Chelsea Draw Liverpool Barrage to a Halt at Anfield, Man City Capitalize and Sunderland Pummel Cardiff to Ignite Safety Hopes

Football

BY NISAR KHAN

Another captivating triple-header of Premier League football saw huge changes on the top and bottom of the league. While Sunderland marched out of the drop zone, Man City capitalized on Liverpool’s defeat to Chelsea. Recap all of the action with stats, analysis, reports and more here.



With just two weeks left in the Premier League campaign, football fans are poised for an incredible culmination to a wonderful season of football.

SEE ALSO · Five Premier League Managers Who Didn’t Deserve The Sack
RECAP · Champions League Semi-Final First Legs
POWER RANKINGS · 27 April: Power Ranking Top 10 Sports Stars Every Week

There was a trio of games on Sunday 27 April 2014, featuring a blockbuster clash between Liverpool and Chelsea. Sunderland faced Cardiff in a high stakes game in the relegation battle before City traveled the Selhurst Park, facing Crystal Palace later on.

In this article, there are detailed reports for each of the three games, with analysis, comment, stats and all the match information like attendance figures and bookings.

The Escape Is On: Sunderland Rattle Cardiff To Keep Safety Hopes Alive

Score: Sunderland 4 – 0 Cardiff City
Goalscorers: Connor Wickham (26′ & 86′), Fabio Borini (45′ penalty), Emanuele Giaccherini (76′)
Location: Stadium of Light, Sunderland, England.
Date: Sunday 27 April 2014
Kick-off: 12:00pm BST (UK time)
Referee: Phil Dowd
Attendance: 42,397
Possession: Sunderland 59% – Cardiff City 41%
Shots: Sunderland 21 – Cardiff City 6
Bookings: Vergini, Larsson, Giaccherini, Gardner, Borini, Fabio, Medel, Torris Ruiz (RED card), Mutch
Man of the Match: Connor Wickham

Sunderland lifted from the drop zone after they decimated 10-man Cardiff City at the Stadium of Light, with Connor Wickham twice on the mark.

For Sunderland, the result sees them go into safety for the first time since 10 February.

Connor Wickham, who has been finding some rampant form over the previous games for the Black Cats, scored the first part of a vital double, guiding in a header from a corner.

Cardiff City were handicapped on the brink of half time, after Juan Torres Ruiz was sent off, fouling Connor Wickham. An initial mistake that led to being dispossessed was followed by an act of panic, tugging at Wickham forcing him off goal. Phil Dowd therefore awarded the penalty.

Fabio Boirini comfortably scored from the spot to put the hosts in charge during the interval.

Ole Gunnar Solskjær, who replaced Malky Mackay earlier in the season, saw his side looking vulnerable in a miserable result that put them at the bottom of the table. 

Trailing by two goals and a man down, the result was edging imminence, and that was set in stone after Emanuele Giaccherini slotted home before Connor Wickham headed in another corner to complete the rout.

Deemed a “relegation cup final” in the buildup to the fixture, Sunderland were undoubtedly euphoric following a win that could turn their season around. Its the exact opposite for Cardiff.

Analysis & comment

Over their past games, there’s been no shortage of good football from Sunderland, although their problem was the results. Now, they’ve found a solution.

Connor Wickham is emerging much from what he’s destined to become, the key goalscorer that Sunderland can go to, on key games.

With an away trip to Manchester United before hosting West Brom and Swansea, the big win here has made safety much more plausible for the club.

Even though they lost a man at the midpoint of the game, Cardiff were vulnerable from the early stages. Simply put, their football and style was no match.

Chelsea Blow Title Race Wide Open As Blues Halt Reds At Anfield

Score: Liverpool 0 – 2 Chelsea
Goalscorers: Demba Ba (45′), Willian (90′)
Location: Anfield, Liverpool, England.
Date: Sunday 27 April 2014
Kick-off: 2:05pm BST (UK time)
Referee: Martin Atkinson
Attendance: 44,726
Possession: Chelsea 73% – Chelsea 27%
Shots: Liverpool 26 – Chelsea 11
Bookings: Salah, Lampard, Torres, Cole
Man of the Match: Demba 

Jose Mourinho yet again orchestrated a masterclass win for Chelsea, as Demba Ba and Willian struck to thwart Liverpool at Anfield.

Trailing five points on the league table prior to the game, Chelsea’s win puts them two points of the top spot. However, with Chelsea’s win, more attention is poised towards Manchester City who, with a game in hand, can equal Liverpool on points, though beating them on goal difference.

A raucous Anfield were indeed a viable source of energy for the Reds’ to draw of, though Chelsea were defensively sound to deny any Liverpool attacks.

