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    Bolton vs Oxford LIVE: Josh Murphy puts Yellows ahead in League One play-off final – latest updates

    BOLTON go head-to-head with Oxford in the League One play-off final this afternoon.The two sides will battle it out at Wembley for a spot in the Championship next season.Bolton beat Barnsley 5-4 over two legs to secure their final spot, while Oxford got past high-scoring Peterborough.
    Kick off time: 4.15pm BST
    TV channel: Sky Sports Main Event
    Live stream: NOW
    Bolton team: To follow…
    Oxford team: To follow…
    CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSFollow all the latest from Wembley with our live blog below…Bolton 0-2 Oxford
    45. The board goes up to signal five minutes of stoppage time at the end of the first half.
    A goal before the break for Bolton would change the complexion of this one massively – but I’m not sure they have it in them at the moment.
    Copy linkCopiedBolton 0-2 Oxford
    44. Who saw this coming?!
    (Maybe those of us who backed Oxford for promotion…)
    Copy linkCopiedBolton 0-2 Oxford
    42. Oxford United are in dreamland!
    Josh Murphy has his second and his side’s second, and they are now within touching distance of promotion.
    Ruben Rodrigues is the creator once again, punting through a measured pass for Murphy to sprint through, round Nathan Baxter and steer into the net.
    Copy linkCopiedIt’s two!

    Copy linkCopiedBolton 0-1 Oxford
    40. Bolton are growing increasingly frustrated.
    Perhaps their best course of action is for Ian Evatt to get them back into the dressing room for half-time.
    Copy linkCopiedBolton 0-1 Oxford
    38. Not only has Ruben Rodrigues registered his fourth assist of the season, he also wears a shocked-at-that-decision-against-him face as well as anyone in League One.
    The midfielder can’t believe he’s been penalised for a coming together with Josh Sheehan, and gives it the full open mouthed, arms out expression.
    Casemiro, take note.
    Copy linkCopiedBolton 0-1 Oxford
    35. Ten minutes to half-time, and you can see that Bolton are trying to make something happen – but still they struggle to get their forwards into the match.
    And for that, you have to give Oxford credit.
    Copy linkCopiedBolton 0-1 Oxford
    33. Now what have these Bolton players got? A small number had regroup while they were waiting for Oxford’s Mark Harris to receive treatment ahead of the restart.
    That effort from Murphy is the first goal that Oxford have scored against Bolton this season – they drew 0-0 at home and lost 5-0 away.
    Copy linkCopiedBolton 0-1 Oxford
    31. First blood to the underdogs of Oxford!
    The U’s lead at Wembley thanks to wonderful work from Josh Murphy – and a little bit of luck.
    The winger – arguably the most talented player in the Oxford ranks – took over possession from Ruben Rodrigues just inside the area, cut inside and curled towards the top corner.
    Nathan Baxter in the Bolton goal may have had it covered but a slight touch off the top of captain Ricardo Santos’ head lifts it over the keeper and into the back of the net.
    Copy linkCopiedOxford opener!

    Copy linkCopiedBolton 0-0 Oxford
    29. The television cameras cut to Cameron Jerome on the bench.
    There’s a player who knows where the goal is.
    Copy linkCopiedBolton 0-0 Oxford
    26. Aaron Collins – like strike partner Dion Charles – not really involved as yet, drops deep to win a free-kick in a semi-dangerous position.
    Forty yards out with the area busy, a good delivery will cause Oxford problems.
    Unfortunately, it’s nowhere near a good delivery and nowhere near the area.
    Copy linkCopiedBolton 0-0 Oxford
    24. Rodrigues goes for goal! Wide.
    Space opens up nicely for the Oxford midfielder, who pushes forward and attempts a left-footed curler for the top corner.
    However, it lacks the necessary direction and swerve, and ends up heading for the fans.
    Copy linkCopiedBolton 0-0 Oxford
    22. Midway through the first half and still no shots on target.
    The possession, meanwhile, is exactly 50-50.
    Nothing between them so far.
    Copy linkCopiedBolton 0-0 Oxford
    20. Branagan is certainly pumped up for this one.
    This time he grabs a handful of Maghoma’s shirt and literally throws him to the ground as Bolton consider a counter.
    Sam Barrott gives him a quick talking to, but there’s no yellow card – much to Andy Hinchcliffe’s disappointment.
    Copy linkCopiedBolton 0-0 Oxford
    18. Dion Charles enjoyed his trip to Wembley last year when he scored in Bolton’s 4-0 Football League Trophy win over Plymouth.
    But the 20-goal striker is not having so much fun.
    Starved of service and well-marshalled, Charles has touched the ball just once today.
    Copy linkCopiedBolton 0-0 Oxford
    16. Bolton apply some pressure for the first time today.
    An Ogbeta shot from just inside the box is well blocked by Long, and then Sheehan decides to try his luck from distance.
    The midfielder comes inside and hits one crisply from 25 yards. It keeps low – but it also keeps wide.
    Copy linkCopiedBolton 0-0 Oxford
    13. Rodrigues curls a teasing free-kick into the box that Jones does very well to deal with.
    The defender gets in front of his opponent and cooly clears behind for a corner.
    As it happens, the whistle had gone for a shirt pull on the Bolton player.
    Copy linkCopiedBolton 0-0 Oxford
    11. Branagan thumps into another challenge on the near side, this time dispossessing Ogbeta.
    In fact, Bolton’s Thomason is not happy with the aggressive nature of the Oxford man, and comes across to prove his point by…
    …erm…shouting and pointing his finger in Branagan’s face.
    Referee Samuel Barrott quickly deals with the matter.
    Copy linkCopiedBolton 0-0 Oxford
    9. Lovely play from Goodrham in midfield, who turns away from his man and then spreads play out to the right.
    Oxford have made a bright start at Wembley.
    Copy linkCopiedBolton 0-0 Oxford
    7. Bolton play out from the back for the first time.
    The three centre-backs pass it between themselves for a few seconds, and the decide to launch it long anyway.
    Copy linkCopiedBolton 0-0 Oxford
    5. Maghoma is back on, but moving very gingerly. One to keep an eye on.
    Meanwhile, Oxford have won the first corner of the game – but fail to trouble their opponents with a long delivery that is floated over the head of Elliott Moore.
    Copy linkCopiedBolton 0-0 Oxford
    3. There’s early concern for Bolton and their manager Ian Evatt.
    Paris Maghoma makes his first burst along the left touchline, only for Cameron Branagan to put the ball out of play.
    However, it playing it off the pitch, the Oxford midfielder thumped into Maghoma with his follow through to leave the Bolton man flat out on the turf.
    He looks in a lot of discomfort.
    Copy linkCopiedKick-off – Bolton v Oxford
    1. Game on! Referee Samuel Barrott blows his whistle and Bolton get this League One play-off final underway.
    It’s pleasing to say that both clubs are in their traditional colours for this one; Wanderers wear white shirts and navy shorts while Oxford are in yellow and blue.
    Copy linkCopiedHere come the two teams!
    More than 70,000 supporters inside Wembley Stadium let out a deafening roar at a first glimpse of the Bolton and Oxford players making their way out of the tunnel.
    Tracksuited and focused, the two groups line up for the pre-match formalities – and this being a final mean lining up, being introduced to a random guest of honour, and belting out the national anthem.
    Eventually, they break off to warm-up and – for many – that’s when reality sets in. This is as big as it gets.
    Captains Ricardo Santos and Elliott Moore gather with the officials for the coin toss, and then it’s time for a last get together for words of encouragement.
    It’s a beautiful day in the capital. Proper football weather, as they say. Kick-off comes next.
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    Tyson Fury vs Oleksandr Usyk LIVE RESULTS: Latest boxing updates from Riyadh – fight start time, TV channel, undercard

