Premier League result, final score and reaction as Spurs being held

Tottenham Hotspur face Brentford in the Premier League in a match that is set to be crucial in the battle for Champions League qualification.

Spurs have won five of their last seven Premier League games since exiting the FA Cup in March to get their top-four bid on track under Antonio Conte.

However a 1-0 defeat to Brighton last weekend rather opened the door to their rivals Arsenal and Manchester United – and the Gunners took advantage by beating the Red Devils 3-1 earlier today

Brentford, meanwhile, have awakened from their winter slump to win five of their last six games and pull clear of the Premier League relegation zone. Their form has been inspired by Christian Eriksen, who is set to face his old club Spurs for the first time today, with the Bees winning all five games in which the Denmark international has started.

Follow all the action from the crucial clash in west London below:

Brentford vs Tottenham

• 65’ – CLOSE! Kane clears a Jansson effort off the line

• 18’ – CROSSBAR! Toney’s header hits the bar

• Brentford XI: Raya, Roerslev, Jansson, Bech, Henry, Janelt, Jensen, Eriksen, Ghoddos, Mbuemo, Toney

• Tottenham XI: Lloris, Royal, Romero, Dier, Davies, Sessegnon, Hojbjerg, Bentancur, Kulusevski, Son, Kane

Brentford FC 0 – 0 Tottenham Hotspur FC

Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

19:05 , Michael Jones

78 mins: Fresh legs for Brentford. Josh Dasilva and Yoane Wissa come on for the home side with Saman Ghoddos and Mathias Jensen taken off.

Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

19:04 , Michael Jones

75 mins: Tottenham mount the pressure on the Brentford defence by maintaining possession around the edge of the penalty area and whipping crosses into the box. The Bees defence is up to the task though and they keep Spurs at bay.

That was the visitor’s best period on the ball so far. 15 minutes to play.

Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

19:01 , Michael Jones

72 mins: Davinson Sanchez is coming on for Tottenham with Ryan Sessegnon taken off. It seems as though Sessegnon has picked up a knock as it isn’t the most attacking of substitutions from Antonio Conte.

Story continues

Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

18:58 , Michael Jones

69 mins: Close! Spurs work the ball into Brentford’s final third and win a corner of their own. The set piece comes into the box but Rodrigo Bentancur heads it over the crossbar.

Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

18:55 , Michael Jones

66 mins: Chance! Mads Roerslev flicks the ball into the Spurs box and a glancing header is cleared off the line but Harry Kane! The ball comes out to Eriksen who drills a low shot towards the near post but Lloris leaps across to smother it before it crosses the line. Tottenham are all at sea here.

Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

18:50 , Michael Jones

63 mins: Eriksen’s free kick strikes the Tottenham wall and deflects behind for a corner. The next set piece is won in the air by Emerson Royal who heads it out of the Spurs box. Brentford are up to nine corners for the game now.

Sadly there’s no sign of the scoreline changing anytime soon.

Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

18:49 , Michael Jones

60 mins: Christian Eriksen swings another corner deep into the box for Brentford but Spurs manage to knock the ball out to Kulusevski. His first touch is poor and Toney jumps onto the loose ball. Kulusevski tries to win it back and takes of the striker from behind giving Brentford a free kick in a dangerous area.

Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

18:45 , Michael Jones

57 mins: Brentford win a corner that is initially dealt with by Spurs but the ball gets recycle and the Bees keep up the pressure. Pontus Jansson flicks it on to the back post where a cross into the six-yard box is plucked out of the air but Hugo Lloris.

Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

18:40 , Michael Jones

54 mins: Better from Spurs as the work the ball over to Dejan Kulusevski. He ducks inside and crosses the ball over to the far side of the box where Son Heung-min is arriving. Vitaly Janelt gets back in time though and glances the ball out for a corner.

Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

18:38 , Michael Jones

51 mins: Chance! Rice Henry brings the ball into the Spurs box from the left side and knocks it into Ivan Toney. He takes too long on the ball and has to return the pass instead of shooting but Henry keeps the attack going with a flick over to Bryan Mbuemo. Mbuemo lets the ball bounce before smoking it over the crossbar.

Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

18:36 , Michael Jones

48 mins: Hugo Lloris sprints a long way out of his box to challenge Ivan Toney as the ball is played over the top. The two players seem to collide but Lloris got there and managed to clear the Tottenham lines.

Second half: Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

18:33 , Michael Jones

Kick off: Brentford restart the game with a pass back to David Raya who belts it long. Tottenham recover the ball and knock it back to Hugo Lloris. Bryan Mbuemo charges him down and the goalkeeper has to quickly hoof the ball over to the right side of the pitch where it bounces out for a Brentford throw in.

Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

18:24 , Michael Jones

Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

18:20 , Michael Jones

This is a big half-time team talk for Antonio Conte and Spurs. They know they need to win to catch up to Arsenal in the race for the top four but Brentford have been the better team.

Spurs need to come out swinging in the second half and take the game to the Bees.

Half-time: Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

18:16 , Michael Jones

45+1 mins: Nothing to separate the teams as they head into the break. Tottenham haven’t played well but that’s due in part to how solid Brentford have been.

Their press has been good and they’ve had the best chance at goal. Ivan Toney rattling the crossbar with his headed effort.

Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

18:13 , Michael Jones

42 mins: Still no shots on target from either side. Brentford have all but nullified Tottenham’s attacking qualities. This feels a lot like the Brighton game for Antonio Conte’s men.

If they aren’t careful the Bees will take the lead and then they’ll find it really difficult to score.

Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

18:11 , Michael Jones

39 mins: Saman Ghoddos and Ivan Toney combine on the right side but Toney’s cross into the middle is poor and the ball sails out of play.

Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

18:07 , Michael Jones

36 mins: Cristian Romero slips as Christian Eriksen collects the ball just inside Tottenham’s final third. Ivan Toney makes a run the vacant space in Spurs’ back line but Eriksen pass over the top is off target and the ball bounces out of play.

Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

18:03 , Michael Jones

33 mins: Son utilises his fancy footwork to shimmy around Vitaly Janelt and take the ball to the edge of the penalty area. He feeds it out wide to Ryan Sessegnon before getting clipped and going down. Sessegnon flicks the ball over to the back post but can’t pick out Harry Kane and the ball skips behind for a goal kick.

Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

18:02 , Michael Jones

30 mins:

Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

17:58 , Michael Jones

27 mins: Tottenham haven’t got going at all yet. Pontus Jansson is sticking close to Harry Kane not allowing the forward any room on the ball when it’s played up to him.

Spurs maintain a bit of possession outside the Brentford penalty area but Rodrigo Bentancur fancies a go from range and fires it well wide.

Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

17:57 , Michael Jones

24 mins: Spurs lose the ball in the middle of the pitch despite some trickery from Son and the comes loose to Pontus Jansson. He boots it down the right wing where Ivan Toney is free to run into space. He brings the ball down and fires an early pass into the box for Bryan Mbuemo but Tottenham manage to turn it behind for another Brentford corner.

Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

17:53 , Michael Jones

21 mins: Christian Eriksen is running the show for Brentford and attempts to slip in Ivan Toney. The pass it intercepted and comes out to Bryan Mbuemo who wins the Bees another corner – their fifth of the game.

Eriksen floats the set piece over to Toney who once again volleys the ball towards goal but Cristian Romero blocks this attempt out of play.

Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

17:49 , Michael Jones

18 mins: Save! What a stop this is from Hugo Lloris. Christian Eriksen whips a pacey corner into the box and picks out Ivan Toney who meets it with a powerful header at goal. Lloris leaps to his right and sticks out his right arm. In real time it looks as though he palmed the ball clear of the back post but the replay shows Toney’s effort striking the crossbar and bouncing clear.

Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

17:45 , Michael Jones

15 mins: Son’s corner kick is easily dealt with by Brentford and Saman Ghoddos carries the ball clear before holding it up for his teammates to arrive.

It’s been a bright start from Brentford. Tottenham are certainly in a game here.

Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

17:43 , Michael Jones

12 mins: Cristian Romero flicks an aerial pass into the box for Harry Kane who’s pounced on quickly by Pontus Jansson. The defender seems to collide with Kane as he challenges for the ball and Kane goes down. He doesn’t make much of the incident though and the referee lets play continue with Spurs winning a corner.

Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

17:40 , Michael Jones

9 mins: Tottenham play the ball past the Brentford press and send it up to Harry Kane. He spins towards goal and threads a pass into the box for Dejan Kulusevski. Rice Henry’s put on the burners though to get back into position and intercepts the ball before it reaches the Spurs winger and the Bees take over possession.

Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

17:37 , Michael Jones

6 mins: Christian Eriksen is warmly welcomed by the travelling Tottenham fans as he goes over to take a corner kick. He floats his cross over to Ivan Toney who keeps it alive with a flick back into the middle of the box. There’s another deflection and the home side are awarding a second attempt from the corner.

It’s a similar ball across to Toney who goes for goal this time and volleys an effort at the target. This time the shot is blocked by Son, I think, before Spurs clear their lines.

Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

17:34 , Michael Jones

3 mins: Brentford are aggressively pressing up the pitch and they’re rewarded for their persistence as they recover the ball. Bryan Mbuemo makes a run down the inside right channel and lets fly winning a corner when the ball is deflected wide of goal.

Kick off: Brentford 0 – 0 Tottenham

17:30 , Michael Jones

Tottenham get the game underway at the Brentford Community Stadium. They are hoping to bounceback from a 1-0 defeat to Brighton last time out and regain fourth place off Arsenal.

Brentford vs Tottenham

17:26 , Michael Jones

Here come the players. Tottenham have to win to get back into the top four. Brentford will move back into the top 10 if they pick up all three points.

This is going to be a tough one for Spurs.

Brentford vs Tottenham

17:23 , Michael Jones

Christian Eriksen has scored one goal and assisted two in his last four Premier League games. The Bees have won all five league games in which he has started.

And, Ivan Toney has netted in each of his last four Premier League starts at home, scoring five goals in total.

Brentford vs Tottenham

17:20 , Michael Jones

Brentford are the only one of 31 Premier League clubs that Harry Kane has faced without scoring.

But, Kane has been directly involved in 50 goals in Premier League London derbies, scoring 39 and assisting 11. Only Thierry Henry, with 55, has been involved in more.

Brentford vs Tottenham

17:17 , Michael Jones

Tottenham can win three successive Premier League away matches for the first time since they were victorious in their opening four away matches last season.

They have won just one of their last 11 away London derbies in the Premier League (with three draws and seven defeats), losing the last five in a row. Spurs have never lost six consecutive London derbies on the road in their league history.

Brentford vs Tottenham

17:15 , Michael Jones

Tottenham failed to register a single shot on target in last weekend’s 1-0 defeat to Brighton. They had scored 25 goals in their previous seven league fixtures before that.

Spurs are yet to draw any of their 20 games in all competitions in 2022, winning 11 and losing nine.

Brentford vs Tottenham

17:11 , Michael Jones

Brentford have won five of their last six top-flight matches, after they were victorious in six of their first 27 Premier League games.

They have triumphed in three consecutive Premier League fixtures – the joint-longest current streak of any team, along with Newcastle United.

Brentford vs Tottenham

17:08 , Michael Jones

The race for the top four is still very much on. Arsenal’s 3-1 victory over Manchester United earlier in the day moved them back above Spurs and pretty much ended United’s chances of Champions League football next year.

Antonio Conte’s men need to respond with a win of their own. If they beat Brentford they’ll move back to fourth as their goal difference is better than the Gunners’.

Brentford vs Tottenham

17:05 , Michael Jones

Brentford are hosting Tottenham in a league game for the first time since a 4-1 defeat in the second tier in 1949. If they win Tottenham will complete their first ever league double over Brentford.

The Bees have won just two of the 17 meetings in all competitions, both 2-0 home triumphs – one in a FA Cup third round replay in 1946 and the other in 1948 in the second tier.

As Christian Eriksen and Tottenham meet again, can they be what the other needs?

