In a day filled with Premier League action, Ollie Watkins stole the spotlight as Aston Villa secured a dramatic 2-1 comeback against his former club Brentford. The game sparked controversy with Watkins’ late-winning goal and ensuing celebrations, which ignited a chaotic goalmouth scuffle.
Watkins, scoring the decisive goal, explained his emotional celebration, citing personal abuse from a specific spectator during the match. He expressed affection for Brentford but emphasised that certain behaviour crossed a line. Villa boss Unai Emery promised to address the incident with Watkins and the team.
Amidst the tumultuous game, Villa moved temporarily into second place but slid back to third after Liverpool’s goalless draw with Manchester United. The intense rivalry at Anfield saw United clinging on for a point despite finishing with 10 men following Diogo Dalot’s late dismissal.
Liverpool, missing a chance to reclaim the top spot, endured a frustrating stalemate, failing to breach United’s defence despite numerous attempts. Manager Juergen Klopp highlighted their dominance in attempts but lamented the lack of clinical finishing.
Meanwhile, West Ham found their rhythm, bouncing back from a previous heavy defeat, as they secured a convincing 3-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers. Mohammed Kudus shone, scoring twice alongside Jarrod Bowen’s goal, propelling West Ham to seventh in the league.
In another fixture, Arsenal’s Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus secured a 2-0 victory against Brighton & Hove Albion, temporarily regaining the league’s top spot. Havertz, in impressive form, reflected on his improved performances after initially struggling to find his footing at Arsenal.
However, off-pitch chaos marred the Liverpool-Man United clash as Liverpool condemned the reprehensible act of damage caused to Manchester United’s bus on its way to Anfield. Investigations are underway, with Liverpool FC cooperating with authorities to identify the culprits.