    TYSON FURY is taking on Oleksandr Usyk in a historic undisputed world title fight TONIGHT!The Gypsy King puts his WBC title on the line while the Ukrainian’s WBA, IBF and WBO straps will all be up for grabs in Saudi Arabia.Tonight’s winner will be crowned the first undisputed heavyweight king since Lennox Lewis in 1999 – and the first in the four-belt era.TYSON FURY VS OLEKSANDR USYK: FREE BETS, ODDS AND PREVIEWFollow all the action from Riyadh with our live blog below…Usyk weight blunder
    Oleksandr Usyk’s weight was announced incorrectly ahead of his dream match with Tyson Fury in Saudi Arabia.
    Usyk took to the scales on Friday and officials were heard saying that he was at 233lbs (16.6 stone).
    However, the announcers later went on to incorrectly say that the Ukrainian actually weighed 223lbs (15.9 stone).
    Oleksandr Usyk’s weight announced WRONG at Tyson Fury weigh-in as fans perform massive U-turn on predictions
    Copy linkCopiedWhat channel is it on?
    The fight between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk will be broadcast on three different channels here in the UK.
    You can watch the clash on TNT Sports Box Office, Sky Sports Box Office as well as DAZN PPV.
    Boxing fans can stream the action from the TNT Sports Box Office app, Sky Sports Box Office app, or the DAZN app, all of which are available onto your mobile, tablet and Smart TV.
    You can also follow all the action in SunSport’s live blog HERE
    Copy linkCopiedWhen is Fury vs Usyk?
    Tyson Fury’s fight with Oleksandr Usyk will take place tonight in Saudi Arabia after the original date of February 17 was postponed.
    The fight will take place at the Kingdom Arena in Riyadh.
    Boxing fans can expect main event ring-walks to get going from around 11pm BST, with the main card likely to start from 5pm BST.
    Copy linkCopiedFury vs Usyk preview
    Tyson Fury takes on Oleksandr Usyk in the first undisputed heavyweight title clash since 1999 tonight in Saudi Arabia.
    The Gypsy King holds the WBC title in boxing’s glamour division, while Usyk is in possession of the WBA, WBO, IBF and Ring Magazine straps.
    The undefeated heavyweights have been on a collision course to fight for 18 months, following the Ukrainian’s rematch win over Anthony Joshua in 2022.
    Usyk is looking become the first man in history to win undisputed titles at both cruiserweight and heavyweight – and he’s just one win away.
    A victory for Fury, on the other hand, would set up an all-British mega-bout with Anthony Joshua in the near future.
    Credit: Reuters
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    Southampton 3-1 West Brom LIVE RESULT: Pitch invasion mars big Championship play-off win – updates

    SOUTHAMPTON have beaten West Brom 3-1 to charge into the Championship playoff final.Leeds United now await at Wembley on May 26 with the Premier League in sight.Though there were some scary scenes at the final whistle after Saints fans clashed with the visiting supporters.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThat’s all from St Mary’s
    A night of jubilation on the south coast.
    But even the most optimistic of Southampton fans will know that the job is only half done.
    The Saints will head to Wembley in nine days to take on Leeds United for a place back in the top-flight – 12 months on from when both clubs dropped out of it.
    Only one can take the glory, and we’ll be there to follow every dramatic moment.
    Until then, thanks for joining us and goodnight.

    Copy linkCopiedRussell ready for Farke reunion
    Russell Martin is one game away from being a Premier League manager – and standing in his way is the man who almost called time on his playing days.
    Martin was an experienced right-back at Norwich when Daniel Farke – now at Leeds – arrived as the new Carrow Road boss in May 2017.
    And although the pair initially had a promising working relationship, it soon became clear that the German coach wanted to go in a different direction.
    Fans favourite Martin was shipped out to Rangers on loan, and then left for Walsall and MK Dons before announcing his retirement.
    And now the two will come face-to-face again – at Wembley on May 26 – when they meet in the game with the biggest prize of the lot.
    I didn’t envisage it happening five or six years ago when we worked together but it is what it is. I have a lot of respect for [Daniel Farke]. He has a great record in this division and it will be a tough game but it’s not about me or him, It’s about the two teams that step out on to the pitch.Russell MartinSky Sports

    Copy linkCopiedFan clashes at full time
    Southampton’s Championship play-off semi-final win over West Brom was marred by incidents that took place after the final whistle.
    Thousands of home supporters poured on to the pitch to celebrate victory, but a small minority headed in the direction of the stadium section housing the away fans.
    A number of ugly clashes took place with bottles and flares being thrown between the two sets of supporters, prompting a number of physical confrontations.
    Police and security staff managed to restore order soon after before the pitch was eventually cleared.
    Copy linkCopiedArmstrong: We have been brave
    Southampton’s two-goal hero Adam Armstrong praised his teammates for tonight’s performance, and then reiterated that they deserve their place at Wembley because of the football they have played this season.
    Southampton have been praised – and criticised – for the passing and possession approach they have adopted Russell Martin, who has encouraged his team to play out from tight positions.
    “Something we’ve been working on all year is to get back to the Premier League,” Armstrong told Sky Sports.
    “What a win. We know West Brom are a good side over the two legs. We needed to put a marker down for the final and we’ve done that.”
    I’m proud of everyone. The way we play is not easy. You’ve seen the way we keep the ball, it’s brave. Exciting at times. It paid off today.Adam ArmstrongSky Sports

    Copy linkCopiedMatch Stats from St Mary’s
    Southampton took their time, but eventually struck to sink West Brom – scoring with all three of the shots on target in the second half.

    Copy linkCopiedFull time – Southampton 3-1 West Brom (Agg: 3-1)
    Southampton are in the Championship play-off final!
    Russell Martin’s team found the attacking impetus to add to their first half domination of the ball, and were eventually too good for an Albion outfit that battled to the end.
    Will Smallbone’s classy finish, and a brace from Adam Armstrong – one from the penalty spot – ensures it is Saints that will face Leeds for a place in the Premier League.