17:00 , Michael Jones

There will be an emotional reunion between Christian Eriksen and Tottenham Hotspur at the Brentford Community Stadium on Saturday. In time, there could be another, more permanent one.

In early February, days after Eriksen signed for Brentford on a short-term contract, Antonio Conte opened the door to a return to Spurs. He didn’t quite guide him through, though. At that point, seven months on from suffering a cardiac arrest and requiring life-saving treatment while playing for Denmark at Euro 2020, Eriksen had yet to step back onto a football pitch and there were doubts over whether he would be able to at all.

Now Eriksen is leading a Brentford side who are standing in Tottenham’s path to the top four and Champions League qualification. The midfielder’s return to football has been one of the stories of the season and he has made a wonderful impact in west London, inspiring a club who looked to be sliding towards relegation and steering them away from danger.

As Christian Eriksen and Tottenham meet again, can they be what the other needs?

Full-time: Manchester City 5-1 Watford

16:58 , Sarah Rendell

All the pressure is on Liverpool for tomorrow’s Merseyside derby as City are now four points ahead of them in the table.

The Reds are the favourites for the match but you never know what could happen in the title race!

We now turn our attention to Brentford vs Tottenham in another crucial game in the top four race.

Full-time: Manchester City 5-1 Watford

16:54 , Sarah Rendell

City extend their lead at the top of the Premier League with a convincing 5-1 win over Watford.

Four cracking goals from Jesus and another score from Rodri saw them head and shiulders about the visitors this afternoon.

Watford do have individual talents with Kamara’s goal skilful but it’s clear where Hodgson’s team are at the moment.

Manchester City 5-1 Watford, 90 + 2 mins

16:52 , Sarah Rendell

After some injuries and that pause for the communication issues between the ref and the VAR there are three minutes added.

It’s more of the same with City creating chances but they aren’t coming off as cleanly as they were in the first 45.

Man of the Match named as four-time scorer Jesus.

Manchester City 5-1 Watford, 88 mins

16:48 , Sarah Rendell

Cancelo has a shot but it’s an easy one for Foster to collect.

There’s a smile on Hodgson’s face despite this awful scoreline. Watford’s hopes of staying up aren’t ended by this result. They will play Burnley and then Everton which could see them stay in the top flight.

Cancelo again on the hunt but it goes wide. Sterling gets his team in another great position but Gealish can’t finish it off. The touch doesn’t have enough on it with Foster smothering the ball.

Manchester City 5-1 Watford, 83 mins

16:43 , Sarah Rendell

The game is slowed down by City but Zinchenko injects some life with a good cross but the final touch doesn’t connect.

Cathcart has been affective since coming on, always first to the ball when it gets in the box. Ngakia wins a free kick as he is fouled by Zinchenko.

Dennis takes the kick but it’s headed wide by Pedro, a great opportunity missed by the visitors.

Manchester City 5-1 Watford, 78 mins

16:38 , Sarah Rendell

As things stand Manchester City are now four points ahead of Liverpool with the Reds able to close the gap again tomorrow against Everton.

Kayembe is on for Watford as Hodgson makes more changes to his tired side. They have had to be on constant alert and in defensive mode.

Grealish wins a free kick and Mahrez looks to take it. His shot is hit to Jesus and is put in the box but Ngakia does well to clear it.

Manchester City 5-1 Watford, 73 mins

16:32 , Sarah Rendell

Cathcart and Pedro are both on for Watford as they look to stem the bleeding in this match.

Watching City keep the ball in the midfield is like a cat playing with a mouse. You know the killer blow is coming but they like to play around with their prey first.

The hosts are now looking for that sixth hit but Guardiola makes a change before they can. Mahrez is on for scorer Rodri.

Jesus gets a cross in for Sterling, the England international has had so many chances but he can’t quite get the last touch away.

Brentford vs Tottenham: Line-ups

16:32 , Michael Jones

Brentford XI: Raya, Roerslev, Jansson, Bech, Henry, Janelt, Jensen, Eriksen, Ghoddos, Mbuemo, Toney

Tottenham XI: Lloris, Royal, Romero, Dier, Davies, Sessegnon, Hojbjerg, Bentancur, Kulusevski, Son, Kane

Manchester City 5-1 Watford, 68 mins

16:28 , Sarah Rendell

City make another change as Laporte is off for Ake.

