2004–05 FA Premier League

Premier League

Season	2004–05
Champions	Chelsea 1st Premier League title 2nd English title
Matches played	380
Goals scored	974 (2.56 per match)
Top goalscorer	Thierry Henry (25 goals)
Biggest home win	Arsenal 7–0 Everton (11 May 2005)
Biggest away win	West Brom 0–5 Liverpool
Highest scoring	Tottenham 4–5 Arsenal (13 November 2004) (9 goals)
← 2003–04 2005–06 →

The 2004–05 season of the FA Premier League began on 14 August 2004 and ended on 15 May 2005. Arsenal were the defending champions after going unbeaten the previous season. Arsenal had won the FA Cup after beating holders Manchester United on penalties. Chelsea were winners of the Carling Cup beating Liverpool after extra time who had defeated holders Middlesbrough in the 4th round.

Final league table

Pld = Matches played; W = Matches won; D = Matches drawn; L = Matches lost; F = Goals for; A = Goals against; GD = Goal difference; Pts = Points

^1. Though they failed to qualify for the Champions League as one of the top four English clubs at the end of the season, Liverpool were given a special dispensation to compete as they were defending champions of the European competition. They were, however, forced to enter in the First Qualifying Round. See Liverpool F.C. Champions League qualification 2005–06

^2. Since the finalists of the 2004–05 FA Cup, Arsenal and Manchester United, as well as Chelsea, who won the 2004–05 Carling Cup, were confirmed to qualify for the 2005–06 UEFA Champions League, and the 5th placed team (Liverpool) was moved to the Champions League, the 6th and 7th-placed teams in the Premier League were rewarded with entry to the 2005–06 UEFA Cup.

Season Statistics

Arsenal

Aston Villa

Birmingham

Blackburn

Bolton

Charlton

Chelsea

Crystal Palace

Everton

Fulham

Liverpool

Man City

Man United

Middlesbrough

Newcastle

Norwich

Portsmouth

Southampton

Tottenham

West Brom

Locations of the 2004–05 Premier League teams

Season preview

Arsenal were the favourites to defend their title but they also had challengers. Manchester United and Chelsea under new management in Jose Mourinho who had just won the Champions League with Porto were expected to challenge. Liverpool also had a new manager in Rafael Benítez who had just won the UEFA Cup with Valencia, and were expected to challenge but maybe not as seriously as the other two. Norwich City, Crystal Palace and West Bromwich Albion were all tipped to go down by the pundits, having all just been promoted from the Nationwide Division 1 (now the Coca-Cola football league championship), along with Everton, Manchester City, Blackburn Rovers and Portsmouth with the first three experiencing disappointing 17th, 16th and 15th place finishes, and Portsmouth being in their second season. Before the season, three top teams had changes in management with Chelsea replacing Claudio Ranieri with Jose Mourinho who had just won the Champions League, Liverpool replacing Gerrard Houllier with Rafael Benitez who had just won the UEFA Cup and Tottenham ended their long search for a manager appointing Jacques Santini who had just led France to the quarter-finals of Euro 2004. So, everyone was raring to go for the new campaign.

Season review - AUGUST

14/08/04 – Matchday 1

Tottenham Hotspur 1-1 Liverpool FC

Jacques Santini and Rafael Benitez both took charge of their first games at White Hart Lane. For Liverpool, this game was a chance to see if they could justify their title credentials; for Tottenham, it was a chance to try to set a marker for a good season and perhaps a European place. Also, it was a chance to see life after Michael Owen for Liverpool, and his replacement Djibril Cissé produced an Owen-esque finish to wrong-foot Tottenham's new keeper Paul Robinson after good play on the right from Steve Finnan. In the second half, Jermain Defoe equalised in the second half with 20 minutes remaining when he muscled off the defenders and slotted past Jerzy Dudek. He then got booked for taking his shirt off (a new rule introduced by FIFA). In the dying moments, Jamie Carragher had a chance to give Liverpool the 3 points and a chance to gain his first goal in 5 years for the club, but his header was brilliantly saved by Robinson. That meant that the points were shared on the opening day. Jacques Santini would probably be the more satisfied of the 2 managers after seeing his team coming from behind. [1]

Norwich City 1-1 Crystal Palace

Both teams would have been pleased to play their first games back in the FA Premier League and the game was at Carrow Road who hosted a good game. Robert Green and Julian Speroni were busy in both goals both having to keep out efforts. Sandor Torghelle missed a glorious chance in the opening minutes on his debut for the club. Mathias Svensson produced a good through ball which was latched onto by Darren Huckerby. Mark Hudson was felled by Huckerby but play on was the call by the referee and he blasted past Speroni. Sandor Torghelle missed another good chance when his short range effort was blocked by Robert Green. In the second half, Darren Huckerby almost doubled his tally but his effort was kept out by Speroni. In the end, Palace got a deserved but also undeserved equaliser when Wayne Routledge placed a through ball in for Andy Johnson who turned and slotted past Green (this was to be the first of many goals for the Eagles frontman). Green and Speroni saved efforts in the dying minutes to preserve the draw for their teams. A good start for both teams in what was expected to be a tough season for both teams, and up next for Norwich was their first game against one of the big boys Manchester United at Old Trafford.[2]

Blackburn Rovers 1-1 West Bromwich Albion

The other of the 3 promoted teams, West Brom gained a very creditable draw at Blackburn (one of three FA Premier League champions at the time since its creation in 1992). Blackburn under Graeme Souness, since their title success in 1995 has never reached such heights and have also experienced relegation since and were tipped as one of the teams to struggle this season, and that was justified when newly promoted West Brom took the lead in the first half when a free kick from captain Neil Clement took a deflection of Barry Ferguson beating Brad Friedel in the Blackburn goal. Dominic Matteo, (who gave the free kick away) almost made amends when he had a glorious chance, but he blazed the ball over. In the second half, West Brom's defence stayed solid as Dwight Yorke and Paul Dickov failed to find a way through the defence. That was until the 70th minute when Jonathan Stead broke down the left wing, crossed into the box where off all people Craig Short headed past Russell Hoult with the aid of the post. Blackburn then had confidence and would've been disappointed not to have got the 3 points with Tugay Kerimoğlu and Brett Emerton coming close and in the last minute a Barry Ferguson cross almost found Dwight Yorke's outstretched foot, but he couldn't make contact which meant the game ended in a draw, but both teams would've been equally pleased and disappointed with a point. [3]

Middlesbrough FC 2-2 Newcastle United

A Tyne-Tees derby started the season and it was quite an entertaining game. Steve McLaren and Sir Bobby Robson were the respective managers and both were hoping to have good seasons. Both teams were participating in the UEFA Cup, and Middlesbrough were hoping to gain a European place whilst Newcastle who finished 5th last season were hoping to gain a Champions League place. Newcastle had problems before the game, especially in defence, so Robbie Elliott was rushed into an unusual central defence position and he was lucky when he seemed to handball in the first minute. Newcastle took a surprising lead when Aaron Hughes slotted a neat ball which Chris Riggott should've cut out. He didn't and Craig Bellamy received the ball, rounded Mark Schwarzer and placed the ball into an empty net. In the second half, Steve McLaren tried to endure some confidence into the team by introducing Szilard Nemeth and Stewart Downing as second half subs. Downing had a shot almost after just coming on which produced a good save from the scrambling Shay Given, and then he latched onto a Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink cross and beat Given. The Irish goalkeeper then produced an amazing save to deny Gaizka Mendieta and that miss could've proved costly when Alan Shearer who had a quiet game by his standards, produced a good run. He passed to young striker Shola Ameobi and he was hacked down by Bolo Zenden in the area. Referee Steve Bennett awarded the penalty which Alan Shearer thrashed into the roof of the net. But the drama wasn't over there as Middlesbrough pushed for a late equaliser and it came in stoppage time when Zenden beat Kieron Dyer, crossed in to Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink at the far post to head home to make it 2-2. Although Newcastle defenders claimed that the Dutch striker had used his hand to score. In the end, an enthralling game ended in a draw which in the end was a fair result. [4]

