BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE: Suarez, Sturridge Rocket Liverpool to Second Place

SUNDERLAND 1 – 3 LIVERPOOL
Sturridge (’28), Suarez (’36), Giacherrini (’58), Suarez (’88)

KICK-OFF: Sunday 29 September at 4:00pm (BST) 

(GAMEWEEK 6) at Stadium of Light, Sunderland.

By Nisar Khan

SUNDERLAND – Liverpool got back to winning ways with the star-striking duo of Suarez and Sturridge paying dividence at the Stadium of Light in an enticing game of football.

Goalscorers Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge embrace (Image Courtesy: LiverpoolFC.com)

MATCH REPORT

The Cats got things underway in their homeground, while the visitors’ Luis Suarez made his return to the Premier League, starting for Liverpool in his first League game after 161 days. Jordan Henderson and Simon Mignolet returned to the Stadium of Light in Liverpool colours. 

Sunderland’s fans provided an electric atmosphere at the Stadium of Light, getting behind their team as they calmly passed the ball around. Liverpool developed some good link-up play with the first corner of the game, but Gerrard’s aimed pass for Toure came to nothing. Sunderland regained possession before Suarez had a delightful run with the ball through defenders but his shot went wide. 

Luis Suarez had a lively start to the game (Image Courtesy: PremierLeague.com)

It was also a bright start for the hosts, who kept themselves well in the game with an early free-kick chance. Nothing came from it and it ultimately went to waste. Liverpool looked to attack on the break and Sturridge was fouled on the edge of the box. In some promising territory, both the captain Steven Gerrard and Luis Suarez prepared to take the shot. 

Steven Gerrard fired it to the bottom right corner, causing a drastic save from Westwood to deny the Liverpool skipper. Martin Skrtel got on the rebound to fire it back in the net, but it was quickly deemed offside. Chances continued to come, with Adam Johnson’s shot firing wide as the action continued to go back-and-forth.

The hosts quickly won over the fans and were looking confident. They had a few open plays in front of goal but defenders were staying put. Likewise, any Liverpool break was quickly broken down in order for another attack. Frequently, roars from the crowd were heard when Sunderland showed any potential to be a threat. And the vibrant atmosphere provided by fans was looking to be supportive, as Sunderland put intense pressure on Liverpool’s defenders, managing to dispossess Sakho and Altidore had a shot on goal that went over. The chances may not have been the best of quality, but they were coming, and with that, so was the confidence.

For the first fifteen minutes or so, Sunderland were looking dominant over the visitors with the majority of possession and chances. Liverpool were having to work hard early. They quickly got organised and began to work back against the pressure. More and more set pieces were becoming available as both teams reached a stalemate. Then, Steven Gerrard had a free-kick from the left…


The skipper whipped it into the box toward Daniel Sturridge who headed it in to give Liveerpool the lead right before the half-hour mark. On further examination, it could have been controversial – Sturridge threw his head at the ball but it hit his arm and went into the goal.

Sunderland’s fans tried to spur their team on, but over five minutes later, they would be in further disarray with another goal conceded.

Minutes after scoring goal, Daniel Sturridge would make a run to the edge of the box, passing across goal setting up Luis Suarez for an easy tap-in to mark his return to the Premier League in scoring fashion – just 35 minutes in. 

As the first half came to an end, Sunderland were still looking good. Although they conceded two goals in the half, they were doing well. For cases like this, the scoreline doesn’t really tell the tale, as Sunderland did really well in the first half. Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge’s goals were really uplifting for the visitors. Very entertaining first half of football.

Leading by two goals, the visitors got things underway for the second half. Both teams resumed play unchanged. Luis Suarez had a shot early on but it was way off. Sunderland were looking to strike early to get the game back on, and that is exactly what they did…

Ki had a low-driven shot that Mignolet parried forward, but Emanuel Giacherrini seized the opportunity to get the game back in contention as he scored off the rebound. This enlightened the fans heavily and the home side put a lot of pressure on Liverpool’s defense from then on in, searching for the equalizer. 

As the hour mark was passed in the match, Sunderland were working hard for the equalizer. The fans were as loud as they had ever been, and the players continued to put pressure on Liverpool who attempted to drain momentum by passing the ball around. Hesitation resulted in some chances, including when Altidore broke through to have a shot on goal saved by Mignolet. It turned into a very open game.

Liverpool were hitting back with attacks of their own during the game but Sunderland also continued to deny them in valiant resistance. Back and forth the game went. Liverpool produced a great spell of play to momentarily extinguish the Sunderland flame. Their chances increased as they looked for a goal to guarantee the three points.

Relief: Luis Suarez scored a goal 36 minutes into his return (Image Courtesy: PremierLeague.com)

With fifteen minutes to go, Victor Moses was replaced by Raheem Sterling, meanwhile Lee Catermole was replaced by Celustka. The fans quietened down significantly as Liverpool maintained control. Sunderland continued to try for the equalizer with more and more pressure but Liverpool were having none of it with frequent interceptions and passing to keep them at bay.