Just moments later Foster is forced to make a save as Gundogan looks to strike. Sissoko then heads away a corner but City are looking stronger by the minute.

Watford have a corner and it would save a few blushes if they could get another goal. They play it short and City deal with it, Cancelo clears but Kamara wrestles it back for Watford. Possession continues to exchange hands.

Manchester City 5-1 Watford, 63 mins

16:23 , Sarah Rendell

Ngakia stops a chance which Zinchenko could’ve slotted that home.

The only possession Watford are having is by thwarting more City chances. You have to feel for stars like Dennis, who has been their standout player this match.

Nagakia again read a play well, if he didn’t cut that pass out Sterling would have struck. City corner sees Rodri almost score the hosts’ sixth but it sails over the bar.

And there goes Dennis who gets a clean shot away which is saved well by Ederson. But if the shot did go in it wouldn’t have counted with the star offside.

Manchester City 5-1 Watford, 58 mins

16:18 , Sarah Rendell

Watford won’t win this but they need to be sharper before this turns embarrassing.

City are pulling all the strings and the little momentum Watford did have in the first half seems to have disappeared.

De Bruyne has been insane for his side today, doing all the work in the background but my word Jesus! Four goals before 55 minutes, breath-taking.

City make their first change as Gundogan comes on for De Bruyne – to huge applause from fans and his manager.

GOAL! Manchester City 5-1 Watford (Jesus, 53’)

16:14 , Sarah Rendell

Okay wow, goals are coming from nowhere now!

Jesus has his fourth after another perfect ball from De Bruyne. Watford are falling apart.

Manchester City 4-1 Watford, 53 mins

16:13 , Sarah Rendell

The game takes a while to get back underway as the officials try to fix the communication issues. The referee cannot hear the VAR hub.

City are again building from deep, they are controlling every area of this match. Their patience and perfect passes could see them make the scoreline horrendous for the visitors.

The hosts have a corner with De Bruyne taking the set piece once again. Sarr heads away but to a City player as the team look for their fifth.

The visitors manage to build their own attack but Fernandinho makes a great tackle to win the ball.

PENALTY! Manchester City 4-1 Watford (Jesus, 48’)

16:09 , Sarah Rendell

Jesus has his hat-trick!

After a delayed check from VAR as they cannot hear the hub, so they couldn’t go ahead with the penalty until that message was communicated.

The star slots it past Foster, the keeper hsi own demise as he is the one whose foul caused this.

Manchester City 3-1 Watford, 46 mins

16:06 , Sarah Rendell

A very quick update as 14 seconds into the second half Foster gives away a penalty with Jesus taken out!

Back underway! Manchester City 3-1 Watford

16:06 , Sarah Rendell

It’s mainly been a City party so far and Guardiola’s side will look to punish Watford in this second half.

The players are off in this second 45.

Half-time: Manchester City 3-1 Watford

15:48 , Sarah Rendell

Sterling had a chance and a Watford corner gave the visitors an opportunity but the half-time score remains 3-1.

City haven’t had all of the say in this opening 45 but it’s definitely their match after three impressive scores.

Jesus has a brace and Rodri scored to give the hosts a commanding lead. Kamara slotted home to keep Watford in this but the holders should close out this match.

Manchester City 3-1 Watford, 44 mins

15:44 , Sarah Rendell

The game has a slower pace as City look to close out this half after an impressive opening 45.

The hosts are building again here though with a long cross almost finding Cancelo on the far post, it goes just beyond him for a goal kick.

Cancelo fouls Cleverley and it ends with the City star booked.

Manchester City 3-1 Watford, 39 mins

15:39 , Sarah Rendell

De Bruyne is okay, he is up and back in the match.

That goal has deflated Watford’s balloon with the team getting a foot back into it after Kamara’s goal.

City are so patient, they go through the passes and individual skill to dance around the defenders is impressive. Jesus puts in a cracking cross for Sterling but it sails over the bar. Guardiola looks so frustrated that didn’t hit the back of the net.

