opener and when Nani picked the ball up wide on the right, he crossed near post and Hernandez got in front of his marker to score right footed in the bottom corner. Bolton had their chance to equalise, but Rooney of all people blocked a shot on his own goal line. Jones then sent in a cross from the right to find Rooney unmarked and he easily made it 2. Phil Jones then went on a great run beating a couple of defenders and although it was slightly fortunate to fall to Wayne Rooney, he made no mistake to turn and shoot right footed and United were 3 in front and it was game over. This with only 25 minutes on the clock. Nani was causing a lot of trouble down the right and when he crossed again for Hernandez, - he slotted the ball home, only for it to be ruled out for offside. This didn't change much as Nani did brilliiantly again to send the ball across for Hernandez again, who made no mistake this time and it was now Bolton 0 - 4 United. Bolton had a glimmer of hope as Nigel Reo - Coker struck a dipping right footed strike goalwards, only to see it rebound off the bar. Then United continued to ply the pressure as they currently seem to have the ability to score at will. Nani again down the right found Rooney in the box and he shot right footed across his body in to the far corner past a\ hapless Jaaskelainen in the Bolton goal. Another dazzling display by Utd., with Rooney getting his second hat-trick in successive games. They face Chelsea next and you would have to fancy Utd. on current form.

Manchester City 3 - 0 Wigan Athletic

Roberto Mancini started with the slightly surprise pairing of Tevez and Aguero up front as City went in search of another victory. Kompany had a chance early on for the home side, only to see his goal bound header deflect over after coming off his own team mate Julian Lescott. In the middle of the park Da Silva was once more instrumental in everything City did. His neat pass to Aguero in the box resulted in the first goal. Aguero struck the ball low low and right footed in to the far corner to continue his good start to the season. Wigan did have a chance to equalise through De Santo. He managed to get on to a ball following some poor defending by Kompany, only to tamely poke the ball wide as Harte came rushing out of his goal. Wigan were to regret that missed effort as Johnson played Da Silva through he knocked the ball passed the on rushing Lopez, who bundled him over and the referee had to award the penalty. Up steppped Carlos Tevez to get on the scoresheet, but he scuffed his shot to Al Habsis right and he saved easily. Then Tevez tried to redeem himself as he played Micah Richards in on goal, only for the defender to get the ball stuck under his feet and hit the bar when it was easier to score. City continued to threaten the Wigan goal as Milner swung in a corner from the right Victor Kompany rose highest, only to see his header come back off the post. Victor Moses created space for Rodaalega to shoot, but although Harte couldn't hold it the shot was straight at him. Samir Nasri was then brought on and made an immediate impact when he linked up with David Da Silva to play Aguero in for his second. Da Silva continued to shine, showing great footwork to beat two players he then released aguero, who calmly slotted home for City and his third of the afternoon. Another good result for City and it will be interesting when they come up against the other big clubs to see how far they really have come on.

Stoke City 1 - 0 Liverpool

Peter Crouch made his home debut for Stoke in front of the adoring Brittania home fans. Liverpool had a big penalty shout turned down early on. Skrtel through the ball in from the right and when Dirk Kuyt flicked the ball on it came off the out stretched arm of Rory Delap and Liverpool will feel hard done by. Things were made worse as when John Walters got the wrong side of Carragher and went down in the box the referee awarded the penalty to the home side. Walters took the penalty himself and made no mistake as he blasted the ball down the middle to put Stoke in front. Liverpool had their chances, especially in the second half. Jose Enrique pass split the defence and put Jordan Henderson clean through on goal, but he shot tamely at Begovic. The ball rebounded and both Henderson and Charlie Adam saw their respective efforts either blocked bravely by Stoke defenders or saved brilliantly by Begovic in the Stoke goal. Luis Suarez then appealed for a penalty after the ball hit Matthew Upsons leg and then glanced his arm. It was never a penalty and Suarez' over zealous ranting at the referees aassistant saw him getting booked. Suarez had a chance to equalise right at the end for Liverpool after Begovic palmed a cross in to his path, but form only ten yards out and with half the goal at his mercy he pulled his shot wide. Liverpool may feel hard done by with the penalty incedents, but Stoke again show how difficult they are to beat, especially at the Brittania.

