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The English Premier League Season (2024/25)

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Brighton and Hove Albion moved second in the Premier League table despite failing to win at home to bottom club Southampton.

Kaoru Mitoma capitalised on poor Saints defending to head Brighton in front midway through the first half.

Victory would have taken Brighton six points behind leaders Liverpool, but they were pegged back when Flynn Downes slammed home just before the hour.

Instead they are second, level on points, goal difference and goals scored with Manchester City, but with a better head-to-head record.

Southampton thought they had taken the lead through Cameron Archer shortly after Downes' goal, but it was ruled out for a debatable offside as team-mate Adam Armstrong was ruled to have been interfering with play.

Southampton remain bottom of the table, with just five points from 13 games.

Brighton dominated the opening stages Friday evening, with Southampton nearly caught out on several occasions attempting to play out from the back.

Georginio Rutter was inches away from handing Brighton the lead on 16 minutes, cutting in from the right and striking the post with his left-footed drive.

And they did lead when Tariq Lamptey - making his first league start of an injury-inflicted season - crossed from the right.

Jack Stephens missed his header and the ball was allowed to bounce through to Mitoma, who evaded marker Yukinari Sugawara to head home.

But Brighton failed to press their advantage, and were punished when Armstrong's blocked effort fell perfectly for Downes to strike from 16 yards.
 
Chris Sutton predicts Liverpool vs Man City

Sutton shared his verdict on how this game will go.

The pundit says that Liverpool could actually tear Man City apart, predicting a 4-1 win for the Reds here.

Paul Merson also tipped Liverpool to win this game.

“It’s been a good week for Liverpool and a good season so far but a win to send them 11 points clear of the defending champions would make it a great week and a great campaign, and that’s what I am going for,” Sutton wrote.

“They might not just beat City, they could take them apart like Spurs did.

“Because City have been so dominant in the Premier League, there will be a lot of people out there who would be happy to see Liverpool win the title this season.

Source: tbr Football
 
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Arsenal moved second in the Premier League after a frenetic victory over West Ham at London Stadium in which seven goals were scored in the first half

The Gunners led after 10 minutes when centre-back Gabriel flicked home Bukayo Saka's corner at the near post after escaping loose West Ham marking.

And the lead was doubled after 27 minutes when Leandro Trossard finished a flowing Arsenal move from close range. Saka was again the provider, played in by a chipped Martin Odegaard through ball before squaring to Trossard to finish.

Then followed a frantic period of four goals in six minutes, started by Odegaard making it three shortly following the hour mark from the penalty spot after Saka was tripped in the area by Lucas Paqueta.

And Arsenal went 4-0 up after 36 minutes when a long ball was missed by home defender Max Kilman, allowing Kai Havertz to finish one-on-one past beleagured goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski.

West Ham responded when right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka scored his second goal in consecutive games with a near-post finish, before left-back Emerson reduced the arrears to 4-2 with a magnificent free-kick that crashed in off the crossbar.

But Arsenal restored their three-goal lead with a second penalty, this time netted by Saka for his first away league goal of the season after Fabianski accidentally punched Gabriel while trying to clear a corner.

It is only the fourth time in Premier League history that seven goals have been scored in the first half of a game - but there were none after the break as Arsenal comfortably saw out the win.

It moves Mikel Arteta's side six points behind leaders Liverpool, who face third-place Manchester City on Sunday (16:00 GMT).

West Ham remain 14th in the table, six points above the relegation zone.

Source: BBC
 
Man City even losing 5 are still are great side . Losing games they still often control & have the better chances .

Liverpool are favourites but this type of match brings out the best of a great team like city . 4 x in a row PL champions, treble winners , they will be motivated for this one .

At Anfield, Liverpool can’t lose . Draw is fine .

Every result is possible as this a huge game in the history of premier league.

I’ll be happy with a win or draw .

Must watch for any football fan , especially anxiety stricken Arsenal fans
 
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Cole Palmer shone in a comfortable Chelsea win over an Aston Villa side whose worrying winless run extended to eight matches

Nicolas Jackson gave Chelsea a seventh-minute lead, squeezing a first-time finish past Emi Martinez after Marc Cucurella forced Jadon Philogene into a mistake on the edge of his own box before crossing.

Enzo Fernandez then volleyed in the second in the 36th minute.

The Argentina midfielder finished with his right foot after an excellent touch with his left, following a good ball from Palmer, with Moises Caicedo having won the ball in midfield.

Palmer then curled in a sensational left-foot finish from the edge of the box in the 83rd minute to seal victory.

The England international, like Jackson, now has eight Chelsea goals for the season.

Chelsea were dominant, registering more than 64% possession, could have scored more - Jadon Sancho threatened, while Palmer squandered a chance from eight yards out following an indirect free-kick after a mistake by Villa pair Martinez and Pau Torres.

For Villa, Ollie Watkins had a frustrating day, missing a good chance in the 15th minute and one just before half-time after a mistake from Fernandez.

It was a day to forget all round for the visitors, with Villa goalkeeper Martinez forced off at half-time with an injury.

In the second half where Chelsea continued to dominate, their only setback was an injury to Wesley Fofana. John McGinn and substitute Ross Barkley had half-chances, but the visitors could not find a way back.

Chelsea have risen up to joint-second in the Premier League table on 25 points while Villa drop to 12th on 19 points.

Unai Emery is currently enduring the longest winless run of his tenure at Villa, having not won in eight matches, since the 2-0 Champions League win over Bologna in October.

BBC Sport
 
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Ruben Amorim collected his first Premier League victory in emphatic fashion as his Manchester United side easily put away lowly Everton at Old Trafford

United drew at Ipswich last weekend in Amorim's first game in charge since replacing interim manager Ruud van Nistelrooy, before beating Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League on Thursday.

On Sunday they were initially wasteful in the final third and had little control of the contest, but they were clinical once they broke through with Marcus Rashford and Joshua Zirkzee both scoring twice.

The hosts attempted to sign visiting defender Jarrad Branthwaite in the summer and it was a game to forget for the Everton defender, inadvertently contributing to United's first two goals.

Rashford's low strike deflected in off the centre-back's outstretched boot for the opener, before Branthwaite dawdled on the ball allowing Amad Diallo to nip in and feed Bruno Fernandes, who laid it off for Zirkzee to convert.

The Red Devils effectively ended the game as a contest just 29 seconds into the second half when the impressive Diallo slid a pass through to Rashford to convert and Dutchman Zirkzee coolly slotted United's fourth on 64 minutes to wrap up a comfortable victory.

United have now beaten Everton 42 times in the Premier League, the highest tally of any side against one opponent in the competition.

BBC Sport
 
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Inconsistency struck Tottenham Hotspur again as they were held at home by Fulham in the Premier League

Spurs, who were missing several key players through injury and suspension, had to withstand severe pressure before taking a 54th-minute lead through Brennan Johnson.

The Wales forward volleyed home his sixth league goal of the season from close range after being teed up by Timo Werner's cross.

But Fulham, who had the better chances in the game, deservedly equalised 13 minutes later through captain Tom Cairney, who was then sent off with seven minutes left for a rash late challenge on the back of Dejan Kulusevski's Achilles.

Cairney, who had only just come on as a substitute, lashed a first-time left-footed shot home from 18 yards after being picked out by Alex Iwobi.

Spurs, who beat Manchester City 4-0 last week and are the Premier League's top scorers, have now failed to win back-to-back games in their last eight matches.

After missing a golden chance after just 50 seconds when Son Heung-min pounced on a loose Fulham pass but was denied by Bernd Leno, the hosts struggled to create many opportunities until the opener.

James Maddison struck the post with a free-kick that went under the wall in the second half, but they were unable to find a crucial second goal.