GOAL! Manchester City 3-1 Watford (Rodri, 34’)

15:35 , Sarah Rendell

De Bruyne is down after he feeds Jesus, the ball comes back into the box and Rodri smashes it home!

All the momentum Watford have built disappates.

Manchester City 2-1 Watford, 32 mins

15:33 , Sarah Rendell

It was well worked from Watford, it started with great control from Louza and the team just went through the passes until they found Kamara. He took a touch and then eased it past Ederson.

City are now looking to hit back but Watford have gained confidence from that goal. De Bruyne fouls Dennis to give possession back.

A free kick is pingedinto the box and City only just manages to deal with it.

What a story it would be if Watford can get right back in this!

GOAL! Manchester City 2-1 Watford (Kamara, 28’)

15:30 , Sarah Rendell

That has come from nowhere!

A cracking cross from Dennis sees Kamara put Watford right back into this!

Manchester City 2-0 Watford, 28 mins

15:29 , Sarah Rendell

What a player De Bruyne is, that ball was the best you’ll see. Jesus couldn’t believe his luck, he hardly had to move to head home.

Now the Belgium international concedes a corner, Watford’s first, but it’s handled well by City who are now on the counter.

Sterling wins a free kick from Ngakia, it’s just inside the City half and De Bruyne is over the ball with Zinchenko. But it’s the Belgian who takes it. The ball pinballs and City have to build from deep.

Kabasele cuts a ball away from Grealish but City are on the charge again, it’s relentless from the holders.

GOAL! Manchester City 2-0 Watford (Jesus, 23’)

15:25 , Sarah Rendell

Cleverley does well to dispossess Sterling but it comes back out to De Bruyne.

It’s a pin point ball for Jesus who slams it home! What a team goal.

Manchester City 1-0 Watford, 23 mins

15:24 , Sarah Rendell

Chance after chance for City at the moment and it’s their final touches and Foster’s good work keeping them from doubling their lead.

Another corner for the hosts is sent in by De Bruyne but it ends in nothing. Laporte thought he was brought down but the ref says play on.

Dennis does so well to run around two defenders, he gets a pass away but it finds a City player. The Watford playmaker calls for a penalty but VAR looks and decides against.

Sterling has the latest opportunity for City but his cross is caught by Foster.

Manchester City 1-0 Watford, 18 mins

15:19 , Sarah Rendell

Foster does well to get to the ball before Jesus, City are just picking apart Watford’s defence. They are placing every pass and Sterling manages to dance around four defenders to get that cross in.

Again City are patient in their attack. No rushing. Just anticipating the chances will come and waiting for Watford to open up. This time Cancelo is the one to pounce with Foster making a cracking save.

Sterling wins a corner with De Bruyne the taker, again, he goes short but the hosts run the ball all the way back to their keeper.

Manchester City 1-0 Watford, 13 mins

15:14 , Sarah Rendell

Great work from Samir cuts out a cross from Cancelo as City easily pass the ball around, they have huge amounts of space to do what they want at the moment.

The great intercept did concede a corner with De Bruyne on the kick again. It’s headed away for another corner but this time Dennis does well.

Grealish fights for it back and gets it in the box but Fernandihno can’t get a clean shot away. This is one way traffic.

Louza’s sloppy pass sees another City corner with De Bruyne on it again, it’s headed away.

What a counter for Watford! It was almost a one-on-one with Dennis and Ederson but Zinchenko makes the metres and the tackle to stop the chance, a great defensive move!

Manchester City 1-0 Watford, 9 mins

15:10 , Sarah Rendell

City had retained possession ahead of that goal and were patient in their attack. Cancelo had pinged the ball into the box and it came out for Zinchenko who flicked it onto Jesus.

This could be a very long afternoon for Watford. Hodgson has never been relegated from the top flight but it is looking more and more likely he will be this season.

City have a corner and De Bruyne takes the set piece, Watford deal well with it and contain the threat.

Cleverley then cuts out a dangerous cross from Cancelo. Fernandihno gets a shot away but Foster collects well, it’s all City in these early stages.