Everton 2 - 2 Aston Villa

Villa lost Emile Heskey early on through injury and he was replaced by Barry Bannan. This was a game that both managers could of done with winning, but David Moyes and his chairman Bill Kenwright were facing some serious protests from some fans following the lack of investment in the transfer window. Villa lost Emile Heskey early on through injury and he was replaced by Barry Bannan. Then Everton sprung to life with Tim Cahill playing a neat reverse ball to Leon Osman who scored. Jack Rodwell also came close as his deflected shot spun wide having sent Shay Given the wrong way. Leighton Baines did well down the left and seemed to be tripped in the box in front of the referee, but he waved play on. Villa then took their chance as Warnock squared the ball to Petrov he curled the ball right footed from almost 30 yards out past a hapless Tim Howard in the Everton goal to equalise. Following an Everton corner Cahill headed goalwards, but Given made a good save only for the ball to go up in the air and Delph climbed all over Jagielka and the referee awarded the penalty. Leighton Baines stepped up and sent Shay Given the wrong way to put Everton back in front. This lead didn't last for long as Albrighton sent in a cross from the left and Agbonlahor rose unchallenged in the 6 yard box to head the equaliser. It finished 2 - 2 and both sides will be relatively happy. Villa remain unbeaten and Everton begin life without Arteta well enough, but could do with a win to lift some pressure.

Arsenal 1 - 0 Swansea

Arteta and Mertesacker started for Arsenal, but it was Arteta who nearly made an immediate impression. He played a nice ball through tho Ramsey who shot over when should of hit the target at the least. Danny Graham had a chance for Swansea and he too should of opened his account as he got his toe on to a cross 6 yards out, only to see Szczesny get down smart to make the save. In an open encounter with both sides trying to create and play neat football there was always going to be chances. Theo Walcott had a shot cleared off the line by Caulker who clashed with the post as a result. Walcott tried his look again only to see his shot deflected and collected comfortably by Worm in the Swansea goal. As the players were running out Worm threw the ball off his own defender and Andrey Arshavin reacted first and slotted the ball left footed in to the empty goal. A terrible mistake by the Swansea keeper which they would regret. Arsenal were poor after this and their fans went very quiet. Sinclair had a chance for Swansea after he was fouled just outside the box by Koscielny. Sinclair took the free kick himself only to see it rebound off the bar. Arsenals best chances fell to Robin Van Persie and Marouane Chamakh. Van Persie did well to create space on the edge of the box and his right footed strike almost went in, but it came off the far post and wide. Chamakh should have scored following a good cross by Gibbs his header from 6 yards out was saved comfortably by Worm. Graham had another chance to equalise for Swansea, but he couldn't keep the ball down. Arsenal will be happy with the 3 points, if not the performance, following their infamous drubbing by United. Swansea again played well and showed they can compete, but once more their lack of goals is a major concern.

Sunderland 1 - 2 Chelsea

On paper a tough away game for Chelsea. Torres is left on the bench as Anelka, Mata and Meireles all start for Chelsea. Anelka won a free early on for Chelsea on the edge of Sunderlands 18 yard box. Juan Mata took it and was unlucky for it to hit the post. Chelsea managed to get the ball back in to the box and fter his first attempt was blocked John Terry made no mistake with his second effort. He shot left footed and low in to the corner and Chelsea were in front. Chelsea were steady if not spectacular throughout. In the second half a telling ball from Meireles found Daniel Sturridge and he scored with an audacious back heel. Sunderland didn't offer much throughout and were well beaten, although they did score a consilation in the last minute through new signing Dong-Won Ji.

Wolverhampton Wanderers 0 - 2 Tottenham Hotspur

Spurs started the game with a strong new look midfield of Modric, Parker and Kranjcar. Everything came from these three who were creative, yet assured and safe with Parker tidying up. Wolves had a chance early on as Jamie O'Hara struck a shot with his left foot only to see Brad Friedel stop it with his fists. Karl Henry also had a good chance following his run by two defenders. He struck left footed, but Friedel got down well to save. For Spurs Defoe had a chance, foolowing O'Haras dwelling on the ball. Defoe capitilised, but his shot was saved by Hennessy. In the second half Spurs got on top. Good work by Kranjcar found Parker who in turn played in Adebayor who went round the keeper to score on his debut. Jermain Defoe then played a ball to Kranjcar and as he went for the return Johnson slipped which allowed Defoe to get in the box to score the second and Spurs were comfortable winners in the end.

Norwich City 0 - 1 West Bromwich Albion

Norwich again will feel hard done by not to get anything from this game. Poor defending early on by De Laet let in Peter Odemwingie to score a goal which proved to be decisive, after only 3 minutes. Graham Dorrans had a chance to make it 2 nil, but his left footed shot came back off the post. In the second half a clumbsy challenge by Morrisson on Reid saw Norwich conceed their 4th penalty in as many games. Odemwingie took the penalty only to see it saved well  by young Norwich keeper Declan Rudd. Norwich had their own appeal for a penalty turned down. Vaughan seemed to be elbowed blatantly by Tamas. With blood streaming from his mouth and nose vaughan received treatment and a new jersey. So upset was he about the challenge that he tried to get to Tamas after the final whistle on the pitch and then in the tunnel, only for his own players to talk him down. Norwich again won't be happy with refereeing decisions seemingly going against them, but they need to improve in defence and in front of goal.

