EPL 09/10: Drogba double slays Arsenal and round-up

Chelsea put a huge dent in Arsenal’s title challenge with a 3-0 win at Emirates Stadium, two goals in the final five minutes of the first half doing much of the damage.

Having started the brighter the Gunners failed to convert their possession into clear cut chances and the Blues punished them mercilessly.

Brilliant build up by Frank Lampard and Ashley Cole down the left set up Didier Drogba to continue his excellent record against Arsenal and side foot into the far corner.

Chelsea doubled their lead four minutes later when Cole crossed once more from the left only for Thomas Vermaelen to stick out a foot and divert the ball into his own net right on the stroke of half-time.

Despite much endeavour in the second period Arsenal continued to suffer at the hands of Chelsea’s resolute defence and Drogba put the game beyond doubt when he expertly finished from a free-kick 25-yards out on 86 minutes.

Liverpool restored a morsel of pride in a disappointing season to date with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over fierce Merseyside rivals Everton at Goodison Park on Sunday.

A match usually associated with passion and pride took on a new edge given the struggles of both sides, but it was Rafa Benitez’s men who recorded what will be a massive win after a Joseph Yobo own goal and a second half tap-in from Dirk Kuyt.

Everton, who had planning permission for a new stadium rejected by the government in midweek, were then further punished as Kuyt applied the second goal after Howard had failed to hold an effort from substitute Albert Riera in the 80th minute.

A two-goal win flattered Liverpool if the truth be told as the Reds were second best for the majority, but Benitez proved he is capable of selecting a team and tactics that is capable of recording smash-and-grab wins when neccesary.

Rarely can a Merseyside derby have been played out with both rival managers – David Moyes and Rafa Benitez – having had to handle questions over their longevity in their jobs.

Lee Bowyer struck the only goal of the game as Birmingham claimed a 1-0 win over Wolves at Molineux.

Bowyer’s goal arrived after just three minutes and it was a wonderful finish from the edge of the box.

The win takes Birmingham into 11th in the table, whilst Wolves remain second from bottom.