GOAL! Manchester City 1-0 Watford (Jesus, 4’)

15:06 , Sarah Rendell

Well that didn’t take long did it?

Zinchenko gets a great cross in and Jesus gets a one touch finish.

Kick-off! Manchester City 0-0 Watford

15:01 , Sarah Rendell

So here we go!

Can City blow Watford away or can the visitors shock the defending champions?

Manchester City vs Watford

14:55 , Sarah Rendell

The teams have been out for warm-up and they will re-emerge on the pitch shortly for kick-off at 3pm.

The favourites are City but it will be interesting to see what the final score is. If Watford can keep the score down, or even hold City heading into half-time it will be a win.

But from City’s Brighton match earlier this weekend, you need to be alert for the full 90 or they will make you pay.

Manchester City vs Watford

14:50 , Sarah Rendell

We move from the Emirates to the Etihad now as table toppers Manchester City face off against Watford.

The team news is up with both managers revealing their starting XIs.

Pep Guardiola will be looking to extend his lead at the top of the table to thwart Liverpool who are chasing the defending champions.

City: Ederson, Cancelo, Dias, Laporte, Zinchenko, Rodrigo, Fernandinho (C), De Bruyne, Jesus, Grealish, Sterling.

Meanwhile Watford need a win to keep hopes of staying in the top flight alive. They are currently seven points away from safety.

Watford: Foster, Ngakia, Louza, King, Cleverley, Kamara, Sissoko, Samir, Sarr, Dennis, Kabasele.

Kick-off just ten minutes away.

Full-time: Arsenal 3-1 Manchester United

14:45 , Sarah Rendell

The match was an absolute thriller, especially in that fast-paced first half and we shouldn’t forget Ronaldo scored his 100th Premier League goal in the match.

But the Gunners just porved too much for United.

If you want to re-live any of the action, read Miguel Delaney’s report from the Emirates:

Arsenal best Manchester United to keep pace in top-four race

Full-time: Arsenal 3-1 Manchester United

14:41 , Sarah Rendell

Arsenal’s Granit Xhaka told BT Sport: ”I’m very happy for the three points. I’m happy I helped the team. It’s been a long time since I’ve scored.

“It was a 50/50 game in the second half. United were pressing us but we will take the three points.

“I like to score against United. I’m very happy. Arteta told us to take the fans with us and we did.”

Full-time: Arsenal 3-1 Manchester United

14:35 , Sarah Rendell

I still can’t believe Fernandes missed that penalty.

He ovethought it and tried to be too clever which saw him hit the post. Ramsdale had even gone the wrong way so if he put some power behind it, it would have brought United right back into the match.

Have a look at the shocker:

Full-time: Arsenal 3-1 Manchester United

14:31 , Sarah Rendell

What a season this has been for Mikel Arteta. People were calling for his head at the start of the campaign with an awful run of form but Arsenal displayed faith in their manager and he has paid them back.

It will be crucial for the Gunners to get back into European football after not qualifying for the first time in 25 years.

It’s a very different story at United who won’t take anything from this season. Is that due to them bringing in an interim manager instead of investing in Ole Gunnar Solskjaer for the rest of the season? Maybe. But it’s a long road back for the club who dominated for so long.

Full-time: Arsenal 3-1 Manchester United

14:26 , Sarah Rendell

Arsenal have gone fourth with a huge 3-1 win over United.

Tavares and Saka saw the hosts take a good lead but Ronaldo halved the scoreline in the first half.

Fernandes missed a penalty in the second half and Ramsdale saved a great shot from Dalot. They soaked in the pressure and Xhaka sealed the result.

United will be lucky to get Champions League now witht he battle firmly between Arsenal and Spurs now.

Arsenal 3-1 Manchester United, 90 + 3 mins

14:24 , Sarah Rendell

Odegaard has been named Man of the Match with his work in the background helping his team to this famous victory.

Ronaldo gets a yellow for a challenge on Tomiyasu, the frustration even reaching their best player.

A good point for United is that their performance has been much better than what fans saw against Liverpool. While Arsenal supporters will be hugely encouraged by their continuation of good form after their win over Chelsea.

