Chelsea Extend Lead Despite Jairzinho Red Card
Despite being reduced to ten men just before halftime, Chelsea continued their 100% start to the Premier League season with a professional 3-0 win away at Nottingham Forest. Goals from Junior, Haigh and Pele capped off an assertive display, although Jairzinho’s second-half dismissal for a rash challenge casts a shadow over the winger’s otherwise excellent performance, which earned him Player of the Match with three assists.
Tottenham and Fulham Stay Close Behind
Tottenham kept the pressure on with a goalless draw at Anfield. While Liverpool will be disappointed not to win at home, Spurs’ defensive discipline showed why they remain unbeaten. Fulham climbed to third with a 3-1 home win over Arsenal, bouncing back from their previous dip thanks to Salgado’s opener, Unjanque’s penalty, and Juan’s injury-time finish. Arsenal, meanwhile, slide to fourth after suffering their second defeat of the campaign.
QPR and Manchester Clubs Shine
QPR impressed in their 4-1 thumping of Aston Villa, with Yehoshua once again proving decisive in front of goal. Manchester United secured a gritty 1-0 win over Burnley courtesy of N. Hill, who continues his streak of crucial goals, while Manchester City took care of business with a 3-0 dismantling of Southampton, featuring goals from Harding, Ellison, and Wilton.
Leicester Fall, Plymouth Rise
Leicester’s inconsistent start continued as they lost 3-2 at home to a revitalised Southampton. Cuña’s brace and Davies’ strike overturned Leicester’s lead, pushing the Saints out of the relegation zone. Plymouth, meanwhile, climbed into the top half with a solid 2-0 win over Wolves, with goals from Shashoua and Vivanco continuing their recent form revival.
Reading, Palace & Forest Flounder
Reading earned their first win of the season by beating Newcastle 3-1, a result that drops the Magpies further into the relegation battle. At the foot of the table, Crystal Palace remain winless after a 3-0 home defeat to Man City, while Forest’s promising start has now faded after back-to-back losses, this time humbled at home by Chelsea.
Table Overview
With six matches played, Chelsea lead the Premier League with 18 points and a staggering +17 goal difference. Tottenham (14 pts) and Fulham (13 pts) follow, while QPR and Arsenal round out the top five. At the bottom, Palace and Newcastle look adrift, with Southampton’s shock win potentially a turning point in their early struggle.
Player of the Week
Jairzinho (Chelsea) – Despite his red card, the winger was influential in the first half, registering three assists and creating constant chaos down the right flank. A bittersweet performance from a player in top form.
Next up: Chelsea face Napoli in the Champions League as their packed fixture list continues, while eyes will be on Arsenal and Fulham to see who can stay in touch with the rampant Blues.