The Premier League saw some entertaining high-scoring games this weekend as Liverpool extended their lead at the top of the table whilst the relegation battle also intensified.
Jurgen Klopp’s side put in a record-breaking performance against Crystal Palace, winning 7-0 away from home in what turned out to be their biggest away victory in top-flight history.
Takumi Minamino’s early opener was followed by goals from Sadio Mane, Jordan Henderson and a brace each from Mohamed Salah and Roberto Firmino.
The win ensured the Reds will be top at Christmas for the third year in a row, while Palace are still comfortable in 13th.
Manchester United and Leeds were involved in their own eight-goal thriller, as United came out 6-2 winners against their local rivals.
Scott McTominay scored twice within three minutes, which was added to by Victor Lindelof, Daniel James and two goals from Bruno Fernandes as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side moved to third in the league.
In another high stakes match this weekend, Leicester City defeated Spurs 2-0 to move into second in the table, just four points behind Liverpool.
The north London club suffered their second loss in as many games, falling behind after Serge Aurier gave away a penalty which Jamie Vardy converted, followed by a Toby Alderweireld own goal as Spurs fell to sixth.
Everton round off the top four after yet another impressive win, this time beating Arsenal 2-1.
Nicolas Pepe’s penalty was not enough to overcome a Rob Holding own goal and a Yerry Mina header as the Toffees added to Arsenal’s terrible run of form.
Chelsea took fifth spot after their 3-0 win against West Ham on Monday night.
Thiago Silva’s early opener was followed by a brace from Tammy Abraham as the Blues dominated against their London rivals.
Manchester City got back on track with a 1-0 win over Southampton.
Raheem Sterling’s goal secured all three points as City moved into eighth and just a point behind the Saints in seventh.
Sam Allardyce’s return to management was one to forget as his West Brom side were thrashed 3-0 at home by Aston Villa in the Midlands derby.
Anwar El Ghazi scored either side of a Bertrand Traore strike as the victors moved back into the top half of the table.
Sheffield United earned their second point of the season in a 1-1 draw at Brighton, despite being reduced to 10 men.
John Lundstram was sent off, but the Blades went ahead as Jayden Bogle scored on his Premier League debut, only for the goal to be cancelled out by Danny Welbeck in the 87th minute.
Relegation rivals Burnley picked up a valuable three points against Wolves on Monday night, winning 2-1 thanks to goals from Ashley Barnes and Chris Wood.
Fabio Silva scored his first league goal from the penalty spot, but it proved to be just a consolation as their opponents held on for all three points.
Finally, 10-man Fulham picked up a point against Newcastle United as the two clubs drew 1-1.
Matt Ritchie scored an own goal, but Callum Wilson equalised from the penalty spot after Joachim Andersen was sent off.
The Boxing Day fixtures now await as 2020 ends, with this Premier League season shaping up to be one of the tightest yet.
By Ali Pollock