Bolton Wanderers 4-1 Charlton Athletic

Both teams would be hoping to improve on last season's respectful positions, with the home side finishing 8th, and the away side finishing 7th the previous season. Both teams were hoping to put up their European credentials. But it just looked like one team would be on today's showing. Kevin Davies was denied by Dean Kiely after just 30 seconds to show the tough day The Addicks would have. Shaun Bartlett fouled Kevin Davies and Jay-Jay Okocha, who had gone the previous season without scoring, scored an early contender for goal of the season with a rasping 30-yard free kick which left Dean Kiely clutching thin air. It was 2 shortly afterwards when Okocha turned from scorer to provider as his precise through ball found Henrik Pedersen who held off Luke Young and slotted past Kiely. Kevin Lisbie then missed a glorious chance for the visitors when from 6 yards out, his shot was blocked by Jussi Jääskeläinen. Charlton improved in the second half but couldn't take their chances, with Shaun Bartlett and debutant Danny Murphy missing good opportunities, and that allowed Bolton to seal the game when Jay-Jay Okocha scored an incredible second when he teased the Charlton defenders before unleashing a powerful drive past the helpless Dean Kiely. Shaun Bartlett then cleared an Okocha free kick off the line to prevent the Nigerian an amazing hat-trick of long range strikes. Eventually, Athletic got on the score sheet when a Danny Murphy free kick was headed home by Kevin Lisbie. But it was too late for a comeback and in the end Pedersen scored his second of the day when Gary Speed played him through and the Danish striker did the rest. An amazing performance from Bolton and if they could carry on like this, then a European place was surely not out of their reach. As for Charlton, they would have to improve on this performance, if they were to put forward their European credentials. [5]

Aston Villa 2-0 Southampton FC

Going into this game at Villa Park, both teams had ambitions for the season. Aston Villa, who despite finishing 6th last season were unfortunately not in the UEFA Cup after good cup runs from Middlesbrough and Millwall, were hoping to grab a Champions League or UEFA Cup place. As for Southampton, after continuously flirting with relegation in 1990s, they had improved in the past few seasons and were hoping for another safe position in the league this season. It was the Midlands side that started the brightest when Darius Vassell set up Gareth Barry who missed the target from 12 yards. But, moments later, Villa took the lead after Jlloyd Samuel crossed for Gareth Barry who flicked onto Lee Hendrie whose shot was blocked. But that presented an opportunity for Darius Vassell who hit home to make it 1-0 to the home team. Antti Niemi stood solid in the Saints goal when he made some good saves from Carlton Cole and Peter Whittingham. It was then Thomas Sørensen's turn to make a good save after he made a superb block from Mikael Nillson's shot. Southampton were made to pay for the miss when Darius Vassell's neat ball was latched onto by loanee Carlton Cole and the man on loan from Chelsea held off Claus Lundekvam and beat Antti Niemi. In the second half, there was an improvement from Southampton as David Prutton's sharp effort was well blocked by Gavin McCann and then Kevin Phillips' long range drive was saved and then held by his former Sunderland teammate Thomas Sørensen. In the dying minutes, to prove the poor luck, Southampton substitute Fabrice Fernandes' shot struck teammate Phillips when it looked like the ball was surely on its way in the back of the net. A good result for The Villans, whilst Southampton did not perform too badly, they needed to luck to go their way, or they would endure another difficult season. [6]

Manchester City 1-1 Fulham FC

In the 2003-04 Premier League season, Man City finished in a disappointing 16th, whilst Fulham finished a pleasing 9th, when City would've expected to be where Fulham finished and vice versa. Manchester City under Kevin Keegan were hoping to finish near or in the European places and not another relegation threatened season whilst Fulham were hoping to have another comfortable finish. It was City who started the brightest and especially when Shaun Wright-Phillips whose bright runs down the right set up many attacks but the Fulham defence stood firm. That was until the 28th minute when Danny Mills' throw was flicked on by Antoine Sibierski and Robbie Fowler finished past Edwin Van der Sar. In the second half, after barely having an attack, Fulham grabbed a surprising equaliser. Claus Jensen crossed to the young Dutch striker Collins John, who turned and scored past David James. Edwin Van der Sar was up to the challenge from testing shots from Claudio Reyna and Richard Dunne. He then denied a point blank header from Sibierski and shortly afterwards, James then smartly denied Claus Jensen to keep the score at 1-1 at full time. However, Kevin Keegan said after the game, he believed his side deserved 3 points. [7]

Portsmouth FC 1-1 Birmingham City

Portsmouth were the only promoted side to stay up last season and finished in a comfortable 13th place finish and were hoping to finish in a comfortable position again this season. As for Birmingham a good 10th place finish last season was very good, and a good mid-table finish was their hope again. And the Brummies scored the opening goal at Fratton Park. Richard Hughes fouled Damien Johnson and the resulting free kick was taken by Robbie Savage, who curled his kick around the wall and past Shaka Hislop. However, Portsmouth got the equaliser 6 minutes later when Stan Lazaridis was adjudged to have pushed Steve Stone and home debutant David Unsworth converted the penalty past keeper Maik Taylor. Shaka Hislop stopped Birmingham going back in front when he saved away debutant Emile Heskey's shot. Then Yakubu saw his effort tipped wide from Maik Taylor. The second half was relatively quiet, with Birmingham being the best team, and they saw a penalty appeal turned down when they thought that Linvoy Primus handballed. And in the last minutes, Clinton Morrison could've won it for Birmingham, but his turn and shot went wide. So, it finished a point apiece for both teams. [8]

15/08/04 - Matchday 1 SUNDAY

Everton FC 1-4 Arsenal FC

On the first Super Sunday of the season, defending champions Arsenal played Everton at Goodison Park. Both teams had ambitions, Arsenal to defend their title and to beat Nottingham Forest's record of 42 consecutive unbeaten league matches (Arsenal were currently 40 games unbeaten). As for Everton, they were hoping to improve on last season's extremely disappointing 17th place. And it was The Gunners that started the brightest, the attacking quartet of Thierry Henry, Dennis Bergkamp, Jose Antonio Reyes and Fredrik Ljungberg troubled the Everton defenders. Nigel Martyn had to be at his best to keep out Freddie Ljungberg. Then, the breakthrough came when Reyes ran to the Everton box. He was tackled but the ball went to Theirry Henry who slid to Dennis Bergkamp who scored past Martyn. It was 2 before half time when Ljungberg crossed to Jose Antonio Reyes and the Spaniard headed in. After half time, Joseph Yobo produced a lazy pass to Dennis Bergkamp who passed to Thierry Henry, who inturn passed to Ljungberg in the box for a simple tap-in. Everton did manage to pull 1 back when a good 1-2 between Thomas Gravesen and Lee Carsley, allowed Carsley to beat Jens Lehmann. Arsenal got their 3 goal lead back when Thierry Henry's thunderous shot wasn't held by Martyn and there was a simple tap-in for Robert Pires. 41 games and counting, just 1 needed to equal the record and 2 to beat the record. As for, Everton they needed to improve otherwise they were in for another long, hard season. [9]

Chelsea FC 1-0 Manchester United

Jose Mourinho took charge of his first game and what a game it was. On the first weekend of the season, we had a title clash already. Sir Alex Ferguson knew the challenge he had against him today, especially with no Rio Ferdinand, Cristiano Ronaldo and Ruud van Nistelrooy. Despite that, they started the brightest with debutant Alan Smith and Ryan Giggs just missing the target. Geremi broke after a Manchester United attack, he crossed for Didier Drogba who slid through for Eiður Guðjohnsen. Tim Howard would've been disappointed as his weak challenge failed to halt the Icelandic striker and the ball rolled in past Roy Keane who desperately tried to stop the ball in vain. England duo Paul Scholes and Frank Lampard missed good chances for their teams as they went in at half time, 1-0 to Chelsea. It was a quiet start to the second half and a quiet start for Didier Drogba who was replaced by fellow debutant Mateja Kezman. Diego Forlan (who was to be transferred to Villarreal later that summer), made consequently his final appearance for Manchester United as a substitute, but was quiet. In the dying moments, Ryan Giggs headed wide from Alan Smith's cross. That left the score at 1-0 at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea were 3 points ahead of Man United, who were 17th after the weekend. [10]

TABLE AFTER WEEK 1

Pld = Matches played; W = Matches won; D = Matches drawn; L = Matches lost; F = Goals for; A = Goals against; GD = Goal difference; Pts = Points

TABLE SUMMARY

Defending champions Arsenal were top after the first game with Bolton second. Chelsea, one of the challengers to Arsenal's crown were 4th. Whilst, fellow challengers Liverpool and Manchester United had disappointing first games and were 11th and 17th. Southampton, Charlton and Everton were the teams in the relegation zone after big defeats.

