EPL Round Up: Week 3 – Shockwaves and Statement Wins
The Premier League delivered another weekend of high-octane drama, with unexpected results and thrilling encounters shaping the early narrative of the season. From a famous upset at the Amex Stadium to a last-gasp penalty at Old Trafford, here’s a detailed look at all the action from Week 3.
Match Summaries
Brighton 2-1 Manchester City: The biggest shock of the weekend came at the Amex Stadium, where Brighton handed Manchester City their first defeat of the season. City, despite taking an early lead, struggled to break down a well-organized Brighton side. Goals from James Milner and Brajan Gruda were enough to secure a monumental victory for the Seagulls, sending a clear message to the rest of the league.
Chelsea 2-0 Fulham: Chelsea secured a professional 2-0 win over Fulham at Stamford Bridge. JoĂŁo Pedro was the standout performer, scoring the opening goal and leading the line impressively after an early injury to his strike partner. The victory was a much-needed morale boost for the Blues.
Manchester United 3-2 Burnley: It was a tense affair at Old Trafford as Manchester United just edged past Burnley. After twice seeing their lead evaporate, a 96th-minute penalty from Bruno Fernandes sealed a vital three points for United, showcasing the team’s fighting spirit.
Sunderland 2-1 Brentford: Sunderland’s strong start to the season continued with a dramatic late victory over Brentford. A late winner from a substitute rewarded their hard work and determination, earning them their second win of the campaign.
Tottenham Hotspur 0-1 AFC Bournemouth: Bournemouth continued their impressive form with a well-deserved 1-0 win over Spurs, who suffered their first defeat of the season. Antoine Semenyo and Evanilson were a constant threat, with Evanilson grabbing the winning goal.
Wolverhampton Wanderers 2-3 Everton: Everton secured back-to-back wins in a hard-fought 3-2 away victory against Wolves. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall was instrumental for Everton, contributing a goal and an assist in a commanding midfield performance.
Leeds United 0-0 Newcastle United: A tight, goalless draw at Elland Road saw both teams struggle to find a breakthrough. The result means Newcastle is still looking for its first win of the season, while Leeds will be content with a hard-earned point.
Liverpool 1-0 Arsenal: Liverpool maintained their perfect start with a narrow but impressive 1-0 victory over Arsenal. The decisive moment came from a moment of pure genius by Dominik Szoboszlai, who curled in a stunning free-kick to secure all three points.
Aston Villa 0-3 Crystal Palace: Crystal Palace put on a dominant display at Aston Villa, securing a comfortable 3-0 win. Goals from Marc Guéhi, Ismaïla Sarr, and Jean-Philippe Mateta highlighted a clinical team performance.
Team of the Week (4-3-3 Formation)
- Goalkeeper: Robert Sanchez (Chelsea): A clean sheet and crucial saves to help secure victory.
- Defenders: Adrien Truffert (AFC Bournemouth), Marc Guéhi (Crystal Palace), Dan Ballard (Sunderland), Max Kilman (West Ham): A solid defensive line, with Guéhi and Ballard also getting on the scoresheet.
- Midfielders: Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall (Everton), Antoine Semenyo (AFC Bournemouth), Bruno Fernandes (Manchester United): A mix of creativity, dynamism, and nerves of steel.
- Forwards: JoĂŁo Pedro (Chelsea), Evanilson (AFC Bournemouth), Ismaila Sarr (Crystal Palace): Clinical and effective in front of goal.
Player and Manager of the Week
Most Outstanding Player: Dominik Szoboszlai (Liverpool). His magnificent free-kick against Arsenal wasn’t just a goal; it was a game-winning moment of magic that showcased his immense talent and ability to perform on the big stage.
Manager of the Week: Andoni Iraola (AFC Bournemouth). A tactical masterclass from the Spanish manager saw his side go to Tottenham and secure a deserved victory. He has his team playing with confidence, proving that Bournemouth can be a formidable opponent for any team in the league.
