Premier League round-up 10-11 January 2009

12 January 09 by Tom Mallows

Rafa’s already infamous rant looks have backfired as his Liverpool side faltered while United took full advantage to move within five points of the league leaders in what’s becoming a tight and exciting Premier League title race.

On a freezing cold night in the Potteries Liverpool couldn’t find a way past a stubborn Stoke. Both sides hit the bar, first Rory Delap for the home side and then Steven Gerrard late on for Liverpool but neither side could break the deadlock. Stoke 0-0 Liverpool.

For long periods of the match at the Emirates it looked like Arsenal would be frustrated against a depleted yet determined Bolton team. Wanderers looked content to sit back and play for a point and looked set for it until substitute Nicklas Bendtner finally scored with just six minutes to go. Arsenal 1-0 Bolton.

Aston Villa briefly moved into third place with a narrow victory over near neighbours West Brom. Former Baggie Curtis Davies headed Villa into the lead before a Scott Carson howler gifted Villa a second just before half time. West Brom hit back early in the second half through James Morrison but Villa held on. Aston Villa 2-1 West Brom.

Everton consolidated their place in the top six with a comfortable win over Hull. Marouane Fellaini headed the Toffees in front before a spectacular 25-yard free-kick by Mikel Arteta gave them a 2-0 lead which Hull never looked like threatening. Everton 2-0 Hull.

Wigan made it six wins out of seven with a late win over Spurs at the JJB Stadium. The game looked to be heading for a bore draw as it entered stoppage time but Maynor Figueroa rose highest from a Taylor corner to head past Gomes and give Wigan the win. Wigan 1-0 Tottenham.

Stewart Downing put his transfer troubles behind him to help Middlesbrough claim a point against Sunderland. The England winger help set up the opener for Alfonso Alves just before half time. But the home side failed to get the crucial second and Kenwyne Jones nipped in to score a late equaliser for The Black Cats. Middlesbrough 1-1 Sunderland.

Newcastle and West Ham also shared a point in an entertaining encounter at St James’ Park. Michael Owen gave the Magpies the lead before Craig Bellamy and Carlton Cole looked to have given West
Ham all the points. But Geordie youngster Andy Carroll headed a late equaliser on his first start for the club. Newcastle 2-2 West Ham.

Meanwhile Portsmouth against Man City and Fulham against Blackburn were postponed to the freezing weather.

Fancy United for the title? Bet on the Premier League at Betfair here