The gameplan for Chelsea was clear – take their time and tactically frustrate Liverpool. And when the chance came on the other end of the pitch, they made sure it counted.

Steven Gerrard slipped after receiving a pass from Mahmadou Sakho, with Demba Ba latching onto the miss and slotting it pass the onrushing Mignolet.

Visible distraught, Gerrard attempted to redeem himself with long-range shots in the second half, though the shots were not of any trouble.

Liverpool were eager to attack and to go forth, with Iago Aspas, Daniel Sturridge, Raheem Sterling and Luis Suarez all on the pitch at once – though the credit is reserved for Chelsea, defending well and keeping Liverpool at bay.

21 of Liverpool’s 26 shots were outside of the box – bus, parked.

Instead, the Reds were forced to shoot from long-range, eventually being blocked, or going wide. And in the rare occurrences whereby Liverpool got a little closer, they were often simple saves for the Aussie keeper Mark Schwarzer.

Frustration was clear on all from Liverpool. Not necessarily where they lackadaisical but Chelsea made them look it with the tactics working to perfection.

Willian delivered the final blow on an excellent counter-attack to expose Liverpool’s defense line, with only Steven Gerrard back. 

Fernando Torres ran forward after Gerrard was unable to make the tackle, running from behind the half way line towards Mignolet, passing it across to Willian who tapped in easily. 

Analysis & comment

Liverpool suffer a league loss for the first time this year. An incredible run for Liverpool with 11-games draws to a halt, though their Championship credentials will truly be proven in how they bounce back.

From the neutral perspective the title race is completely unpredictable. “The tide has turned” in the title race, the loss could be very deflating for Liverpool. Selhurst Park will be hostile, especially with the Eagles’ style that could derail them.

Despite remaining on top, Liverpool have two more challenges which they look less likely of winning after the loss.

An insight into the mind of Mourinho has been exploited over the week. Tactically sound for Chelsea to shut down the Liverpool barrage. Mourinho has executed it perfectly against Atletico Madrid and now Liverpool.

Yaya Toure Leads Surge As City Capitalize On Liverpool Misfortune 

Score: Crystal Palace 0 – 2 Manchester City
Goalscorers: Edin Dzeko (4′), Yaya Toure (43′)
Location: Selhurst Park, London, England.
Date: Sunday 27 April 2014
Kick-off: 4:10pm BST (UK time)
Referee: Howard Webb
Attendance: 24,769
Possession: Crystal Palace 46% – Man City 54%
Shots: Crystal Palace 3 – Man City 16
Bookings: Pablo Zabaleta
Man of the Match: Yaya Toure

Yaya Toure was the driving force behind Manchester City as they fired two past Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park to keep up the pressure on the title race.

Edin Dzeko got the visitors off to a rapid start, as he towered high to head low past the keeper. 

Man City didn’t seem too urgent to decimate Palace, taking their time to control the game.

With a few minutes left on the clock from the first half Yaya Toure charged through Palace players and curved it into the top corner to excellently double the lead.

In the second half, though, Pellegrini’s men tend to have sat back more, even though Palace were unable to capitalize.

Analysis & comment

Advantage City in the title race…

Manchester City’s goal difference has provided an essential and comfortable bubble for the rest of the title race. Should Liverpool and Man City win all their remaining games, its most likely that Manchester City will win the title on their superior goal difference.

In the game, Yaya Toure showed how important he is to City. Truly an incredible player, the Ivorian’s goal epitomized that.

Crystal Palace are safe, but will want to pick up more wins in order to broaden ambitions for next season. They face Liverpool next.

AP

A remarkable day in the Premier League – the title race has been blown wide open again.

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Man City Drop Points To Sunderland While Crystal Palace Thwart Toffees’ Fourth Hopes With Vital Win

Football

Premier League: 16 April 2014

BY NISAR KHAN

It was a dramatic midweek night of Premier League action which dramatically effected the Top Four as Everton were stunned by Crystal Palace, and Man City scraped merely a point from Sunderland at the Etihad Stadium.

Sunderland’s Connor Wickham dealt a big blow to City’s title hopes on Wednesday STANDARD SPORT

Manchester City’s title hopes were dealt a colossal blow as they drew with Sunderland in a thrilling game at the Etihad Stadium.

For the visitors, it was looking to be a gloomy day from the outset, as Fernandinho netted a goal for the hosts just two minutes in. The Brazilian smashed it to the right bottom corner after being threaded through from Sergio Aguero’s through ball.