Fulham came close as Iwobi's drive shortly before the interval flicked off Ben Davies and hit the crossbar, while Fraser Forster made a string of saves to deny the visitors.

Spurs missed first-choice striker Dominic Solanke, not in the squad after manager Ange Postecoglou said he "felt a bit sore" following the midweek Europa League draw against Roma.

And key forward Kulusevski, who had created more chances than any other player in the league before today, was on the bench as Postecoglou rotated his squad. The Swede was sent on after Fulham's equaliser as Spurs chased a winner.

But they could not find it as they drew at home for the second time in a week after their 2-2 stalemate with Roma on Thursday. It was also their first league draw since the opening day of the season.

BBC Sport
 
2-0 Liverpool

9 Points clear at top. 11 clear of City
 
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Liverpool extended their lead at the top of the Premier League to nine points and heaped more misery on fading champions Manchester City with a fully deserved victory at Anfield.

Arne Slot's pace-setters, fresh from beating Champions League holders Real Madrid, were in rampant mood and subjected City to a relentless barrage from the kick-off.

Liverpool were not flattered by the margin of victory, which leaves them 11 points clear of City, who not won for seven matches - losing their past four league games.

Virgil van Dijk had headed against the post - while City keeper Stefan Ortega, in for the dropped Ederson, had already been in constant action - before Liverpool went ahead after 12 minutes.

Mohamed Salah showed perfect vision to pick out Cody Gakpo for a simple finish in front of the Kop as City were unable to cope with Liverpool's relentless attacking intensity.

Van Dijk headed wide when it seemed easier to score and Liverpool created more chances when, as City hinted at a belated recovery, the league leaders deservedly increased their lead with 12 minutes left.

Liverpool substitute Darwin Nunez hustled Ruben Dias into an error. Luis Diaz cashed in and was brought down by Ortega, with Salah making no mistake from the spot after missing against Real Madrid in midweek.
 
The greatest league in the world across all sports.

Not even Xmas and the league is wide open.
 
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Jean-Philippe Mateta scored a classy winner as Crystal Palace earned their first Premier League away win of the season by beating Ipswich Town at Portman Road.

The sides were level on nine points towards the foot of the table at kick-off, and it was the Eagles who produced the moment of top quality that secured a valuable win.

Mateta's goal came in the 59th minute. The Palace striker had an early role in the goal with a flick-on in his own half before charging forward and dribbling past defender Jacob Greaves before chipping past Arijanet Muric in the Ipswich goal.

The game had lacked quality until that point with not many chances created in the first half.

Mateta could have later doubled Palace's lead when he was played through on goal by Eberechi Eze but he fired straight at Muric.

Before this match Ipswich had only lost three of their past 45 league matches at Portman Road (W28, D14) but the outcome means they are still the only side without a Premier League home victory this season (D4, L3).

Liam Delap, one of the bright sparks for Ipswich, was again dangerous but he could not find a goal up against Palace’s back three.

The win moves Palace up to 16th place and means that despite a tricky start to the season, Oliver Glasner’s side have now lost just once in six matches.
 
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Jamie Vardy helped hand Ruud van Nistelrooy the perfect start as new Leicester boss - and pushed Julen Lopetegui closer to the brink at West Ham.

Striker Vardy pounced after just 98 seconds in Van Nistelrooy's first game in charge, before Bilal El Khannouss and Patson Daka struck to seal victory for the hosts.

The Foxes moved up to 15th in the Premier League, two points behind the Hammers, but lived dangerously and needed goalkeeper Mads Hermansen to frustrate the visitors with a string of fine saves.

Niclas Fullkrug nodded home a consolation for the visitors in stoppage time.

But the pressure will remain on boss Lopetegui as he struggles to find a solution for success with the Hammers.

With just three wins from their last 12 top-flight games, Hammers fans have vented their frustration at the manager.
 

West Ham to decide on Lopetegui's future by weekend​


West Ham will decide Julen Lopetegui's immediate future by the weekend.

Lopetegui is under huge pressure following Tuesday's 3-1 defeat at Leicester and sources say the manager's future hinges on a club board meeting to be held later this week.

Brought in on a two-year deal to succeed David Moyes in the summer, the former Spain and Real Madrid coach arrived at the London Stadium amid huge expectation.

West Ham spent more than £120m on nine new players in the belief Lopetegui could steer them towards a return to Europe after missing out last season for the first time in four years.

However, £27m Germany striker Niclas Fullkrug is yet to start a Premier League game, £25.5m Brazilian youngster Luis Guilherme has featured for just 11 minutes in two substitute appearances and many of the other new arrivals, including EFL player of the year Crysencio Summerville, have struggled for form.

While there is also scrutiny on technical director Tim Steidten, Lopetegui is the one feeling the heat. The Hammers have managed just one win in five games since the victory over Manchester United on 27 October that triggered the dismissal of United boss Erik ten Hag.

Tuesday's result left West Ham in 14th position.

www.bbc.com

Julen Lopetegui: West Ham to decide on manager's immediate future by weekend

West Ham will decide Julen Lopetegui's immediate future by the weekend.
www.bbc.com
 
Manchester United abandoned plans to wear a jacket supporting the LGBTQ+ community before Sunday's win over Everton because a player refused to wear it

The Athletic, external said defender Noussair Mazraoui declined to take part in the initiative, citing his Muslim faith.

United declined to confirm the identity of the player when approached by BBC Sport. Mazraoui's agent also declined to comment.

LGBTQ+ supporters' club Rainbow Devils said it was a "great disappointment" but United said players are "entitled to hold their own individual opinions".

Rainbow armbands are being worn as Premier League clubs show support for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sport by taking part in charity Stonewall's Rainbow Laces campaign.

A Stonewall spokesperson said it had been "incredible to see so many football teams and players at all levels support" a campaign that "helps people feel safe and welcome both on and off the pitch".

They added: "It is up to individual players and teams to choose how they show their support for LGBTQ+ inclusion in sport."

United captain Bruno Fernandes wore a rainbow armband during the 4-0 win over the Toffees at Old Trafford on Sunday.

The Athletic reported that Mazraoui - a £15m summer signing from Bayern Munich - told team-mates he was not prepared to wear the jacket. The team then decided that no player would wear it so he would not be seen as the only one publicly refusing, according to the Athletic.

When asked about the situation, United issued a statement: "Manchester United welcomes fans from all backgrounds, including members of the LGBTQ+ community, and we are strongly committed to the principles of diversity and inclusion.

"We demonstrate these principles through a range of activities, including support for our Rainbow Devils supporters' club, and campaigns to celebrate our LGBTQ+ fans and combat all forms of discrimination.

"Players are entitled to hold their own individual opinions, particularly in relation to their faith, and these may sometimes differ from the club's position."

United have previously worn rainbow-themed warm-up kit to show support to the LGBTQ+ community.

Source: BBC
 
City, Chelsea and Newcastle all leading at moment
 
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Everton ended a five-game winless Premier League run by thrashing hapless Wolves at Goodison Park, piling the pressure on beleaguered Gary O'Neil.

Both managers were under intense scrutiny heading into Wednesday's fixture after their sides conceded four goals apiece at the weekend.

As O'Neil faced taunting from Wolves' own fans, with Craig Dawson netting two own goals, home boss Sean Dyche witnessed Everton put in a much more convincing performance than of late as they moved five points clear of the relegation zone.

Having not scored for four games, Everton broke that barren run with the perfect start courtesy of Ashley Young's delightful 25-yard free-kick, which curled round the wall and nestled into the bottom right corner.

