The Premier League title race is wide open thanks to a very loud statement from Brighton.
Brighton 3-0 Arsenal — Biggest Result of the Weekend
The standout result of Matchweek 5 by some distance. Brighton dismantled Arsenal 3-0 at the AMEX, handing the Gunners their first defeat of the season and raising serious questions about Arsenal’s title credentials. After thrashing Coventry 5-0 last week, Brighton have now had back-to-back dominant performances and look every bit like a genuine top-four threat. Arsenal will need to regroup quickly.
Aston Villa 3-2 Tottenham — Villa Make a Statement of Their Own
Aston Villa held firm through pressure to beat Tottenham 3-2 in an entertaining encounter. It is a significant result for Villa, who bounced back from last week’s defeat to Nottingham Forest. For Spurs, it is now five matches without a win and their season is beginning to look unconvincing despite significant summer investment.
Brentford 3-0 Chelsea — Keith Andrew’s Side Put on a Show
Brentford were ruthless at the Gtech Community Stadium, hammering Chelsea 3-0 in a result that will have embarrassed the Blues and delighted the Bees. Chelsea have now failed to win two of their last three after a promising start. Brentford, quietly and efficiently, are having an excellent season.
Man City 5-3 Sunderland — Goals Galore at the Etihad
Manchester City returned to winning ways in spectacular fashion, beating Sunderland 5-3 in a high-scoring affair. Eight goals at the Etihad will raise eyebrows on both sides. City’s attacking quality was on full display, but conceding three goals against a newly promoted side is not something Pep Guardiola’s successor will be satisfied with.
Liverpool 1-0 Bournemouth — Better and Effective
Liverpool continue their campaign with a narrow but professional 1-0 win at Bournemouth, maintaining their place among the top sides. Three wins from five games suggests Iraola’s side are building quietly and efficiently, even if they have not yet produced anything spectacular.
The Rest of Matchweek 5
Everton beat a ten-man Ipswich 1-0 following a red card for the visitors. Newcastle continued their solid form with a 2-1 win over Hull. Coventry won away at Nottingham Forest 1-0, a result that will give them real confidence after last week’s 5-0 hammering. Leeds and Crystal Palace played out a goalless draw. Fulham and Manchester United shared a 1-1 draw, with United dropping more points in a game they would have expected to win.
Raphinha Hat-Trick Helps Barcelona Beat Sevilla
Brighton Stun Arsenal 3-0 to Hand Champions First Defeat