    Copy linkCopiedSouthampton 3-1 West Brom (Agg: 3-1)
    90+7. Is this the least celebrated goal in the history of football? It has to be up there, surely.
    Cedric Kipre gets up to meet Mikey Johnston’s right-wing corner with a thumping header that loops in via the inside of the post.
    There’s barely a murmur as the ball nestles in the net save for some ironic cheers, and neither is there a reaction from the West Brom players as they jog back into position.
    It’s unlikely there will be time for them to touch the ball again.
    Copy linkCopiedConsolation

    Copy linkCopiedSouthampton 3-0 West Brom (Agg: 3-0)
    90+4. The songs are being belted out with incredible gusto inside St Mary’s. For football fans, moments don’t come much better than these final moments when you know you’ve got the job done.
    Que sera, sera…
    Copy linkCopiedSouthampton 3-0 West Brom (Agg: 3-0)
    90+2. Albion are throwing men forward but, in truth, their belief has long done.
    On professional vibes only, they force a corner, and then Andreas Weimann gets on the end of a cross to head straight at McCarthy.
    Copy linkCopiedSouthampton 3-0 West Brom (Agg: 3-0)
    90. The board goes up to signal seven minutes of stoppage time.
    The home fans don’t like it, but that’s only because it delays the party for a little longer.
    Patience, boys and girls. Patience.
    Copy linkCopiedSouthampton 3-0 West Brom (Agg: 3-0)
    88. St Mary’s is rocking. I dare say the fans are preparing for the now obligatory play-off pitch invasion.
    Odds on Sunak and Le Tissier being first on?
    Copy linkCopiedSouthampton 3-0 West Brom (Agg: 3-0)
    86. Adam Armstrong’s penalty was never in doubt!
    Standing over the ball, the Saints striker looks confident, composed and cool as ice.
    Right-footed, he pushes it into the right corner, and, although Alex Palmer dives the correct way, he is helpless to stop the spotkick.
    Armstrong is desperate to prove he’s a Premier League player. He’s 90 minutes away from doing just that.

    Copy linkCopiedIt’s three!

    Copy linkCopiedSouthampton 2-0 West Brom (Agg: 2-0)
    84. On the break, Manning bursts into the box to collect Stephen’s short pass and goes down under the challenge of two diving defenders.
    Again, Tim Robinson takes a lengthy stare…
    …and this time says penalty!
    It’s harsh on Albion, and nothing when compared to the previous shout that was turned away, but Southampton do not care.
    Copy linkCopiedSouthampton 2-0 West Brom (Agg: 2-0)
    81. West Brom almost pull one back in spectacular fashion.
    Mowatt’s raking pass over the top is watched all the way by Reach, whose delicate volley drops just wide of the far post.
    Copy linkCopiedSouthampton 2-0 West Brom (Agg: 2-0)
    78. Southampton are heading to Wembley – and their main man is leading the charge!
    Adam Armstrong has his goal in front of the home fans, and doesn’t he deserve it?!
    Flynn Downes breaks from midfield and feeds his striker on the left, at which points the Albion defence must feel they have the situation covered.
    But Armstrong puts his head down to come inside, switches back on to his left foot, then powers a shot through the legs of Darnell Furlong and into the bottom corner past Alex Palmer.
    The Saints go marching in…

    Copy linkCopiedSaints seal it!

    Copy linkCopiedSouthampton 1-0 West Brom (Agg: 1-0)
    75. FIfteen minutes remain.
    Southampton are 15 minutes from Wembley.
    Copy linkCopiedSouthampton 1-0 West Brom (Agg: 1-0) – Southampton substitute
    74. The home dugout returns in kind with a switch that sees Samuel Edozie on in place of David Brooks.
    Copy linkCopiedSouthampton 1-0 West Brom (Agg: 1-0) – West Brom substitution
    73. Adam Reach is on for the Albion. He can be good value for a spectacular goal out of nowhere.
    Conor Townsend makes way.
    Copy linkCopiedSouthampton 1-0 West Brom (Agg: 1-0)
    72. More substitutes are being prepared by the side of the pitch.
    But for now, it’s the players currently on the pitch trying to propel this semi-final in their favour.
    Copy linkCopiedSouthampton 1-0 West Brom (Agg: 1-0)
    70. There are a few signs that Albion are beginning to make their move.
    The visitors have started to trouble their opponents in the past few minutes, particularly from set plays.
    Swift swings a free-kick into the area from the right, and Kipre creeps in around the back to meet it with a shot into the side netting.
    Copy linkCopiedSouthampton 1-0 West Brom (Agg: 1-0)
    68. Adam Armstrong has the ball in the back of the net…
    …but the flag is up for offside.
    There’s no VAR in the Championship, remember, so this proper football match can continue without delay, confusion and frustration.
    Copy linkCopiedSouthampton 1-0 West Brom (Agg: 1-0) – Southampton substitution
    66. Southampton have the fourth official reaching for his electronic board again, but just to make one change.
    Ryan Manning is on to replace he man who replaced him in the starting line-up: Ryan Fraser.
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    Leeds 4 Norwich 0 (agg 4-0): Whites run riot as they embarrass hopeless Canaries to book ticket to Wembley

    LEEDS will go Marching on Together at Wembley after this romp at Elland Road.Daniel Farke’s men finally pulled out an A game when it mattered by blowing away an utterly abysmal Norwich to book a place in next Sunday’s £200million final.Ethan Ampadu tops celebrations as Leeds reached the play-off finalCredit: PAGeorginio fired the third goal that killed Norwich offCredit: RexInfluential Crysencio Summerville rounded off Leeds’ rompCredit: GettyHaving only won once in their previous seven games, it was expected to be a nervy night under the lights in West Yorkshire — given the club are bidding to finally win a promotion via the play-offs at the sixth attempt.They still must overcome the winner of Friday night’s game at St Mary’s between Southampton and West Brom.But this was all but won after a first-half rampage which saw Ilia Gruev, Joel Piroe and Georginio Rutter put them into a 3-0 lead.Crysencio Summerville added a fourth after the break and had it not been for some great goalkeeping from Angus Gunn this could have been a battering.This was the biggest win in a second-tier semi-final since Barnsley won 4-0 at Birmingham in 2000.It prompted chants from the Elland Road faithful of “Leeds are falling apart again” in response to all the rival fans mocking them in recent weeks before breaking into “We’re going to Wembley.”Norwich had history against them as only 15 of the previous 18 sixth-placed sides progressed in the play-off semi-final.And, although they almost pulled one back at 2-0 down when Josh Sargent was denied one-on-one by keeper Illan Meslier, they barely laid a glove on Leeds.Leeds were 3-0 up at the break on the way to a semi-final cruiseCredit: RexBEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSEverything Norwich were not on their home turf at Carrow Road, the West Yorkshire side were on theirs at Elland Road.They went after the opposition throughout and completely outplayed their opponents.Summerville makes the fourth goal look easyCredit: ReutersEFL fans demand ‘automatic relegation’ after goalkeeper and defender combine for ‘Sunday league’ own-goalLeeds came out flying and Summerville played a superb one-two with Georginio Rutter just inside the box — but fired an angled effort over the bar.Norwich’s game plan was to frustrate their hosts and get the partisan Elland Road crowd restless.But that was ripped up when Leeds moved into an eighth-minute lead. Winning a free-kick 35 yards out, Ilia Griev curled a low free-kick which bounced and beat the unsighted Gunn.It was the fastest goal Leeds had ever scored in a play-off and their first direct free-kick goal since Raphinha v Leicester in November 2021.And Piroe doubled their lead 12 minutes later.The Dutch striker was in the right place at the right time to meet a Wilfried Gnonto right-wing cross to plant his header past Gunn.Yet Sargent should have pulled one back.Ashley Barnes played a peach of a pass from inside his own half to send the Norwich striker through on goal after beating the sliding tackle attempt of Ethan Ampadu.But keeper Illan Meslier flung out his arm to block the chipped shot.Ilia Gruev slotted the opener for the rampant home sideCredit: PAJoe Rodon flicked a header just inches wide from a Gnonto corner.And it was game over when Leeds added a third.Piroe motored down the left and his centre to Summerville was stabbed across for Rutter to fire home off the crossbar.Leeds were now routing their opponents and Gnonto was sent one on one but his effort was blocked by Gunn.Then Piroe was played in 30 seconds after the restart but Gunn brilliantly saved.Summerville saw a header go over and then another angled effort blocked by the Canaries keeper.Piroe got slipped in by Summerville but Gunn came to Norwich’s rescue.But despite keeping out a stinging Gnonto effort, he could do little as Junior Firpo pulled the rebound back to Summerville to slam home. More