21/08/04 - Matchday 2

Manchester United 2-1 Norwich City

Norwich's first away game of the season was as hard as they got with a game against Manchester United at Old Trafford. And Norwich were probably expecting a backlash after Man United's defeat on the opening day. A good thing for Norwich is they were ahead of Man United in the league. The Red Devils started the brightest and Norwich defender Simon Charlton blocked a cross from Ryan Giggs. Norwich almost stunned the Old Trafford crowd when on-loan Arsenal midfielder David Bentley beat Tim Howard with a rasping 25-yard strike which rattled the crossbar. United then made the East Anglia team pay when a cross from Ryan Giggs was headed on by Alan Smith to David Bellion who slid in past Robert Green to give Manchester United a 1-0 lead. Within 5 minutes of the second half interval, Alan Smith produced a stunning strike when he chested the ball, controlled, turned and then unleashed an amazing left-foot volley past the helpless Green in the goal as the ball struck the post on the way in. An early contender for Goal of the Season beating Green. He then saved an effort from Paul Scholes as Man United were dominating. However, Norwich were determined not to give in and a Darren Huckerby cross was almost met by Mathias Svensson. They did manage to pull one back when a powerful effort from Paul McVeigh was tipped from Tim Howard into the net. Another piece of unconvincing goalkeeping from the American goalkeeper who was a bit at fault for the goal at Chelsea. There was nothing he could've done later when Leon McKenzie outpaced Roy Keane but shot wide past Howard's goal. The first points of the season for Manchester United but it wasn't a convincing performance and they were nowhere near their best. [11]

Liverpool FC 2-1 Manchester City

The first game of the season at Anfield and Rafa Benitez' first game in charge at Anfield as he took on former Kop favourite Kevin Keegan's Manchester City. Both teams would've been looking for improvements on opening day draws and it was the Merseysiders that started the strongest as they dominated early possession. However, Man City's defence was resolute. Steven Gerrard had the first effort of the game with a long-range strike which was struck straight at David James. Harry Kewell had the next shot which just went over the bar and then forced a save out of David James with an effort which was creeping into the bottom corner. However, despite Liverpool dominating the game, on the stroke of half time, Man City took an unexpected lead against the run of play when a searching ball from Shaun Wright-Phillips stroked the head of Jamie Carragher through to Jerzy Dudek who fumbled the ball allowing Nicolas Anelka to tap in. In the second half, Liverpool made their domination pay as 3 minutes in Steven Gerrard slotted a neat ball to Milan Baros who calmly slotted home. Anelka looked the biggest threat against Liverpool and he almost scored again but hit over after Claudio Reyna's through ball. David James was inspiring in goal for Manchester City as Liverpool upped their game in the closing stages pushing for a winner. The former Liverpool man was at his best to deny efforts from Steven Gerrard and Milan Baros. Then, the second goal eventually came when Baros was through one-on-one with James. He came out and blocked the effort with his legs before Steven Gerrard pounced on the rebound. For all his good work, James could've done better with the initial block from Baros. Any hope, Man City had of getting a result was dashed when Richard Dunne received a second booking for a foul on Djibril Cisse. In injury time, Cisse was in a promising position when after a neat backheel, nutmegging Sylvain Distin, he overhit a cross for Stephen Warnock but Liverpool got the 3 points in the end. A good performance from The Reds who played well but the only improvement needed was take more of their chances. [12]

Southampton FC 3-2 Blackburn Rovers

Southampton's first game at home was against Blackburn. St Mary's was the venue for a good game of football between two of the league strugglers. Before the game, Paul Sturrock was under massive pressure after player unrest and poor form which carried on into this season with their 2-0 defeat to Aston Villa. There was a decent start for The Saints when Graeme Le Saux sent in a cross which beat both Blackburn defenders and Southampton attackers. Antti Niemi was then called into action when a testing shot from Jonathan Stead was saved after a mistake by David Prutton allowing Tugay to break and set up Stead. Stead then had another sniff of a chance but Claus Lundekvam blocked strongly and bravely. Both teams had created openings but had failed to score. James Beattie got on the end of a Graeme Le Saux cross but his free header was straight at American goalkeeper Brad Friedel. Eventually, the net was found when Fabrice Fernandes crossed to find Kevin Phillips who headed home his 150th career league goal to give Southampton a vital 1-0 lead and release some of the pressure on Paul Sturrock (it seemed). Southampton dominated the rest of the half which prompted Graeme Souness to make changes bringing on new signing Paul Dickov and Lucas Neill replacing old timers Dwight Yorke and Garry Flitcroft both playing under par and their best days seemed to be over. In the second half, Southampton seemed to go back in their shell after substitute Paul Dickov set up Barry Ferguson who shot past Niemi via the post. 1-1 and Blackburn were looking more comfortable. Jonathan Stead fired wide soon after then in the 68th minute, Brett Emerton's run and cross found Paul Dickov who controlled and shot past the helpless Antti Niemi. Blackburn took a 2-1 lead. However, Southampton seemed to be spurred on by that and they equalised. Graeme Le Saux received the ball from James Beattie, he set up Anders Svensson who beat Friedel with a first-time shot. In the dying minutes, Blackburn almost snatched a goal but Paul Dickov was denied by Niemi. Then in injury time, a controversial penalty decision when Craig Short and James Beattie challenged a header and referee Andy D'Urso gave a penalty for a push from Short. Beattie calmly strode up and slotted past Friedel to give Southampton and Paul Sturrock 3 vital points. Southampton were off the mark for the season whilst Blackburn remained on 1 point and would've been disappointed by the fact they threw away a lead. As for, Paul Sturrock despite this important win he left by mutual agreement and was replaced by Steve Wigley after board unrest and was disappointed with the situation he found himself out in. [13]

Sturrock leaves Southampton report: [14]

Birmingham City 0-1 Chelsea FC

Chelsea were looking to carry on after their opening day win against Manchester United. Birmingham City were the opponents and after an opening day draw they were looking to forward to the challenge of title challengers Chelsea. Like in their opening game, they had to be solid in defence and were second best at the start after Julian Gray missed a good chance after Muzzy Izzet's shot was blocked into Gray's path. Then, Didier Drogba missed a one-on-one after a mistake from former Chelsea defender Mario Melchiot. Then it was Wayne Bridge's turn to make an error which gave the opposition a chance to score when his poor backpass went to Heskey who hit straight at Cech who got the inside part of the knee onto the ball causing the ball to go wide. Cech then was fortunate when he missed a Stan Lazaridis cross. Fortunately, the ball hit Wayne Bridge before rebounding to the Czech Republic goalkeeper. Birmingham were looking the stronger team but Heskey missed another one-on-one effort. Then Paulo Ferreira was struck on the arm with the ball but Barry Knight turned down appeals. There was another appeal turned down when Geremi appeared to block a shot with his arm, this one not so apparent but easily giveable. In first half added time, Julian Gray hit the inside of the post when in a good position. Were Birmingham going to rue these missed chances. In the second half, Birmingham carried on when Muzzy Izzet crossed for Heskey who failed to apply a touch. Joe Cole came on as a substitute and this changed the game for Chelsea. He scored almost immediately after coming on when he received a pass from Frank Lampard, cut inside, shot, deflecting of Martin Taylor and beating Maik Taylor. Chelsea undeservedly leaded and they almost doubled it when Didier Drogba almost capitalized on a defensive mix-up but horribly missed an open goal. In the end, the defence held firm for the final minutes as they won the game 1-0. They showed that they can grind out results when second best and if they are going to win the league then they will have to be able to do that. As for Birmingham, a good performance went unrewarded but they could take heart from this performance. [15]

Crystal Palace 1-3 Everton FC

Both teams were looking for wins for different reasons. Crystal Palace because this was their first game at their home Selhurst Park. Everton because they wanted to bounce back from their opening day 4-1 defeat to the champions with a win against lower opposition. However, it wasn't a good start for The Toffees as the first real action of the game was a goal for Palace when Wayne Routledge crossed in for the unmarked Mark Hudson who headed in from close range. They could have made it 2 when Andy Johnson latched onto a Dougie Freedman pass. He went round Nigel Martyn and tapped into the net when Alan Stubbs came out of nowhere to clear off the line. Everton made Palace pay when they equalised soon afterwards. Julian Speroni put his defence under pressure with a poor clearance. In the end, he ended up fouling Kevin Campbell when trying to make up for his error. Referee Mark Clattenburg awarded a penalty which Thomas Gravesen calmly placed home. The rest of the half was quiet until Nigel Martyn misjudged a corner allowing Dougie Freedman to shoot over as half time arrived. In the second half, Everton's new striker Marcus Bent almost scored on his first start but he has well denied by Speroni, a save that made up a bit for the error. Everton then took the lead after for the first time after key player Thomas Gravesen controlled, dummied and then curled the ball past Speroni. The Argentine goalie then denied Bent for a second time before Gary Naysmith was awarded a second yellow card for stupidly pulling back Wayne Routledge. There was a nightmare period for Crystal Palace when Andy Johnson had a penalty appeal turned down after he fell from a challenge from Tony Hibbert then Everton went to score the third and final goal when Gravesen sent through Bent who slotted past Julian Speroni. That was the last main action that happened in the game as Everton bounced back from their opening day drubbing with 3 points. As for Palace a reality check and they needed to improve if they were going to stay up. [16]

