There's the not too small matter of Monday night's game at Old Trafford to consider before the gameweek is truly over but we'd say that GW2 has been something of a settler.
Talking Points
- Man City are not invincible Cardiff's 3-2 victory was applauded as a triumph for the underdog but on an other day City would win this. Our biggest takeaway is that City can score goals. 2 goals away at the precisely named Cardiff City Stadium, such a fortress last year, is an indication of City's firepower
- Arsenal are not rubbish The most goals and chances made this weekend and away from home, Arsenal bounce back from the panning they received after last week's defeat to Villa.
- Hull can Defend Against Chelsea they showed that they can keep the ball and are not just going to defend by parking the bus. Sterile possession as it's called, i.e. keeping the ball without attacking, served Swansea very well defensively two seasons ago. Against Norwich Hull did a rare thing and kept a clean sheet with ten men.
Strong Performances
xPts is 'Expected Points'; a measure of a player's shots and key passes, taking shot position, pass type and situation into account.
- Theo Walcott (xPts: 7.1) His pace was the thrust behind a lot of Arsenal's attack and he has the highest xPts (expected points) rating of any player this weekend. Deserved more than just an assist.
- Fraizer Campbell (XPts:6.2) Scorer of Cardiff's two winning goals, both from corners. He signed in January last season scoring 7 goals in 12 games for Cardiff. Certainly an option in the budget striker role.
- Paulinho (xPts: 5.7) With 7 shots he had the most of any other player, and 6 more than Soldado (see below). Whilst many of the Brazilian's efforts were outside the box he got into the box good deal too.
- David Silva (xPts 4.9) The creative Spaniard combines a high shots and assist potential which made him City's most likely player for points against Cardiff. Has to be a strong target for a transfer in this week.
- Others Jon Walters (4.8) Rickie Lambert (4.6), Peter Crouch (4.6), Aron Gunnarsson (4.4), Fellaini (4.3)
Must Do Better
- Berbatov (2.6) A popular player for his attitude as much as his ability. Darren Bent's introduction to this Fulham team effectively ends Berbatov's fantasy career this season.
- Coutinho (2.2) Just one shot and no key passes all game for the little Brazilian. This is more a reflection of Liverpool's contentment to control the ball in midfield and not play into Villa's hands, but is a reminder that Liverpool are not in the elite category of team's just yet.
- Soldado (2.3) Just 1 shot for Soldado out of a total of 21 for Spurs, his fantasy owners will be thankful he takes penalties.