The initial analogies of what the game would turn out to be though were, in fact, the contrary to what actually ensued – Sunderland pressed Man City and left them with a slender lead going into the half-time break.

Man City would hold on till the 71st minute, when Connor Wickham fired a deserved goal back in Sunderland’s favor to even the game. Emanuele Giaccherini’s cross put him through to beat Joe Hart and put The Citizens on edge.

Under ten minutes later, and Connor Wickham would complete his double and of much greater significance, he would give Sunderland a lead that hardly anyone would have expected. Joe Hart was left a bystander as the shot was cruelly slotted past him and left him helpless.

As the Black Cats slowly approached a vital three points, it was snatched away from them in crumbling fashion. Samir Nasri’s shot from the middle of the box was half-saved by Vito Mannone, though he could do little as it trickled into the net – the Italian was distraught as his blunder surrendered what would have been an uplifting three points to his side.

Sunderland, contrary to general consensus, would in fact press further for a winner, rather than defending for their lives, they came close to stunning City with another winner out of nowhere. Neither side could score a third goal, and honors were even as they both took a point. 

A dwindling blow for Manchester City, who have put the title out of their own doing now – the loss to Liverpool on Sunday means that the Reds will only need 10 points from their final four games to clinch the title.

Crystal Palace held on to defy Everton at Goodison Park, while in the process push them further towards safety in the Premier League.

Jason Puncheon continued his scoring form as he broke the deadlock around 22 minutes in, with a strong strike to the bottom left of the goal. His lone goal of the half gave the Londoners an important lead going into the interval.

Three minutes into the second phase and the Eagles’ would be flying high in Goodison – Scott Dann headed home from Bolasie’s ball in. 

Everton kept a gasp in the game around the hour-mark, with Naismith scoring from close range after Leighton Baines headed it towards his path, bringing back the deficit to one goal.

As Everton pressed, they would suffer a setback ten minutes after scoring. Cameron Jerome was provided possession off the ball from Jason Puncheon, allowing him to beat Tim Howard with a low-driven, medium-range shot.

Goodison was preparing for a nail-biting finish when Kevin Mirallas scored an easy goal with little yards between him and the goalline, just five minutes from the end of regulation. 

Some six minutes of stoppage time later, and Everton’s final efforts would be in vein – Crystal Palace flew high on the day as they propelled to safety considerations, while Everton handed the fourth-place takings in the Gunners’ favor.

City Fail To Take Advantage Of Game In Hand

Manchester City’s meeting with Sunderland was one of two games in hand that, if both were won would sandwich them two points between Liverpool and Chelsea. Sunderland were reluctant to succumb to Manchester City’s attacking prowess and got the point.

But many would say they deserved more – Mannone’s blunder was a horrifying way for Sunderland to miss out on the three points. They definitely did a bigger favour for the other two title challengers in Liverpool and Chelsea.

Yaya Toure’s absence due to injury was quite noticeable in the game – even though Fernandinho made his presence somewhat known with an early goal, it was far from Yaya Toure’s potentials. A positive for City though is Aguero’s improvements as he assisted Fernandinho for the opener.

Liverpool need 10 of a possible 12 points to clinch the title now, meaning they can afford to draw with Chelsea at Anfield. If Liverpool and Chelsea continue form, then Man City are gone completely – every game now is must-win for the Etihad Stadium occupants.

The three points they missed out on though may be costly in the relegation bottle as they stick rock-bottom of the table.

Eagles Stick Toffees For Fifth?

Arsenal’s touts as the favorites for fourth spot are now even stronger – as wrote in this previous column, they definitely have the advantage.

Everton still have games with Manchester United, Manchester City and Southampton – while Arsenal’s run-down is a much easier journey to secure Champions League football. Everton really needed to pick up a win, even with it being at home, to keep the pressure on the Gunners. 

And for Crystal Palace, well, what a turnaround. They are fighting back as the season approaches a thrilling culmination. They’ve hit the magic 40-point mark, and lie ten points from the drop zone.

Aftermath: The table at the end of the night

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Liverpool Contain Wild Black Cats In Anxious Anfield Climax, Tigers Tamed By Hammers With Own Goal

Football

BY NISAR KHAN

Two midweek Premier League games provided plenty of drama as Liverpool got their seventh consecutive league win, and Hull City were harshly beaten by an own goal to West Ham.

Liverpool held on in an anxious last fifteen minutes against Sunderland AP

Liverpool 2 – 1 Sunderland

Liverpool held on against a late surge from Sunderland at Anfield for their seventh straight win in the league.

After a resilient opening effort from the Black Cats, the skipper would break the deadlock, as up stepped Steven Gerrard for the free-kick, delightfully hitting home for the opener.