Charlton Athletic 2-1 Portsmouth FC

Charlton were looking to bounce back from an opening day 4-1 defeat to Bolton by picking up a home victory over Portsmouth who were on the back of a draw against Birmingham. The Addicks started the brightest when from an early corner Jonathan Fortune headed towards goal via a deflection and that forced a good save from Shaka Hislop. Then it was Portsmouth's turn when Yakubu crossed in to the Charlton box. Dean Kiely dropped the cross to Eyal Berkovic who took to long to get a shot out. There was a quiet period in the game until Danny Murphy got a cross in which Kevin Lisbie managed to head onto the bar. Then Kevin Lisbie turned supplier this time and this time it was effective as it led to Charlton's and the game's first goal. Lisbie crossed in and Portsmouth failed to clear allowing Jason Euell to stab the ball past Shaka Hislop. Portsmouth then almost equalised soon afterwards with another cross. This one was from Yakubu who crossed in for Patrik Berger. He took a shot which was blocked into the path of David Unsworth who inturn shot into the side netting. Dean Kiely preserved Charlton's lead denying Yakubu and Berger as Charlton went in 1-0 at half time. Charlton threatened at the start of the second half with efforts from Dennis Rommedahl and Shaun Bartlett but then Portsmouth got an equaliser and an unbelievable equaliser. A short free kick was given to Berger who inturn flicked up and volleyed incredibly from 30-35 yards out seeing the ball fly into the top corner beating the hapless Kiely. Charlton were looking good after that goal and were looking to get a late goal. Dennis Rommedahl and Shaun Bartlett were both denied by Hislop who was having a good game for Portsmouth. That was until the 87th minute when Jonathan Fortune swung in a free kick which glanced of David Unsworth's head. Hislop then messed up in an attempt to gather the ball as Charlton grabbed a late winner. A good 3 points for Charlton who bounced back from their opening day defeat very well, as for Portsmouth, 1 point in 2 games suggested that maybe they might struggle this season. [17]

Fulham FC 2-0 Bolton Wanderers

Fulham's first game back at Craven Cottage for 2 years was against Bolton who were joint top of the league going into today after their opening day demolition of Charlton Athletic. Fulham had groundshared at Loftus Road with Queens Park Rangers after Craven Cottage needed to be renovated into an all-seater stadium. It was changed and Fulham were raring to go. But Bolton, confident after their win on the first day of the season, started the brightest when in-form Jay-Jay Okocha created an opening after a minute but his shot was beaten away by Edwin Van der Sar. Then Fulham had their first effort when Sylvain Legwinski crashed a shot onto the bar. Then Andrew Cole got his first goal when he touched in Zat Knight's shot. 1-0 to the home side and a big cheer from the Craven Cottage crowd, a good start to life back in the stadium. Tomasz Radzinski accidentally deflected Papa Bouba Diop's header wide before Jussi Jääskeläinen saved well from Claus Jensen. Jääskeläinen kept Bolton in the game as he saved well from Moritz Volz, Andy Cole and Luis Boa Morte, the latter shot in the second half. In the second half, Fulham carried on their dominance with Collins John coming close after shrugging off Julio Cesar before shooting just wide. Then, Ivan Campo, another former Real Madrid defender (Julio Cesar being the other one) made a poor backpass which Andy Cole collected, rounded Jääskeläinen but with a tight angle drilled a shot into the post. Stelios Giannakopoulos was introduced as a sub and Bolton improved marginally as he troubled Van der Sar with good crosses outside the box and his presence inside the box. But, Fulham wrapped up the game 8 minutes from time with Cole's second goal. Claus Jensen slipped in an amazing reverse pass to Cole who wasn't spotted by the Bolton defence. And, Cole rolled back the years with a neat finish underneath the on-rushing Jääskeläinen. Bolton given a reality check after their win on the opening day whilst Fulham were hoping to perhaps improve on last season's 9th place after 4 points from 2 games so far. [18]

Newcastle United 0-1 Tottenham Hotspur

Both teams were looking to get their first wins of the season at St. James' Park after opening day draws. Newcastle didn't prepare well after Jonathan Woodgate's sale to Real Madrid and Sir Bobby Robson, in his planned final season in charge of The Magpies, had a public falling out with Kieron Dyer. Tottenham would've been the more confident team but Newcastle had the first chance when Paul Robinson saved Craig Bellamy's shot after Olivier Bernard's free kick caught out the Spurs defence. Jermaine Jenas then had an effort which was half-saved by Robinson as the ball clipped the inside of his leg before trickling wide. Former Leeds goalkeeper Robinson then denied his former Leeds team-mate James Milner. Then young defender Phil Ifil stopped Craig Bellamy going clean through with an important interception. Goalless at half time with Newcastle the strongest team. However, in the second half, Tottenham took an unexpected lead with their first real shot of the game. Timothee Atouba collected the ball on the left side of defence. He came inside the defender before unleashing an unstoppable shot across Shay Given. 1-0 to Tottenham but goalscorer Atouba almost instantly turned villain when a penalty appeal for a push on Alan Shearer was turned down. Then Jermaine Defoe was through but he was smartly denied by Given. Noureddine Naybet then almost deflected into his net before Robinson denied Laurent Robert's effort. Timothee Atouba then almost had his second but former Tottenham defender Stephen Carr cleared off the line after a powerful header. Newcastle threw on the cavalry with attacking options Patrick Kluivert, Kieron Dyer and Shola Ameobi coming on. In the dying minutes, Shola Ameobi fired wide when he had a good chance. The full time whistle went and Newcastle missed many good chances to get at least a point if not most definitely 3, but a mixture of good defending and goalkeeping and poor striking meant that Tottenham walked away with 3 points. Bobby Robson was under increasing pressure now after a poor result and player discontent in the dressing room. [19]

22/08/04 - Matchday 2 SUNDAY

Arsenal FC 5-3 Middlesbrough FC

On the Sunday there was an important day at Highbury as Arsenal were looking to reach 42 league games unbeaten which would put them level with Nottingham Forest's record. Standing in their way was a determined Middlesbrough team who under Steve McLaren were looking to have a good season in the Premier League. As usual, Arsenal got off to a good start when Dennis Bergkamp was through on goal. However, his shot was saved by Mark Schwarzer who needed to be solid in the Middlesbrough goal. After the save, Colin Cooper cleared a Freddie Ljungberg shot off the line. The ball then went to Jose Antonio Reyes who hit the post. Reyes then had a shot saved by Mark Schwarzer. Middlesbrough holding firm but that was until Reyes placed a through ball through to Thierry Henry who, with his first touch whilst the ball was still bouncing, lobbed it over the onrushing Schwarzer and into the net. Then Henry had a free kick which went over the wall and hit the crossbar. Middlesbrough didn't produce much in attack but surprisingly just before half time Boro got an equaliser. Franck Queudrue and Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink started a move before the ball was passed to Joseph-Desire Job. He smashed a shot from a tight angle past Jens Lehmann. 1-1 at half time surprisingly. What was even more surprising was Middlesbrough then taking the lead 5 minutes after the break. Franck Queudrue again involved as he slipped through a pass to Hasselbaink. Pascal Cygan missed the ball, slipping allowing Hasselbaink a one-on-one with Lehmann. Hasselbaink blasted the ball into the net giving Boro a shock 2-1 lead. Then, that became 3-1 as the Highbury crowd were in silence. Franck Queudrue was 35 yards out, he had control of the ball. Jens Lehmann expecting a cross moved across his goal leaving a space to his right hand side. Queudrue noticing this, drilled a shot into the bottom corner surprising Lehmann who couldn't get to the ball despite a desperate dive. Many fans were thinking 41 and out, 1 game short of the record but Arsenal gave themselves a lifeline as Bergkamp shot from the edge of the area into the corner of the net. 2-3. Then, Thierry Henry set up Robert Pires to tap in after a good skillful work from the French striker. 3-3, and then Arsenal re-gained the lead when Reyes on the corner of the box, shot with his right foot into the top right corner past the diving Mark Schwarzer. 4-3 and Arsenal's record was back on. Then, the fifth came after Thierry Henry tapped in from close range to give him his second goal and Arsenal their fifth, 5-3. Arsenal equalled that record just after a rollercoaster of a game. Middlesbrough were good opponents and were unlucky not to take something home after a good game but it was 42 and counting for Arsenal. [20]