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    Brighton 1-2 Chelsea LIVE RESULT: Palmer and Nkunku fire Blues to crucial win after James’ reckless red card

    CHELSEA managed to escape the Amex with a 2-1 win over Brighton – but Reece James’ red card stole the headlines.Cole Palmer continued his sensational form by opening the scoring before Christopher Nkunku put the Blues two up.Welbeck did pull one back for the hosts which made it a nervy ending.But prior to that, Reece James was sent off for kicking out at Joao Pedro and will now miss the first three games of next season.
    RESULT: Brighton 1-2 Chelsea
    TV channel: Not being shown on television in the UK
    Chelsea XI: Petrovic, Gusto, Chalobah, Badiashile, Cucurella, Gallagher, Caicedo, Palmer, Madueke, Jackson, Mudryk
    Brighton XI: Verbruggen, Lamptey, Webster, Dunk, Igor, Gross, Gilmour, Buonanotte, Enciso, Adingra, Joao Pedro
    BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFollow ALL the latest action from the AMEX with our live blog below…”We have kept working and being positive”
    Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino said: “The approach of the game, facing a team that plays well like Brighton, it’s a massive credit to our players.
    “I’m so happy and the three points puts us in a very good position in the table to attack the last game against Bournemouth for the possibility to be in Europe.
    “Brighton is a very good team and it’s always difficult to play here.
    “We have improved results and performances. We talked about patience and when you need to build something you need time but it always looks like an excuse at a big club. We have kept working and being positive and to finish in a good way would be good for the club.”
    Credit: GETTY
    Copy linkCopied”All the players love the manager”
    Chelsea goalscorer Cole Palmer said: “We needed three points and it was hard towards the end but for it to be in our hands to get sixth place is a big thing for us.
    “Marc Cucurella knows where I’m going to be and I lifted it over the goalkeeper.
    “Chelsea is a big club and everyone wants to finish higher than sixth but you have to look at where we were at the start of the season so to get back into Europe would be a step in the right direction.
    “All credit to the manager. All the players love the manager and want to fight for him.”
    Credit: GETTY
    Copy linkCopied”Disappointing, frustrating”
    Brighton’s Danny Welbeck said: “Disappointing, frustrating. We didn’t play to the best of our ability and that’s the frustrating part. We have to analyse and see where we can do much better and finish the season strongly against Manchester United.
    “This is a game we wanted to win and we have to brush ourselves down and go again.
    “It has been a long time and I’m not happy at that but obviously happy to get a goal. Overall we’re disappointed with the result, it’s very frustrating. As professionals we want to finish very well, the best we can and we want to give the fans a good lasting moment for the summer.”
    Danny Welbeck scored his third goal in four games against ChelseaCredit: GETTY
    Copy linkCopiedMatch report
    By our man at the Amex Stadium, Jordan Davies.
    Cole Palmer’s season gets better and better, while Reece James’ could hardly get worse.
    Chelsea’s superstar Palmer has single-handedly guided the club from the depths of mid-table to what should be continental football next season with his elite goal-getting prowess.
    His 22nd of the Premier League term – a smooth looping header in the 34th minute – helped down Brighton to lift the Blues into a Europa League-beckoning sixth spot.
    And as if Palmer’s shoulders are not heavy enough, he will surely be expected to replicate this stunning form for England in Germany this summer at the Euros.
    But what of James… Read the full report HERE
    Credit: GETTY
    Copy linkCopiedRun
    Chelsea’s four-game winning streak is their best in the Premier League since a run between 3 September to 16 October in 2022.
    Credit: GETTY
    Copy linkCopiedElsewhere
    It’s all over at Old Trafford. Manchester United have beaten Newcastle 3-2 and still have a chance of finishing in the European places. The final day is shaping up to be a tasty one.
    Copy linkCopiedBrighton 1-2 Chelsea
    What an entertaining game that was. It had everything. Goals, red cards, the woodwork was struck a few times but Chelsea take those valuable three points back to Stamford Bridge.
    The Blues find themselves in sixth, which is their highest league position of the season, with one match remaining – and it’s very winnable home game against Bournemouth with the potential to leapfrog Spurs into fifth.
    As for Brighton, they remain in tenth ahead of their final game against Manchester United.
    The standingsCredit: GOOGLE
    Copy linkCopiedBrighton 1-2 Chelsea
    FT: Chelsea win! The Blues just about survive a very late onslaught from Brighton to secure all three points and leave themselves in the driving seat for Europa League football. Big, big win for the visitors.
    Credit: GETTY
    Copy linkCopiedBrighton 1-2 Chelsea
    100: Close! Pascal Gross’ in-swinger looks dangerous but goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic does well to punch it clear through a crowd of players. Was that the last opportunity?
    Copy linkCopiedBrighton 1-2 Chelsea
    99: Lesley Ugochukwu and Cesare Casadei replace Conor Gallagher and Cole Palmer. Chelsea are desperate for this final whistle as Brighton win a corner.
    Copy linkCopiedBrighton 1-2 Chelsea – Welbeck
    98: Goal! Maybe. Just maybe. Danny Welbeck scores his third goal in four matches against Chelsea – and his first on home turf this season!
    The Englishman strides through the middle to clip Joao Pedro’s low cross beyond Bart Verbruggen. Just over two minutes left. They couldn’t, could they?
    Copy linkCopiedBrighton 0-2 Chelsea
    96: Not a lot of sympathy for Conor Gallagher, who’s on the deck with a bit of cramp. Boos from the crowd as the referee stops play. Don’t worry, he’s fine.
    Copy linkCopiedBrighton 0-2 Chelsea
    94: Woodwork! It ain’t going to happen, Brighton. Simon Adingra’s cushioned effort bounces off the left post.
    Copy linkCopiedBrighton 0-2 Chelsea
    92: The Brighton supporters have a renewed energy but it’s not translated to any chances on the pitch as of yet. Lots of passing in Chelsea territory but the visitors have everyone behind the ball.
    Copy linkCopiedBrighton 0-2 Chelsea
    90: Thiago Silva replaces Nicolas Jackson for the closing stages.
    How much added time will there be? It’s TEN MINUTES folks! Now this could be a grandstand finish…
    Copy linkCopiedBrighton 0-2 Chelsea
    87: Red card! He’s only been on the pitch for a few minutes but Reece James is off and will miss the last match of the season. He’s on the floor and kicks out at Joao Pedro – just like the David Beckham incident all those years ago. Petulant.
    Referee Michael Salisbury is advised to look at it on the monitor and decides to dismiss the Blues captain.
    Reece James is sent offCredit: GETTY
    Copy linkCopiedBrighton 0-2 Chelsea
    85: It just won’t go in! Joao Pedro, Pascal Gross and Danny Welbeck all try their luck during a scrappy passage but Conor Gallagher scrambles it clear.
    Ansu Fati and 21-year-old Odeluga Offiah replace Julio Enciso and Tariq Lamptey.
    Copy linkCopiedBrighton 0-2 Chelsea
    82: Booked! Bart Verbruggen is carded for rushing out of the penalty area to stop Nicolas Jackson. The Brighton goalkeeper does go to ground but actually makes zero contact as the Chelsea striker dives over him. He goes in the book regardless.
    Raheem Sterling fires it straight at the goalkeeper. Tame.
    Copy linkCopiedBrighton 0-2 Chelsea
    79: The biggest cheer of the night is reserved for… Moises Caicedo being booked for a foul on Joao Pedro. That whole incident started after some find defending from Valentin Barco. I like that kid. Only 19. He’s also just had an effort on target.
    Copy linkCopiedBrighton 0-2 Chelsea
    76: That’s Raheem Sterling in the book for a foul on Valentin Barco. A few moments earlier, the youthful looking Barco released Simon Adingra but his effort ballooned over.
    Copy linkCopiedBrighton 0-2 Chelsea
    73: It’s not entirely over yet. Only Newcastle (14) have scored more Premier League goals from substitutes this season than Brighton (12). However, it’s not looking too likely with Danny Welbeck having failed to score a single top-flight goal at home this season.
    Still, good that he got a new deal, eh?
    Copy linkCopiedBrighton 0-2 Chelsea
    70: More good news for Chelsea as Manchester United retake the lead at Old Trafford through Amad Diallo. It’s a stunner apparently. That leaves the Blues with a three-point advantage over the pair of them.
    Poch eventually makes a double change. Raheem Sterling and Reece James replace Noni Madueke and Malo Gusto.
    Carlos Baleba and Danny Welbeck replace Facundo Buonanotte and Billy Gilmour for Brighton.
    Hang it in the LouvreCredit: GETTY
    Copy linkCopiedBrighton 0-2 Chelsea
    68: Reece James was going to replace Noni Madueke but Malo Gusto is struggling. Mauricio Pochettino now weighing up his options.
    Copy linkCopiedBrighton 0-2 Chelsea
    65: Christopher Nkunku really does know how to find the net. He seems ruthless. Just find myself wondering where the Blues would be if he’d been fit for the whole campaign.
    Copy linkCopiedBrighton 0-2 Chelsea – Nkunku
    63: Goal! Is that game, set and match? Christopher Nkunku has doubled Chelsea’s lead at the Amex Stadium.
    It’s his third goal for Chelsea, but much of the credit has to go to Malo Gusto. The right-back strides down the right before cutting the ball back to Nkunku, who cooly slots it beyond a helpless Bart Verbruggen.
    Christopher Nkunku celebratesCredit: GETTY
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    Man Utd 3-2 Newcastle LIVE RESULT: Hojlund’s sensational strike sets up thrilling final day fight for Europe