There were two foul throws in the game, quite a shocker that throw-ins are an issue in top flight football.

With less than five minutes of the game left, Sunderland went up a gear in search for the equalizer. Former Sunderland keeper did well to keep Liverpool in the lead, and when he saved a corner he was able to shift it forward with four players running up. Sturridge ran to the edge of the box and pulled it back to Suarez to strike home and seal the deal.

Sunderland got a late corner that ended in a shot by Adam Johnson going way over the bar. The game slowly went to a climax with some home fans leaving the ground.

THE BREAKDOWN
Breaking down the game with analysis and the main headlines

STADIUM OF LIGHT FANS WERE A FACTOR
The home fans at the Stadium of Light were vocal throughout the game. Most prominent, the opening half-an-hour where they would spur their team on at any time of a potential attack or chance.

SUAREZ-STURRIDGE LINK ONE FOR FUTURE?
Suarez and Sturridge linked up very well in the first half. With both men on the scoresheet, they seemed to have good chemistry. They can work well as a team and as individuals. Exceptional striking presence. Involved in all three goals.

RELIEF FOR SUAREZ
Suarez marked his return to the league in scoring ways. You could see by the celebration how much it meant to him.

Luis Suarez was targeted during the game but was able to score (Photo Courtesy: ACTION IMAGES)

SUNDERLAND FIRST HALF NOT AS BAD AS SCORELINE
Sunderland may have conceded two goals in the first half, but they had a very good performance. The manner in which they conceded may have been poor, but elsewhere they were looking good.

FIRST HALF OVERVIEW
The hosts Sunderland got things underway with a strong start to the game. They were all over Liverpool in the opening fifteen minutes. As more chances came for Liverpool, they capitalized on them with two goals within 7 or 8 minutes. Other than the goals it looked a pretty even first half with no one finishing dominant over each other.


GOT THE PERFORMANCE, NOT THE RESULT
Despite the final result, Sunderland were still on good form. In spite of their great work, they remain the only team in the league not to win a game this season.

MAN OF THE MATCH

Daniel Sturridge
An excellent performance yet again. Sturridge gets himself in the score books again and sets up Suarez to score twice in the match. Great game for Sturridge.

TALKING POINTS
The main talking points of the game. The questions that we could go on and on about, but the questions that we let you talk about. Sound off in response to some of the questions below using the comments section at the bottom of the page or Tweet Us with the hashtag #TSMChat.

• Should Liverpool have taken the lead in the 28th minute?
  Daniel Sturridge gave Liverpool the lead when he headed it in from a Steven Gerrard free-kick. However, on further examination it appeared that the ball hit his arm and went in. So should Liverpool have been leading? Was it just accidental? Even if the referee saw it, what would be the verdict?
• Who do Sunderland need as manager?
  Is Kevin Ball the right fit for the Cats? Or does Di Canio need another person to be his successor as manager of Sunderland?

THE FINAL SAY
That was a fun game to watch. Sunderland did really well, but take nothing from the game. I’d say give the interim manager more time and he could get Sunderland going. The striking duo of Sturridge and Suarez was really effective in the game. Even stuff throughout the duration of the game.

After this win, Liverpool are now second place in the league. Meanwhile, Sunderland 20th in the table, as their woes continue.

Sunderland brought a good game to the table, but it simply was not good enough to outdo Liverpool’s striking force.

Liverpool get back to winning ways after Luis Suarez and Daniel Sturridge prove a definitive difference to conclude the weekend’s football. 

 By Nisar Khan

TheSportMatrix.com

 – Sports for the Fans, by the Fans.

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MANCHESTER UNITED: How Much More Time Does David Moyes Have?

By Nisar Khan

24 years ago, Manchester United were suffering their worst start to the season since they were relegated in 1974. Their start to the 2013/14 season has been their worst since 24 years ago. But with a drastic change from football in that time frame, how much time does David Moyes really have to establish himself as a credible Manchester United manager? 

David Moyes time at Manchester could be running out.

 

SEE ALSO: Full Reports and Analysis for Gameweek 6 of Barclays Premier League

David Moyes’ side suffered another loss this weekend, with West Bromwich Albion stunning Manchester United at Old Trafford with a 2 – 1 win. That loss marked Manchester United’s worst start to a Premier League season in 24 years. The loss comes after a shocking 4 – 1 loss to rivals Manchester City.



24 years ago? That season was the 1989/1990 season. Manchester United finished with their lowest league finish since their relegation from the First Division 15 years earlier. During the Christmas time period, there were calls for Sir Alex Ferguson to be sacked. 

But as we all know, Alex Ferguson was not sacked, and went on to be the greatest manager of all time before retiring last season. The 1989/1990 season was Ferguson’s fourth season in charge of the club, and the board obviously had faith in him to sign him to an extended contract.

But 24 years on, footballing boards are not like what they used to be. We are in an era of football where sackings are somewhat prominent, but how prominent for a club like Manchester United?