West Bromwich Albion 1-1 Aston Villa

The first home game of the season for West Brom and it was a tasty Midlands derby against Aston Villa. Aston Villa were hoping to take momentum from their win against Southampton on the opening day into this game and they got off to a great start with the first real chance of the game. Thomas Hitzlsperger's free kick was headed home by Olof Mellberg. 1-0 early on and Aston Villa dominated the first half hour of the game. Thomas Hitzlsperger started the next attack on the counter-attack. He broke, passed to Carlton Cole who shot wide disappointedly. Then Jlloyd Samuel profited from a Bernt Haas error as he managed to get his cross in. It was a low one to Gareth Barry whose shot was saved by Russell Hoult. From the resulting corner, Olof Mellberg got his head to it again. Hoult got his hand to the ball before Bernt Haas hacked the ball off the line but the ball seemed to go over the line. West Brom escaping and Aston Villa and Olof Mellberg both denied a second. That piece of luck seemed to spur West Brom on and they had a good chance when Kanu set up Geoff Horsfield who brought a brilliant save out of Thomas Sorensen. Then, Horsfield had a half chance when a Neil Clement free kick squirmed through the wall to Horsfield who couldn't collect the ball cleanly allowing Martin Laursen to clear the ball when Horsfield was clean through. Then, Neil Clement dealt a blow to The Villans when Martin Laursen was surprisingly called for a foul. Jonathan Greening took the resulting free kick which was headed home by Clement in a similar fashion to that of Mellberg. Surprisingly, Clement captain and defender had scored both goals for West Brom this season so far. Clement then almost had his second with another header but this one went over the bar as the scores were level at half time. In the second half, Villa had the first chance when Carlton Cole headed wide after a good Gareth Barry cross. Neil Clement was quickly becoming Aston Villa's biggest threat. He took a free kick which forced a good save from Thomas Sorensen. Darren Purse then had a free header which he headed straight at Sorensen. West Brom then suddenly were the team in control after Aston Villa's bright start. But, they had the next chance and it fell to Carlton Cole again who shot wide after a cross from Darius Vassell. Then, Zoltan Gera fired wide when through one-on-one with Sorensen. Gavin McCann then took a testing effort as he took a long-range effort which went through a crowd of players, but the shot was well held by Russell Hoult. That was the last real effort of the game as both teams closed each other out. The game finished as a 1-1 draw. Both teams would've felt they could've won the game. [21]

TABLE AFTER WEEK 2

Pld = Matches played; W = Matches won; D = Matches drawn; L = Matches lost; F = Goals for; A = Goals against; GD = Goal difference; Pts = Points

TABLE SUMMARY

Arsenal kept top spot on goal difference ahead of Chelsea who was the only other team alongside The Gunners to be on maximum points. Liverpool and Manchester United climb to 5th and 8th with Aston Villa and Fulham in the top 4. Everton, Southampton and Charlton all moved out of relegation zone into mid-table with Birmingham, Middlesbrough and Crystal Palace both dropping from mid-table into the relegation zone. Norwich and West Brom the other 2 promoted teams were in the bottom half of the table at 16th and 12th.

24/08/04 - Matchday 3

Crystal Palace 0-2 Chelsea FC

Bottom of the league against joint top of the league so not much of a contest was expected. Although, the only positive for Crystal Palace was that they had home advantage for this game. They also had the first chance of the game when Wayne Routledge crossed in for former Chelsea defender Danny Granville who headed wide. Joe Cole had a good start to the game and he had a decent shot which was denied by Julian Speroni who after just 2 games was under pressure from Hungarian goalkeeper Gabor Kiraly. The 'keeper couldn't do anything about the first goal after a cross from left-back Celestine Babayaro went to Didier Drogba who headed into the bottom corner. A beautiful, confident finish as he got his first goal in a Chelsea shirt. Joe Cole had another effort afterwards when he had a chance to volley but volleyed straight at Speroni. In the second half, Cole who had seemed to be key player in the game so far had another shot with a turn-and-shot which didn't trouble Julian Speroni. A relatively quiet game so far and whilst Chelsea were comfortable in the game, 1-0 wasn't the safest lead. But that changed when Tiago received the ball outside the area. He showed a quick turn of pace to get a shot away from the edge of the area which went into the bottom corner beating Speroni. That was the last main action of a relatively quiet game. A good game for Chelsea which was slightly marred by an injury to Didier Drogba in the last 15 minutes. But, a good start, from Chelsea to the league season with 9 points, 3 wins and 3 clean sheets. [22]

Birmingham City 1-0 Manchester City

Both teams were on 1 point going into this game so both teams were looking for a win to give themselves some confidence and 3 points. The game was played at Birmingham's home ground St. Andrew's and there was a good atmosphere. Birmingham would've been confident with home advantage but it was the visitors who had the first chance and a good one after a good run and cross from Shaun Wright-Phillips went to Nicolas Anelka who failed to reach the ball. In contrast, though with Birmingham's first chance of the game, a goal arrived. A cross from Stan Lazaridis was towards the head of Emile Heskey who guided it into the top corner. After that, most of the first half was a sloppy midfield battle with hardly many chances but towards the end of the first half, England forwards Emile Heskey and Robbie Fowler headed wide chances for their teams as it was goalless at half time. The game was more lively in the second half and the first chance fell to Birmingham and to Mikael Forssell who headed over after a free kick from Muzzy Izzet. Izzet was dangerous on the right but Birmingham failed to score. They could've had a 2 goal advantage but David James denied Stern John with a good reaction save. Maik Taylor hardly had anything to do all game as the game finished 1-0 to Birmingham. Manchester City experiencing a disappointing start to the season whilst this was a welcome win for Birmingham. [23]

25/08/04 Wednesday

Arsenal FC 3-0 Blackburn Rovers

Highbury the venue, history the aim. Arsenal had been unbeaten for 42 league game which included the final 2 games from the 2002-03 season, the whole 38 games in the 2003-04 season and the first 2 games of this campaign. Blackburn were the team that stood in the way of an unbelievable achievement. As usual, Arsenal were the brighter of the sides in the first half with Thierry Henry testing Brad Friedel, the American goalkeeper standing firm in the Blackburn goal. Blackburn were solid and determined in defence in the first half keeping it goalless. They also, had a few attempts as well, Craig Short had an effort from a corner which was well saved by the diving Jens Lehmann. The German keeper then denied Paul Dickov with another good diving save. Arsenal might have been nervous it seemed as it was 0-0 at half time. But, in the second half, normal service resumed with young Spaniard Cesc Fabregas had 2 shots. One flying just wide, one accidentally deflecting off Robert Pires over the bar. Then, the eventual breakthrough as Dennis Bergkamp crossed and Thierry Henry stole in between Lucas Neill and Craig Short before beating Friedel. Then, Henry became provider after his corner was powerfully headed by Gilberto Silva before clipping the knee of Fabregas as it crossed the line. 2-0 and the record was intact. The youngster became Arsenal's youngest league scorer. The action was quiet for the rest of the game except for when Henry was clean through on goal. His shot was well saved by Brad Friedel. Henry got the re-bound but unselfishly set up Jose Antonio Reyes in the centre of the area who had an open goal to score in. 3-0 and the record that was shared by Arsenal and Nottingham Forest was now solely Arsenal's. 43 games and they re-gained top spot after from Chelsea after 24 hours off it. As for Blackburn, 1 point from 3 games wasn't the best start and Manchester United their next opponents meant that they needed to pick up points perhaps in later games against easier opposition. [24]

