1. Rogers and Emery Combine for Heist
Do the final scores be misleading? That is the question. The Villans' triumphant run continued against Manchester United, accompanied by the persistent questions. On paper, they were second best by several measures – less attempts (12-15), a smaller share of the ball (43-57), fewer big chances (2-3). As usual, the victory was by a narrow margin. In keeping with form, the xG metric painted a different picture: according to data United had the slight advantage 1.31-1.02. However, supporters understand games are not won by xG. They are won by collective effort, astute coaching and individual talent – and Villa possess each ingredient. The young forward could be considered their sole standout, but his contributions are coming like Father Christmas. The Spanish tactician is shrewd, battle-hardened, streets ahead of his counterpart. The fact Rogers took advantage from a positional error, that was probably because the coach had detected that Yoro was playing out of position, and told Rogers to start wide, cut in and torment him. Talent and management, in perfect harmony.
2. Persistent Problems for Amorim's United
Back in October after defeating Brighton 4-2 on 25 October, their fans began to believe again. They managed three league games consecutively for the maiden instance under Ruben Amorim. They ascended to fourth. And the wins were all good ones – over Brighton (a side they often struggle against), Liverpool (at Anfield!) and Sunderland (at Old Trafford, versus a newly-promoted side, but still – a comfortable clean sheet). Their keeper provided stability, their forward line sparked and there was a positive mood. But then United returned to poor form. Over the next eight fixtures, only two victories, six games without a win. Against Aston Villa they were the better team without ever seeming like taking three points. Yes, Matheus Cunha scored an excellent finish, but he also failed to convert a golden opportunity. Yes, United were cursed by absentees (to key players), but they were punished for defensive errors. Since his arrival in England, the coach continues to struggle with how to claim three points.
3. Below-Par Gunners Get on Their Grind
It was an evening fixture on the holiday period but a distinct lack of quality in the opposition box made for a drab affair. For Everton, the issue was predictable with key attackers absent, and their star man failing to inspire an entire team by himself. In many respects it is remarkable that the Toffees were in fifth place in the table not long ago given they have played the entire season without a decent striker. For Arsenal and the Spanish coach, while he enjoyed a merited victory and ascending to the summit of the table, the problem should be of similar concern given their designs on the Premier League. The manager claimed that winning margins will inevitably grow more comfortable with hard work and perseverance. But it is fairly soon in the season for a team that can start with world-class talents, while leaving talented players on the bench, to be needing to win ugly.
4. Guardiola’s Festive City Investigations
During the holidays the Catalan coach will check the weights to ensure his Manchester City players have not indulged too much. He explained the team wanted to have a rest day after their recent victory but the request was denied because their display lacked quality. So they will recuperate, work for those who didn't feature, and following a short break, then two days to prepare for the upcoming match. Guardiola detailed how the side can improve. “My strength is deciphering what happens in the game, identifying weaknesses – if the players were in optimal spots, we could generate more chances.” Pep also intends to enjoy a rest: “I have holidays with the family and champagne. A trip to Barcelona is planned – I recommend it, the food is superb.”
5. Isak’s Injury Overshadows Big Moment
Isak's clinical effort at Tottenham felt, for a brief instant, like an arrival. This was the very purpose Liverpool invested heavily for him to do, to break tight games with his clever positioning and composure, and the calmness with which he finished from good service was highly promising. So the scene of his substitution immediately, due to a ill-judged tackle, was a major worry for the Liverpool manager and disappointing for the spectator who would like to see a top-class forward reach his peak again. It is believed Isak has picked up a serious leg injury and he probably endures a lengthy period on the sidelines. It would be a significant setback with Liverpool having quietly moved into the Champions League places, putting together a solid undefeated streak highlighted by Isak’s maiden league strikes in their colours. Their campaign trajectory appear heavily dependent on those of their £125m investment.
6. Did Chelsea Get Away with One?
Managers often moan about debatable rulings as a means of shifting the focus from matters they would prefer were not talked about. The numerous points Newcastle have squandered when ahead this season is a prime example. Their manager certainly did not seem particularly eager to mention that costly trend following his side’s inability to hold onto a 2-0 lead against Chelsea in a game they ended up drawing. Yet Howe was surely correct to highlight a decision made by the referee not to award his team a penalty following a clear obstruction on Anthony Gordon. With the score then 2-1, a spot-kick could have changed the narrative. Was the decision to offer the defender the benefit of considerable doubt informed by the player's history for being expert at earning fouls and sometimes exaggerating? Comments by a well-known analyst was revealing. “Gordon’s waiting,” he said. “He expects the tackle and he's ready. I think he’s ready to go down. But the nature of the contact there … it constitutes a foul.”
7. A 99.17% Certainty
Brentford’s first away win this season spelled joy for Keith Andrews. Instead of reveling in the win, Andrews sympathised with Wolves, the club he came through at. “I spent nine years here,” he said. Wolves’ situation is beyond dire; Opta state – possibly kindly – their chances of relegation at 99.17%, leaving little tangible to fight for beyond pride. A senior professional brutally spelled out|bluntly outlined|frankly