Fulham 1 - 1 Blackburn Rovers

The former FC twente top scorer Brian Ruiz started for Fulham, although he didn't show an awful lot in his first game. Blackburn should of scored early on only for Rochina weak effort to be comfortably saved by Schwarzer. Then a poor back pass by Blackburns new defender Scott Dann Gave Bobby Zamora a Chance. He picked up the loose ball and ran through on goal, only to be bundled to the ground by Salgado. Fulham wanted a penalty, but the referee said it was accidental. Rovers then took the lead through a great left footed strike by Ruben Rochina. Fulham didn't stay behind for long as Zamora latched on to another loose ball to side foot neatly in to level. For Fulham Riise played well  and put in some great crosses in to the box keeping Blackburn uder pressure throughout the game. Blackburns David ( Jr ) Hoilett created most of their chances and looked good on the ball. Unfortunately he had a horrible clash of heads with Schwarzer as he chased on to a through ball. Both players stayed down and Hoilett came off worse as he had to be stretchered off. He was slightly concust and required stitches. Schwarzer continued, but received a yellow card for the collision. Fulham are still failing to shine at the moment under Martin Jol and Steve Kean will be happier to come away with the draw.

Rugby World Cup 2011 Preview

Rugby World Cup 2011 Preview

The 2011 Rugby World Cup is to be played in New Zealand from 9th September - 23rd October. It will be played across 12 different stadia, - with some purpose built for the occasion. South Africa arrive as defending champions, but it's the home nation who are odds on favourites with the bookmakers to win their second world cup. If they turn up and play to their ability they should win, although their will be significant pressure on Graham Henry's men to deliver in front of their adoring home crowd. This will be a major advantage for the All Blacks, but also a huge burden to carry aswell as the fear of not succeeding, which will be unacceptable to most fans, has to be kept at bay.

New Zealand - Graham Henry is under a lot of pressure to deliver the World Cup for New Zealand. In a rugby mad country the people don't just believe they can win, they expect to win. Players with the abilities of out-half Dan Carter and centre Conrad Smith can change games from nothing in to victory. Then they have the leader in flanker Richie McCaw who inspires his own team mates, yet strikes fear in to opponents. He is currently on 95 caps for the All Blacks and should make it over the milestone of 100 caps during this tournament. One of their major concerns at present is the ankle injury to their number 8 Kieran Read. This is a major blow to the team as he is expected to miss the first 2-3 games. Although having recently lost to Australia the World Cup is theirs to lose if they can deal with the pressure and not choke as they have before.

Australia - Having just beaten the All Blacks and looking impressive in Brisbane they will feel they are coming in to the tournament in good form and with a very good chance of winning. It might surprise some fans that Matt Giteau didn't even make the squad, but this also shows the Wallabies current strength in depth. Having the likes of Rocky Elsom fit and back from injury is a major bonus, not only as a player, but as former captain a great on field leader and motivator. The exciting James O'Connor will also be back in the team following suspension and will be vital to their chances of progress. All things going to plan they should clash with England in the semi-final.

South Africa - The current holders of the Rugby World Cup and although the Springboks are currently going through a transition period with a lot of young and inexperienced players in the team they can't be written off. They performed well to beat New Zealand during the summer and have a lot of players returning to full fitness following injuries who they weren't able to call on during the summer. They will still be a tough team to break down and beat. With a captain in John Smit on over 100 caps and knowing what it takes to win the World Cup - he won't be giving it up  without a fight.

France - A team that most fans enjoy watching as the style and flare in which they play the game can be great to watch. The biggest problem France will encounter is themselves and possibly their head coach Marc Livermont. They have the capability to beat most teams on their day, but they don't have the mentality every day. It is not clear what, if any, harmony there is among the squad. With Livermonts replacement already been announced as former winger Philippe Saint-Andre most of the attention will focus off the pitch. Although recently the team have put up some good performances to easily beat a good yard stick in Ireland, you just wouldn't be backing France with a lot of confidence.

England - Powerful if not always the prettiest, which would also describe Martin Johnson. This England team have started to gel and continue to get the job done grinding out results. Are they good enough to compete against the best teams in the world? we should find out in the semi-final, if they meet Australia. As with any team keeping everyone fit will be key to their success, along with the selections and pairings such as scrum half and out half positions. In Ben Fodden and Johnny Wilkinson they have a couple of vital match winners and they will always be hard to break down and defeat. Englands first group game is vital to their on-going success in the tournament. They play Argentina in what will be a very physical encounter. No one will want to lose as the runners-up in the group are likely to meet the All Blacks in the next round.

Wales - Warren Gatlands side face a tough opener to their campaign as they face reigning champions South Africa. With a couple of fitness concerns over some of their props they can't afford any slip ups. If Wales can get at the Springboks and get a result their next round encounter would be made a lot easier. Players like Stephen Jones and Shane Williams are still key to Wales' success after all their years of service, but it's consistency more than anything else that the Welsh must bring in to their play if they want to go far in this tournament.