The fans have changed too. Fans expect more now, because of the success that Alex Ferguson brought them. Will they be able to cope with a bad season as Moyes makes his introduction to the club? 

Let’s evaluate the situation here. Is this all a little to early? How much time does Moyes really have? When is the moment where the league is really taking shape? 

Relegation should be far from thoughts, for now. Manchester United managed to rescue themselves to safety finishing 13th 24 years ago, but you could say that things are much more competitive now.

Manchester United have the ability to win a league title this season, but an early mishap has brought many doubts upon their prospects this season.  

Ferguson may have seen something in Moyes that the fans did not (via Telegraph.co.uk)

Their next league games should definitely be ‘winnable’ taking into consideration Manchester United’s ability. Their next games in the league are Sunderland (A), Southampton (H) and Stoke (H). If Sunderland are still manager-less by that game, then Manchester United should pick up the win. Then they are at home to face Southampton and Stoke City, the fans will definitely want wins from those games if they don’t win at Sunderland. Even if they do defeat Sunderland, they will still be expected to perform in front of the home crowd. There is a lot of pressure. 

By the time they face Stoke we will be over 20% through the season, and nine games in, so by their standards, they should be in the top five. But how easy is it? Yes, they are expected to win their next three games, but can they actually win them? Their Champions League performances are vital too, if they are consistent, string together a few wins then the critics may silence themselves. 



David Moyes has accepted a great deal of pressure going into this role. Arguably one of the most popular football clubs on the planet, the critics will always be vocal about Manchester United. Being the manager means he is opening himself to criticism, and the large fan-base’s opinion too. At the end of the day it is down to trust. Alex Ferguson may play a factor in his Moyes’ tenure with the club, but it depends how much the board trust him. And this goes down to the fans, and how they feel.

24 years ago, Manchester United started their season off in the worst since they were relegated 15 years prior. Now, Manchester United are again suffering their worst start. Alex Ferguson was not sacked during that tough time, in fact the board invested trust in him. But with modern day football a huge difference, how much time does Moyes have? They must set a target in their sights. Anything worse than third or fourth to finish the season is not in their standards. Are United set for one bad season, allowing Moyes to adapt to the club and come back stronger?

After defeating Liverpool in the Capital One Cup, Moyes claimed that he will ‘sort out’ the club. But they suffered another setback with the loss to West Brom.

With the biggest club in the World, it is hard to predict what lies in their future. Time is of the essence for David Moyes. 

Critics are vocal, and fans are booing. David Moyes is in a battle against time. How much time does Moyes have to prove these critics wrong? The answer will be much clearer after the next few games.

By Nisar Khan

TheSportMatrix.com

 – Sports for the Fans, by the Fans.

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BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE: Slowburner to Superb as Gunners Edge Out Swans

SWANSEA 1 – 2 ARSENAL
Gnabry ’58, Ramsey ’62, Davis ’82

KICK-OFF: Saturday 28 September at 5:30pm (BST) 

(GAMEWEEK 6) at Liberty Stadium, Swansea.

By Nisar Khan

SWANSEA – Pass. Pass. Pass. The predicted pattern of the late kick-off on Saturday afternoon which saw Arsenal pick up three points at the Liberty Stadium in a game of two very contrasting halves. With a lackluster first half, Arsenal would take the lead with two goals in the second half, only for the hosts to fire back one and result in a thrilling finish to the game.

Aaron Ramsey scored the second goal for the visitors (Image Courtesy: PremierLeague.com)

*This article is still being updated. Please refresh the page for more content.

SEE ALSO: Tottenham 1 – 1 Chelsea – Spurs and Blues Draw in Fierce Encounter

MATCH REPORT

The Swans got the proceedings underway as the fans at the Liberty Stadium where poised to watch a showcase of excellent football. After some early pressure from Swansea on the Gunners, Dyer won the first corner kick of the game albeit leaving Szczęsny unfazed in front of goal. They restricted Arsenal early on, as they continued to pass the ball round the field and disabling Arsenal’s ability to put together multiple passes early on. 

Former Liverpudlian Jonjo Shelvey fired at goal to get an early chance. It was teed up by numerous passes from the Swans and Shelvey chested it down for the shot, only to be fired over the bar.

Swansea continued their early dictation of the game, with another corner of which was once again saved calmly by Szczęsny. Arsenal were not however under the threshold of Swansea’s possession for too long, as they began to string together their passes in order to undermine the pressure, and had a chance on the break. Luke Gibbs made a promising run and passed it across the box only to a defender as no Arsenal attacker was present to put it past Vorm. Former Cardiff player Aaron Ramsey was subject to booos from the home crowd when he had early possession of the ball. 

Arsenal had another chance soon after, reverting back to their original and preferred style of passing the ball around the pitch. Mesut Ozil’s ball to Giroud was intercepted, timely too, as it would have definitely troubled Vorm if it went through. Two minutes later, Ramsey came close when his shot fizzed past the post, after Flamini set him up for the shot at goal.