Newcastle United 2-2 Norwich City

Norwich's second away game back in the Premier League was as difficult as their last one as they travelled to St James' Park to take on Newcastle. Both teams were side-by-side in the league after both had 1 point from 2 games. Newcastle created the first chance of the game or so they thought after James Milner crossed in for Laurent Robert to head home. But, the ball was adjudged to have gone out of play meaning the goal was disallowed. The first actual chance of the game fell to Norwich and Darren Huckerby as he stole the ball of Olivier Bernard who slipped. He ran towards goal before driving wide. Norwich were looking good in defence with Newcastle's best effort a deflected shot from Craig Bellamy which went over the bar. Darren Huckerby and Paul McVeigh were looking dangerous for The Canaries. But, Newcastle got the breakthrough to give them some momentum when Stephen Carr crossed to Alan Shearer at the back post who headed back across goal to Craig Bellamy who volleyed past Robert Green. 1-0 going into half time. A goal 5 minutes before half time was followed by a goal 5 minutes after half time to make it 2-0 to Newcastle. Laurent Robert's in-swinging corner was headed in by Aaron Hughes. But almost straight away, Norwich equalised when on-loan David Bentley went through to the edge of Newcastle's area before drilling a low shot underneath the diving Shay Given. 2-1 and Norwich were back in the game. Then, soon after that former Norwich striker Bellamy was released through by Shearer but Bellamy put it wide. He was then really well denied by Rob Green after Gary Doherty headed over for Norwich. But, then, Doherty found the target after Craig Fleming's shot was parried by Given into the path of Doherty who tapped in from 6 yards. 2-2 and Newcastle had thrown a good lead away. Kieron Dyer wasted a chance to put Newcastle back in front when he dragged a shot wide then with 5 minutes left Huckerby had a volley which beat Given but beat the bar as well. Shearer then had a shot in injury time but hit it straight at Green which meant that Newcastle had effectively dropped 2 points. Their poor start carried on whilst Norwich got a creditable point and looked a decent team that could perhaps do alright. [25]

Charlton Athletic 3-0 Aston Villa

Going into this game, both were back of good games. Charlton after a good 2-1 win over Portsmouth whilst Aston Villa were on the back of a win against Southampton and a draw against West Brom and were 3rd going into this game. And it was the Midlands team that started the brightest. Gareth Barry, carried on from where he left off against West Brom by delivered a dangerous cross which went to Darius Vassell who inturn crashed his shot against the crossbar. Charlton then had a penalty appeal turned down after Nolberto Solano clipped Dennis Rommedahl's heel. But then, Charlton didn't need a penalty soon afterwards as they scored from open play when a cross from Hermann Hreidarsson found new signing Francis Jeffers who leapt up and headed in his first goal for his new club. He had been a sub for his first 2 games and in his first start he capitalised fully on Shaun Bartlett's injury. Then, he scored his second after a long ball from Radostin Kishishev wasn't dealt with by Olof Mellberg. Francis Jeffers pounced on the ball before guiding past Sorensen. Just before half time, Sorensen dived out at Kevin Lisbie's feet getting injured in the process meaning Stefan Postma came on. In a quiet second half, the only real action was a third goal for Charlton and a first Charlton goal for Luke Young. Dennis Rommedahl produced a chip through ball which deflected off Thomas Hitzlsperger into the path of Young who confidently finished past the on-rushing Postma. 3-0 and Charlton had bounced back well from their opening day defeat with 2 home wins as they moved up the table. Villa's first defeat of the season was a crushing one and a disappointing one. [26]

Southampton FC 1-2 Bolton Wanderers

This game was disastrous on many counts for Southampton as they took on Bolton at St. Mary's. Southampton protested to chairman Rupert Lowe after the abrupt departure of Paul Sturrock and replacing him with coach Steve Wigley. Wigley was appointed as permanent manager and not just a caretaker despite lack of experience managing at the top level. This was another reason for the fans protests and they weren't feeling any happier afterwards when Bolton took an early lead. Kevin Davies took a shot which hit Stelios Giannakopoulos early on. Then, straight afterwards, Henrik Pedersen was through on goal after springing the offside trap before calmly slotting past Antti Niemi. The next real chance lead to a goal when Danny Higginbotham fouled Stelios in the area unnecessarily. Jay-Jay Okocha stepped up and sent Niemi the wrong way. 2-0 after just 26 minutes and the game seemed to be over already. The fans at the St. Mary's were now more angry than they were at the start of the night. Both Jay-Jay Okocha and Henrik Pedersen could've doubled their goal tallies before the break but both missed the target. In the second half, Bolton looked comfortable in possession but Southampton's key striker James Beattie had a good chance with a close-range header which he headed wide. Many fans were growing frustrated at the team and were starting to really express their anger against Rupert Lowe and the rest of the Southampton board. With 5 minutes remaining, there was a small moment of cheer for the Southampton fans. Substitute Peter Crouch scored his first goal of the season by bundling the ball in. 2-1, a glimmer of hope for Southampton and they almost got an unexpected equaliser but Claus Lundekvam missed a good chance as Bolton got 3 vital points. As for Rupert Lowe, he was under massive pressure after this defeat and Steve Wigley would have to get his players performing better than this if he was to get Southampton up the table. [27]

Fulham FC 0-2 Middlesbrough FC

Craven Cottage hosted its second game this season as Fulham played host to Middlesbrough. Fulham were 4th and in the Champions League spot whilst Boro were in the relegation zone although we'd only played 2 games this season. Mark Viduka who made his Boro debut after missing the first 2 games of this season due to suspension because of a red card he received the previous season was set through on goal by Bolo Zenden but he shot straight at Edwin Van der Sar who stood firm in the Fulham goal. Tomasz Radzinski then almost set up Andy Cole but Mark Schwarzer beat him to the ball to clear it upfield. It was a relatively quiet first half and a relatively quiet second half. But this quiet half had 2 real chances and both were converted and both fell to Middlesbrough. Gaizka Mendieta passed to Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink who inturn found Viduka who slotted past Van der Sar. 1-0 to the away side and that became 2-0 when Franck Queudrue crossed to sub Szilard Nemeth who 2 minutes after coming on drilled home. 2-0 and Middlesbrough leapt out of the relegation zone with this win. Whilst Fulham were brought back down to Earth after 2 good performances. [28]

West Bromwich Albion 1-1 Tottenham Hotspur

Both teams met at The Hawthorns coming into this game unbeaten in the league. West Brom having drawn both games and Tottenham having got a win and a draw. However, West Brom looking for that first win back in the Premier League got off to a fantastic start when after just 3 minutes had past, Zoltan Gera when he controlled a pass from Riccardo Scimeca and then slotted into the bottom corner past Paul Robinson. Geoff Horsfield then had a chance to make it 2 after an error from Noureddine Naybet but his shot was closed down well. Then, Freddie Kanoute went through the West Brom defence before cutting back but no Tottenham player was to be seen much to the frustration of the Malian striker and Jacques Santini. Then, both Pedro Mendes and Jermaine Defoe both had shots deflected wide as Tottenham started to increase the pressure. That pressure counted when Jermaine Defoe got the equaliser when he evaded 2 tackles before firing past Russell Hoult from 20 yards. Kanu then almost immediately got a goal but his strike was ruled out for offside. After a scramble in the box, the ball went to Kanu who was offside. He hit the post before scoring an overhead kick before realising the goal was ruled out. Then, Geoff Horsfield was through before being brought down by Robinson. He appealed for a penalty but it was turned down correctly as replays showed Robinson get a slight touch to the ball. The second half was not as exciting and no goals were scored despite the best efforts from Robbie Keane who had just returned from injury. The game ended with both goalkeepers finishing strongly. Both teams carried on their unbeaten start but both teams would've wanted a win. [29]

Manchester United and Liverpool's games were both postponed because they had UEFA Champions League qualification games.

TABLE AFTER MATCHDAY 3

Pld = Matches played; W = Matches won; D = Matches drawn; L = Matches lost; F = Goals for; A = Goals against; GD = Goal difference; Pts = Points

TABLE SUMMARY

Arsenal and Chelsea had gained a 3-point lead over their rivals. Both teams were unbeaten and had a 100% record. Liverpool and Manchester United despite playing a game less were 5 and 6 points behind the top 2. Charlton and Bolton were in Champions League spots with Tottenham in 5th. Middlesbrough and Birmingham climbed out of relegation zone to 7th and 8th. Crystal Palace stayed bottom with Blackburn and Manchester City joining them. Newcastle made a disappointing start in 15th. With, newly promoted Norwich 16th and West Brom in a respectable 11th.