Ireland - Although Brian O'Driscoll and Paul O'Connor are still sounding confident of a good campaign, - in what will be a lot of the current squads final major tournament. The Irish fans expectations are lower than normal following four straight defeats to Scotland, France ( twice ) and England. To win their group alone will be a tall order as they come up against second favourites Australia. They also have some injury concerns with Gordon D'arcy and Cian Healy flying out later than the rest of the squad and with first choice flanker David Wallace missing the whole tournament. They will be hoping for a big tournament form Sean O'Brien and Jamie Heaslip, but coach Declan Kidney needs to sort out his scrum half selection as the team haven't been connecting as they would have wished in recent months. 

Manchester United v Arsenal

Manchester  United 8 - 2 Arsenal

At first glance the final score line doesn't seem real, but Utd could have easily hit double figures. Was this the day Arsenal drop from the big four. Was it the day Arsene Wenger questions himself or is it still too early to judge him that harshly after only three games of the season. To put some perspective on matters this was the first time in over 100 years that Arsenal had conceeded eight in a league match.

With Manchester City again impressing by hitting 5 past Spurs at White Harte Lane in another convincing display Utd were ready to put down their own marker. Although fielding a second choice defence, due to injuries, and another very young team it was nothing in comparisson to Arsenals inexperienced squad for the day.

From the first whistle Utd could sense and smell the fear among Arsenals players as they started as they meant to go on. Andersons clever lob pass allowed Welbeck to muscle Djourou off to ball and he headed home for the first. The gunners then had a great chance to level matters and get back in to the game as Johnny Evans fouled Theo Walcott in the area, conceedeing a penalty and receiving a yellow card. Robin Van Persie placed the ball low to David De Geas right, but he managed to get down smartly to save, much to the delight of his team mates. To make things worse Utd almost immediately doubled their lead. Ashley Young curled a brilliant strike in to the top corner and their was worse to come for Arsenal. United continued piling on the pressure and when Young was brought down by Jenkinson - who was lucky to stay on the pitch, Rooneys free kick from outside the box flew in to the top corner. Arsenal should have gone home their and then. They did however manage to pull one back just before half time as Walcott got in behind Evra and squeezed the ball through De Geas legs.

In the second things only got worse for Arsenal as Utd continued to dominate and continually create goal scoring oppurtunities. Rooney grabbed his second with another brilliant strike. He then played Nani through and he calmly and cheeily  chipped Cszezny to make it 5-1 and United weren't finished there. Arsenal were poor, but Utd looked so good at times it was scary as they continued to score at will. Rooney had another shot come off the post.

For Arsenal Jenkinsons cross found Van Persie and he blasted home for Arsenals second. This was to be Jenkinsons high light as immediately down the other end he fouled Hernandez, and duly received his second yellow and was on his way for an early shower. Walcott then fouled Evra in the box to give away a penalty. Wayne Rooney grabbed the ball and struck home for his hat-trick on a memorable day for Utd fans.

By now everyone wanted to get on the score sheet and as soon as Park was brought on he struck left footed from outside the box and managed to find the bottom corner. In the ninetieth minute Ashley Young grabbed a second. He cut inside and curled a brilliant shot perfectly in to the far top corner.

A great result for United and a massive coonfidence boost, - if one was needed. For Arsenal a wake up call and a reality check. Will Wenger now finally bring in some much needed new players. With the transfer deadline fast approaching he will have to act soon.

The only down side for United was Danny Welback having to come off in the first half due to a hamstring injury - just as he was making his mark in the first team.