The hosts thought they had doubled their lead six minutes later when James Tarkowski directed home a towering header from Dwight McNeil's cross. However, the goal was ruled out by referee Michael Salisbury who ruled Orel Mangala offside and interfering with play after checking the pitchside monitor.

Wolves did have their share of early chances but the in-form Matheus Cunha's low strike from the edge of the box and Jorgen Strand Larsen's poked effort were kept out by Jordan Pickford.

O'Neil's men were made to pay for those missed opportunities as their porous defence failed to clear the ball, allowing Mangala to pounce and smash in a first time finish from 20 yards out.

It got better for the home side in the second half, aided by a helping hand from Dawson, who inadvertently converted into his own net twice from McNeil's deliveries, as the visitors slumped to 19th place and three points adrift of safety.
 
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Manchester City put their recent disastrous spell behind them as they ended a seven-game winless streak by beating Nottingham Forest.

First-half goals from Bernardo Silva and star man Kevin de Bruyne put Pep Guardiola's side in command by the break, with Jeremy Doku adding a third 12 minutes after the interval.

After six defeats and a 3-3 draw with Feyenoord that must have felt like a loss given City were 3-0 up with 20 minutes left, the delight at successfully reaching the finish line on this occasion was obvious.

It wasn't perfect from the hosts. There were too many miscontrols and stray passes for that.

And if Chris Wood had finished - as it felt the whole stadium expected - when he ran clear from De Bruyne's wayward pass back into his own half instead of rolling the shot wide, Forest would have levelled Silva's eighth-minute tap-in and home nerves would have frayed.

But De Bruyne struck at the other end almost immediately as he edged away from Doku to find enough space to collect his fellow Belgian's short pass and apply the perfect finish.

When Doku found the corner with his own excellent strike from the edge of the area to complete City's joint-biggest margin of victory in the league, in what has turned into a tortuous season, Guardiola's celebration was one of pure relief.
 
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Fabian Schar hooked in a late equaliser as impressive Newcastle held Premier League leaders Liverpool to a draw in a hugely entertaining game at St James' Park.

The Reds thought they had done enough to secure a victory that would have maintained their nine-point lead at the top of the table after twice coming from behind before Mohamed Salah put them 3-2 ahead with seven minutes to go.

But Schar volleyed in from a free-kick that Caoimhin Kelleher came for but failed to claim to ensure a deserved point for Newcastle.

Liverpool had gone into this game on the back of an impressive defeat of defending champions Manchester City that ensured they started these midweek fixtures nine points clear at the top.

But they looked out-of-sorts against a Newcastle side who showed their intent from the outset.

Jacob Murphy issued a warning when he clipped the post with a shot, before Alexander Isak stunned the visitors with a brilliant strike from distance.

Anthony Gordon almost made it 2-0 moments later after a mistake by Joe Gomez but his shot was denied by Kelleher.

It looked like being a crucial save as Liverpool levelled early in the second half when Curtis Jones fired home a first-time strike from Salah's cross.

But Gordon sent St James' Park wild when he cut inside a defender before his strike squirmed past Kelleher.

However, Salah equalised with a scooped finish before slotting in what he believed would be the winner - until Schar's late finish.
 
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Jadon Sancho scored his first goal for Chelsea as they ruthlessly capitalised on a series of Southampton errors to run out comfortable winners.

Sancho wrapped up the scoring for the Blues after goals from Axel Disasi, Christopher Nkunku, Noni Madueke and Cole Palmer had put them in control.

Saints briefly levelled at 1-1 through Joe Aribo but their capacity to self-destruct was underlined when, after falling 3-1 down, captain Jack Stephens was sent off by referee Tony Harrington for pulling Marc Cucurella's hair after a lengthy VAR check.
 
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Arsenal scored two goals from corners to comfortably beat Manchester United as Ruben Amorim suffered his first defeat in English football.

Defenders Jurrien Timber and William Saliba did the damage as Arsenal took advantage of Liverpool dropping points to trim their lead at the top of the Premier League table.

Arsenal sit third with 28 points, level on that mark with Chelsea and seven behind Arne Slot's Reds.

The home side took the lead in the 53rd minute when Declan Rice’s corner was headed in at the near post by full-back Timber.

The Gunners then almost doubled their lead when United's Manuel Ugarte had to clear off the line after team-mate Joshua Zirkzee flicked on another Rice corner.

Saliba made sure of the win when Thomas Partey headed Bukayo Saka's corner against the French defender's back and the ball went past Andre Onana in the United goal.

Arsenal have become a force to be reckoned with from set-pieces under manager Mikel Arteta. Timber and Saliba's goals means they have scored 22 goals from corners since the start of last season, more than any other Premier League side.

Amorim's United did threaten the Arsenal goal when Diogo Dalot flashed a shot past David Raya's post in the first half, and the Arsenal keeper made an excellent save to deny Matthijs de Ligt in the second half.

Substitute Mikel Merino headed wide from another excellent Arsenal set-piece and Kai Havertz had an effort saved by Onana as the Gunners dominated the closing period of the match.
 
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Aston Villa ended a run of eight successive games without victory by beating Brentford at Villa Park.

Unai Emery's team had not won in the Premier League since beating Fulham at Craven Cottage in October but opened the scoring when Morgan Rogers sent a superb curling strike into the top corner from the edge of the penalty area.

Ollie Watkins doubled Villa's lead from the penalty spot less than seven minutes later after the former Brentford forward was fouled by Ethan Pinnock inside the box.

The visitors enjoyed plenty of early possession at Villa Park but fell further behind when Matty Cash powered home Rogers' cross at the far post.

Brentford goalkeeper Mark Flekken had to be at full stretch to prevent Watkins heading in a fourth for Villa early in the second half, before Mikkel Damsgaard pulled a goal back for the Bees with a thumping close-range drive.

But Flekken continued to be the busier of the two goalkeepers, pulling off smart saves from Watkins and the England forward's replacement Jhon Duran late in the half.

Brentford substitute Thiago blazed over the crossbar moments after coming off the bench, but Villa held on comfortably to move up to seventh in the table - two places above the visitors.
 
West Ham set to keep faith with Lopetegui for Wolves match

Under pressure Julen Lopetegui is set to take charge of West Ham for their crucial Premier League game with Wolves on Monday.

Lopetegui's future as Hammers manager has been debated by senior West Ham figures in the wake of Tuesday's 3-1 defeat at Leicester City.

However, multiple sources have confirmed a club board decision has been made for Lopetegui to stay in place for now.

BBC Sport reported on Wednesday that a decision about his immediate future would be made before the weekend.

Club sources acknowledge the Leicester loss and the home defeat by Arsenal immediately before it have stripped away the optimism generated by victory at Newcastle on 25 November and a lot of fans want a change.

However, it has been decided to keep faith with the former Spain and Real Madrid manager for the visit of a Wolves side whose own manager Gary O'Neil is under huge pressure following Wednesday's defeat at Everton.

Some allowance has been given to the fact that Lopetegui's side played well for long periods at Leicester but failed to take their chances - they had 31 shots - and conceded goals too easily.

Former Brighton and Chelsea boss Graham Potter has been linked with West Ham as a potential replacement.

After Wolves, West Ham play Bournemouth, Brighton and Southampton, followed by encounters with Premier League heavyweights Liverpool and Manchester City.


BBC
 
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Brighton suffered only their third Premier League defeat of the season as two goals from Alex Iwobi, along with an own goal from the unfortunate Matt O'Riley, helped Fulham to victory at a wet and windy Craven Cottage.

The game was played in horrendous conditions of heavy rain and strong winds, but there were no excuses for Bart Verbruggen's early mistake to gift the hosts the lead.

After only three minutes, Brighton's Dutch keeper, looking to play a short pass to team-mate Carlos Baleba inside the penalty area, saw Alex Iwobi intercept and slide the ball into an unguarded net for his fourth league goal of the season.

