Premier League Wrap Up
By Suraya Harr
Sports Editor
Matchweek 24 of the English Premier League was filled with exciting games and unexpected twists, as title contenders battled for crucial points, underdogs pulled off shocking upsets, and late drama kept fans on the edge of their seats.
The most high stakes and riveting game this week was between Arsenal and Manchester City. Arsenal secured 3 points at the Etihad, beating Manchester City 5-1. A startling mistake by Manuel Akanji led to Odegaard scoring a goal within the first 2 minutes of the game, which set the pace for the rest of the match. Martinelli followed with a stunning goal that was deemed offside. The first half concluded with a 1-0 scoreline. In the 55th minute, Erling Haaland was able to put a header into the back of the net, making the scoreline 1-1. Less than one minute later, Thomas Partey of Arsenal nailed a long range shot past Stefan Ortega. 18 year old Martin Lewis Skelley joined the scoreline, scoring his first ever goal for Arsenal. Kai Havertz scored in the 75th minute, followed by Nwaneri in the 93rd. Arsenal currently sit at 2nd on the table, trailing behind Liverpool F.C by 6 points. Manchester City fell to 5th place, currently unexpectedly outside of the top 4. Manchester City’s current form has raised concerns and speculation over the future of manager Pep Guardiola’s position at the club. City have won the Premier League for the past 4 years in a row, a momentous accomplishment. Their poor performance this season seems to be a point of concern for fans and stakeholders alike; although, rivals of the club seem to be enjoying their struggle this year. Haaland specifically has been critiqued for his lack of involvement and touches per match by pundits. Although Arsenal have been formidable this season, second place has become quite commonplace for the gunners. The team has finished second for the past 2 seasons, and has not won a Premier League title since the 2001-2002 season, over 20 years ago. Their high press, fast tactics have been impressive and effective, but will it be enough to finally win them the league?
Chelsea and West Ham battled it out at Stamford Bridge on Monday. Colwill scored for the hammers in the 41st minute. Chelsea tied it up in the 63rd with a scrappy goal by Pedro Neto, followed by another goal by rising starboy Cole Palmer in the 73rd, sealing the deal for Chelsea’s 2-1 victory. Cole Palmer has become a sensation this season, boasting a 20 g/a in 24 matches. His level of play seems to improve with every match that passes. Rumours have begun to circulate that Real Madrid have become interested in picking up the youngster, but none of them have been substantiated as of now.
Manchester United remained in poor form, losing to Crystal Palace 0-2. Mateta scored a rebound in the 64th minute, scoring again in the 89th. This season has been United’s poorest to date, riddled with losses and transfers. Currently, Brazilian winger Antony has joined Real Betis on loan, home grown talent Marcus Rashford has been loaned to Aston Villa, and rumours about young talent Alejandro Garnacho leaving the club have been circulating. United currently sit at 13th, and Palace sit at one spot higher.
Nottingham Forest secured a record breaking win against Brighton, boasting a 7-0 scoreline. They currently sit at 3rd place on the table. Forest have led one of their most successful campaigns to date this season, sitting comfortably in Champions League placement. This feat is especially impressive considering Forest finished in 17th last season, one spot away from relegation.
Liverpool continued to solidify their top spot ranking, securing a 2-0 win against Bournemouth. Mohammed Salah climbed to 6th on the all-time premier league scorers list. This comes one season after legendary manager Jurgen Klopp left the club, replaced by Arne Slot. Although fans were worried about a potential drop in performance, Slot has proved he has the managerial ability to potentially get Liverpool another title. However, rumours have begun circulating about a potential trade sending beloved scouse defender Trent Alexander Arnold to Real Madrid. Although nothing has been confirmed as of now, speculation has continued to brew in the past few weeks, worrying fans.
Everton emphatically won against Leister, finishing the match with a 4-0 result. Leister currently faces relegation after coming up from the Championship just this year. Everton currently sits at 16th, with a small barrier preventing them from falling into the relegation battle. Southampton secured a rare win against Ipswich Town, finishing with a 1-2 result. They still sit in 20th with a measly 9 points, 7 points behind Ipswich. Both teams are predicted to go back down into the Championship when the season concludes. Maybe next year they will have better luck in the league.
