Manchester City never was going to waltz to the Premier League title. If you thought it would, you probably weren’t aware of the traveling road show that is West Ham United.
West Ham stunned Manchester City on Saturday at the Etihad Stadium, beating the league leader 2-1. The Hammers’ win breathes life into the nascent title race and reminds the soccer world that any team can win on any given day — at home or away — in England’s top flight.
West Ham now has joined select company by beating Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City on the road in the same season. Slaven Bilic’s side now trails Manchester City by just three points in the standings.
Manchester City’s loss was its first of the 2015-16 season, and the goals it conceded also were its first of the campaign.
And so we bid farewell to Manchester City’s perfect start and greet a genuine competition for domestic supremacy in England.
Premier League Round 6 results and reaction (home team listed first):
Saturday, Sept. 19
Chelsea 2 – 0 Arsenal
Amid Arsenal’s controversial red cards and Diego Costa’s practice of the so-called “dark arts,” it was easy to lose sight of the fact that a game was played at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea’s win could mark a turning point in its season, which started with so much pain and angst. Arsenal’s Premier League woes against Chelsea continue.
Aston Villa 0 – 1 West Brom
West Brom’s narrow win over its local rival extended Aston Villa’s winless streak to five games.
Swansea City 0 – 0 Everton
Stoke City 2 – 2 Leicester City
High-flying Leicester City recovered from a two-goal deficit for the second week in a row. This time, the Foxes had to settle for a road draw against struggling Stoke.
Newcastle 1 – 2 Watford
The Magpies’ season went from bad to worse at St. James’ Park. Newcastle now has lost three consecutive games. Watford surprisingly has won two straight.
Bournemouth 2 – 0 Sunderland
Manchester City 1 – 2 West Ham
Sunday, Sept. 20
Tottenham 1 – 0 Crystal Palace
Spurs now have won in successive weeks following a worryingly slow start. New signing Son Heung-Min scored the decisive goal. Harry Kane’s drought continues.
Liverpool 1 – 1 Norwich City
Frustration ruled at Anfield. Find out what happened in our wrap and what it means for the Reds in our verdict.
Southampton 2 – 3 Manchester United
Manchester United might have a new hero in the form of Anthony Martial. The 19-year-old came to Old Trafford for a hefty price tag. So far, so good.
Thumbnail photo via Jon Super/Associated Press