Fulham had a chance to quickly double their lead when Iwobi looked to be through on goal, only for Igor Julio to come across and cover well.

Brighton grabbed a deserved equaliser 11 minutes into the second half.

Jan Paul van Hecke played a lofted pass and Joao Pedro, nominated for November's Premier League Player of the Month award, produced a clever touch to set up Baleba to fire low past Bernd Leno from 20 yards out.

It was a lovely goal, followed by a special celebration as Baleba showed his gymnastics skills with an acrobatic somersault, although this was not the springboard for Brighton to get what would have been their seventh win of the season.

Fulham retook the lead in fortunate circumstances as Andreas Pereira's 79th-minute corner from the left bounced into his own net off O'Riley.

Iwobi then sealed victory with a powerful 87th-minute strike for his second goal of the match to ensure Fulham claimed the three points and move up to sixth spot - a point behind their fifth-placed visitors.
 
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Defender Dean Huijsen scored the only goal as Bournemouth beat Tottenham to climb above them in the Premier League table.

The 19-year-old was left unmarked at the back post to head home Marcus Tavernier's inswinging corner on 17 minutes.

Huijsen's goal extended Spurs' poor record of dealing with set-pieces, and prompted manager Ange Postecoglou to shake his head ruefully on the touchline.

Postecoglou's side had started well, with Dominic Solanke prominent as he returned to the Vitality Stadium following his £65m summer move.

Solanke, who was greeted by a smattering of boos, had two of the first three shots for Spurs, but they lost their way after Huijsen's goal, and Tavernier and Evanilson had chances to extend the lead in the first half.

Spurs regrouped after the break and pushed for an equaliser by bringing on captain Son Heung-min for Pape Matar Sarr, which led to chances for James Maddison, Pedro Porro and Dejan Kulusevski.

But the north Londoners gave away more chances than they created in the closing stages, and Evanilson had a goal ruled out for offside.

Spurs' problems were compounded when Ben Davies left the field with what appeared to be a hamstring problem, leaving Postecoglou with just one fit centre-back before Sunday's derby against Chelsea.
 

Under-fire Lopetegui vows to 'change' West Ham situation​


Under-pressure West Ham manager Julen Lopetegui says "we are going to change the situation" at the struggling club.

The Spaniard's future was debated by senior club figures after Tuesday's 3-1 defeat at Leicester City.

The Hammers are 14th in the Premier League table and have won just one of their last five games as they go into Monday's home game with second-bottom Wolves.

Lopetegui left the Wolves job shortly before the start of the 2023-24 season after just nine months in charge.

And asked if he would leave West Ham after replacing David Moyes in May, the 58-year-old Spaniard said: "You are talking about a very different situation.

"I have big commitment to my work, always, and I am very happy to stay at West Ham. We are going to change the situation."

When it was put to Lopetegui that he has one game to save his job, he replied: "I [am] not thinking about this. I [am] thinking we have one very important challenge on Monday against a good team.

"We have to be focused to have a good answer and develop our work until Monday, to get ready to face them and to give our fans a good day.

"I understand all the things around football and I understand my main aim and responsibility is to be ready for a tough, hard match.

"But in the same way, it's a big opportunity and challenge for us at home, to be ready to achieve the three points. That is the most important thing."

West Ham fans have been frustrated at the team's playing style under Lopetegui, who took charge in May, and the Hammers have won four and lost seven of their 14 league games so far this season.

They have also lost both games since a 2-0 win at Newcastle and now face a Wolves side beaten 4-0 at Everton on Wednesday.

"I don't have anything to say against my players," said former Real Madrid and Spain coach Lopetegui. "I accept the responsibility and the pressure. That's why I am a coach.

"For sure, we're not happy and, for sure, the fans are always right. That's why I think, until now, they give us much more than we give them.

"We have to change this, and we are looking for this."

www.bbc.com

Julen Lopetegui: Under-pressure manager vows to 'change' West Ham's fortunes

Under-pressure manager Julen Lopetegui says "we are going to change the situation" at struggling West Ham.
www.bbc.com
 
Everton v Liverpool: Merseyside derby postponed due to safety concerns from Storm Darragh

The Merseyside derby between Everton and Liverpool at Goodison Park has been postponed due to concerns over Storm Darragh.

Storm Darragh has caused heavy winds across much of the United Kingdom and led to a red warning from the Met Office for much of Wales and western parts of England.

On Saturday morning, some trains in the region were cancelled due to the storm, and on Friday the two clubs issued a statement telling fans to allow themselves extra time to get to Goodison Park.

Everton released a statement on Saturday morning confirming the match had been postponed.

SOURCE:https://www.eurosport.com/football/...weather-storm-darragh_sto20060708/story.shtml
 

West Ham's Antonio 'involved in road traffic accident'​


West Ham striker Michail Antonio has been involved in a road traffic accident, the Premier League club said.

In a statement, West Ham said: "The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the club are with Michail, his family and friends at this time."

The club said they would "issue an update in due course".

BBC
 
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Manchester City twice came from behind to draw with Crystal Palace as the champions' underwhelming run of form continued.

City's win over Nottingham Forest in midweek failed to herald the start of them rediscovering their form - and Palace may consider themselves unlucky not to have won this.

Oliver Glasner's side led after just four minutes when Will Hughes picked out wing-back Daniel Munoz in tonnes of space to drive in the opening goal.

They had chances to extend their lead before Erling Haaland leaped well to head in Matheus Nunes' cross to level.

But another defender put Palace ahead with Hughes' corner being headed in by Maxence Lacroix.

However, City salvaged a Selhurst Park point when Bernardo Silva found Rico Lewis, who fired a fine effort into the top corner from the edge of the box.

Lewis was later sent off for two bookings, the second for a foul on Trevoh Chalobah.

City are eight points behind leaders Liverpool, having played a game more than Arne Slot's side, while Palace are four points above the relegation zone.

Source: BBC
 
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Brentford maintained the best home record in the Premier League with a 4-2 victory over Newcastle in an entertaining match.

A frenetic opening saw both sides score in the first 12 minutes, with Bryan Mbeumo's opener quickly cancelled out by Alexander Isak.

Yoane Wissa restored Brentford's lead with his ninth goal in eight league games following a mistake by Harvey Barnes, but the English winger atoned with a fine turn and finish for 2-2.

Wissa came close early in the second half for Brentford when his deflected shot was turned on to the post by Nick Pope, but central defender Nathan Collins did convert with a left-footed finish following a free-kick.

And Kevin Schade clipped home late on to ensure Brentford have now won seven and drawn one of their eight home league games this season.

The tone for an open game, played in torrential rain amid Storm Darragh, was set after three minutes when Sean Longstaff cracked the crossbar with an 18-yard effort.

After eight minutes, Brentford led. Christian Norgaard, making his 100th Premier League appearance, spread a pass to the right wing for Mbeumo who cut inside. His shot flicked off Fabian Schar and past the static Pope.

But four minutes later, Newcastle equalised when Jacob Murphy's speculative shot from 25 yards was pounced on by Isak flinging himself in the way to head home.

Newcastle had the better chances to take the lead but were punished for not taking them when Barnes gave the ball away in his own half with a loose pass. Wissa picked it up, ran at the retreating defence and curled a fine finish past Pope from the edge of the area.

Barnes made amends in the 32nd minute, allowed too much time and space in the Brentford area to turn and finish low through the legs of Norgaard and past Mark Flekken at the far post.

But the winner came in the 56th minute when Newcastle's defence allowed a long set-piece from Flekken to bounce in the area, with Collins stroking his second goal of the season across Pope.

