By Ken Andrew
kennyandrewmuganda@gmail.com
A brilliant Martin Odegaard second half performance inspired Arsenal to come from behind and beat West Ham 3-1 at the Emirates. The win ensured Arsenal extend their lead on their rivals as they moved on to 40 points. Surprisingly, their closest chasers currently are Newcastle United on 33 points.
West Ham took the lead with Said Benrahma converting a penalty after Michail Antonio was fouled in the box. Arsenal came out stronger in the second half and goals from Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, gave the Gunners the lead. Eddie Nketiah sealed the win for Arsenal in the 69th minute.
Liverpool saw off Aston Villa 3-1, with youngster Stefan Bajcetic’s goal sealing the victory for the reds. More good news followed the win as the Reds agreed terms for the signing of Cody Gakpo from PSV. Gakpo was a key target for rivals Manchester United.
Tottenham came from 2-0 to draw with Brentford in a match that marked the resumption of the league.
Newcastle United beat Leicester 3-0, with all goals coming in the first half. Miguel Almiron’s goal scoring form continued as he finished off a brilliant run past several Leicester players. Chris Wood had opened the scoring with a penalty and Joelinton closed things out with a free header. The win took the Magpies to second on the table, above Manchester City who play Leeds on Wednesday.
Rayan Ait Nouri scored deep into extra time to help Wolves come from behind and beat Everton 2-1. Following Wolves’ win, Southampton who went down 3-1 to Brighton, sit at the bottom of the log. Finally, 10 man Crystal Palace were hammered 3-0 at home by Fulham.
27th December 2022
Chelsea vs Bournemouth
Manchester United vs Nottingham Forest