Sunderland’s game plan had made it a scrappy, tough time for Liverpool, carrying optimism for their games going forward and avoiding a blitz from the Reds – who hadn’t scored three goals in a game for the first time in six matches.

Daniel Sturridge crept into the box in the 47th minute to five Liverpool a comfortable time for the majority of the second half, as he added yet another goal to his tally, with a delightful left-footed shot curling into the top corner and scoring his 20th season goal.

Ki Sueng-Yueng’s introduction into the game brought about a more attacking approach from the visitors, putting the Liverpudlians on edge with a blitz of chances.

The comeback talk would increase by tenfold with Ki’s diving header in the 75th minute, after Lee Cattermole and Daniel Sturridge hit the woodwork in consecutive plays. 

Liverpool were in for an anxious final fifteen minutes of the game, managing to hold on and keep out Sunderland. When many expected a rout, Liverpool were pushed to the limits and it was a promising performance from Sunderland. 

Liverpool climbed to second with their win overcoming the impalpable tension to end the game, with an emphatic seventh consecutive league victory. 

West Ham United 2 – 1 Hull City 

Hull City were down to ten men within 23 minutes, as goalkeeper Allan McGregor was sent off for a foul on Diame. Mark Noble scored the penalty to open the scoring.

Croatian Nikica Jelavic equalized for the Tigers, with Huddlestone’s free-kick deflecting off his back and beating the hosts’ keeper. 

Hull’s good work would be undone in comical fashion, with a comical own goal in the 56th minute.

James Chester got a leg out on Guy Demel, with the shot coming off his kneecap and unfortunately ricocheting into the net. Devastating for Hull, fortunate for West Ham who get their first win of the month. 

Comment, Analysis and Breakdown

Liverpool showed more Championship character, managing to hold on against a valiant Sunderland effort. Wins like this will go far in the season, and the squad will learn plenty from them. Anfield stuck with them throughout, even during the anxious final minutes, they held on, which was huge.

Seven consecutive wins make Liverpool the hottest team going into the title race. What makes the Premier League so diverse are the outcomes like this. Most were expectant of a rout, yet Sunderland made it a tough night for Liverpool.

Yet again, as stated in this column on Saturday, Liverpool’s defense could be the biggest hindrance. They were sloppy in conceding from the set piece.

Liverpool’s home form is key going into the title race.

As for Sunderland, they can take a lot from this win. Despite losing, they pushed Liverpool to the limit, but must make it count. They can’t suffer a downspiral post-league cup final.

Hull City were harshly and comically beaten out by West Ham who were lucky to get the win. A draw was becoming imminent judging by the aftermath of the equalizer, but the own goal sent it in West Ham’s favor. Luck for some, embarrassment for others – that’s football at its most potent.

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Significance Restored: What The League Cup Final Result Means For Sunderland, Man City

Football

BY NISAR KHAN

Manchester City won the Capital One Cup Final at Wembley on Sunday, after defeating Sunderland 3 – 1 in a superb game. It has not only restored the significance of the tournament, but also has impacted either side for the remainder of the season.



Sunderland took the lead in the first half with Fabio Borini latching on from a tackle, running on to a ball from the other half and beating Joe Hart with an excellent finish from an acute angle. As a result of the Liverpool loanee’s goal, the Black Cats lead going into the break.

A sudden turn of events between the fifty-fourth and fifty-sixth minute would see the game turned completely on its head, and it would take two phenomenal strikes from Yaya Toure and Samir Nasri to do so. 

Late surges would prove insufficient for Sunderland to force back extra-time, and Manchester City sealed the cup win with Jesus Navas scoring just before the ninety-minute mark.

This cup win takes a great strain, and some pressure off Manuel Pelligrini. Often criticized for his lack of cup wins, this really put him on the right foot to win the cup in his first season, and also helps him toward the target of five trophy wins in the next five years.

This has also went a long way to the Barcelona tie in less than two weeks. With Sergio Aguero also back, and morale high for Manchester City, they could have what it takes to win at the Camp Nou, should they bring their best.

Manchester City’s quadruple hopes remain alive following the win. Although the Champions League is under some jeopardy, they face Wigan Athletic – underdogs of who Man City want some payback on – in the FA Cup quarterfinals.

Although Manchester City fell to third in the league table, there’s a strong reason why. They have two games in hand currently, and more to follow with the FA Cup quarterfinal postponing another game. While this has an advantage, it could be draining, squeezing in those games late, in addition to their involvement in the Champions League and FA Cup.