And the victory was sewn up late on when Mbeumo fed Schade who cleverly clipped his shot over the ad
vancing Pope for 4-2.

Source: BBC
 
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Nottingham Forest capitalised on Manchester United's defensive blunders to record their first win at Old Trafford in almost 30 years.

Rasmus Hojlund replied to Nikola Milenkovic's early opener, but Ruben Amorim's home side were unable to get back level for a second time after they conceded twice in seven minutes at the start of the second half.

United keeper Andre Onana was at fault for Forest's second goal, shaping to make a low save to his right when Morgan Gibbs-White shot from the edge of the area, only to be beaten to his left as the ball did not move as he thought.

Onana and Matthijs de Ligt then let birthday boy Chris Wood's looping far-post header bounce between them, and Lisandro Martinez failed to react either as the ball ended up in the far corner.

United skipper Bruno Fernandes reduced the arrears after 61 minutes, but despite making five changes the hosts were unable to force an equaliser.

It means United have suffered successive Premier League defeats for the second time this season, with this setback following on from their midweek loss at Arsenal.

Amorim has won only one of his four league games in charge as his side remain 13th. Their 19 points from 15 games is United's lowest tally at this stage of a season since 1986-87. Forest, in contrast, are up to fifth.

Source: BBC
 

Antonio has surgery on lower limb fracture after crash​


West Ham striker Michail Antonio has undergone surgery on a lower limb fracture following his car crash on Saturday, the club has announced.

He will be "monitored in hospital over the coming days", the Hammers said in a statement and extended a "heartfelt thank you" to the emergency services and first responders who tended to him.

The 34-year-old Jamaica international had to be released from his car after being involved in an accident in Epping and was taken to a central London hospital.

West Ham said on Saturday evening that he was in a stable condition and was "conscious and communicating".

Antonio is the club's all-time leading scorer in the Premier League, with 68 goals in 268 league appearances.

"Everyone at the club wishes Michail a speedy recovery and wishes to express sincere gratitude to the football family at large for the overwhelming support shown since yesterday's news," the West Ham statement continued.

"The club will provide further updates when appropriate."

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service said it had attended the scene of the accident on Saturday after receiving calls at 13:02 GMT and had released a man trapped in his car by 13:45.

The extent of Antonio's injuries were not revealed at that time.

Essex Police later said officers were investigating a serious crash involving a Ferrari and asked for witnesses to come forward, as well as those with dashcam footage of the incident.

Tributes to Antonio flooded in after details of the accident were confirmed by West Ham, with the Premier League and leading clubs such as Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City all responding to the Hammers' statement on X., external

Former clubs Southampton, Reading, Sheffield Wednesday and Colchester also wished Antonio a speedy recovery on social media, as did presenter BBC Gary Lineker on Saturday's edition of Match of the Day.

Jamaica manager Steve McLaren also sent a supportive message on behalf of Antonio's international team-mates: "On behalf of the entire group of players, support staff and technical staff, I would like to wish Michail a speedy recovery. Our thoughts and prayers are with him at this time."

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Michail Antonio crash: West Ham striker has surgery on lower limb fracture

West Ham striker Michail Antonio has surgery on a lower limb fracture, the club announces.
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Arsenal had a late goal disallowed as they missed the chance to close the gap on Premier League leaders Liverpool to four points with a draw against Fulham at Craven Cottage

Bukayo Saka thought he had given the Gunners all three points when he headed in Gabriel Martinelli's cross two minutes from time, but the goal was disallowed after the Brazilian was found to be offside during the build-up.

Raul Jimenez, with his sixth goal of the season, put Fulham in front against the run of play when he latched on to Kenny Tete's ball down the line to fire past David Raya from a tight angle.

Arsenal, looking to capitalise on the postponement of Liverpool's Merseyside derby against Everton on Saturday, struggled to carve out opportunities from open play in the first half and managed just one shot on target from Saka.

But Mikel Arteta's side were level within six minutes of the second half after a well-worked corner kick routine saw William Saliba convert Kai Havertz's knockdown.

It was one-way traffic after that as Arsenal pushed to find a winner but they struggled to break down a resolute Fulham side.

The draw means Arsenal are six points behind leaders Liverpool, having played a game more.

BBC Sport
 
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Bournemouth scored two late goals to come from behind and record a dramatic victory against Ipswich at Portman Road

Ipswich were on track for their first home Premier League win since 2002 when the clocked ticked into the 87th minute, thanks to Conor Chaplin's first-half strike.

But Bournemouth, who came on strong in the second half, refused to give up and broke the hearts of the home side.

Enes Unal scored the Cherries' equaliser, scrambling the ball over the line from close range.

Dango Ouattara then grabbed the winner in the fifth minute of additional time as Ipswich failed to clear their lines.

Ipswich's best chances had come in the first half when Chaplin showed composure to net the opener - his first Premier League goal - and Cameron Burgess put a header on to the roof of the net.

Bournemouth's Marcus Tavernier spurned their best two early chances when he failed to make contact from just a yard out and then struck the post.

The visitors came out with intent after the break but were again found wanting until the dramatic finale, with Antoine Semenyo, Evanilson, Justin Kluivert and Lewis Cook unable to strike with enough accuracy.

It looked like Ipswich were going to hang on for all three points until Unal beat Burgess to the ball at the far post for the equaliser.

Even with a point still on the table, Ipswich's heads seemed to drop and Bournemouth went all out.

A lovely passing move was finished off by Ouattara after David Brooks' shot was parried into his path.

Victory moves Bournemouth up to eighth and just three points shy of fourth-placed Manchester City, while Ipswich remain 18th and four points adrift of safety.

BBC Sport
 
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Leicester produced a stunning comeback to maintain new boss Ruud van Nistelrooy's unbeaten start in an enthralling draw with Brighton

After falling two goals behind in the second half, captain Jamie Vardy halved the deficit in the 86th minute with a trademark finish for his sixth goal of the season.

The drama did not end there as substitute Bobby De Cordova-Reid netted his first of the campaign in added time after a brilliant assist from Vardy to stun to Brighton, who had looked in command following goals from Tariq Lamptey and Yankuba Minteh.

Fabian Hurzeler's visitors were set to climb to fifth place when Lamptey curled a beauty into the top corner past Mads Hermansen in the 37th minute.

Brighton continued to build on their strong performance after the break and substitute Minteh's superb jinking run ended with him hammering home with his left foot in the 79th minute.

But the King Power came to life in a frantic finale.

Vardy, who now has contributed with two goals and two assists in his last three Premier League games, was the inspiration.

The 37-year-old forward was a constant nuisance to the Brighton backline, but struggled to get any meaningful opportunities until the closing stages.

Vardy pulled one back when he latched on to James Justin's deflected cross to slot across visiting keeper Bart Verbruggen.

Leicester's supporters were ecstatic as their captain and club legend rolled a pass across for De Cordova-Reid to tap home a late leveller and move them five points clear of the relegation places.

BBC Sport
 
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Cole Palmer's ice-cool 'Panenka' penalty sealed Chelsea's stunning comeback as they came from two goals behind to win at Tottenham.

Strikes from Jadon Sancho and Enzo Fernandez and two spot-kicks from Palmer sank Spurs, who made a fast start but then folded for a result that adds to the agony for under-fire manager Ange Postecoglou.

Dominic Solanke and Dejan Kulusevski had put Tottenham 2-0 up in 11 minutes, but by the time Son Heung-min added their third in stoppage time the game had slipped away from them.

Chelsea's win moves them to just four points behind Premier League leaders Liverpool, whose game at Everton on Saturday was postponed because of Storm Darragh.
 
Premier League official Coote sacked after investigation

Premier League official David Coote has been sacked by referees' body the PGMOL following a "thorough investigation" into his conduct.

