Week three marks the end of the first part of the Premier League season with no more games until mid- September. Here are winners and losers from an exciting weekend of football.
Winners
Manchester United
Because of UEFA SuperCup responsibilities, United did not have a league game this weekend, leaving the door open for Chelsea and Liverpool to put a gap between themselves and the defending Champions. A huge opportunity was missed because the draws on Sunday by both Chelsea and Liverpool mean that United are 3 points behind with a game in hand.
After the opening day draw with Newcastle, United were facing the possibility of being 8 points behind before heading to Anfield and Stamford Bridge after the International break. Now they are 3, and with Ronaldo back at the end of the month, Sir Alex might have dogged a huge bullet.
Arsenal
Everyone was writing off Arsenal’s title chances after the shocking 1-0 loss to Fulham in week two. But back in the cozy confines of the Emirates Arsenal’s championship dreams look alive.
Since moving to the Emirates Arsenal has lost only once in 68 games, a record that only Chelsea continue to better.
Arsenal’s championship hopes could also hinge on the fitness of Robin Van Persie. If Van Persie can stay on the park and out of the trainer’s room then Arsenal could have that extra bit of creative genus that is needed to turn a close game into a win.
In the last 2+ seasons Van Persie has made only 32 league starts. His 19 league goals during this period demonstrates how important he is to Arsenal.
Shaun-Wright Phillips
SWP spent three years in the wilderness at Stamford Bridge and his two goals on return to Manchester City is already halfway to matching his tally of league goals at Chelsea.
With England still searching for a replacement to David Beckham, SWP has the opportunity to become the England star we all thought he was becoming three years ago.
Losers
Liverpool and Chelsea
Both had the opportunity to turn up the pressure on Arsenal and Manchester United and both failed. Liverpool has been very unimpressive this season and Chelsea have really struggled in the last two games.
Hull City
They produced more shots than their opponents, held a greater percentage of possession and forced more corners. And lost 5-0. Welcome to the Premiership Phil Brown
Boaz Myhill
Love the stat for Hull goalkeeper Boaz Myhill this weekend versus Wigan.
Shots Faced: 5
Saves made: 0
Goals Conceded: 5