If Manchester City failed to win on Sunday then things would look rather problematic, considering the few halts they have encountered here and there. Despite that, they went on to win and have secured an important piece to their campaign.

Sunderland were undoubtedly the underdogs going into the Capital One Cup Final, but their first half performance was truly a standout, that could fuel them to Premier League survival. 

It would have been major for the club, but many can see their promising performance in Wembley as a stepping stone – they may have fell short, but they will be motivated to keep battling in the top flight.

This tournament, this season round, felt all the more special. With all due respect to last year’s finalists, Swansea City and Bradford, in what turned out to be a rout at Wembley, made the tournament of much less importance, but with Man City in the final and big underdogs who put on a great performance, the League Cup has been catapulted back into relevance again.

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Sunderland Triumph Against City to Pick Up Second League Win

FOOTBALL >> PREMIER LEAGUE >> 2013/14 SEASON >> WEEK 11

SUNDERLAND 1 – 0 MANCHESTER CITY

Bardsley 21′

KICK-OFF: Sunday 10 November 2013 at 2:05pm (GMT) 

(GAMEWEEK 11) at Stadium of Light, Sunderland.

By Nisar Khan

SUNDERLAND – Sunderland got their second win of the season after defeating Manchester City by one goal scored by Phil Bardsley.

Manchester City got things underway, with the first five minutes being rather slow as both teams had a general touch on the ball to get a feel of the game. There was not much pressure from either side in the opening minutes.

Fletcher came close to putting the Black Cats ahead in the thirteenth minute, but his header was off from goal. Steven Fletcher usually would make better of headers, but this was not the case.

Sunderland stunned the visitors with a goal twenty minutes in. Wes Brown hurled the ball forward and Phil Bardsley chased it down. Under pressure in the box, James Milner lost his footing (or maybe a foul) and turned the ball to his right foot to smash it past Pantillimon to put Gus Poyet’s side ahead.

Following the goal, the hosts were looking strong and well into the game. However, Manchester City were slowly becoming dangerous with chances that were just a final touch short of goal. Aguero missed a header that was bound on goal following Kolarov’s cross after the half-an-hour mark.

Sunderland were in the lead as the half-time break commenced. Sunderland’s goal made it hard work for Manchester City who were working hard but unable to equalize to that point.

Phil Bardsley’s goal was the difference in the first half (Image Courtesy: PremierLeague.com)

Manchester City made a change in the break as Javi Garcia came off and Jesus Navas replaced him, hoping to offer more width to exploit the hosts and equalize.

Jesus Navas was causing some trouble early but still Sunderland kept them at bay. Manchester City were setting up chances but reminiscent to the other side of the break, the finishing quality was a stretch from their usual. 

Sunderland continued to pile the players in the box to defend and Manchester City’s equalizing hopes were at a standstill.

As stoppage time approached, Sunderland still lead but they were on the backfoot. Manchester City continued to come at them and their chances came… and went.

Frustration was clear from the players as they chopped down Sunderland numerous times, fouls and chances coming from City.

Manchester City had one final chance with a free-kick, and as it was headed out, the Stadium of Light erupted in celebration as they picked up their second win of the season.

Its a huge win for Sunderland. For Manchester City, more questions are raised about their away performances. Can Sunderland continue on the rise?

PREMIER LEAGUE: Borini Goal Gives Sunderland First League Win in Derby

SUNDERLAND 2 – 1 NEWCASTLE

LIVE – Fletcher ‘4, Debouchy ’58, Borini ’84

KICK-OFF: Sunday 27 October 2013 at 1:30pm (GMT) 

(GAMEWEEK 9) at Stadium of Light, Sunderland.

By Nisar Khan

SUNDERLAND –  Sunderland manager Gus Poyet won his first home game at the Wear-Tyne Derby after Fabio Borini scored a fantastic winner at the Stadium of Light.

Steven Fletcher headed his side into the lead in the fourth minute.

SEE ALSO: Reporting From Yesterday’s Premier League Action

There was an electric atmosphere at the Stadium of Light when the ball got rolling. Neither team had an early threshold possession with both teams already establishing the physical correlation of the game with tackles flying in.
Sunderland’s home fans were looking to give them support early on, and that would be cranked up when Steven Fletcher hit home the opener.

In the first corner of the game, Adam Johnson whipped it in to Steven Fletcher who headed home just five minutes in to get the fans abuzz in celebration of a huge, huge goal.

Both teams looked sharp and piled the pressure on one another, a few fouls were flying in. No fights just yet (although if you want fights here is the report from UFC’s event in Manchester last night).

As the game progressed, Newcastle’s ball control seemed to decline with Sunderland working much harder than them. Cabaye had a few chances up to then but none really posing much of a threat to Westwood in between the sticks.

