EPL Match Week 8 Recap

It is without a doubt that Son was the happiest man of EPL Match Week 8 as his first goals of the season came through his hat trick against in-crisis Leicester. Newcastle still seem content with 1-1 draws both away and at home. Manchester City took it easy against ten-man Wolves. Here is the review of Match Week 8.

Nottingham Forest vs. Fulham, Transfer Spendings Not Working:

Nottingham Forest were the second highest spending club during the transfer window in summer. Yet, they don't have much to show for it. Jesse Lingard has proven such below par that he was benched in this game. Although Henderson seemed reliable in the goal for Forest (and he is a good keeper), their defenders can't keep the ball out of the danger zone.

Fulham took control of the game for the most part, even though they fell behind in the 11th minute. But the visitors made a storming comeback, scoring three goals within six minutes. Forest seemingly can't hold on to wins, letting them slip easily. As the embarrassment continues, they may find it challenging to stay in EPL for the second season.

Aston Villa vs. Southampton, Gerrard Finding Relief:

The two sides have been suffering lately, and it was a predictably close game as the two teams find it hard to score. Only three of Villa's eleven shots were on target, while Southampton made seven shots, one of which was on target. The two teams produced an eventless and rather dull game, but Gerrard takes the three points either way. Feeling the pressure from their poor results, Villa began the match nervously. Ramsey's first-half goal gave them some relief, but they were not comfortable until the final whistle.

Wolves vs. Manchester City, Easiest Easy Win for City:

Wins are coming easily for the champions, and City barely broke a sweat on this away fixture against Wolves. Criticized for his poor performance, Grealish opened the goal feast for Man City within the first minute. The game became very one-sided, and Collins' 33rd-minute red card made matters worse for the hosts. With their opponents down to ten men, one would suspect a high-margin victory for Man City, but they sufficed to three goals and earned one of the easiest wins this season.

Watching City's ruthless scoring machine, one can't help but wonder if anyone can stop them and Haaland. Man City will face Man United after the international break. United have shown strong form lately, stunning Liverpool and Arsenal. The Manchester derby will be a must-watch.

Newcastle vs. Bournemouth, Familiar Story from Magpies:

As I said in the preview for this game, Newcastle seem used to pulling draws, especially 1-1 ties. Without a permanent manager, the Bournemouth side were the underdogs, especially given Newcastle's wealthy Arab owners. But the Magpies failed to capitalize on the visitors' weakness. Despite creating opportunities, Newcastle is still suffering in the attacking third. Despite having almost 73% ball possession and making twice as many shots as Bournemouth, Newcastle shared the points through a tough penalty call thanks to VAR intervention.

The true winner of this game was Gary O'Neil, Bournemouth's interim manager. He has kept his club unbeaten in the three games he has been in charge, with five points from three games. Some say he's on track to signing as the permanent manager, but no one can forget Manchester United's story with Ole.

Tottenham vs. Leicester, Roger's Future in Jeopardy:

Leicester are desperate to win, but they can't seem to make it. Brendan Rogers admitted that his job is on the line as Leicester, who won the title in 2015, are sitting at rock bottom without a win. Against a Spurs side who are happy to sit back and let their opponents have more ball possession, Foxes produced the opening goal. Yet, their victory lasted for only two minutes until Kane equalized.

As I have said time and again, Ward is not a suitable replacement for Kasper Schmeichel in Foxes' goal. He looks very indecisive in set pieces, and Tottenham managed to score twice from corners, one of which was ruled out by VAR. However, Son was the star of the show today. Coming under pressure for his form, Son was benched. He replaced Richarlison in the 60th minute and began his storm, scoring three goals in 13 minutes.

Brentford vs. Arsenal, Brentford, What's The Score?:

Expectations from Brentford were high going in this match following Manchester United's humiliating defeat to the Bees in this stadium. Brentford, though, didn't have fire in their moves and almost fell behind within the first minute. On the other hand, Arsenal had a better start and were in total control despite not having Zinchenko and Ødegaard. They maintained almost 64% ball possession in the first half to show for their two-goal margin before half-time. Failing to improve their performance in the second half, Brentford gave Arsenal an easy three-goal victory that put the Gunners in first place again.

Everton vs. West Ham, :

The two sides with five points, separated by goal difference, showed a lackluster first half. Everton had no shots on target in the first half, while West Ham's attempts were not threatening enough and blocked by Everton's defense. Both teams also gave the ball away during the first forty-five minutes. They needed reform to earn a much-needed win. Everton seemed to improve in the second half as Maupay scored the game's first goal for the home side. The game opened up afterward as West Ham tried to score, which enabled Everton to attack more. However, no side could find the net and the game ended in Everton's first win.