Manchester: Liverpool’s grip on the Premier League top spot tightened as their lead shrank to seven points following a dramatic 3-3 draw against Newcastle United at St James’ Park. Meanwhile, Chelsea climbed to second with an emphatic 5-1 victory over Southampton, and Manchester City ended their winless streak with a 3-0 triumph against Nottingham Forest.
Liverpool faced a stern challenge from Newcastle, falling behind twice before Mohamed Salah’s second goal seemed to secure an eighth consecutive win. However, Fabian Schar’s stoppage-time equalizer dashed their hopes, marking only the third time this season the Reds have dropped points.
Chelsea capitalized on Liverpool’s stumble, moving ahead of Arsenal on goal difference after routing 10-man Southampton. Goals from Axel Disasi, Christopher Nkunku, Noni Madueke, Cole Palmer, and Jadon Sancho ensured a dominant display. Despite Joe Aribo briefly equalizing for Southampton, a red card for Jack Stephens sealed their fate before halftime.
At the Etihad Stadium, Kevin De Bruyne’s return to form inspired Manchester City to a crucial victory. The Belgian playmaker assisted Bernardo Silva’s opener and netted a sublime goal himself before Jeremy Doku sealed the 3-0 win. The result ended City’s worst-ever streak under Pep Guardiola and narrowed their gap to Liverpool to nine points.
Elsewhere, Everton eased relegation fears with a 4-0 win over Wolverhampton, courtesy of two own goals and strikes from Ashley Young and Orel Mangala. Aston Villa also ended their nine-game drought with a 3-1 victory over Brentford, thanks to goals from Morgan Rogers, Ollie Watkins, and Matty Cash.
With the Premier League heating up, Liverpool’s title challenge faces increasing pressure from resurgent rivals.