There were no shots on target in the first thirty-five minutes (Image Courtesy: PremierLeague.com)

Swansea’s pass-and-move strategy was clear as the 20 minute mark approached. Wilshere fouled in frustration giving the hosts a free-kick. Rather than walloping the ball into the box, Swansea continued to pass-and-move, pass-and-move, delightful stuff to watch. It looked like it would come into fruition at times, as a great pass from Flores sent Dyers through, but Gibbs would eradicate the danger for the time being. Arsenal were leaving the right flank exposed, allowing the Swans to utilize the space and attack.  

Arsenal could have conceded in the 32nd minute. Wojech Szczęsny came rushing out of goal to close down Michu, and the ball seemingly went out for a goal-kick. However, Michu passed it back into Routledge who shot across goal. The linesman had the flag up, but very late. Szczęsny looked far too composed there, taking a big chance. 

As half-time approached, Swansea looked really dominant. They had a full threshold in possession, and had Arsenal in dire straits. However, defense was staying put on both sides and chances were restricted.

Although the passing was good to watch, the lack of attempts was becoming some what laborius. Neat, tidy possesion but not enough chances. Crowd quietened down a lot too. 

The players went into the break with it all even between Swansea City and Arsenal. Liberty Stadium had significantly quietened down. Plenty of nice possession, but not enough chances. In fact, zero shots on target in the first fourty-five minutes. 

Luke Gibbs denied the only legit chance in the first half (Image Courtesy: PremierLeague.com)

Both teams started the second half unchanged, with Swansea once again putting the pressure on the visitors, but Gnabry came close on the break conceding a corner – which came to nothing. 

After 51 minutes of minuscule chances and passing, the first shot on target game. Serge Gnabry was playing his heart out (partially) and got a shot of goal that Vorm easily saved. Swansea got some work done on the break, but nothing materialized.

Then, just minutes after the first shot on target. Serge Gnabry would score the first GOAL! of the game. He slotted it past Vorm in a calm and collected finish. Gnabry was looking like the only possible goalscorer, and he delivered on that promise.

The goal was very uplifting for the team, who began to pick up and get more and more chances. Mesut Ozil’s shot was just saved, and Arsenal pressed now having the Swans on the backfoot.

The euphoria would come into fruition, again, as Aaron Ramsey’s superb form would continue with another GOAL! four minutes after Gnabry opened the scoring. Szczęsny shifted the ball up to Ramsey, who flicked it onto Wilshere. Giroud’s back-heel into the box set Ramsey up to hammer it into the back of the net. 

Ramsey is on flying form (Courtesy: PA)

Swansea were not looking good contenders after the two goals, only able to put up a half-decent effort that was denied. More passing from the Swans, but nothing was coming into the quality needed to get back into the game.

Just when we thought Swansea were down and out, created and then scored by Ben Davis. A GOAL! that made it into a real contest. With less than 10 minutes remaining, there was a real contest in the offing. 

The 90 minute mark approached. Arsenal remained in the lead with a goal ahead, and the fans were getting worried but fired up with four minutes of stoppage time. There was just a goal in it. 

With moments remaining, Swansea’s free-kick came safely into the hands of Szczęsny. Another Arsenal clearance came back into Swansea possession, and a ball into the box went back into Szczęsny’s hands. The final whistle blew and it was all over.

Arsenal’s win means that they have won every game since their opening day defeat. A game of two very contrasting halves, the first, passing and lackluster play, the second, a real thrilling fourty-five minutes.

Young Gunner Serge Gnabry is Arsenal’s hero, scoring the opening goal, meanwhile Aaron Ramsey has another superb performance.

For Swansea, it is another story. Home performances have been lackluster and the fans may not be happy.

Arsenal’s three points men that they will end the gameweek topping the league.

Arsenal pick up the pace in the second half to cap off an extraordinary day of Premier League action. They top the league again, as Arsenal fans could be starting to believe that Silverware is in sight…



 By Nisar Khan

TheSportMatrix.com

 – Sports for the Fans, by the Fans.

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NFL: Cam Newton Fined For Helmet, Ndamukong Suh Cleared

By Neil Mehta

Cam Newton fined $10,000 for Under Armor helmet piece, Ndamukong Suh cleared after a hard hit to the head of Arizona Cardinals OffensiveLineman Eric Winston.

Can You Spot The Under Armor Helmet Piece?

3rd Year Starting Quarterback Cam Newton was recently fined by the NFL. The $10,000 Newton must pay was the result of a Under Armor Helmet Piece the Newton has worn on his helmet since 2011.  On the other hand, Ndamukong Suh was recently not fined by the NFL for a hit on Arizona Cardinals O-Lineman Eric Winston. The elbow to head hit comes after Suh was fined $100,000 for a low block on Minnesota Vikings Center John Sullivan. Suh who has a history of controversial hits, plays Jay Cutler and the Chicago Bears this week. He was fined $15,000 for a hit on Jay Cutler during a 2010 game. 