Coote, 42, was suspended by the PGMOL (the Professional Game Match Officials Limited) on 11 November pending a full investigation after a video allegedly showing him making derogatory comments about Liverpool and the club's former manager Jurgen Klopp was circulated on social media.

A further investigation was opened two days later after the Sun published photos it says were taken during this summer's European Championship, alleging that they appear to show Coote sniffing a white powder through a rolled up US bank note.

The PGMOL said Coote's actions made his position "untenable".

Neither the pictures nor the video have been verified independently by the BBC.

"David Coote's actions were found to be in serious breach of the provisions of his employment contract," the PGMOL said.

"Supporting David Coote continues to be important to us and we remain committed to his welfare."

Coote has the right to appeal the decision to terminate his employment.


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David Coote: Premier League referee sacked with immediate effect by PGMOL

Referees' body PGMOL sacks Premier League official David Coote following a "thorough investigation" into his conduct.
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West Ham edged to a narrow Premier League victory over struggling Wolves to ease the pressure on under-fire head coach Julen Lopetegui.

However, the result is only likely to increase the scrutiny over Gary O'Neil's position as Wolves manager, with his side remaining 19th in the table after three consecutive defeats.

Tomas Soucek's second-half header from Jarrod Bowen's corner had set the hosts on their way.

Matt Doherty had superbly levelled from Rayan Ait-Nouri's cross for the visitors, before Bowen scored West Ham's decisive second goal with a placed effort during a frenetic spell in the second-half.

In between, Hammers winger Mohammed Kudus correctly had a goal ruled out for offside following a video assistant referee (VAR) review, while Wolves appeared to have genuine complaints when Emerson's shove on Goncalo Guedes did not result in a penalty in their favour after a similar review.

O'Neil's side were further enraged by the manner of Bowen's winning goal with home defender Konstantinos Mavropanos seemingly fouling Wolves' Uruguayan centre-back Santiago Bueno in the build-up.

The result leaves West Ham 14th in the table, nine points clear of the bottom three.
 
Newcastle United striker Callum Wilson has suffered an injury setback that will keep him out of action for an extended period.
 

Wolves 'united' behind manager O'Neil - chairman Shi​


Wolves chairman Jeff Shi acknowledged results need to improve but said the club is "united" behind under-pressure manager Gary O'Neil.

O'Neil's future at Molineux has been under the spotlight this season as Wolves sit 19th in the Premier League.

Monday's 2-1 loss at West Ham was Wolves' 10th defeat of the campaign and left them four points from safety.

Despite their struggles, having won only two fixtures, chairman Shi believes O'Neil is the right man to get the club back on track.

"While he [Gary O'Neil] knows that improving our results quickly is essential for everyone associated with the football club, we are united in supporting him as all of us strive to make that progress happen," Shi wrote in his Express & Star column, external.

Wolves fans chanted "you're getting sacked in the morning" at O'Neil after a 4-0 defeat at Everton on 4 December.

O'Neil was appointed as Julen Lopetegui's successor just three days before the 2023-24 campaign and he led the club to 14th place in the league that season.

Financial restraints have prevented Wolves from making the investments required on the field and O'Neil lost some key players over the summer, with Pedro Neto sold to Chelsea and Max Kilman joining West Ham.

Wolves were a Championship club when Shi took his place on the board in 2016 following the £45m takeover by Chinese conglomerate Fosun International.

The club won promotion to the Premier League at the end of the following season and have enjoyed seven successive campaigns in the top flight.

"Even in what I believe to be Wolves' best decade in half a century, tough moments are inevitable," Shi said.

"Success isn't about avoiding challenges; it's about how we respond to them.

"Patience, resilience, and well-thought-out solutions have always been the foundation of Wolves' progress."

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Gary O'Neil: Wolves manager gets backing from chairman Jeff Shi

Wolves chairman Jeff Shi acknowledges results need to improve but says the club is "united" behind under-pressure manager Gary O'Neil.
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West Ham keeper, 15, dies after cancer diagnosis​


A "friendly and happy" West Ham academy goalkeeper has died aged 15 after being diagnosed with cancer.

Oscar Fairs from Benfleet, Essex, was found to have a rare 7cm (2.8in) ependymoma brain tumour in August 2023.

He underwent seven surgeries, one round of chemotherapy and one round of radiotherapy, but was told palliative care was the only option.

The club's sporting director Mark Noble said he had "such a bright future ahead of him, and it is just so unimaginably devastating that he has been taken from his family and friends at this age".

A donation page was set up to help the family raise £100,000 towards a treatment trial in France.

West Ham footballers donated £27,000, chairman David Sullivan donated £10,000 and Arsenal footballer and former West Ham star Declan Rice gave £5,000, according to the family.

Mr Noble said: "Oscar was adored by everyone at the academy - not only was he a great goalkeeper, he was a true Hammer and a fantastic young person, who will be deeply missed by everyone who had the pleasure to know him.

"I have wonderful memories of Oscar playing in my garden - [my son] Lenny and his team-mates all loved him.

"The thoughts and sincere condolences of everyone at the club are with Oscar's parents, Natalie and Russell, and his brother Harry, and we kindly ask that the family's privacy is respected at this extremely difficult time."

All scheduled academy fixtures over the weekend have been postponed as a mark of respect.

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Oscar Fairs: Teenage West Ham goalkeeper dies after cancer diagnosis

All scheduled academy fixtures over the weekend are being postponed as a mark of respect.
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Fulham lead at Anfield 1-0

Liverpool down to 10 men
 
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Arsenal were held to a frustrating goalless draw by Everton in the Premier League at Emirates Stadium

The hosts had 75% possession and a total of 13 shots, but could not find the breakthrough against an Everton side that defended resolutely and had only one shot in the entire game.

That came in the sixth minute and was arguably the best chance of the contest when Abdoulaye Doucoure was played through, but the Toffees midfielder dallied too long and his strike from an angle was blocked by Gabriel.

The Gunners hogged the ball thereafter but found it difficult to create many clear-cut openings, with skipper Martin Odegaard dragging a shot wide and seeing another deflected effort clawed away by Jordan Pickford.

The England number one made a stunning reflex save to deny Bukayo Saka at the start of the second half and though Arsenal huffed and puffed, a winning goal eluded them.

BBC Sport
 
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Newcastle emphatically halted a run of four Premier League games without victory as Eddie Howe's team inflicted a first defeat on new Leicester manager Ruud van Nistelrooy

The Magpies dominated the first half and took the lead when Jacob Murphy, who had already spurned two good opportunities to put the home side ahead, fired low into the corner following a clever corner routine.

Alexander Isak shot too close to Mads Hermansen in a one-on-one with the Leicester goalkeeper, but the home side remained on the front foot in the second half and were 3-0 up within five minutes of the restart.

Bruno Guimaraes headed in from close range following another well-worked set-piece, before Isak nodded home from a similar position after Lewis Hall's cross was deflected into his path by Conor Coady.

Murphy fired over the crossbar not long afterwards and Isak sidefooted straight at Danny Ward – a half-time substitute for Hermansen – but the Magpies' winger eventually made it 4-0 with a low drive past the substitute keeper.

The hosts could have rubbed further salt into Leicester's wounds late on as Sandro Tonali fired into the side-netting and former Foxes forward Harvey Barnes curled a left-footed shot wide of the far post.

Victory lifted Newcastle up to 11th, while Leicester remain precariously placed in 16th spot, four points above the bottom three.

BBC Sport
 
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The returning Diogo Jota scored a late equaliser as Premier League leaders Liverpool twice fought back with 10 men to deny Fulham following Andy Robertson's red card at Anfield

Jota, sidelined with injury since October, slotted in an 86th-minute leveller after Rodrigo Muniz looked to have ended the Reds' second-half resistance.