    MANCHESTER UNITED have set up a blockbuster final day after beating Newcastle 3-2 at Old Trafford.Kobbie Mainoo put the hosts ahead before Anthony Gordon levelled the scoring.But Amad Diallo grabbed a crucial second and Rasmus Hojlund scored United’s third which turned out to be the winner after Lewis Hall’s sensational strike set up a nervy ending.
    RESULT: Man Utd 3-2 Newcastle
    Live stream: NOW TV
    TV channel: Sky Sports Main Event / Premier League
    Man Utd XI:  Onana, Dalot, Casemiro, Evans, Wan-Bissaka, Mainoo, Amrabat, Fernandes, McTominay, Garnacho, Diallo
    Newcastle XI: Dubravka, Trippier, Krafth, Burn, Hall, Longstaff, Bruno Guimaraes, Anderson, J Murphy, Isak, Gordon
    BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFollow ALL the action from Old Trafford with our live blog below…That’s all from Old Trafford
    Manchester United got the better of Newcastle United this evening – but they’ll need to better them again on Sunday too if they are to creep into seventh position.
    Both the Red Devils and the Toon are locked together on 57 points with one game remaining as Man Utd head to Brenford, while Newcastle are at Brighton.
    Eddie Howe’s team currently occupy seventh with a superior goal difference, and look on course for European football unless Erik ten Hag can either overhaul them or win the FA Cup.
    In other words, there are still plenty of twists and turns, and you can follow all of them on the Premier League final day with us here at SunSport.
    Until then, thanks for joining us and goodnight.
    Copy linkCopiedExtra! Read all about it!
    Before we draw a line under tonight’s entertainment, let’s relive the Old Trafford action with Neil Custis’ match report of Manchester United’s 3-2 victory over Newcastle.
    Erik ten Hag keeps telling everyone the future is bright for Manchester United. It is just the present that continues to be a problem. But on a night when Kobbie Mainoo and Amad Diallo gave the Red Devils a chance of European football next season you can at least see glimmers of hope.Neil CustisThe Sun

    Copy linkCopiedUnited still enjoying teenage kicks
    They may not be winning anything with kids these days, but Manchester United are still producing youngsters capable of finding the back of the net.
    Kobbie Mainoo’s goal tonight was the 10th strike to have been scored by a teenager for the Red Devils in the Premier League this season (Alejandro Garnacho 7 and Mainoo 3).
    Only in two previous campaigns have United had more Premier League goals scored by teens after 11 in 2019-20, and 15 in 2004-05.
    Copy linkCopiedGordon blasts video officials
    A bruised Anthony Gordon hit out at VAR after being denied what he felt was a clear first half penalty at Old Trafford.
    The Newcastle winger was floored when through on goal, and although Casemiro won the ball with a clean tackle, the challenge came after Sofyan Amrabat had caught Gordon on the ankle with his studs, ripping open his opponent’s sock.
    After the game, the Newcastle forward revealed he didn’t overly appeal at the time as he was so confident that Jarred Gillett on video duty would overturn the decision.
    I have watched it back and it is a clear penalty. I don’t mind the referee getting it wrong on the pitch because it all happens fast, but I don’t understand the point of VAR. [Sofyan Amrabat] goes down my Achilles and pushes me in the back. I knew straight away, and that is why I didn’t appeal. I waited for VAR to check and told my teammates ‘don’t worry, it’s a clear penalty.’ I don’t understand the point of it. Either get rid of it or get better – it’s that simple.Anthony GordonSky Sports

    Copy linkCopiedRasmus role as super sub
    After three starts without a goal, Rasmus Hojlund began tonight’s contest on the bench – but came off the bench to make a match-winning impact.
    Hojlund’s goal was his first in the Premier League as a substitute, and came just 106 seconds after his introduction.
    Only seven players have scored quicker goals as subs in the top-flight this season.