By Neil Mehta

TheSportMatrix.com

 – Sports for the Fans, by the Fans.

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BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE: Tottenham and Chelsea Collide in Fierce Draw

KICK-OFF: Saturday 28 September at 12:45pm (BST) 

(GAMEWEEK 6) at White Hart Lane, London.

By Nisar Khan

LONDON – Goals, sending offs, confrontations, managerial tension. Just some words that summarize a fantastic game at White Hart Lane which saw Tottenham and Chelsea battle to a close draw to open gameweek six of the Premier League.

*This article is still being updated. Please refresh the page for more content.

MATCH REPORT

The hosts got things underway with the kick-off, after the teams got settled into a vibrant atmosphere at the lane. Portugese rivals Andres Villas-Boas and Jose Mourinho would take a short few moments to embrace in a hand-shake while debatable picks from Mourinho were another talking point, as Fernando Torres made the start – and Mata and Eto’o were left out. 

Both teams proved to be on very even ground with the first few minutes of the play. No solid chances came to open the game, but it was looking volatile with the game set up to be a good one. Although Chelsea got the predictable early threshold in possession, it shifted into 50/50 as the game picked up pace. 

Juan Mata was on the bench for the first half

Roberto Soldado was first in getting the near-legitimate chance, but the calling of Cech was not too much to ask as he maintained composure to save easily. You could suppose that the next chances would be far from it, as Paulinho’s long rage shot went flying into the stands, before Lampard would do similar moments later on the other side.

Nine minutes in, and things were still looking even. No team had really gained a strong threshold before Eden Hazard was receiving treatment for a few moments. Nothing serious though – except a ripped sock of course – as Hazard got back onto the pitch.

A little bit of vulnerability was in the offing for Chelsea, as Totenham’s early set pieces came relatively close, but chances were not capitalized upon. Vertonghen’s header of an Eriksen free-kick went wide in the 12th minute.

Fernando Torres was looking lively for Chelsea early on in the game.

Chelsea then got their first taste of attack in the game, with a promising piece of play that was hesitantly dealt with as Torres, Ramires and others looked lively for the goal that was denied. 

Eriksen is being touted as one of Tottenham’s brightest players, and if his set-pieces did not prove it, his orchestrated chance that lead to the first goal did. 

17 minutes in, Gylfi Sigurðsson gave Tottenham the lead. The ball went into Roberto Soldado, who tipped it towards Sigurosson who slotted it past Cech in front of goal. It was a goal that prompted roars around the stadium as Tottenham fans embraced the breakthrough.

However, a small matter could hinder debates about the possibility of the chance. Fernando Torres’ sarcastic clap to the linesman was not seen, and if it was it may have been sanctioned. It was not though, and lead to the goal-scoring chance.

3 – After only five apps this season Gylfi Sigurdsson has now matched his total number of PL goals from 2012-13. Streak.
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) September 28, 2013

Spurs may have attained complete dictation of the game when they came nail-bitingly close to a second right after 20 minutes. Towsend was able to get past a few defenders setting up Paulinho, but an emphatic tackle by Ivanovic would leave Tottenham leading by just the one goal. Superb tackle, that was a must-win tackle, and Ivanovic was successful.

Sigurddson has scored three goals in five games (PremierLeague/BBCSport/Getty)

Frustration was seemingly building up for Chelsea, with Luiz getting a warning for a foul on Soldado and Ramires demonstrating his rage booting the ball away. However, this momentary lapse in concentration was followed by a surge in offense from Chelsea, looking for the equalizer as half-time approached. 

The visitors had a big chance during the corner, but it was wasted. When it looked like the momentum would stop from then on in, it was not the case. Lloris put himself at risk of conceding when he ran out from the goal to get the ball to safety, but the Chelsea onslaught would continue. 

Just before half-time, Andros Towsend received the first booking of the game. Chelsea had their chances denied, but they could have been well and truly extinguished when Paulinho’s shot rattled the woodwork just minutes before the break.
The first fourty-five minutes finished with Tottenham leading by a goal. A 17th minute opener from Sigurrdson was the difference. Chelsea began to push back but nothing was done in the first half that got them on the scorecards. An excellent first half of football.

Would Chelsea get back in it in the second half? (Image Courtesy: ACTION IMAGES)

Leading the game, Tottenham began the second half. Juan Mata was on for Chelsea as the Vistiors looked to get an early equaliser. Tottenham started off strong though staying put to their 1 – 0 lead.

Fernando Torres opened up the second half with a fantastic spell of play. We were definitely seeing some of the original Torres of who was a prominent goal-scoring threat. Powering his way down the flanks, the Spaniard found space and delivered a dangerous ball to Oscar who got the strike off, but it went wide. 

Torres then got into a confrontation with Vertonghen as Torres clipped the Tottenham defender. He got a booking, but then continued to pose a threat with another chance for the Chelsea. Making an ambitious run from the half-way line, a surge in performance by Torres triggered a save from Lloris to maintain Tottenham’s lead. 

