Premier League: Analyzing the takeaways from match-week 10
The Premier League has completed 10 match-weeks of the 2019-20 season, as the intensity keeps on improving. While Liverpool look favorites to win their maiden Premier League title, things can change quickly, given the workload in the next couple of months. This week, as well, we saw fascinating performances, along with a record-breaking one. And here, we analyze the takeaways from the just-concluded match-week.
Watch out for the Leicester storm
The biggest moment of the week came when former champions Leicester City rout Southampton 9-0 on Saturday. While they did become the second team, after Manchester United, to win by nine goals in an EPL game, the interesting part was that it happened in an away tie for Leicester. It was humiliating for Southampton, as Leicester are now a force to reckon with.
Manchester City dominate Aston Villa despite red card
Defending champions Manchester City seem to have put their sluggish start to the season behind, as they dominated minnows Aston Villa 3-0 on Saturday. Interestingly, they received a red card in the form of Fernandinho, who was sent off in the 87th minute. However, they had done their job by then, as they continue to remain on the second spot, for now.
Arsenal's inconsistency continues
Arsenal might still be in the race for a top-four finish, but it is their inconsistent gameplay that has frustrated their fans. It was a similar story on Saturday when they squandered a 2-0 lead at home to fellow London-based club Crystal Palace, as they settled for an unnerving 2-2 draw. Furthermore, captain Granit Xhaka's spat with a fan proved his frustration.
Liverpool edge out Tottenham Hotspur to stay unbeaten
Liverpool are enjoying the season of this decade, as they continue to remain unbeaten in the league. Their splendid run continued following an edgy 2-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur, as the visitors led in the opening minute of the game. Nonetheless, Liverpool managed to brush aside the 1-1 draw at United last week, as Jordan Henderson and Mohamed Salah played their part.
Are United finally back on the winning track?
United have endured the toughest season among the top teams, this season. Prior to their match against Norwich City, they were lurking at the 13th spot in the table. However, having held Liverpool 1-1, followed by the Europa League win at Partizan, they continued with the same momentum and also took a healthy advantage of the sloppy Norwich defense to tame them 3-1.
2,000 and counting for United
VAR needs massive overhaul following another howler
While VAR has been a success overall in world football, it is being questioned in the EPL, following its horrendous decisions. The same was the case this week after United were awarded a penalty under controversial circumstances, despite there being no conclusive evidence to overturn the on-field referee's decision of 'No Penalty'. Consequently, VAR needs a massive overhaul.
