Skiddle's open goal: A weekly roundup of football news and events
Open Goal brings you up to date with the latest news in the footballing world.
Date published: 10th Oct 2022
This week's Premier League action saw a continuation of the themes of the season so far, Arsenal and Manchester City continue to dominate whilst VAR is still somehow useless and contradicts itself match by match. Arsenal were confident ahead of the visit of a terrible Liverpool side, who continued their awful form.
The Gunners were ahead after a minute after Martinelli pounced on the defensively inept Alexander-Arnold. Trent isn't the worst defender in the world but this season he has certainly looked it and it is time for him to move into midfield and for the club to sign a right-back, he has no confidence in the role now. At least Liverpool won't have to worry about him for a while now he's injured.
The VAR controversy for this game came from a clear handball from Arsenal's Gabriel who handled in the box. It may or may not have changed the game as Arsenal were still the better side, even if Nunez was a highlight for Liverpool. Arsenal's penalty was also a complete fluke as Gabriel Jesus was clearly not fouled and went down under the most minuscule of "contact".
Manchester City still look imperious with Cancelo and Foden being two of the names who stood out the most. Southampton were never going to win this game and it's hard to see anyone taking points off City. With them in this kind of form and with a Liverpool defence so weak, it could be a cricket score when the two sides face each other next week.
Newcastle United are also in good form after beating Bretford convincingly 5-1, with Bruno Guimares scoring twice and showing just how good he is. Tottenham edged by Brighton 1-0 in a close encounter and West Ham beat Fulham 3-1 at home. Here was where more controversy landed as Scamacca appeared to handle the ball before scoring which should surely have been ruled out but apparently not.
Plenty of thrills and talking points came from this weekend of footy action and if you're looking to catch some live football entertainment then check out these events below.
When: Saturday 22nd October
Where: Hanley Town Football Club, Stoke On Trent
Hanley Town will be looking for a full backing when they play Workington AFC on October 22nd. The team will have to be as sharp as ever and would welcome down any new fans that wanted to attend the game. No game is easy no matter what league you're in, so expect a competitive match.
Find tickets for Hanley Town vs Workington AFC - here
Morden Wharf Terrace- Belgium vs Canada
When: Wednesday 23rd November
Where: Morden Wharf Terrace, London
Belgium will be taking on Canada in their World Cup group and they cannot underestimate the North American team. Whilst Belgium have De Bruyne and Lukaku, Canada have stars of their own in Alphonso Davies and Jonathan David. They could easily spring a surprise result. You can watch a screening of it at this event.
Find tickets for Morden Wharf Terrace- Belgium vs Canada - here
When: Friday 25th November
Where: Morden Wharf Terrace, London
The Netherlands will be one of the favourites to get out of the group stages and they'll be playing Ecuador as a part of that jounrey. If you're a Van Dijk fan then you'll be looking forward to seeing how he performs at the world's biggest tournament. You can see a screening of it at Morden Wharf Terrace.
Find tickets for Netherlands vs Ecuador - here
Check out our What's On Guide to discover even more rowdy raves and sweaty gigs taking place over the coming weeks and months. For festivals, lifestyle events and more, head on over to our Things To Do page or be inspired by the event selections on our Inspire Me page.
Header credit: Arsenal (Facebook)