    Copy linkCopiedTen Hag salutes Old Trafford faithful
    At full time, an emotional and proud Erik ten Hag headed for the centre circle to address the Manchester United fans.
    Speaking into a microphone, the Dutch coach showed his gratitude to the Old Trafford faithful.
    “On behalf of the players, staff and myself, I want to thank you all for the brilliant support you have given us during this season,” he said.
    “As you know, it wasn’t an easy season, but one thing remained constant and that was the backing of you for the team.
    “Thank you. You are the best supporters in the world.”
    This season is not over yet. First, we go to Brighton for three points, and then we go to Wembley. And I promise you, these players will give everything to get that cup and bring it to Old Trafford.Erik ten Hag

    Copy linkCopiedMatch stats from Old Trafford
    Thirty-eight shots, 16 on target, and 78 touches inside the area.
    It hasn’t been a quiet end to the season at Old Trafford.

    Copy linkCopiedFull time – Man Utd 3-2 Newcastle
    The final whistle goes, and Erik ten Hag lets out a huge smile before acknowledging Eddie Howe and his staff.
    If this is to be his last Old Trafford game as Manchester United manager, he has at least gone out on an entertaining and dramatic high.
    Both players – one group joyous, the other crushed – head off to applaud their respective supporters as another Premier League season nears its conclusion.
    They may be facing different opponents on the final day, but these two clubs will again be battling it out on Sunday to see who will finish in seventh position with the potential of European football.
    Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 3-2 Newcastle
    90+4. Suddenly, the atmosphere inside the stadium is slightly nervy…
    …but the United players are standing firm to everything that Newcastle throw at them.
    Two minutes remain.
    Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 3-2 Newcastle
    90+2. It’s not over yet!
    Lewis Hall has scored his second goal of the season, and it’s his second for Newcastle at Old Trafford.
    The former Chelsea youngster netted a cracker here in the Carabao Cup, and he may have just topped that with this excellent effort.
    A corner from the right is cleared to the left-back outside of the box, where he takes one touch to steady himself and then another to send a crisp left-footer back past the despairing dive of Andre Onana.
    Can Newcastle now find an equaliser?

    Copy linkCopiedHall pulls one back!

    Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 3-1 Newcastle
    90. There will be six minutes of stoppage time to be played.
    Surely even Manchester United can’t blow it from here?
    Surely?
    Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 3-1 Newcastle – Man Utd substitution
    88. For the first time this season, Old Trafford is rocking.
    Bruno Fernandes takes his leave to a standing ovation, and on is Christian Eriksen in his place.
    The departing captan has been excellent on his return this evening.

    Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 3-1 Newcastle – Amrabat yellow card
    86. Another booking, and another player looking perplexed.
    Sofyan Amrabat is cautioned for bundling over Harvey Barnes, but there really wasn’t much in it.
    Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 3-1 Newcastle
    84. Three goals and three points for Manchester United!
    Substitute Rasmus Hojlund has barely been on for 100 seconds, but he’s sealed victory his side with a first class finish.
    The Dane shrugs off the challenge of Dan Burn and Lewis before rifling a right-footer across Martin Dubravka and into the bottom left corner.

    Copy linkCopiedInstant impact!

    Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-1 Newcastle – Man Utd treble substitution
    82. Here come attackers Marcus Rashford and Rasmus Hojlund…
    …and there’s an even bigger cheer for the Old Trafford return of Lisandro Martinez.
    The trio are on for Kobbie Mainoo, Alejandro Garnacho and Amad Diallo.
    Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-1 Newcastle – Diallo yellow card
    80. Ten to go, and it appears as though Marcus Rashford and Rasmus Hojlund are going to get a run out.
    Meanwhile, Amad Diallo is the latest to be booked for a shirt tug on Gordon.
    Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-1 Newcastle – Schar yellow card
    78. Fabian Schar off the bench…
    …and into the referee’s notebook.
    The defender is cautioned for plundering into Bruno Fernandes. It’s a tackle evident of some rustiness from the recently absent centre-back.
    Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-1 Newcastle
    76. Casemiro almost pops up with a headed goal of his own that would have had all of us fooled into thinking that United’s search for both a competent centre-back and a prolific scorer were over.
    Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-1 Newcastle
    73. Martin Dubravka is having a very confusing game.
    He seems to get himself behind most shots and crosses, but then struggles to do anything competent from those perfect positions.
    Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-1 Newcastle
    71. Gordon! So close to another equaliser!
    The Newcastle winger has a new lease of life after his night looked over earlier, and almost brings the visitors level.
    He skips effortlessly beyond his man in the area, and the fires a shot across goal that isn’t accurate enough to find the corner, and is also too powerful to be turned in by the sliding Almiron.
    Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-1 Newcastle
    69. Players on both sides this evening have delivered some wonderful, teasing crosses into the penalty area…
    …only to find there isn’t an attacking teammate in sight.
    The latest to shrug their shoulders after putting an opportunity on a plate is Bruno Fernandes, whose curling cross from the right is absolutely perfect – for nobody.
    Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-1 Newcastle – Gordon yellow card
    67. Anthony Gordon blots his copybook with a yellow card for a pull of Diallo’s shirt.
    Fantasy Premier League players around the country moan and groan as one.
    Copy linkCopiedMan Utd 2-1 Newcastle
    65. That Diallo thunderbolt hasn’t stopped this game surging one way and then the other.
    Bruno Fernandes is wayward with his most recent effort, and then Longstaff’s header is tipped over the crossbar by Onana.
    Copy linkCopied More

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    Tottenham 0-2 Man City LIVE RESULT: Haaland’s double sees Pep’s side close in on fourth straight Prem title – updates

    MANCHESTER CITY have got one hand on the Premier League title after beating Tottenham 2-0 tonight.Erling Haaland’s double not only means that Pep’s side are now in the driving seat ahead of Arsenal going into the final game of the season.But it also shattered Spurs’ top four hopes leaving Aston Villa with the final Champions League spot
    RESULT: Tottenham 0-2 Man City
    Live stream: NOW TV
    TV channel: Sky Sports Main Event / Premier League
    Tottenham XI: Vicario, Porro, Romero, Dragusin, Van de Ven, Hojbjerg, Bentancur, Sarr, Maddison, Johnson, Son
    Man City XI: Ederson, Walker, Akanji, Dias, Gvardiol, Rodri, Kovacic, De Bruyne, Silva, Foden, Haaland
    Premier League permutations: All the details on title race, European spots and relegation battle
    BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSFollow ALL the action from the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium with our live blog below…Pep goes through the emotions in capital
    While Man City got the result they needed, their manager went through the full range of emotions during the match.
    Highs, lows and dealing with angry players…..he had it all to deal with.
    None of that will matter now as his team are sitting pretty at the top of the Premier League table with their fate in their own hands.
    Credit: Getty
    Credit: AP
    Credit: Reuters
    Copy linkCopiedErling another golden boot
    Erling Haaland looks set to make it back-to-back golden boots in the Premier League this season.
    Now six goals ahead of nearest opposition, it would take something miraculous to wrestle this award from him.
    Aside from that, his two goals this evening have put Man City within grasp of another Premier League title.