28/08/04 MATCHDAY 4

Aston Villa 4-2 Newcastle United

Both teams weren't in the greatest form going into this game, Villa on the back of a 3-0 defeat to Charlton and Newcastle having failed to win in their first 3 games this season. Sir Bobby Robson was under increasing pressure going into this game and it was worse when he dropped Kieron Dyer and surprisingly put Alan Shearer on the bench. Patrick Kluivert was Shearer's replacement and he was at fault for the first Villa goal. An early Jlloyd Samuel free kick was sliced behind for a corner which former Newcastle midfielder Nolberto Solano delivered to Olof Mellberg who scored his second goal of the season. Newcastle's defence was looking edgy and Andy O'Brien had to hack away the ball otherwise Darius Vassell would've been through on goal. Then, a good chance for the visitors when Jermaine Jenas beat Thomas Sorensen to the ball and crossed along the 6-yard box only for Mellberg to get the ball ahead of Craig Bellamy to deny him what most certainly would've been a goal. Jenas then had an effort after he headed a free kick over the bar then Nicky Butt took a 30-yard free kick which was saved by Sorensen. Then, Villa almost doubled their lead when Darius Vassell had a good chance when he shot inside the area, however Shay Given denied him really well. Then, the equaliser came. A good through ball from Nicky Butt found Patrick Kluivert who shrugged off Mark Delaney before beating Sorensen with a good finish. He then almost doubled his tally when he turned and shot but he was brilliantly denied by Sorensen. Then, Newcastle grabbed the lead when Bellamy crossed in for Andy O'Brien who headed home. 2-1 and it was almost 3 before half time but Sorensen kept out a good Lee Bowyer effort. Then right before half time, Villa had another chance when Solano hit the bar and Gareth Barry fired wide on the rebound. In the second half, Carlton Cole bagged an equaliser after Gareth Barry's shot was saved by Given but right into Cole's path and he chested in. 2-2 and both defences were having a poor game. Carlton Cole then almost had another when he headed a Ulises De La Cruz cross over the bar. Then, a third came for Villa when Nobbie Solano got a cross in to Gareth Barry who powered his header past Shay Given. Craig Bellamy's header was saved by Sorensen afterwards after more poor defensive play for Villa but their strikers and midfielders were in good form and Juan Pablo Angel took a shot which looped over Given via a deflection of Andy O'Brien. 4-2 to Aston Villa it finished but both teams would've been disappointed with their defensive displays and Newcastle had lost 2 and drawn 2 and were struggling in the bottom half of the table. [30]

This game proved to be the final straw as Sir Bobby Robson was sacked from his position as Newcastle manager. He became the second manager to lose his job this season and that after just 2 weeks of the season. The reason was poor results and player discontent as shown with the team selection for the game against Aston Villa. [31]

Norwich City 1-4 Arsenal FC

For Norwich the tough games just kept on coming, after tough trips to Old Trafford and St. James Park, in which they had 2 creditable performances, Arsenal were their next opponents as they visited Carrow Road and Arsenal got off to a good start, Thierry Henry showed a brilliant turn of pace as he stayed clear of the Norwich defence before crossing to Jose Antonio Reyes who had also stayed clear of the Norwich defence. Then, Lauren fouled Darren Huckerby when the forward was clean through on goal. A red card would've been warranted but instead received a yellow card. The 11 men of Arsenal then went up the Norwich end and got a second goal. Freddie Ljungberg crossed in for Thierry Henry to powerfully head past Robert Green. Then, Norwich defended poorly and especially Adam Drury as his mistake allowed Robert Pires in to tap past Rob Green. In the second half, Darren Huckerby got a goal back for Norwich when Justin Hoyte fouled him and he tucked home past Jens Lehmann to reduce the deficit to 2 goals. Jens Lehmann then produced 2 good saves from Darren Huckerby and Gary Holt. In injury time for Arsenal they got a fourth when Dennis Bergkamp smashed home. Arsenal won comfortably as they extended their unbeaten league record to 44 and in the process had scored 16 goals in 4 games so far this season. Terrific form and they looked as though if anyone was going to take their title, they would have to fight. As, for Norwich, a disappointing performance but already they had some difficult games out of the way. [32]

Chelsea FC 2-1 Southampton FC

Chelsea's second home game of the season was against Southampton at Stamford Bridge. Although, they didn't know at the time, they had to win to keep up with Arsenal. Also, they had to win to keep up their 100% record this season. As for Southampton, the board and chairman were still under pressure for the departure of Paul Sturrock. So, Steve Wigley in charge of his second game got off to the perfect start and I mean the perfect start. Immediately after the game kicked off, Joe Cole's poor pass was picked up by James Beattie. He took a 30-yard strike on the half-volley and the ball lobbed over the surprised Petr Cech. 1-0 after just 12 seconds, a goal that would be the quickest of the season. Southampton were good in defence aswell for the rest of the half. Antti Niemi stood firm to deny Didier Drogba twice and Paul Telfer blocked an Eidur Gudjohnsen shot when the Icelandic striker looked like he would score. But, Chelsea did get an equaliser. Frank Lampard took a corner which was flicked on by Eidur Gudjohnsen before hitting the chest of James Beattie before the ball crept over the line. Beattie had scored both goals in the game but the scores are level. Tiago then had a good chance when from another corner, he headed towards goal but Anders Svensson. Then, Chelsea got their second goal and it was another corner. Claus Lundekvam was adjudged to handball the ball although he thought he was pushed and replays might have justified that. Frank Lampard stepped up to take the penalty and despite slipping, calmly placed into the top corner sending Niemi into the top corner. The second half was quieter with the best efforts all coming from Chelsea. Eidur Gudjohnsen deflected a Frank Lampard shot just wide beating Niemi. Niemi was in good form also saving efforts from Damien Duff, who made his first appearance of the season after recovering from injury and Mateja Kezman, who was looking to score his first goal for the club. Niemi then also denied Rory Delap's miscued header before the game ended. Chelsea played well but need to take more of their chances. Whilst, Southampton wouldn't have been too disappointed with their performance with a good defence. Whilst, their creative play wasn't the best despite their only effort today being a goal. Chelsea kept their 100% record and were still 2nd. [33]

Blackburn Rovers 1-1 Manchester United

Both teams went into this game not in the best form and wanting points for different reasons. Blackburn wanted points to move themselves into a higher place in the league and to try and distance themselves from being one of the relegation candidates. Whilst Manchester United, despite having played 1 game less than their rivals were already 6 points behind Arsenal and Chelsea and were hoping already at this early stage they wouldn't be out of the title race. Blackburn got off to the best start and Man U's defence which had been rocky this season wasn't at its best. John O'Shea and Tim Howard were involved in a defensive mix-up. O'Shea expecting Howard to clear left it for his goalkeeper and vice versa before the under pressure Howard cleared the ball off the legs of Paul Dickov before seeing the ball go wide. Cristiano Ronaldo was threatening for Man U and won a couple of free kicks for his side, both wasted. Blackburn capitalised on that when Paul Dickov chested Morten Gamst Pedersen's throw-in, held off Mikael Silvestre before beating Tim Howard from a tight angle. Again, maybe Howard could've done better and both player and club were now under pressure. Brad Friedel, another American goalkeeper was in better form than his opposite number as he saved well to deny Alan Smith and Kleberson as Blackburn kept their lead going into half time.

Section to be finished

Season statistics

Top scorers Rank Scorer Team Goals 1 Thierry Henry Arsenal 25 2 Andy Johnson Crystal Palace 21 3 Robert Pires Arsenal 14 4 Jermain Defoe Tottenham Hotspur 13 Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink Middlesbrough 13 Frank Lampard Chelsea 13 Aiyegbeni Yakubu Portsmouth 13 8 Andrew Cole Fulham 12 Peter Crouch Southampton 12 Eiður Guðjohnsen Chelsea 12

Top assists Rank Assistant Club Assists[1] 1 Frank Lampard Chelsea 16 2 Thierry Henry Arsenal 14 3 Dennis Bergkamp Arsenal 12 4 Luis Boa Morte Fulham 10 Stewart Downing Middlesbrough 10 Ryan Giggs Manchester United 10 Wayne Routledge Crystal Palace 10 8 Fredrik Ljungberg Arsenal 9 Jose Antonio Reyes Arsenal 9 Arjen Robben Chelsea 9

Awards

Monthly awards

Month	Manager of the Month	Player of the Month
August	Arsène Wenger (Arsenal)	José Antonio Reyes (Arsenal)
September	David Moyes (Everton)	Ledley King (Tottenham Hotspur)
October	Harry Redknapp (Portsmouth)	Andy Johnson (Crystal Palace)
November	José Mourinho (Chelsea)	Arjen Robben (Chelsea)
December	Martin Jol (Tottenham Hotspur)	Steven Gerrard (Liverpool)
January	José Mourinho (Chelsea)	John Terry (Chelsea)
February	Sir Alex Ferguson (Manchester United)	Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)
March	Harry Redknapp (Southampton)	Joe Cole (Chelsea)
April	Stuart Pearce (Manchester City)	Frank Lampard (Chelsea)

Annual awards

PFA Player's Player of the year

The PFA Player's Player of the year award was won by Chelsea captain John Terry. His teammate Frank Lampard came second.