Battle: Santon, Larsson battle for possession. (Image Courtesy: PremierLeague.com)

Steven Fletcher came close to putting his team two goals up with a half volley, but Krul parried it out to Altidore, who was unable to close in and double the lead. A let off for Dummett to who lost control too.

Newcastle looked more comfortable however with Ben Arfa and Remy switching places forward, but what remained the same was the Black Cats’ relentless work ethic on and off the ball.

Anton Cabaye picked up the first booking of the game for a typical Derby foul – expected to be one of many before the game was over. 

Half an hour in, Sunderland were still leading but the game had developed into a very evenly-poised encounter. Newcastle were holding their own up to that point, pressing up against the Sunderland players in search of an equalizer.

With the half-time whistle putting an end to the first 45 minutes, the hosts went into the break leading. Newcastle were looking slow out of the blocks but did put Sunderland under pressure progressively. It was a very fast, intense first half that had more to give in the second.

© Getty Images

The visitors got things underway in the second half with Papiss Cisse replacing Sissoko. Newcastle started an early search for an equalizer.

With a few minutes before the hour mark, Newcastle were progressively becoming a bigger threat as they lurked outside the box. Hatim Ben Arfa passed it along the ground into the box that resulted in the goal.

Exposing a lack in concentration, it went through to Debouchy who had an easy tap-in. Failure to mark him resulted in a gift of a goal as the Derby was even again.

Newcastle and Sunderland were fighting to a stalemate, as the game intensified.

Things got faster, but of course not as fast as Vettel – who clinched the F1 World title earlier today.

Then, it would take an incredible strike from Fabio Borini to set the Stadium of Light going wild as the pass fell to Borini who dribbled and struck it to the right leaving Krul no chance of saving. Surely the winner.

GIF: Borini puts his team back in front

And as the full-time whistle blew, Borini’s goal proved the difference as Sunderland secured their first win of the season.

Could this be the turning point for Sunderland? A huge win at the Derby may put them back on track after picking up their first league win this season. They are celebrating this time round in Tyneside. 

BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE: Youngster Januzaj Delivers as Manchester United Get Back to Winning Ways

SUNDERLAND 1 – 2 MANCHESTER UNITED
Gardner (‘5)  Januzaj (’55, ’61)

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

(GAMEWEEK 7) at Stadium of Light, Sunderland.

By Nisar Khan

SUNDERLAND – An inspired performance by an inspired youngster, Adnan Januzaj was all the difference in Manchester United’s victory over Sunderland as part of a well-contested game at the Stadium of Light on Saturday night.

Adnan Januzaj struck twice in his first start for the club (Image Courtesy: PremierLeague.com)

MATCH REPORT

Onward from kick-off, the teams set to a relatively slow tempo. The teams just calmly passed the ball around at the Stadium of Light. First impressions of the start suggested that a goal would come after a long deadlock, but this was not the case at all…

Just five minutes into the game and the hosts were celebrating. Craig Gardner put the Black Cats ahead after a defensive mishap from United. Following a great run by Giaccherini, Jones looked to cleared it, but it was still in a troubling situation and Nemanja Vidic looked to clear it to safety, only for him to completely mishit it, falling to Gardner who smashed it home to give his team the lead. 

Craig Gardner struck home Sunderland’s first goal (Image Courtesy: PremierLeague.com)

Manchester United responded fairly well to conceding the goal with Nani gettting a shot off albeit going wide. Soon after, Craig Gardner was in the box with the potential to score his second, but Phil Jones quickly put the ball out of danger. In spite of the odd chance Manchester United had, it was all Sunderland in the first fifteen minutes.

Januzaj got the closest chance for Manchester United up to that point in the game, with some fantastic skill followed by a shot that just went wide. The promising youngster for Manchester United was looking to be their best hope of an equalizer. Nani got even closer for Manchester United, but his shot selection seemed to let him down, as he went for a side-footed volley that went off target.

Half an hour in and it was looking all good for the home side. Manchester United put together few attacks but nothing to trouble Sunderland. They were off to a real good start in the game and looked to be in full control.

David De Gea took a massive step to redeeming himself, with a cracking save to deny Giaccherini’s header. That could have well and truly been 2 – 0 for the hosts, but De Gea emphatically rejects.

Frustration personified for the visitors – Wayne Rooney was dispossessed by Gardner so hacked him down in rage. He like many other United players, did not really click in the first half. In spite of them not ‘clicking’, they had more possession in the last 10 minutes of the first half. Sunderland were unable to materialize any attacks. Fortunate for them, nor could United.