Premier League Review Week 3 Saturdays Matches

Chelsea 3 -- 1 Norwich

Chelsea start the match with the attacking line of Malouda, Torres and Drogba and with Ivanovic partnering John Terry at the centre of defence. Paul Lambert started out with three central defenders to try and combat Chelseas'  attacking options. Within the first couple of minutes Chelsea were showing how big the gap was between these two sides with Ramires going close from outside the box, only to see his shot saved by John Ruddy in the Norwich goal. Things were to get worse for the newly promoted side as Jose Bosingwa let fly from 25 yards out and his shot flew in to the far corner off the post. Only six minutes had elapsed and it looked as though Chelsea could put up a big score, but this wasn't to be. Norwich grew in to the game and started to take control. Chelseas defence again looked shaky as Norwich got in behind them on several occasions. Grant Holt had two great chances, first having been played through by Hoolahan, but he failed to get a touch on it. His second chance came as he spinned off John Terry to get free in the box only to see his downward header saver comfortably by Hillario in the Chelsea goal. Norwich were having good possession and playing good football aswell. In the second half, following a clearance by Bosingwa, Torres went in high on Barrett and caught him on the inner thigh and got a deserved yellow card. Norwich continued to probe and another good cross by Norton saw Ivanovic try to head clear, but Hillario had come out to the edge of the box and ran into him. This allowed the ball to fall to Grant Holt who managed to flick the ball over his head and in to the empty goal to level the scores A big mistake by the Chelsea keeper, but well deserved for Norwich. Chelsea tried to get at Norwich and Torres sent a ball in to the box in search of Didier Drogba. He was offside, but clashed with Ruddy in the Norwich goal and was knocked unconcious in mid air and fell horribly on his head. After a long delay he was stretchered off and was replaced by Nicolas Anelka. Juan Mata also came on for Florent Malouda to make his home debut. Up the other end Holt played a hopeful ball over the top and found Morrisson who should have got his shot in, but John Terry did well to get back and block it. Fernando Torres should of received his second yellow card of the afternoon following a deliberate trip on Bradly johnson, But the referee bottled it and only gave a free kick. By this stage Chelsea weren't playing as a team and their defence was all over the place, but Norwich failed to take their chances and were made to pay in the 82nd minute.Mata cleared the ball from a corner and Anelka was the fastest to react and he played Ramires in. He stroode in to the box, played the ball past the keeper and went down under the collision with John Ruddy. The referee had no option but to award the penalty to Chelsea and give a red card to John Ruddy. Declan Rudd came on in goal for Norwich and his first involvement was to pick the ball out of his net following Lampards penalty. Romelu Lukaku then came on for his debut in replacement for Torres and once or twice looked powerful and strong in possession. Following some poor defensive work by Norwich saw Mata latch on to a loose back pass to calmly slot home with his left foot to make it 3-1 at full time. Norwich will feel hard done by and Chelsea look short of championship material at the moment.

Liverpool 3 - 1 Bolton Wanderers

Both teams started  lively and tried to progress on their current good form, but it was Liverpool who were to become the more dominant side and the first to score. Stuart Downing had two good chances early on, the second followed a great ball by Luis Suarez, but Jaaskelainen made a good save only for the ball to fall to Jordan Henderson who curled the ball left footed and in to the top corner to score his first Anfield goal. Bolton tried, but couldn't get at Liverpool as they would have wanted. They came closest in the first half from Martin Petrovs volley, but Reina saved comfortably. Adam and Kuyt were playing well together in midfield and following Adams pass to Suarez he chipped the ball just over and on to the top of the net. Liverpool continued to search for a second with Suarez involved heavily. A corner by Charlie Adam was met powerfully by Martin Skrtel and the reds were two up. Only a minute later the game was wrapped up by Adam with a strike from the edge of the box, following more good work by Dirk Kuyt. A mistake in injury time by Jamie Carragher saw Klasnic capitilise to gain a  consilation goal for Bolton. Liverpool were far too good for Bolton on the day and things are looking good for King Kenny at this early stage of the season.

Blackburn Rovers 0 - 1 Everton

Brett Emerton captained Blackburn on his final appearance for the club, but this was to turn out to be a ridiculous game. The referee for the day Lee Mason had a shocker and it wouldn't come as a surprise if he wasn't given a premier league game next week. Blackburns David Dunne had a chance early on as he went by Phil Jagielka only to see his shot rebound off the post.  Formica then made the most of a half challenge by Barkley in the box. It looked as if he ran in to his leg and then hit the ground. First poor decision by Mr. Mason as he gave Blackburn a penalty. Junior Hoilett struck the ball to Tim Howards left, but the American keeper got got down smartly to save. Everton had some chances too with Leighton Baines seeing his shot saved by Paul Robinson. Then Anichebe crossed to Fellaini only for him to blast over. The game continued to be open and Hoilett played in Formica who cleverly back heeled to David Goodwillie who struck his shot off the bar. With Blackburn pressing, Formica got on the ball following a mistake by Jagielka allowing Formica in to the box. Lee Mason then decided to give Blackburn another penalty for Formica falling? this time Formica himself took the penalty only to see it come back off the post. This had to seen as some form of karma as neither of the penalties were deserved. Then to round the day off Lee Mason awards Everton a penalty in injury time. It followed a long throw by Phil Neville which saw Samba head the ball clear over Fellaini. How the referee gave a penalty for this or indeed any of the other incindents is a mystery. Up Steps Mikel Arteta who scores and Everton win. Ridiculous refereeing which ruined the game.