Referee Mike Dean kept the game under good control, as he booked Ivanovic for his bad attitude meanwhile settled the confrontations between Vertonghen and Torres. Firm but fair and leaving the teams to play it, not the bad decisions. 

Referee Mike Dean kept a firm grip on the game (Courtesy: TheSpursWeb)

Tottenham’s first substitution of the game came around the hour mark, with Andros Towsend going off for Chadli. 

After a strong Chelsea bid for the equalizer, it finally came. Juan Mata stepped up to take a free-kick after Jan Vertonghen fouled Ramires. It was whipped in towards John Terry who got the glancing header to equalize. Mata proves that he should start, getting the assist. 

Belgian replaced Belgian as Schurrle replaced Hazard, and Spurs’ Eriksen capped of a good performance when Holtby came as his replacement. 

33 – Excluding penalties, John Terry has scored eight goals more than any other defender in PL history (Gallas 25). Leader.
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) September 28, 2013

One of Torres’ and Vertonghen’s numerous encounters (via ACTION IMAGES)

It developed into a very tense encounter, and the yellow cards continued to pile up, as Dawson, then Dembele got booked. Frustration, fouls, desperation maybe, this was a tense, tense situation. 

Schurrle came close to scoring his first goal for Chelsea when he was one-on-one with Lloris, but the French keeper made a cracking save to keep things all even. 

The clashes continued, and once again Vertonghen and Torres were at the cornerstone of Mike Dean’s thoughts. It what looked like a collision mid-air, Mike Dean delivered a harsh second booking to Fernando Torres, and the Spaniard was sent off. Complexion, changed, drastically. Very harsh sending off, Mike Dean should not have sent him off.

With the game quickly ticking down, White Hart Lane was abuzz in possible anticipation of a late winner. Chelsea’s ten men bombarded the box in order to defend and keep the hosts at bay. Sigurdsson had a try from far put, but it dipped and went wide. Good strike, but simply not good enough for the winner.

Spurs continued to put pressure on Chelsea, but as the four minutes of stoppage time were announced, a possible winner loomed. 

But, that winner did not come. Chances came and came, but the drama ended with the full-time whistle. Mourinho and AVB shared words as the game closed, but a superb game it was.



STATS

Updating…



THE BREAKDOWN

ERIKSEN ‘FILLING BALE VOID’?
Christian Eriksen had a great first half, orchestrating the goal and setting up many chances. Promising for the Spurs, and as many believe, he could be filling the void left from Gareth Bale’s departure.

SIGGURDSON ON STRIKE
Siggurdson’s goal was the difference that gave Spurs the lead in the first-half. He continues his top goal-scoring form.

FIRST HALF ROUND-UP
Lively game. Vibrant atmosphere at White Hart Lane. Even Stevens to begin the game, but Tottenham’s goal gave them the edge going up to the half-hour mark. Chelsea were looking the worse-for-ware after the goal but they picked up to end. Small talking point about the goal chance actually happening, but Tottenham went in with the lead, possibly could have been more with Paulinho’s two close chances. Eriksen the best performer of the first half.

JUAN MATA SHOULD BE A STARTER
Jose Mourinho may have seen what he has been looking for, and that is Mata’s quality. Mata should start now, he has proven so. 

1 – Juan Mata records his first Premier League assist of the season after registering 25 over the past two seasons. Playmaker.
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) September 28, 2013

TORRES’ EUPHORIA TO DISMAY
Fernando Torres was on flying form as he started the second half. But numerous confrontations with Vertonghen resulted in a sending off. He was looking a contender for Man of the Match, but that may no longer be the case. 

FUN AND FIERY
A fun game to watch, but a fiery one with the players.

MAN OF THE MATCH

Updating…

TALKING POINTS
The things in the game that we can talk about, but the things we let YOU talk about. Tweet us using the hashtag #TSMChat to interact with us, or sound-off in the comments section below! 

• What do you think the first-half scoreline should have been?
  Had Fernando Torres been sanctioned for the sarcastic clap, the chance that lead to the opener may not have came into fruition. However, Paulinho came close with two chances in the half, one with Ivanovic’s superb tackle, and when he hit the woodwork in the latter stages.
• Should Juan Mata have started for the visitors?
  Once again, Jose Mourinho left Juan Mata out of the starting 11. Although he did come on in the second half, should he have been started?
• Should Fernando Torres have been sent off?
  Torres was sent off with just fifteen minutes remaining. Mike Dean gave him a red card for a seemingly accidental collision with Vertonghen. That foul should not have been booked, right? Or, was it a booking combined with his actions previously during the match?

THE FINAL SAY
What an entertaining game. Drama, suspense, goals, controversy, managers… it had it all. Tottenham started off strong, but Chelsea really picked up throughout the midst of the game. The drawing moment – so to speak – was the sending off. But from the neutral perspective a fair game, at least no one wins in controversy. Really good stuff.

Managers Andres Villas Boas and Jose Mourinho may meet again later in the season, and many will be looking forward to watching the teams lock horns again following a thrilling encounter.