As the first-half came to an end, Sunderland finished leading by one goal. Sunderland got off to a flying start and dictated a majority of the half. In spite of Manchester United’s high pressure towards the end, Sunderland kept them at bay and went in with a deserved lead.

Craig Garder’s fith minute goal was the difference in the first half (Image Courtesy: PremierLeague.com)

It would take a mere ten minutes of second half action for Manchester United’s equalizer to come. The Manchester United prospect Adnan Januzaj struck home from around 15 yards out to finish in terrific fashion.

Manchester United were uplifted following the goal, and then, six minutes after, Januzaj would once again strike the back of the net with a sensational volley. Absolutely incredible.

And just like that, one hour in, Manchester United were leading and turned the game completely around – courtesy of one talented teenager, Adnan Januzaj.

Fatigue was kicking in for Sunderland, they looked like they had given it their all in the hour, but Manchester United had the lead. Manchester United continued to attack, before Adnan Januzaj was substituted after a cracking game where he was truly the difference.

Sunderland had a promising spell five minutes before stoppage time. Robin van Persie could have sealed the deal in the game, but the chance went begging in a terrible miss.

Further play, little signs of an equalizer, and then came the full-time whistle.

Star is Born: Januzaj on flying form in the game (Image Courtesy: PremierLeague.com)

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

JANUZAJ: UNITED’S FIRST-HALF HOPE
Adnan Januzaj looked very promising for Manchester United in the first fourty-five minutes. He looked the only legitimate goal threat throughout the entire game.

VAN PERSIE’S FIRST HALF WOES
Robin van Persie’s form has not been at its best recently, this was at display again in the first half with little to no chances.

GIACCHERINI: SUNDERLAND’S FIRST-HALF CATALYST
Giaccherini was terrific for Sunderland in the first half, a man of the match candidate no doubt. 

JANUZAJ OUTSHINES VAN PERSIE, ROONEY
Januzaj outshined the best of talent in this game, a young man proving to be something special for the future.

MANAGER WORRIES A CONTRAST
David Moyes’ worries may are momentarily at rest, meanwhile for Sunderland’s interim manager, it is a very different story.

MAN OF THE MATCH
Who was the best player in the game?

Adnan Januzaj
The 18-year-old made his first start for Manchester United and put on a terrific performance. Looking the most promising of the first half, and in the second he struck twice in the span of six minutes. Two fantastic goals scored, and an impact made. Januzaj pays divident for Manchester United here. Moyes has found a special, special talent. 

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.

• Do you agree with Peter Schmeichel when he was on Sky Sports and called David De Gea’s save to deny Giaccherini the best save ever?
  One hell of a save that was. Emphatic from De Gea to deny Giaccherini’s header. Talk about reflexes – De Gea’s got them nailed.
  

GIF: De Gea’s save

• Do you think that Manchester United relying on a teenage youngster (Januzaj) is risky, efficient or shows that they lack quality?
  With their backlog of talent, Manchester United are relying on a youngster, to an extent. Does this highlight their lack of quality?

THE FINAL SAY
The game (and analysis) in short.

Another fantastic game in the books. Manchester United get the win they have needed, courtesy of Adnan Januzaj. It looked to be a nightmare for the visitors initally with Gardner’s early goal, but with a varied second half approach, Manchester United struck with their young hope to pick up a big win.

Adnan Januzaj proves pivotal for Manchester United as his two goals give his side the win. In spite of his booking for ‘simulation’, Januzaj has more than redeemed himself.

Meanwhile, Sunderland’s woes continue, as the manager-less club suffer another loss and their season is in turmoil following a shaky start.

Similar to the situation in the other side of Manchester, the Red Devils have momentarily silenced the critics, but only for a short amount of time.

Adnan Januzaj proves that he is the future of the club with an excellent performance to give Manchester United an imperative win over Sunderland. The highlights of this match are not dedicated to the most expensive players, just the one, youngest, player.

 By Nisar Khan – Read more articles from this author

TheSportMatrix.com

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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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BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE: The Eagles are Flying Again

KICK-OFF: Saturday 31 August at 5:30pm. (BST)

(GAMEWEEK 3) at AnfiekdPark, Croydon, London.

By TheSportMatrix.com

CROYDON – A victory in this game at Selhurst Park would have been uplifting for either teams after both Ian Holloway and Paola Di Cannio’s clubs have suffered a rather uncomfortable couple of weeks. But it was Palace who came out on top, thanks to an early goal from Gabbidon and then a delightful strike from substitute O’Keefe to secure the win for Palace.

