The opening round of games saw a major shock as Premiership new-comers Blackpool, fresh from their classic play off victory over Cardiff City, travelled to the DW stadium to take on Wigan Athletic. Nobody predicted what would happen in the first 45 minutes as the Seasiders raced into an incredible 3-0 lead with debutant Marlon Harewood netting twice, albeit with the help of Chris Kirkland. The second half saw Blackpool go further in front with Kirkland again at fault as Alex Baptiste's mis-hit cross was parried into the back of the net by the former England international.
However fellow new comers Newcastle United and West Bromwich Albion didn't have as much luck as they were thoroughly dismantled by title favourites Manchester United and Chelsea. However The Magpies didn't have to wait long for their first win back in the big time as Premier League football returned to St James Park. What happened in the following 90 minutes was a shock to everyone as Aston Villa, still reeling from the sudden resignation of Martin O'Neil, were destroyed by Newcastle and Andy Carroll. The big target man grabbed a hat-trick which sparked appeals for him to be fast tracked to the full England squad.
Once again during the summer break Manchester City were the big spenders but questions were raised as to whether Roberto Mancini could get the Citizens to gel, but live on Sky's Monday Night Football they took on Roy Hodgson's Liverpool side. The game took place live on Sky's Monday Night Football show which has made a return to our televisions with a brand new studio, unfortunately Andy Gray and Richard Keys have also made a return and seem to have taken the opportunity to show off their new gadgets rather than analyse the game. Manchester City produced a polished and highly impressive performance to which Adam Johnson was central as the England winger proved why he should have been on the plane to South Africa. The Sky Blues won the game 3-0 against a lacklustre Liverpool side, who seemed to be missing Javier Mascherano as the Argentina skipper's move to Barcelona moved closer.
However, City's inconsistency was shown as they travelled to the Stadium Of Light to take on a Sunderland side still waiting for their first league win of the season. Striker Carlos Tevez passed up a golden opportunity which ultimately The Black Cats punished as Darren Bent scored a 94th minute penalty leaving City fans frustrated and Sunderland fans delirious.
The season has started with a bang and whilst the typically mundane International Break has momentarily halted the early season excitement, the season is well under way and I for one can't wait for the remainder of the Barclays Premier League season.
Paul Seed
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