Both teams rightfully take the point each from the game.

Both teams take one point each from a dramatic encounter at White Hart Lane. Sigurddson and Terry get on the scoresheets, as their goals tell little to the tale of what was an excellent game of football.

John Terry’s equalizer was the settling point (Courtesy: GETTY)

 By Nisar Khan

TheSportMatrix.com

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WRESTLEMANIA 30: Why Undertaker Could Face a Paul Heyman Guy in New Orleans

By Cena Harpin

Although several months away, speculation is abuzz around the WWE Universe as we approach WrestleMania 30. There are already some potential plans by the WWE to put a Paul Heyman guy next in line to challenge the legendary WrestleMania streak of The Undertaker.

                                                    


The Undertaker hasn’t yet confirmed he will be working a match at WrestleMania 30, but the WWE Universe are sure he will. With that being said, if he does work a match, who would he face? In my opinion, I think he would suit facing a Paul Heyman Guy. It would have to be either Ryback or Brock Lesnar though. Curtis Axel isn’t quite ready for a match as big as that. 

The first option would be Ryback. At Night Of Champions, Ryback interfered in the Axel/Heyman vs Punk 2-on-1 handicap match, spearing CM Punk through a table. Heyman said “Ryback saved my life”. After Undertaker defeated former Paul Heyman Guy, CM Punk at WrestleMania, Punk took time off but when he came back Heyman was to get rid of the Straight Edge Superstar. Ryback could face Undertaker by Heyman saying “CM Punk wasn’t good enough to beat you, but this year I have somebody stronger (Meaning Ryback or Lesnar) to to break your undefeated streak” If Ryback would be chosen for this role, I’m pretty sure Undertaker would put him over. 

Lesnar is already over with the WWE fans, as a heel but to me I think Ryback would fit in better than Lesnar. If this match was to happen, which might not, I definitely think it would live up to the hype it would get. 

In addition, there may be more to the Brock Lesnar and Undertaker rivalry, like in the above video.

Is another Paul Heyman guy destined to challenge The Streak next? Could Ryback or Brock Lesnar end the Legendary WrestleMania Streak? We’ll find out in due course.



 By Cena Harpin

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MLB: NL Playoff Teams Set

By Neil Mehta

The National League Playoff Spots Have Already Been Clinched, And The Lucky Teams Are The Atlanta Braves, St. Louis Cardinals, Los Angeles Dodgers, Pittsburgh Pirates And Cincinnati Reds.

Will The Atlanta Braves Do Some Damage In October?

The NL Postseason begins on October 1st, yet all playoff spots have already been clinched. The teams include the Atlanta Braves winning the NL East, the St. Louis Cardinals winning the NL Central, and the Los Angeles Dodgers winning the NL West. The two wildcard spots have been filled by the Pittsburgh Pirates and Cincinnati Reds. Many AL teams have also clinched playoff spots. The teams include the Boston Red Sox winning the AL East, the Detroit Tigers winning the AL Central and the Oakland A’s winning the AL West. The Tampa Bay Rays and Cleveland Indians are currently in the lead for the two wildcard spots. The Texas Rangers however are only 1 game back from the Cleveland Indians. With such a tight race, it’ll be fun to see who will come out on top. This last week will be fun one! 

 By Neil Mehta

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NFL: Winless After Week 3

By Neil Mehta

Eli, Griffin, Peterson, Big Ben And Revis Are All 0-3, Newton Wins Big!

A Disappointed Big Ben Leaving The Field After A 40-23 Loss To The Bears.

Eli Manning, Robert Griffin III, Adrian Peterson and Darrell Revis all have one thing in common, they are all 0-3. Cam Newton and the Carolina Panthers on the other hand can celebrate a win. Brian Hoyer and the Cleveland Browns can do the same. But with stars like Eli, RGIII, Peterson and Revis combining for a 0-12 record, there’s a problem. The Giants will  
have another daunting task at hand next week, playing Alex Smith and the 3-0 Kansas City Chiefs. The Vikings also have a difficult road ahead, having to play the Pittsburgh Steelers in London next. As for the Steelers, they finally got the offense going last night against the Bears, but Big Ben’s 2 lost fumbles and 2 interceptions, one for a touchdown is what really killed them. The Redskins and Buccaneers however have have an easier road ahead, playing the Oakland Raiders and Arizona Cardinals, respectively. 

By Neil Mehta

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NBA: Los Angeles Lakers Small Forward, Power Forward Season Preview

By Neil Mehta

After An Injury-Prone Season, Lakers’ Forward Pau Gasol Hopes To Rebound With A New Cast.

Does Pau Gasol Still Have The Ability To Play Like An All-Star?

SMALL FORWARD:

Starter: Nick Young- As a young, high-energy player Nick Young is a great fit for the Lakers. He should be a double digit scorer and will be solid on defense. He is expect to play big minutes, because of the lack of depth at the Small Forward position.