PFA Young Player of the Year

Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney was the recipient for this award.

PFA Fan's Player of the year

Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard won this award for the first time.

PFA Team of the year

Goalkeeper — Petr Čech
Defenders — Gary Neville, John Terry, Rio Ferdinand, Ashley Cole
Midfielders — Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard, Arjen Robben, Shaun Wright-Phillips
Strikers — Thierry Henry, Andy Johnson

FWA Footballer of the year

Chelsea star Frank Lampard won this award. His teammate John Terry finished second, while Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher was third.

Barclays Player of the season

Chelsea's midfielder Frank Lampard won the award for his brilliant performances which helped win Chelsea their first Premier League title.

Barclays Golden Boot

Arsenal and French striker Theirry Henry won the award for the third time in his career with an impressive 25 goals.

Barclays golden glove

Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Čech won it for the first time as he set a remarkable record of 10 consecutive clean sheets, as Chelsea won the title.

Barclays Manager of the Season

Chelsea manager José Mourinho won the award in his first season in England.

Barclays Premier League Fair Play Award

The Fair Play Award is merit given to the team who has been the most sporting and best behaved team. Arsenal won the award for the second year in a row, ahead of Tottenham.^[2]

Promoted teams

These teams were promoted from the First Division at the start of the season:

• Norwich City
• West Bromwich Albion
• Crystal Palace

Relegated teams

These teams were relegated to the Football League Championship at the end of the season:

• Crystal Palace
• Norwich City
• Southampton

Chelsea's title success

Chelsea completed their first season under the management of José Mourinho with only their second league title, and their first in 50 years. The success was completed with a Premiership record of 95 points (29 wins, 8 draws and 1 defeat) and a unique defensive record of just 15 league goals conceded. Key players in this triumph were goalkeeper Petr Čech, midfielders Frank Lampard and Claude Makélélé, defender John Terry, striker Didier Drogba and young, nimble winger Arjen Robben. This was also the most expensive team ever created in England with an estimated 250 million pounds spent on players.

Also in contention

Although Chelsea led the Premiership virtually all season long, they faced stiff competition from eventual runners-up Arsenal and third-placed Manchester United—who also achieved Champions League qualification. The title seemed to be heading towards Highbury once again, after they continued their unbeaten run to 49 matches and were leading Chelsea by five points and Manchester United by eleven points. However on 24 October Arsenal's unbeaten run ended when they lost 2–0 to Manchester United at Old Trafford. Arsenal's form then dropped dramatically as Chelsea continued in great form and Manchester United kickstarted their campaign, at one stage going into second position after defeating Arsenal 4–2 at Highbury on 1 February (their first team home defeat since Leeds in 2003). However with Chelsea steamrolling the league with their powerful defensive style, United's form dipped after drawing at home to Blackburn and being defeated by Norwich City; this allowed Arsenal to pass United, taking second place.

The fourth Champions League place went to Everton, who had been among the relegation favourites after the early season sale of striker Wayne Rooney (PFA Young Player of the Year) to Manchester United. Fifth-placed Liverpool would normally have qualified for the UEFA Cup, but eventually were allowed by UEFA to defend their Champions League title, despite finishing outside the top four. The next two teams, Bolton Wanderers and Middlesbrough, achieved UEFA Cup qualification as both FA Cup finalists and League Cup winner had qualified for the Champions League via their league position. Liverpool's entry into the Champions League did not affect either Bolton Wanderers' or Middlesbrough's UEFA Cup entry as they both achieved their best finishes in the Premiership to date.

On 9 June, UEFA allowed Liverpool to defend their Champions League title, forfeiting their UEFA Cup slot given to the fifth placed team. They had to enter in the first qualifying round, where they defeated Welsh league champions TNS, and then in the next round defeated Lithuanian champions FBK Kaunas before the start of the 2005-06 league season.

The relegation dog fight

Going into the final round of matches, no team was assured of relegation. In each of the last three weekends of the season, the team that was bottom of the table at the start of the weekend finished it outside the drop zone. The final round of the season on 15 May started with West Bromwich Albion on the bottom, Southampton and Crystal Palace one point clear, and Norwich City in the last safe spot and two points from the bottom. For the first time since the advent of the current Premier League in 1992–1993, no club was assured of relegation going into the final day. The final matchday was publicised by Sky Sports as 'Survival Sunday', with accompanying promotional material advertising the last matchday like a title fight or epic movie blockbuster.

West Brom, who had been bottom of the table and eight points from safety at Christmas, did their part by defeating Portsmouth at home 2–0. Norwich, the only side to have their fate completely in their own hands, lost 6–0 at Fulham and went down. Southampton lost 2–1 at home to Manchester United. Palace, away to Charlton, were leading 2–1 after 71 minutes, but with eight minutes to go, the Addicks' Jonathan Fortune equalised to relegate the Eagles back to The Championship. Thus, West Brom stayed up, and changed history, becoming the first club in Premiership history to avoid relegation after being bottom of the table at Christmas.

At the end of 90 minutes in all 4 matches, Sky cameras focused on West Brom's ground, The Hawthorns, as confirmation of other results began to filter through. Once the realisation dawned on the players and fans that survival had been achieved, a mass pitch invasion was sparked, with huge celebrations. The Portsmouth fans in the away end of the ground joined in the celebrations and party atmosphere—as through losing 2-0 to West Brom, they had 'helped' relegate arch-rivals Southampton. Also, the defeat itself mattered little to Portsmouth, as they would be unable to improve on their 16th position due to 15th-placed Blackburn Rovers' greater points tally.

Going down...

18th place in the final Premiership table went to Crystal Palace, who drew 2–2 with Charlton Athletic on the final day of the season after being eight minutes away from safety. This made way for West Bromwich Albion's Premiership survival. 19th place went to Norwich City, whose fate was confirmed by a 6–0 hammering at Fulham on the final day—a result which underlined the frailty of their defence, which had leaked 77 goals in 38 Premiership games. Bottom place went to Southampton, who lost 2-1 at home to Manchester United and were relegated after 27 years in the top flight.

...Coming up

Sunderland, who finished top of the 2004–05 Coca-Cola League Championship, were the first team to secure promotion to the Premiership for the 2005-06 season. The second promotion place was secured on the final day of the season by Championship runners-up Wigan Athletic, in only their 27th season of league football. The third promotion place went to West Ham United, who defeated Preston North End in the Championship playoff final.

Managerial Changes

• Blackburn Rovers appointed Wales boss Mark Hughes as Manager in September at the departure of Graeme Souness to Newcastle United.
• Chelsea replaced Claudio Ranieri with UEFA Champions league winning coach, José Mourinho.
• Liverpool appointed Valencia's UEFA Cup winning coach Rafael Benítez as successor to Gerard Houllier.
• Manchester City parted with manager Kevin Keegan in late March and replaced him with first team coach, Stuart Pearce.
• Newcastle United sacked manager Sir Bobby Robson at the end of August and replaced him with Blackburn's Graeme Souness.
• Portsmouth parted company with Harry Redknapp in November and replaced him with executive director Velimir Zajec. He was also replaced by Alain Perrin in March.
• Southampton parted company with Paul Sturrock after less than 6 months and was replaced by Steve Wigley. Wigley was sacked in November and was replaced by Harry Redknapp.
• Tottenham Hotspur appointed former French national coach, Jacques Santini as the new manager in the pre-season. He left in November, citing personal problems, and was replaced by assistant Martin Jol.
• West Bromwich Albion sacked boss Gary Megson in October and replaced him with former England skipper and Manchester United legend Bryan Robson.

See also

• 2004–05 in English football

References

External links

• 2004–05 FA Premier League Season at RSSSF