The Best Team Won

Opening day reflections August 16, 2009

Arsenal’s 6-1 demolition of Everton certainly hogged the headlines, but I wouldn’t read too much into that. Until that wonder goal by Denilson, Arsenal struggled to penetrate an Everton backline that was without Phil Jagielka and with an unsettled Lescott. Moreover, the Everton players were probably distracted by what can only be described as an adult bib on their chests. The gunners, on the other hand, were probably glad that they weren’t the only babies in the league anymore.

Chelsea laboured to record a fluke win over hard-working Hull City. While the former are the bookies’ favourite to win the title and the latter are a favourite to go down, both failed to meet these expectations. Chelsea just can’t seem to break down opponents at home nowadays, a trend that has arguably started since Mourinho left (The “special one” has only ever lost one home game in his entire career). Stamford Bridge is fast losing that fear factor.

Wigan’s defeat of Aston Villa went a long way in confirming the fears of the blue and claret faithful. With the loss of Gareth Barry to Manchester City, Aston Villa might find themselves back amongst mid-table mediocrity despite having a decent manager in the form of Martin O’neill.

All eyes were on Manchester City and their stars to see whether the money could deliver. Based on that performance against Blackburn, I think it is safe to assume that City can give the Big Four a serious run for their money. Simply put, City played like a big club. Their backline held firm and they were efficient on the break. Players were also willing to chase down balls. If Man City can turn the City of Manchester Stadium into a fortress, they can pose a formidable threat to the hegemony of the top four.