Wigan 2 - 0 QPR

A match which most people believe  involving the relegation elect. The latics need to be winning these games at home and today they were the better team and the deserved winners. QPR started well and following good work by Buzsaky to find Taarabt he struck the ball right footed off the post. Wigan also started brightly and they looked very sharp up front. Rodallega found Moses whose shot was saved by Paddy Kenny in the QPR goal. Wigan continued to impress as Rodallega found Di Santo who volleyed the ball right footed in to the top corner to give Wigan the lead. QPRs reply saw Taarabts free kick deflect off the wall and go off the post and wide. QPRs defence was poor and slow to the ball throughout the match and Wigan were able to capitilise on this frailty once again. Di Santo got his second as his strike from outside the area, although deflected, flew in to the top corner and Wigan were two up. Then a corner for QPR saw them have their best oppurtunity to score following a corner which saw their Brazilian defender Bruno Perone's header come back off the bar. A deserved win for Wigan and QPR need to tighten up their defence as, if Wigan can easily score two against you it doesn't bode well for things to come.

Swansea 0 - 0 Sunderland

This match, although without any goals, did have its chances. Once more Brendan Rogers side played nice football at home, probed and did create some good chances. Scott Sinclair went past Craig Gardner and shot well only to see the ball strike the post. Their record signing Danny Graham having the best of their openings. His best chance came from a cross and he found himself free six yards from goal, only to see his header go wide. Swansea need Graham to start scoring, especially at home for them to survive. They were caught a few times on the break and Sunderland did create their own chances, but they too failed to show the cutting edge needed in front of goal. Asamoah Gyan had the best of these chances, but his finishing let him down. A draw was probably the correct result and both sides will be happy enough, if not overjoyed.

Aston Villa 0 - 0 Wolverhampton Wanderers

Wolves were attempting to continue on their good start to the season and must have fancied their chances more when they realised how quiet and small the Villa Park crowd was ( just over 30,000 ). Villas Australian defender Chris Herd had a horrible clash early on with the post as he went up for a corner. He literally bounced off the post, but he was able to continue on. One of Villas best chances fell to Heskey following a good turn of foot by Agbonlahor, only for the big English striker to fail to hit the target. Herd had a chance to give Villa the lead, but his header was saved by Hennessy and when Bent headed over the game filtered down and out. Both sides settled for a draw and wolves should be the happier of the two. For the home team Villa just didn't create enough chances and their midfield needs to become more pro active in the search of goals and chances to entice back some of the crowd. 

Bets 26/08/11

The weather conditions today are going to make things tricky to find many winners. It will probably be another day for laying favourites, but here are a few I like.

Hamilton 7.05 - Jobe at 14/1 looks great value. He has won twice around this course and distance and has won on good to soft before aswell. Hopefully he will go off at a decent pace and have something in reserve for the finish. Another one who will get ground to suit is Ursula who is an interesting type.

Brighton 6.15 - Hawk Moth is around 7\1 at the moment and will face a stiff task to gain victory. If you can forgive his run LTO he has been in good form before that finishing second twice and indeed unlucky not to win. He will hopefully get a good position and can finish fast and late to win it on the line.

Brighton 7.45 - Stonecrabstomorrow is currently the 4/1 favourite to win this and deservedly so. He won't have things all his own way though as Bateleur and Kinigi will make matters difficult. Stonecrabstomorrow has won round this C&D before and is currently only 1lb higher than when last successful here. He has previously won on all types of ground and surfaces so that won't be a concern.

Udinese v Arsenal

Udinese 1 - 2 Arsenal ( Agg 1 - 3 )

With Samir Nasri's deal finally going through with Manchester City earlier today Arsenal had a lot to prove. There are a lot of people questioning Arsene Wenger and Arsenals ability at the moment. This was a must win game not alone for the financial implications. With Fabio Capello one of the interesting spectators in the crowd ( with his hometown of San Canzian d'Isonzo nearby ) some players had an extra reason to perform as if the stature of the game was not already enough.

The game started as open as last weeks encounter at the Emirates. Both teams showing their intent to win. Udinese started to get more of the play in midfield and after only eight minutes Di Natale had the ball in the back of the net, only for it to be ruled out for offside. It was the correct decision although it was a great finish. As the ball came over his head Di Natale turned and volleyed the ball in to the back of the net. This was a stark warning for Arsenal of what was in store.

Udinese really started to put Arsenals midfield and defence under severe pressure. Good play and pace by Modu down the right followed by a good cross to Di Natale whose shot came back off the post. By now the heat and the atmosphere in the stadium had heated up to a level that were making matters even more difficult for Arsenal. Frimpong gives away  a free kick for a late tackle and receives a quick telling off from the referee. This is a massive game for Frimpong and he needs to break up the constant Udinese attacks from midfield. Some good work by Djourou sees him find Ramsey who plays a good ball in to Walcott, but once again his final ball is a let down. Arsenal are trying to come in to it and are getting chances. A great run by Gervinho sees him go by two defenders and do the correct and unselfish thing in squaring the ball to Walcott ten yards out and he shoots tamely and directly at Handanovic in the Udinese goal. Arsenal should of been one up and Walcott should be on the score sheet.  At the other end Di Natale gets on the end of a deflected shot and tries to squeeze the ball in at the near post, but Szczesny does well to get a hand on it and keep the sore at 0 - 0.