Ian Holloway’s squad clinched their first win of the season. (via PremierLeague)

STARTING LINE-UPS:


MATCH COVERAGE:

KICK-OFF Under the watchful eye of the bald eagle, Crystal Palace & Sunderland get under way at Selhurst Park #CRYSUN pic.twitter.com/e2GQsHleWk
— Premier League (@premierleague) August 31, 2013

Palace squeeze the ball over the line to take an early lead. (via Premier League)

At the 9th minute mark, there was a scramble near the box as Campana swung in a corner, which dodged everyone at the near post until Dikgacoi got a small tap of the ball which then hits the ankle of Gabbidon, before crossing over the line in a truly bizarre and unpretty sequence.

The first half was mostly Crystal Palace, moving the ball excellently around the deep Sunderland defence. The Saints did not just look out of sorts on defence, but also on attack, making little opportunities, in which was an abysmal display of football on their behalf. Going into halftime, it was obvious that Palace deserved the lead, and also that Di Cannio was not going to be a happy man in that locker room.

Fletcher celebrates levelling for Sunderland at Palace.

The 2nd half consisted of pretty much the same as the first half, but after spurning many chances, Palace paid the price. At the 64th minute, Steven Fletcher, making his return from injury, marked his comeback with a superb header beating GK Speroni all ends up. Fletcher hung in the box, avoiding his marker and made sure that his header was going to cross the line with an emphatic attempt with a great result.

78 minutes in, and all to play for, skipper John O’Shea gives away a ludicrous foul, a loose, clumsy foul. The Captain received a red-card amidst elation from the Selhurst Park crowd as young forward Dwight Gayle, looking nervous, buries the penalty to give Palace the upper hand.

Crystal Palace still clinging to the 1 goal lead, bring on Aaron Wilbraham & Stuart O’Keefe to protect the lead.

In the closing stages, Di Cannio still optimistic, and angry, urged on his team, but it doesn’t look like it’s going to happen, especially with 1 man down. And that was right, as in the 91st minute, substitute O’Keefe scores an absolute fabulous left-foot shot off the underside of the bar from 20 yards.

It is all over.

STATS:

MAN OF THE MATCH:

TSM Man of the Match – Danny Gabbidon.

THE FINAL SAY:

Crystal Palace will be happy with their performance after running the game fantastically on both sides of the field, and as for Sunderland, there are many questions to be answered.

By TheSportMatrix

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 – Sports for the Fans, by the Fans.

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BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE: NEGREDO, TOURÉ, TAME TIGERS

BARCLAYS PREMIER LEAGUE: Preview Series, 2013/14 – Sunderland

By Nisar Khan

Paulo Di Canio has the intention of the best for Sunderland. They just survived the relegation battle last season, and this season we believe that their efficient signings and confidence could catapult them to a solid mid-table position. Here’s why:

Paul Di Canio rejoices with his players. © Getty Images

Predicted Finish: 10th
Predicted Main Man – Emanuele Giaccherini
Predicted Flop of the Year – None


Squad 

Goalkeepers: Grade C

Jordan Pickford
Keiren Westwood

Emanuale Giaccherini (via NorthumberlandGazette)

Vito Mannone 
 
Defenders: Grade C –

Phillip Bardsley
Wes Brown
John O’Shea
Carlos Cuéllar

Stephane Sessegnon (via PlanetF1)

Valentin Roberge
Modibo Diakité
Ondrej Celustka
 
Midfielders: Grade B –

Lee Cattermole
Sebastian Larsson
Craig Gardner
Jack Colback
David Vaughan
Adam Johnson
El-Hadji Ba
Stéphane Sessegnon
Emanuele Giaccherini
Cabral 


Forwards: Grade D+

Jozy Altidore
Mikael Mandron
David Moberg-Karlsson
Steven Fletcher
Duncan Watmore

Verdict

Sunderland seem very confident going into this season, and this is a fundamental boost in being much, much safer from relegation as oppose to last year.

Larrson has a key role for Sunderland and I think he will perform again as well as the predicted main man, Emanuele Giaccherini.

Paul Di Canio may be a controversial manager, but he is also a very charged and motivated manager and you can expect this to rub off on the rest of the team.

They made a lot of cheap signings and this is a major help with addition to the squad and fresh players in the Stadium of Light. Plus, you can expect Sessegnon to come back stronger after a second season.

Sunderland will be motivated to perform much better after the close relegation battle that saw them come 17th. With the addition of new signings and a pumped up manager, I predict them to finish 10th in a secure mid-table position.  

By Nisar Khan

TheSportMatrix.com
 – Sports for the Fans, by the Fans.

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