Backup: Wesley Johnson- Another young piece is always a positive for the Lakers. Johnson should bring much needed scoring from the bench. He should fill in nicely and would possibly fill the void as the 6th man.

Other Options: Ryan Kelly- At 6’11, the Lakers have listed Ryan Kelly as a Small Forward. As a college Power Forward  it will be interesting to see how this transformation. I don’t think this experiment will work out, and he will probably be a backup to Pau Gasol for most of the season.

Conclusion: There is one word to describe the Lakers’ Small Forward position, questionable. We’ll have to wait and see if Nick Young can go back to 2010-2011 and post career highs in scoring. And then there’s Wesley Johnson, a younger player who could break out at any time. But we can all agree that the most questionable is Ryan Kelly, a 6’11 Forward trying to play with athletic Small Forwards; we’ll just have to see how that works out.

POWER FORWARD:

Starter: Pau Gasol- At 33, Pau Gasol is on a steady decline. He should however be able to sucessfuly rebound from an injury-plagued season. I expect to be effective on both sides of the ball, I predict his season averages to be 17 Points and 9 Rebounds.

Backup: Ryan Kelly or Lamar Odom?- Even though Ryan Kelly is listed as a Small Forward, with his size he should play most of his minutes as a Power Forward. As a rookie, we can’t  predict how is season will go, all we can say is that he went to Duke and had a 2nd round grade. We then come to Lamar Odom, a free agent whom the Lakers have shown great interest in. If signed, he should be a solid backup and may even provide a spark to the team he won 2 championships with.

Conclusion: The Power Forward position for the Lakers is solid. While there is a future Hall of Famer starting, the backup is a 2nd round rookie.

By Neil Mehta

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SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX: Vettel Stands Tall Again to Get Third Consecutive Win in Night Race

By Keith Mehaffey

SINGAPORE – Sebastian Vettel once again proved just how fast he and his Red Bull car are together round the beautiful illuminated streets of Singapore. The German now opens up a 60 point lead over his nearest rivals, and his chances of retaining the Championship are becoming imminent.
 

Red Bull and Sebastian Vettel are on course for another win in the Championships (Courtesy: REUTERS)

Those wanting to see a new face on the top step of the podium had their hopes dashed approximately 15 seconds into this race! For that is all it took the Red Bull driver to re pass Nico Rosberg who briefly overtook him going into turn one. By the end of the first lap Vettel had pulled out a 1.9 second lead and was running away into the distance. Fernando Alonso was the other big winner away from the start line he made up 4 places and tucked his Ferrari neatly into 3rd place by the end of lap 3.

You could almost hear the groans coming from millions of sofas around the world as lap after lap Sebastian extended his lead without a single mistake! Such was the aura of perfection surrounding him he surely could have walked across the Marina Bay water back to his hotel post race!

As all the drivers (bar Adrian Sutil) opted to start on the quicker softer option tyres the drivers began to box from lap 11. Nico Hulkenberg and Sergio Perez battle for 12th place and on lap 17 Hulkenberg with no room leaves the track limits whilst overtaking the Mexican. Two laps later he is instructed to give the place back after receiving a penalty for the manoeuvre much to his disgust over team radio!

Vettel runs long and eventually pits on lap 17. Again for him a faultless stop lasting just 2.8 seconds! He rejoins the race in first place and continues to build his lead. On lap 25 Daniel Ricciardo crashes into the tech pro barrier at turn 18 and the safety car is deployed. Cue a whole raft of pitstops as teams take advantage of the slow pace. The only time the whole afternoon Vettel had to follow behind another car! After the safety car pulls off into the pits Seb is off again with a text book restart and is told to go faster by his race engineer Rocky!

Romain Grosjean has to pit due to a problem with his car`s engine air consumption, after a lengthy stop he is retired from the race a couple of laps later. The last 10 laps were possibly the most entertaing of the whole race, as the field closed together and drivers fought hard to overtake. One driver who fought hardest was Kimi Raikkonen who had started in 13th place and was pushing for a 3rd place finish. Mark Webber was driving well in 4th when a gear box issue slowed him down and led to a heart breaking retirement on the final lap!

So after 2 hours and 61 gruelling laps Sebastian Vettel took the chequered flag and a hattrick of wins here at the Marina Bay circuit. A nice moment on the slow down lap reminiscent of Mansell and Senna at Silverstone as 2nd place Fernando Alonso stops to pick up the stricken Mark Webber and gave him a lift back to the pitlane. Kimi Raikkonen shrugs off a back problem and drives a superb race to finish 3rd.

During the podium interviews a large section of the crowd booed Sebastian Vettel. Even Martin Brundle had to interrupt his questions to tell the crowd that their behaviour was “not correct”. Even if you are not a fan of the driver or the team respect must be given to an individual who drove faultlessly all weekend. I hope this behaviour stops as it has no place in our great sport.

Sebastian Vettel leads the championship by 60 points. Can this lead be overturned, it has happened before! The F1 circus moves on to Korea in 2 weeks time and I for one cannot wait.

 By Keith Mehaffey

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