Cody Gakpo's header from Mohamed Salah's sublime cross shortly after half-time had cancelled out Andreas Pereira's 11th-minute opener.

Six minutes after Pereira volleyed Fulham ahead, Liverpool's task became even tougher when Robertson was dismissed for denying Harry Wilson a goalscoring opportunity.

While Fulham centre-back Issa Diop had earlier escaped with a booking for a high challenge on the offside Robertson, there was no such fortune for the Liverpool left-back and a lengthy video assistant referee (VAR) review confirmed Wilson was onside before pouncing on his mistake.

After Wilson fizzed the resulting free-kick narrowly over Alisson's goal, Liverpool reset and continued to cause Fulham problems - but Luis Diaz headed over the hosts' best chance before half-time.

However, a re-energised Liverpool stormed out of the blocks in the second half and Gakpo's instant leveller after the restart sparked the Anfield crowd into life.

Fulham's failure to capitalise on their numerical advantage fuelled Liverpool's belief and Salah twice went close to completing the turnaround but could not find the target before Muniz delivered a sucker punch.

There was to be one final twist late in an enthralling contest when Jota marked his return with a fine finish to set up a chaotic, breathless conclusion, with both sides made to settle for a point.

BBC Sport
 
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Jack Taylor's last-gasp header earned Ipswich a priceless win at relegation rivals Wolves to leave manager Gary O'Neil fighting for his job.

The substitute's 93rd-minute goal from a corner gave the Tractor Boys their second win of the season and saw tempers flare on the pitch between the two sides at full time.

Matheus Cunha looked like he had rescued a point for Wolves after Matt Doherty's calamitous own goal had put Ipswich ahead.

BBC Sport
 
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Substitute Anthony Elanga scored an injury-time winner in a thrilling finish at the City Ground as Nottingham Forest came from 1-0 down to beat Aston Villa

The Sweden forward pounced in the third minute of stoppage time, slamming the ball through the legs of Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez to lift Forest into fourth in the table.

Jhon Duran thought he had claimed another match-winning goal for Villa, having been handed consecutive starts for the first time in the Premier League.

The Colombia striker, who turned 21 on Friday, bolstered his claim for a regular starting role with a powerful header to break the deadlock with his 11th goal of the season.

Forest's top scorer Chris Wood had an effort ruled out for offside against Elanga in the build-up as the home side pushed for an equaliser.

But moments later, in the 87th minute, defender Nikola Milenkovic headed home to level with his second goal in two games, before Elanga's late strike secured a sixth win in nine games for Forest.

Source: BBC
 

Wolves sack manager O'Neil after Ipswich defeat​


Wolves have sacked manager Gary O'Neil in the wake of Saturday's 2-1 defeat by Ipswich Town.

Wolves chairman Jeff Shi said: "We're very grateful to Gary for all of his effort, dedication and hard work during his time at the club, and we wish him and his team the best of luck for the future."

The departure of the 41-year-old and his backroom staff comes just three days after Shi said the club was "united" behind O'Neil following Monday's 2-1 defeat at West Ham.

Saturday's defeat was their 11th in the Premier League this season - they have had only two wins - and leaves the Black Country club 19th, four points from safety.

O'Neil replaced Julen Lopetegui just four days before the start of the 2023-24 season, with Wolves going on to finish 14th.

Wolves began this season poorly, losing seven and drawing one of their first eight league games.

A run of four games unbeaten, including successive wins over Southampton and Fulham, suggested a corner had been turned.

But they were beaten by Bournemouth and then lost heavily to Everton before defeats by the Hammers and Ipswich.

They have also struggled defensively, having conceded a league-high 40 goals and let in two or more goals in 13 of their 16 matches.

On Saturday, they went behind through a Matt Doherty own goal and although Matheus Cunha hit back, they were undone by Jack Taylor's 93rd-minute header.

In addition, the Molineux club has struggled with off-field issues, with Mario Lemina being stripped of the captaincy after an altercation with West Ham United's Jarrod Bowen on Monday.

On Saturday, Rayan Ait-Nouri was sent off in the tunnel for a second yellow card after clashing with Wes Burns, while Cunha fought with Ipswich's security, barging into one before ripping his glasses off his face, as well as striker Liam Delap.

In the wake of the defeat, O'Neil said he had "never had such a struggle" to coach a group of players.

Prior to Wolves, he had a year-long spell at Bournemouth in the 2022-23 season, helping the south coast club avoid relegation before being sacked and replaced by Andoni Iraola.

Who could be the next Wolves manager?

Many of the names being linked with the job are currently out of work - with Wolves not having an excess of money to splash out on compensation fees.

Former Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was installed as the early bookmakers' favourite. He was at Wolves' defeat by Ipswich, although as a guest of his friend, Town manager Kieran McKenna.

Carlos Corberan, who manages rivals West Brom, Blackburn boss John Eustace and unemployed quartet David Moyes, Sergio Conceicao, Steve Cooper and Mark Robins are also short odds.

Other names who have been linked are Fenerbahce boss Jose Mourinho, fellow ex-Chelsea boss Graham Potter and Middlesbrough manager Michael Carrick.

Ex-Denmark manager Kasper Hjulmand and Kjetil Knutsen, who has managed Bodo/Glimt in Norway since 2018, have also been mentioned.

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Gary O’Neil: Wolves sack manager with club 19th in Premier League

Wolves sack manager Gary O'Neil in the wake of a 2-1 defeat by Ipswich Town which left the Molineux club 19th in the Premier League.
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Wolves target Pereira as new boss after O'Neil exit​


Wolves are in talks with Al-Shabab manager Vitor Pereira to replace head coach Gary O'Neil, who was sacked by the club on Sunday.

The Premier League strugglers are looking for a swift appointment and the money they would have to pay as compensation to secure former Porto and Olympiakos boss Pereira is not believed to be an issue.

Wolves have been assessing their options and have sounded other possible replacements, including ex-West Ham and Manchester United boss David Moyes.

But club sources have told BBC Sport that Pereira is the frontrunner for the job.

Pereira has been in charge at Al Shabab since February, finishing eighth in the Saudi Pro League last season. They currently sit sixth after seven wins from 13 games.

The 56-year-old Portuguese won two Primeira Liga titles with Porto in 2012 and 2013 and the Greek Super League with Olympiakos in 2015.

The Wolves squad are not due to return for training until Tuesday and Pereira could be in charge by then, with his first game Sunday's trip to Leicester if negotiations go as planned.

O'Neil was dismissed on Sunday morning following Saturday's 2-1 defeat at home to Ipswich which left them second bottom, four points from safety.

His backroom staff of Tim Jenkins, Shaun Derry, Ian Burchnall, Neil Cutler and Woody Dewar have also left.

Wolves chairman Jeff Shi said: "We're very grateful to Gary for all of his effort, dedication and hard work during his time at the club, and we wish him and his team the best of luck for the future."

The departure of the 41-year-old comes just three days after Shi said the club were "united" behind O'Neil following Monday's 2-1 defeat at West Ham.

Saturday's defeat was their 11th in 16 Premier League games this season and they have only won twice in the top flight.

O'Neil replaced Julen Lopetegui just four days before the start of the 2023-24 season, with Wolves going on to finish 14th.

Wolves began this season poorly, losing seven and drawing one of their first eight league games.

A run of four games unbeaten, including successive wins over Southampton and Fulham, suggested a corner had been turned.

But they were beaten by Bournemouth and then lost heavily to Everton before defeats by the Hammers and Ipswich.