Udinese are continuing to over run Arsenal in the midfield and constantly threatening to score. In the 39th minute they do  just that. It had been coming and it had to be Di Natale as he'd been a constant danger. He got free in the box and manage to get on the end of a cross. Even though he was falling backwards he still managed to direct his header over Szczesny and go in off the post. It was a brilliant goal and well deserved. What have Arsenal got to give now. Udinese continue to poor on the pressure and Arsenal are glad to hear the half time whistle.

The second half sees Thomas Rosicky replace Emmannuel Frimpong in an attempt to make Arsenal a more attacking unit and to get someone to put their foot on the ball.  The crowd gets aggrevated  early over an incident involving Rosicky and Neuton, where the Arsenal man won the ball.  The Udinese player stayed down, but arsenal play on and eventually win their own free kick. The players then get involved in some petty handbags. It results in a yellow card for Islon.

Arsenal show some intent with a good turn by Walcott to go by a player followed by what seemed more like a back pass than a shot on goal. Then out of nowhere Gervinho again beats two defenders on the left and pulls the ball back to the waiting Van Persie who struck the ball with his favoured left foot in to the back of the net to make it 1 -1 on the night in the 55th minute. Just as Arsenal come more in to the game Udinese are awarded a corner kick. Di Natale swings it in from the right and it comes off Vermaalen and the referee awards Udinese a penalty. A very harsh decision by the official. Di Natale steps up to take the penalty. He strikes the ball hard and towards the top corner, but Szczesny goes right and makes a great save. This was the turning point in the game. Arsenal are starting to string a few passes together . In the 69th minute Walcott plays a quick one - two with Sagna and is clear in on goal. This time his finishing doesn't let him down and he tucks the ball away to make it 1 - 2 to Arsenal on the night and it's game over.

Arenal play out the rest of the game well and with some confidence as they knocked the ball around nicely. It's a job done well in the end, although there were some nervy moments and it could of had a different outcome.

Arsenal progress to the group stages of the Champions League for the 14th season in a row which will come as a major relief to Arsene Wenger. The good points for Arsenal on the night was the performance of Gervinho. Now it's on to Manchester United at the weekend.

Premier League Review Week 2

Sunderland 0 - 1 Newcastle
Both sides made a lively and promising start at the Stadium Of Light for the seasons first big north east derby. Joey Barton was involved in most of the main talking points, even when it had nothing to do with him he got involved. Barton had a great chance from six yards out as he headed goal bound, only for Larsson to block it with his arm. Howard Webb didn't have a great view of the incedent and all he could see now were both sets of players in his face screaming. He went to his his asistant referee to discuss and a corner kick was the outcome, much to the annoyance of Barton. From then on it was as much about the badly timed tackles as it was the football. It was twenty four minutes until the first one was shown, but after that they just  kept coming. In the second half Taylor struck a free kick for Newcastle, which looked like a cross, only to see it go straight in to the back of the net. Following a couple of tackles by the likes of Bardsley and Cattermole there were several clashes involving multiple players. Then Bardsley went in over the top on Colloccini, catching him half way up his shin, and received his second yellow and was off. How more players, especially Cattermole weren't sent off was the biggest surprise of the game.

Arsenal 0 - 2 Liverpool
This was where Wenger and Arsenal had a chance to show what they are about this year in front of a set of nervous home fans.The surprise inclusion in Arsenals starting line up was Samir Nasri. Frimpong also started in midfield. After eight minutes the young midfielder had conceeded a needless yellow card for arguing over a throw. Carroll then had a chance for Liverpool as he rose above Sagna in the box, only to see his header saved. Up the other end Frimpong hit a strike from outside the box which just went wide. Then Nasri showed why he's in demand by linking play, striding past players and getting shots in on goal. With Frimpong making his home league debut he went in high and late on Lucas. He was given a second yellow and was off. He could of got a straight red for the tackle. Arsenal were down to ten men and Liverpool made them pay. On the seventieth minute Dalglish showed how strong his squad is by bringing on Suarez and Meireles. Suarez then played a neat one two with Meireles and Suarez played the ball off Ramsey and it somehow went in . A lucky goal and Suarez looked slightly offside too. Liverpool came more in to the game and were making their extra man count. Once more Meireles and Suarez combined and Suarez slotted home for Liverpool, 2-0 and game over.

Aston Villa 3 - Blackburn Rovers 1
Alex Mccleish had his first home premier league game and seemed to get a warm reception from most of the fans. Villa started brightly and within twelve minutes Agbonlahor had gone down the left, cut back inside Salgado and curled a shot in to the far right corner passed Robinson. Then on twenty five minutes even Heskey was able to find time to shoot and score from the edge of the box. Blackburn were slow to everything and poor at the back for the second week running. Then a good cross from the left saw their only threat Pedarsson score to make it 2-1. Villa were always on top and when Petrovs shot fell to Bent he turned on it and tucked it away well. Villa were comfortable winners and Blackburn have trouble already.