    Copy linkCopiedFoden stars for Pep once again
    Phil Foden has made himself such an integral part of this Man City side now that they cannot afford to be without him.
    His silky skills, dribbling and movement elevate Guardiola’s side.
    Despite Tottenham giving him no time on the ball in the first half, you cannot keep a good man down and he played a huge part in the opening goal.

    Copy linkCopiedFT: Tottenham 0-2 Man City
    This was seen as the final hurdle if Pep Guardiola’s side wanted to win their fourth consecutive Premier League title.
    It took them some time to break the deadlock but once Erling Haaland got his goal, the away end erupted.
    For Tottenham, their hopes of a top four spot are officially over and Aston Villa are in next season’s Champions League tournament.

    Copy linkCopiedGerman keeps City’s title ambitions alive
    Stefan Ortega came off the bench tonight to replace Ederson after he potentially may have suffered a concussion in a coming together with Cristian Romero.
    The substitute was immediately called into action as he had to deny Kulusevski from a tight angle.
    His work was not finished there as Son ran clear with only the keeper to beat but Ortega made himself big and a pivotal save in the process.
    Nobody can deny he deserved his man of the match award.
    Credit: Reuters
    Credit: Getty
    Credit: Reuters
    Copy linkCopiedFT: Tottenham 0-2 Man City
    It is all over in North London.
    Man City are one win away from another Premier League title.
    Arsenal fans will be drowning their sorrows as we speak.
    Copy linkCopiedTottenham 0-2 Man City
    90+10. How about that for a substitute appearance.
    Reserve goalkeeper Stefan Ortega has been given the man of the match award.
    Now that is not something you see too often.
    Ederson will be even more livid now, planning to have that smiley face tattoo removed by laser as we speak.
    Copy linkCopiedTottenham 0-2 Man City
    90+8. Doku is causing Tottenham problems down the left.
    He manages to beat Skipp and looks to cross from the byline.
    Fortunately the hosts have plenty of players back and are able to cut out the ball before any City player can capitalise.
    Guardiola’s side come straight back down the pitch and Doku cuts onto his left foot and fires a shot off but Vicario blocks at the expense of another corner.
    Copy linkCopiedTottenham 0-2 Man City
    90+6. The fans start singing ‘are you watching Arsenal?’
    It is likely they have turned over in disbelief and anger by now.
    Cursing why their fierce rivals refused to do them a favour.
    Credit: Reuters
    Copy linkCopiedTottenham 0-2 Man City
    90+4. Tottenham force a corner to create some late pressure.
    Lo Celso’s corner is flicked on at the near post but there was a foul by one of the Spurs’ defenders.
    Alvarez is coming on to replace Haaland which seems to be Guardiola’s go to substitution when the Norwegian is on a hat-trick.
    Copy linkCopiedTottenham 0-2 Man City
    Wow. Son had Arsenal’s title hopes in his hand there as he raced through.
    But the South Korean could not beat Ortega.
    Guardiola fell to the ground in his dugout amid the drama.
    Copy linkCopiedTottenham 0-2 Man City
    90+2. Haaland sends Vicario the wrong way as he buries his penalty.
    The Man City fans celebrate wildly, knowing how important that goal could be for them to retain the title.
    Pep Guardiola fist pumps the air as he sees the net bulge.
    There are going to be ten additional minutes added.
    Copy linkCopiedGoal – Erling Haaland (Man City)
    Copy linkCopiedPenalty to Man City
    Copy linkCopiedTottenham 0-1 Man City
    88. We can expect a lot of added time to come soon.
    What a chance that was for Son Heung-min a moment ago.
    Ortega certainly saved Akanji with that block.
    Copy linkCopiedTottenham 0-1 Man City
    Ederson furiously kicked a water-bottle cool box as he reluctantly took his seat on the subs’ bench, prompting mocking ‘oohs’ from the crowd.
    The Brazilian was still seething as he sat down, ripping off his bandaging around his gloves in anger.
    Copy linkCopiedTottenham 0-1 Man City
    86. Man City seem content to just pass the ball around.
    They give it away in a dangerous area and Son runs clear through on goal with only the keeper to beat.
    Ortega makes a block to deny the Spurs player a massive goal in this title race.
    Credit: Getty
    Copy linkCopiedTottenham 0-1 Man City
    84. Man City could do with that moment of magic from someone right now to give them a cushion in this game.
    Haaland finds Silva out wide but he cannot progress and ends up running back towards his own goal.
    They certainly miss the creativity of Kevin De Bruyne this Man City team.
    Copy linkCopiedTottenham 0-1 Man City
    82. There is a really drab atmosphere in the game right now.
    It is deafly quiet in North London.
    Would be a cracking place to grab your favourite book and have a good read right now.
    Copy linkCopiedTottenham 0-1 Man City
    80. Maddison is fouled and wins a free kick, although he does not seem happy with that and tries to win an Oscar as he rolls around on the ground.
    There was no way that challenge warranted such a reaction.
    You see it so often from the modern player, about as tough as a poorly set jelly.
    Copy linkCopiedTottenham 0-1 Man City
    78. Porro is played the ball out wide and has acres of space.
    Doku uses his pace to get over there and close him down, blocking the cross at the expense of a corner.
    It is played short to Kulusevski, shifting it onto his left foot and getting a shot off at goal.
    He gets right underneath it and it is never going to trouble the Man City goal.
    Copy linkCopiedTottenham 0-1 Man City
    76. A lot of the Man City attackers are playing right on the shoulder of the last man in this high Tottenham defensive line.
    However, they are missing the inch-perfect passing of Kevin De Bruyne to exploit that right now.
    The visitors are getting numbers behind the ball whenever Spurs have possession.
    Credit: Getty
    Copy linkCopiedTottenham 0-1 Man City
    74. Ederson certainly does not look anything like his smiley face tattoo on his neck right now.
    As we head into the final quarter of the game, you feel Man City need another goal to take this game beyond Tottenham.
    While they have such a slender lead, Postecoglou’s side are very much still in this game.
    Copy linkCopiedTottenham 0-1 Man City
    72. At the other end Kulusevski almost barges his way through the Man City defence as Akanji kicks the ball straight at him.
    He manages to get a shot away but Ortega makes a great block to deny the Spurs player.
    Man City go down the other end and Doku whips a cross/shot into the box which Vicario tips behind for a corner.
    Copy linkCopiedTottenham 0-1 Man City
    70. Bernardo Silva plays a short pass into Foden who looks to drop the shoulder and take it past his man.
    He almost gets lucky with a deflection as he tries to scramble through on goal.
    Tottenham manage to clear their lines and keep the visitors out.
    Ederson has really thrown his toys out of the pram on the bench at being substituted.
    Copy linkCopied More

