1. Rogers and Emery Combine for Heist
Are match outcomes sometimes deceive? That is the question. The Villans' triumphant run persisted with a win over Manchester United, accompanied by the lingering concerns. Statistically, they were inferior by a number of key indicators – fewer shots (12-15), less possession (43-57), not as many golden opportunities (2-3). Typically, the victory was by a narrow margin. In keeping with form, expected goals (xG) sided with the opposition: reports suggest United were narrowly ahead 1.31-1.02. But, as every fan knows games are decided on the pitch, not on spreadsheets. They are won by solid teamwork, astute coaching and sparkling skill – and Villa have all three. Villa's emerging star could be considered their sole standout, but his contributions are coming as a timely gift. The Spanish tactician is wily, seasoned, streets ahead of Ruben Amorim. Should Rogers have benefited from a positional error, it was likely because the manager identified that Yoro is not a right-back, and instructed his winger to begin on the flank, cut in and exploit the space. Talent and management, combining effectively.
2. Amorim Continues to Fall Short
Back in October after defeating Brighton 4-2 in late October, their fans felt optimism return. They secured three league games in a row for the initial occasion under their manager. Their position climbed to fourth. And the wins were solid results – over Brighton (a side they often struggle against), Liverpool (away!) and Sunderland (at home, facing a team fresh from the Championship, but still – an untroubled victory). Senne Lammens looked solid, the attack was exciting and morale was high. But then United returned to poor form. Eight games, two wins, six disappointing results. In the recent fixture they were superior for large periods without ever appearing likely to triumph. Yes, Matheus Cunha scored a fine effort, but he also missed a sitter. Yes, United were cursed by absentees (to important midfielders), but they gave away cheap scores. Since his arrival in England, the manager has yet to solve how to secure victories.
3. Arsenal Grind Out a Vital Victory
It was an 8pm kick-off on the festive weekend but a noticeable shortage of fluency in the opposition box made for a forgettable match. For Everton, the issue was expected with creative forces absent, and Jack Grealish struggling to lift an entire team single-handedly. In many respects it is remarkable that Everton were in fifth place in the table not long ago given they have played all term without a decent striker. For Arsenal and the Spanish coach, while he enjoyed a merited victory and a return to the top of the table, the flaw should be just as worrying given their ambitions for the Premier League. He stated that winning margins will inevitably grow more comfortable with dedication and persistence. But it is a little early in the season for a team that can start with international stars, while leaving exciting options on the bench, to be relying on grinding out wins.
4. Pep's Christmas Weight Watch at City
During the holidays Pep Guardiola will conduct fitness tests to ensure his Manchester City players have not enjoyed excessive celebrations. He revealed the team wanted to enjoy a break after their 3-0 triumph but he declined because they didn’t play good enough. 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 the side can improve. “I’m good at reading what happens in the game, where are the spaces – if the players were in optimal spots, we could create more.” Guardiola will also enjoy a rest: “I have holidays with the family for celebrations. I'll visit Barcelona – it's a great city, the food is top.”
5. A Costly Goal: Isak's Injury Mars Liverpool Win
Alexander Isak’s goal at Tottenham felt, for a fleeting moment, like a statement. This was exactly what Liverpool paid all that money for him to do, to break tight games with his intelligent runs and finishing ability, and the calmness with which he converted from a neat pass looked extremely positive. So the image of him leaving immediately, due to a reckless attempt, was a huge concern for the Liverpool manager and a shame for any neutral who would like to see an extraordinary talent reach his peak again. There are fears Isak has sustained a fractured leg and he likely faces a long time on the sidelines. It would be a huge loss with Liverpool having quietly moved into the top four, putting together a solid undefeated streak highlighted by Isak’s first Premier League goals in their colours. Their fortunes this season appear tied up with those of their prize asset.
6. Penalty Debate Rages After Newcastle Draw
Managers often complain about debatable rulings as a means of shifting the focus from matters they want to keep private. The numerous points Newcastle have squandered when ahead this season appears relevant. Eddie Howe certainly did not seem too willing to mention that costly trend following his side’s inability to hold onto a 2-0 lead against Chelsea in a game they had to settle for a point in. Yet Newcastle’s manager was surely right to question a decision made by the referee not to award his team a penalty following a blatant body check on their winger. With the score then 2-1, a penalty could have swung the momentum. Was the decision to offer the opposing player the leeway informed by Gordon’s reputation for being expert at earning fouls and sometimes exaggerating? The take of a well-known analyst was notable. “He anticipates the contact,” he said. “He expects the tackle and he’s waiting for it. I think he intends to hit the deck. But the force and aggression there … it constitutes a foul.”
7. Statistical Doom for Struggling Wolves
Brentford’s initial success on their travels this season spelled relief for the Bees' boss. Instead of reveling in the win, Andrews sympathised with Wolves, the club he joined at 16. “My formative years were here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is truly alarming; Opta state – perhaps generously – their probability of going down at 99.17%, leaving only pride at stake beyond professionalism. A senior professional brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
