Premier League Team of the Week: Matchweek 8
Arsenal fans celebrating their team’s victory over rivals Man UnitedIt was another exciting weekend in the Premier League that saw a lot of changes in the league table. Gameweek 8 kickstarted on Saturday at Selhurst Park which hosted the match between high-flying Crystal Palace and West Brom. The home team picked up yet another impressive 2-0 victory over the Baggies courtesy of Yannick Bolasie and Yohan Cabaye’s goal.It was then followed up by Sergio Aguero’s 5-goal thriller which stunned the attendants at the Etihad Stadium. With the victory over Newcastle United, Manchester City reclaimed their spot at the top of the league, who are now two points ahead of Arsenal.Super Sunday saw two of the anticipating derby clashes, including one at Merseyside. Everton, who have been impressive right from the start of the season hosted Liverpool at Goodison Park. Like any other derby match, the one in Merseyside was filled with intensity and controversies over the course of the match. However, the match ended in a 1-1 draw with both teams happy to share a point each.Another derby was held in London between Arsenal and Manchester United. The rivalry between the two clubs was intense back in the early 2000s, who battle against each other on all fronts. The home team asserted their authority when Alex Sanchez scored the opener which was assisted by none other than Mesut Ozil. 74 seconds later, Ozil doubled the lead for the Gunners and they were already in a commanding position.It was then followed up Sanchez’s screamer which ended at the top corner of David De Gea’s net. The Red Devils were outgunned as they had never conceded three goals in quick successions. The scoreline was recorded as the fastest 3-0 victory against United in Premier League history since 1995.To top off a good, action packed weekend in the Premier League Christian Eriksen saved Spurs’ blushes by netting two wonderful free kicks.So who makes it to the team of the week this time around? We’ve used a 3-5-2 formation this week.
#1 Goalkeeper
Petr Cech – Arsenal
The North London club may have found the missing jigsaw in their puzzle. They have finally found a world class keeper which has been lacking in their squad ever since the departure of ex-England goalkeeper David Seaman.
The former Chelsea goalkeeper made crucial saves throughout the whole game. During the first half, when his team was already in cruise control, Cech did well to keep his concentration well by being commanding in the air when balls were thrown at by United players in the penalty box. The 33-year-old stretched out his leg to deny Martial’s attempt on goal when he spun around captain Per Mertesacker who was fairly beaten by the high-flying youngster’s skill.
During the second half of the game United tried their best to exert pressure on Arsenal’s defence but the goalkeeper did well to command his team as they were all well organised at the back. Cech went on to pull off a stunning save from Rooney’s half-volley effort. The Czech international had a good game and kept yet another clean sheet for his steam.