They have also struggled defensively, having conceded a league-high 40 goals and let in two or more goals in 13 of their 16 matches.

On Saturday, they went behind through a Matt Doherty own goal and although Matheus Cunha hit back, they were undone by Jack Taylor's 93rd-minute header.

In addition, the Molineux club has struggled with off-field issues, with Mario Lemina being stripped of the captaincy after an altercation with West Ham United's Jarrod Bowen on Monday.

On Saturday, Rayan Ait-Nouri was sent off in the tunnel for a second yellow card after clashing with Wes Burns, while Cunha fought with Ipswich's security, barging into one before ripping his glasses off his face, as well as striker Liam Delap.

In the wake of the defeat, O'Neil said he had "never had such a struggle" to coach a group of players.

Prior to Wolves, he had a year-long spell at Bournemouth in the 2022-23 season, helping the south coast club avoid relegation before being sacked and replaced by Andoni Iraola.

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Wolves target Vitor Pereira as new manager after Gary O'Neil sacked

Wolves are in talks with Al-Shabab manager Vitor Pereira after sacking head coach Gary O'Neil on Sunday.
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Ismaila Sarr scored twice as Crystal Palace beat Brighton to inflict a first home defeat of the season on their rivals and move four points clear of the relegation zone.

Centre-back Trevoh Chalobah hammered a shot into the roof of the net from close range to open the scoring in the 27th minute, after the ball bounced around the six-yard box following a corner.

The Eagles got their second just six minutes later when Tyrick Mitchell's curling cross was headed in by Senegal forward Sarr at the far post.

And Sarr wrapped up the points with his second of the match late on when he broke free and rolled the ball under Brighton keeper Bart Verbruggen in the 82nd minute.

Brighton got a consolation through a bizarre Marc Guehi own goal after another scramble from a corner.

Palace could have scored more in the first half - Daniel Munoz forced an excellent save from Verbruggen and Eberechi Eze's header went just wide of the post.

Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler brought on Julio Enciso at the break and the Paraguay forward had an immediate impact as the home side had Palace trapped in their own half for large parts of the second period.

Palace keeper Dean Henderson made two excellent saves from Lewis Dunk and Enciso before the visitors thought they had scored a third when Munoz tapped the ball into the net. The goal was ruled out for a foul by Sarr on Pervis Estupinan in the build-up.

Sarr finally made it three late on to secure a first Palace victory over their rivals since 2021.

Brighton's consolation came when Maxence's Lacroix clearance ricocheted into the net off Guehi's back for the England defender's second own goal of the season.
 
Get in their. What a fight back. Amad, was best of a average bunch.

But boy, city look shot in confidence.
 
aboveandbeyond said:
To Right. Awful game, but Amad has real quality. Real difference maker.
Click to expand...
Awful game, low quality for 95% of game.

But Probably only game of season were as long as you win, you don't care how you play.

Kyle walker as a football is done.

Amad was one top class player for united
 
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Manchester United struck twice in the closing minutes to stun Manchester City in a dramatic derby conclusion at Etihad Stadium.

Josko Gvardiola's first-half header looked to be giving City victory in a largely dismal clash until United staged a remarkable turnaround to give new manager Ruben Amorim a landmark win early in his reign.

Amad Diallo was United's star performer, winning the 88th minute penalty that saw Bruno Fernandes equalise after the youngster was fouled by Matheus Nunes.

As City tried to regroup, Diallo then pounced in the closing seconds of normal time to score from a tight angle.

It was a rich reward for United boss Amorim after he ruthlessly axed Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho from his match day squad, but then suffered an early blow when Mason Mount was struck down by his latest injury, limping off after only 14 minutes.

Opportunities were at a premium in a game largely made up of desperate mediocrity, United looking to have wasted their best opportunity to equalise 17 minutes from time when Fernandes raced clear on to Rasmus Hojlund's pass, only to lift his finish over the onrushing Ederson but wide.

The game was turned on its head in that frantic finale, City's fans furious and jeering their side while United's followers celebrated wildly in their corner of Etihad Stadium.
 
1734298109672.png

Chelsea moved within touching distance of Premier League leaders Liverpool with a narrow victory over Brentford at Stamford Bridge.

Enzo Maresca's side now sit second in the table two points behind the Reds, who have the advantage of having played a game less.

However, Chelsea's seventh consecutive win in all competitions will only serve to underline their status as genuine title contenders.

Marc Cucurella's first-half header set them on their way against Brentford, with the left-back stealing in to nod in from Noni Madueke's curling delivery from the right wing.

However, he was later shown a second yellow card after the final whistle to sour the evening for the Spaniard, who had scored his first goal since May 2022.

Chelsea's second came in the closing stages when centre forward Nicolas Jackson sprinted on to Enzo Fernandez's pass to dispatch a low shot past Bees goalkeeper Mark Flekken into the right corner.

The Senegal international's effort came as Thomas Frank's side threatened to level in a match which the hosts had largely dominated.

Christian Norgaard's volley was superbly saved by home goalkeeper Robert Sanchez, while Fabio Carvalho was unable to convert a gilt-edged opportunity - rattling the Chelsea crossbar, from close range.

However, the hosts were still made to hold on in a nervy finale after Bryan Mbeumo registered his 10th top-flight goal of the season, with a well-placed finish past Sanchez.
 
1734298223048.png

Five goals in a rampant first half earned Tottenham a stunning victory at St Mary's Stadium to heap pressure on Southampton boss Russell Martin.

A strike inside 40 seconds from James Maddison settled any pre-game nerves for Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou, the England midfielder tucking home from Djed Spence's clever pass.

Against a woefully open Saints defence, Tottenham's free-scoring attackers cleaned up, Son Heung-min firing past Alex McCarthy and Dejan Kulusevski tapping in from close range inside the first 15 minutes.

Amid angry boos from the stands, Martin's response was to abandon his four-man defence and revert to a back three, withdrawing a distraught Kamaldeen Sulemana straight after the third goal.

And yet it did not work as a shell-shocked Southampton were hit on the break by Son once more and he teed up Pape Sarr to dance through two half-hearted challenges and slot into the net.

Spurs captain Son was denied three more times by McCarthy before Maddison smashed into the top of the net from a ridiculous angle deep into first-half stoppage time.

With Spurs fans delirious in the away end, some Southampton supporters took to the exits early, rightly anticipating little hope of a miracle comeback.

Matheus Fernandes did think he had pulled one back in the 80th minute but his header was ruled out for offside.

The result leaves Saints nine points from safety and guaranteed to be bottom at Christmas. Meanwhile, Tottenham are up to 10th, entrenched in a congested mid-table where just three points separate eight teams.
 
Russell Martin: Southampton sack manager with club bottom of Premier League after Tottenham hammering

Southampton have sacked manager Russell Martin after Saints' 5-0 hammering by Tottenham on Sunday.

The result leaves Southampton bottom of the Premier League and nine points adrift of safety.

Martin, appointed in June 2023, led Southampton to promotion via the Championship play-offs, but has overseen just one victory and 13 defeats from 16 games in the Premier League.

Southampton goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale was a pundit for TNT during the match. At full-time, he said: "I feel very sorry for Martin.

"I think the lads are still trying for him. I don't think there's any question of anything on Russell Martin.

"The fans do deserve better and they're sticking with us, and it's one we have to move on very quickly ahead of Wednesday.



www.skysports.com

Russell Martin: Southampton sack manager with club bottom of Premier League after Tottenham hammering

Russell Martin was appointed by Southampton in June 2023 and led the club to promotion via the Championship play-offs; Saints have won just once and suffered 13 defeats from 16 games in the Premier League; Southampton were hammered at home by Tottenham on Sunday
www.skysports.com www.skysports.com
 
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