So another round of fixtures comes to a close in the Premier League, with Arsenal holding on to their position at the top while the bottom of the table remains as tight as ever in the battle to avoid relegation.
Sunderland’s latest victory over Newcastle moved them further clear of the trap door, while Manchester United’s slump continued as Stoke City beat the Premier League champions for the first time since 1984.
In the titanic clash at the Eithad Stadium, Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea secured a 1-0 win courtesy of a Branislav Ivanovic strike, while Everton moved to within two points of neighbours Liverpool in the quest to secure a Champions League spot.
But it is at Cardiff City where we start for Goal‘s Team of the Week, with goalkeeper David Marshall (4.5) in inspired form as the hosts survived a late onslaught to secure three precious points against fellow strugglers Norwich City.
At centre-back, Curtis Davies (3.5), who has been one of Hull City’s shining lights following their return to the Premier League this season, earns a place, while Ryan Shawcross (3.5) and James Tomkins (3.5), who impressed in West Ham’s 2-0 victory over Swansea, also feature.
Eden Hazard (4.5) was once again the star of the show for Chelsea as the west Londoners came away from the Etihad Stadium with all three points, while team-mates Ramires and Nemanja Matic were unfortunate to miss out on a spot in Goal’s XI.
Arsenal midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (4), starting in a central role against Crystal Palace, also claims a place in the team, with his two well-taken goals enough to keep the Gunners on top of the table, and Jack Colback (4) was on the scoresheet as Sunderland defeated Newcastle 3-0.
Stoke defied the odds to defeat Manchester United on Saturday, with Charlie Adam (4.5) grabbing two goals including a stunning long-range strike while a Red Devils loanee, Wilfried Zaha (4), made an impact as substitute to help Cardiff past Norwich.
In the two attacking slots, Jay Rodriguez (4), who scored a terrific curling shot to seal victory over Fulham, is partnered by Fabio Borini (4.5) with Sunderland team-mate Jozy Altidore and West Ham’s Andy Carroll narrowly missing out.