Everton 0 - 1 QPR
Everton who are the only premier league side not to make any signings this summer started with 17 year Ross Barkley in midfield. He looked good on the ball and one of his runs led to a free kick just outside the 18 yard box. Baines stepped up and struck it over the wall with his left foot only to see it rebound off the bar. Then some sloppy play saw Jagielka fail to clear the ball properly and Tommy Smith was played through and he calmly slid the ball in to make it 1-0 to QPR. Everton had a couple of chances to equalise. The two best ones falling to Cahill. Backford sent in a cross from the right and Cahill stooped to head it inside the 6 yard box only to see it go wide. Fellaini was brought on and with his first touch played Cahill through only for his shot to be saved by Kenny. Everton really need to find some players after making another slow start to a season.

Chelsea 2 - 1 West Bromwich Albion
Chelsea started With Hilario in goal for the injured Czek and with Anelka and Drogba on the bench. Within four minutes Alex made a bad mistake and Long capitilised on it and slid the ball in to give West Brom the lead. Long was then played in again, but he over hit the cross when it should of been two. Up the other end saw Reid make a good block from Maloudas shot. Anelka came on and following a run from Lampard he was able to get in a deflected shot to make it 1-1. There was some good link up play between Mikel and Anelka which saw Foster come 25 yards from goal and get nowhere near the ball. Luckily for him Anelka put it wide. Chelsea sensed a goal and when Bosingwa cleverly went by two defenders and crossed Malouda made no mistake and gave Chelsea the lead. Odemwingie came on and had a chance following Reids cross, but Hilario saved comfortably.

Swansea 0 - 0 Wigan
Swansea had a lot of possession and again showed how they like to knock it around. They just don't have the fire power to score goals at the moment. Moses hit the bar for Wigan with a good strike and then Gomez was fowled by Williams and it was a penalty to Wigan. Watson struck it to Vaughans right, but the keeper got down well to make the save. There was no real further talking points and both sides need to be taking maximum points in matches like this even at this early stage if they want to stay up.

Norwich 1 - 1 Stoke
Whether it was because they were playing away in Europe during the week or because Norwich had made six changes from last weeks starting eleven Stoke started very slowly. Norwich were on top all through the first half. Woodgate gave away a free kick for a luge and was booked. The free kick was curled in to the box and the Belgian De Laet (on loan from Man Utd ) rose the highest for Norwich to put them one up. Walters was then fowled by Barnett near Norwichs box. The ref said it was inside and gave a penalty. He also gave Barnett a red card. Walters then took the penalty, but Ruddy made a good save which was probably right as it looked like the foul was outside the box. Stoke increased the pressure as they looked for an equaliser. Whelan sent in a cross and Jones had a free header and put it away well from eight yards out.

Wolverhampton Wanderers 2 - 0 Fulham
Wolves started brightly and looked much sharper than Fulham all through the first half. Doyle had a good chance after he got the better of Hangeland, but shot over. He redeemed himself just before half time with a good left footed strike in to the net. Although he then got booked for taking off his jersey during the celebration. Minutes later and Wolves were two up. The keeper came for a cross and got nowhere near it. Johnson flicked it towards goal and it rebounded off the post and in to Jarvis' path and he slotted home to put Wolves two up at the break. In the 2nd half Andy Johnson had a chance, but Hennessy saved well. Wolves stayed on top. They took the game to Fulham, tried to play football and deserved the 3 points.

Bolton Wanderers 2 - 3 Manchester City
Aguero started up front for City with Dzeko and if they continue on like this they are going to give everyone trouble. City were dangerous on the break straight form the off. Aguero should of scored when Dzeko crossed for him, but he put it over. Da Silva had another good game and got the first goal. He hit a left foot shot from the edge of the 18 yard box and although the ball may have moved it should have been saved. Richards won the ball on the right and crossed for Aguero to score only for it to be dissallowed. The referee perhaps harshly giving a free against Richards. Another good cross fom Dzeko saw Aguero head narrowly wide. Then a clever corner taken quickly by Milner found Barry just outside the box unmarked. He struck the ball with his left foot straight in to the top corner to make it two nil to City. A minute later though Petrov crossed for Klasnic and he struck with his left foot to give Bolton a chance going in at half time. In the 47th minute Dzeko showed strength to get the better of Knight and struck low in to the corner to give City a two goal cushion. On 63 minutes a free by Petrov saw Kevin Davies get up to win the ball too easy over Lescott and headed it in . Tevez came on for twenty minutes and looked lively if a bit lacking in match fitness. A good win by City who looked good on the break, but still fragile at the back.