By Toby Prince
Action returned in the English Premier League Saturday with action across five venues. . Leicester city recorded the highest victory of the day; there were two away victories and an unimpressive showing by the big boys.
Manchester United 1-0 Tottenham
At the Theatre of Dreams, Spurs reduced Luis Van Gaal’s side to just 20 per cent shot accuracy in a brave defensive display but were undone by an own goal as the host pressured Kyle Walkers down the left. There were starts for new boys Morgan Schneirderlin, Romero, Memphis Deepay, Matteo Darmian and a cameo appearance by Bastian Schweinsteiger.
Bournemouth 0-1 Aston Villa
In the absence of Christian Benteke now on the payroll of Liverpool, new signing Rudy Gestede needed just 13 minutes to announce himself to the Villa fans. The loss is a reality check for the Cherries who must avoid such defeats to remain in the top flight.
Everton 2-2 Watford
Everton were forced to come from behind twice to earn a hard fought draw with new boys from Watford.
Miguel Layun and Nigerian, Odion Ighalo’s strikes were cancelled by Ross Barkley and Arona Kone to spare Roberto Martinez’s blushes.
Leicester 4-2 Sunderland
At half time, the host were already three goals up, signalling a triumphant return for former Chelsea boss, Claudio Ranieri. Stephen Fletcher and Jermain Defoe reduced the deficit for the Black cats who now had a daunting task in front of them after a brace from Ryan Mayrez and goals from Marc Albrighton and Jamie Vardy.
Norwich City 1- 3 Crystal Palace
Yohan Cabaye marked his return to the Premier League with a goal to hand Alan Pardew’s men a fairy tale start to the season. Wilfred Zaha and Demian Delaneey completed the rout as Nathan Redmond gave the Canaries a consolation.
Chelsea 2-2 Swansea
Andre Ayew made an immediate statement in English football by inspiring Swansea to an outstanding draw on the road. The defending champions played most of the second half with 10 men after Thibaut Courtois was in the 52nd minute after bringing down Swansea striker Bafetimbi Gomis.
Oscar and a Federico Fernandes own goal put Jose Mourinho’s men in front twice, but a quick response from Ayew coupled with Gomis penalty goal silenced the crowd at Stamford Bridge.