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    Aston Villa 3 Liverpool 3: Jhon Duran double seals dramatic late point for hosts in rollercoaster night for top 4 race

    DURAN DURAN used to be a famous band from Birmingham.On Monday night a kid from Colombia gave it a whole new meaning as Jhon Duran hit a deadly late double to stun Liverpool and claw back what could be a priceless point for Unai Emery’s men.Jhon Duran scored two late goals to salvage a point for Aston VillaCredit: ReutersJarell Quansah scored his first Premier League goal and Liverpool’s third of the eveningCredit: ReutersVilla now sit five points clear of fifth-place Tottenham with the end of the season just six days awayCredit: ReutersWhen Emery sent him on after 79 minutes Villa trailed 3-1, but boy did his Hail Mary work a treat!Duran struck twice in three extraordinary minutes to become a cult hero in B6 – and ‘Notorious,’ on Merseyside!Live on Sky TV Duran dished up an extraordinary finale which even Jurgen Klopp has rarely witnessed in his eight and a half years in charge.His side were looking good for three points until Duran Duran took centre stage in front of Hollywood A-lister and Villa fan Tom Hanks with his ‘Goals on film!’Klopp packed his overnight bag for the final time as Liverpool boss and headed for Villa Park for his 238th and final away game – eight years and 209 days after his first one at Spurs.It’s generally been a happy hunting ground for Klopp and Liverpool had won eight of their last nine top-flight visits to B6.However the exception remains one of the rare occasions that Klopp got it spectacularly wrong during his time as Anfield boss.A Premier League club record 7-2 defeat at the hands of Dean Smith’s Villa in October 2020 has to go down as an unexpected stain on the German’s copybook.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThat freak result must be one of the craziest of Klopp’s reign and, for a while, it looked as if we were in for a similarly bonkers night here.Hollywood A-lister Hanks had barely settled into his seat when the nonsense began.Tottenham fans reveal ‘absolutely embarrassing and shameful’ chant ahead of Man City clash that could hand Arsenal titleIt started from the unlikeliest of sources as Emi Martinez dropped a rare clanger to gift Liverpool the lead in their first attack.Hanks once starred in the hit movie Catch Me If You Can – and how Martinez must have wished he had achieved that simple feat with the ball!Harvey Elliott started the move rolling when he worked a neat one-two with Mo Salah on the right and made ground behind Lucas Digne.Elliott’s cross nicked off Pau Torres but it was the faintest of deflections and should have led to a bread and butter adjustment for such an assured keeper.Instead, Martinez fumbled at it like a drunk man chasing a balloon and let the ball slip through his gloves as he fell back.Even then you would have backed the World Cup winner to recover.But, as he reached back to try and recover the loose ball he somehow managed to fumble it with his outstretched glove and knocked it agonisingly over his own goalline for an extraordinary own goal.While Youri Tielemans buried his head in his hands, Elliott looked too embarrassed to even celebrate the freakish own goal he had unwittingly assisted with.Villa were understandably rocked and Liverpool smelt blood.Salah cut inside Digne as if the former Everton man wasn’t there but his shot glanced off Torres for a corner.Cody Gakpo then headed over as Liverpool piled on the pressure.Moussa Diaby managed to get Villa up the park to set Leon Bailey up with a cutback but the Jamaican winger fluffed his shot under pressure from Trent Alexander-Arnold.Martinez did his best to make some kind of amends with a fingertip save to keep out Luis Diaz’s header from Salah’s cross.Then, out of nowhere, Villa were suddenly level.Elliott played a wayward pass which struck a Villa defender and the ball landed at John McGinn’s feet who threaded a pass through to Ollie Watkins.The England striker surged forward menacingly and fronted up young Jarrell Quansah, slowing the kid down before suddenly speeding up again with an electric burst of pace to leave him dead.Once around the back of the Reds defence Watkins had the good sense to pull the ball back beyond the penalty spot.And Tielemans was steaming in to slam the ball low past three defenders and Alisson.It was a breathtaking equaliser and Watkins’ 13th Premier League assist of a stunning season.Villa Park was rocking and Quansah did well to block Bailey as he twisted and turned in the box.But midway through this extraordinary half Liverpool regained their lead – eventually.Salah played in Diaz who worked the ball wide to Joe Gomez and the left-back swept in a low cross which Martinez could only get the merest of touches to.That left the in-rushing Cody Gakpo with the simplest of tap-ins.But Liverpool were made to sweat it out for a couple of tense minutes as VAR Chris Kavanagh checked for TWO possible offsides in the build up before finally awarding the goal.Villa really should have struck back swiftly but incredibly they passed up the chance of a lifetime – 32 years after Ronnie Rosenthal’s miss of the century at the same venue.Konsa flicked the ball to Bailey who took out Alisson and the ball was heading to Watkins for a simple tap-in at the far post.But to the striker’s horror Diego Carlos nipped in front of him to poke the ball wide of a gaping goal from one yard!According to Opta the XG factor was 0.96, meaning Carlos would have been expected to score 96 times out of 100 attempts from that range.Having survived that scare Liverpool gave themselves the security of a two-goal lead three minutes after the restart.Elliott swung in a deep free kick and Digne was guilty of ball watching as Quansah stole in behind him to head past Martinez.Villa thought they had hit back after 52 minutes when Tielmans sent Bailey and Diaby scampering clear.Bailey centred for Watkins to score and the striker celebrated becoming the first Villa player to score 20 goals in the Prem – or so he thought – until VAR intervened.It ruled that Bailey was fractionally offside and the Jamaican lashed out in fury that no-one had informed him Diaby was better placed to take the ball.Watkins tried to catch Alisson out with a backheel which didn’t come off.Then Diaz broke free and squared to Elliott who just beat Salah to bundle the ball home – only for VAR to rule out yet another ‘goal’.Incredibly Villa kept fighting and pulled one back to make it 3-2 with five minutes remaining.Sub Callum Chambers robbed Alexis Mac Allister and the ball flew to Jhon Duran whose brilliant first touch set him up to drill his shot beyond Alisson from the edge of the box.Darwin Nunez then raced clear to net at the other end – but VAR ruled it out for offside.And amazingly the last word went to Duran who added a second to draw Villa level after 88 minutes.Bailey broke upfield and his pass crashed off Duran to fly past Alisson for a sensational late leveller.Here is how the match unfolded on our live blog… More