Arsenal 3-1 Manchester United, 90 +1 mins

14:22 , Sarah Rendell

Arsenal continue to close this game out, they are keeping the ball and maintaining the game in their half.

United do manage to build something with Ronaldo sending the ball in but they can’t get the last touch away.

There are fourminutes added as Tomiyasu makes he way onto the pitch with Cedric making way.

Arsenal 3-1 Manchester United, 85 mins

14:15 , Sarah Rendell

As things stand Arsenal are fourth with this win but Tottenham will play Brentford later where they will look to restore themselves in the Champions League qualification spot.

Ronaldo is still at the centre of United as he is almost on the end of a good cross but he’s just offside.

Yet more cards raining down on this match as Lindelof getting booked for a challenge on Nketiah.

Odegaard, who has had a cracking match, gets into a great position to feed the box but United smother the ball.

The visitors make yet another change as Fernandes comes off for Mata.

Arsenal 3-1 Manchester United, 80 mins

14:10 , Sarah Rendell

Matic fouls Nketiah and Arsenal have a goal kick and the cameras pan to the touchline as United look to make changes.

Lingard and Rashford will be called into action in the next break of play. Before they come on Fernandes is booked for a challenge on Tavares. VAR are checking the tackle, it’s a late one from the United player but he stays on the pitch.

The England internationals are called into action as Matic and Elanga come off.

McTominay goes down with Elneny getting a yellow card for the foul.

Arsenal 3-1 Manchester United, 75 mins

14:06 , Sarah Rendell

The VAR are checking to see if Nketiah was blocking De Gea’s eyeline in the build up to Xhaka’s hit. The check is over and the goal stands, it was such a great strike!

The Emirates have somehow got even louder after that goal.

Saka has signalled to come off as his thigh is giving him trouble. He’s been taken off for Holding, hopefully Saka’s injury doesn’t keep him out of action for the rest of the season.

If United don’t win here it would be their fourth away defeat, something that hasn’t happened since the 80/81 season.

GOAL! Arsenal 3-1 Manchester United (Xhaka, 70’)

14:02 , Sarah Rendell

A beautiful ball from Saka sees him thread the ball through two United defenders but no one is in the box to collect.

But the ball comes back out and Xhaka pounces. It slides through the United defence like butter. Wow, what a hit!

Arsenal 2-1 Manchester United, 70 mins

14:00 , Sarah Rendell

United are screaming for an equaliser and their frustration at being held is shown with a scuffle between McTominay and Gabriel in the box.

There’s been a yellow card for Xhaka as he hits the ball into the stands, a silly one to give away. That is his 50th yellow card for Arsenal, a huge stat.

And another yellow card is handed out, this time for Tavares who pulls Elanga’s shirt. The BT Sport cameras are picking up United supporters on the mic with shouts of ‘get him off’. I don’t think we’re quite at a red card stage, yet.

Arsenal 2-1 Manchester United, 65 mins

13:55 , Sarah Rendell

The VAR have confirmed the shot was offside, it was a lot tighter than I initially thought but his right leg strays offside.

Ronaldo goes down with injury but he is thankfully back on his feet. Cedric strays offside and so United are on the build again.

Ronaldo lays off the ball to Dalot who has a huge chance! Ramsdale manages to push it onto the post, so close! The visitors are edging closer to the equaliser but Arsenal are doing well to keep their lead.

The Gunners make the first changes as Smith Rowe is off for Martinelli.

Arsenal 2-1 Manchester United, 60 mins

13:51 , Sarah Rendell

I am dumbfounded that he has missed that. The confidence the team showed in him to choose Fernandes over Ronaldo and then he overthinks and tries to be too clever!

Elanga has a shot shortly aftet the miss but Ramsdale does enough to thrwart it. He does concede a corner though. The ball is pinging around and eventually Tavares manages to get it away. United are still in possession and Ronaldo looked as though he scored but he was offside.

United are hungry to equalise here. VAR will check it but he is offside so this goal probbaly won’t stand.

PENALTY MISS! Arsenal 2-1 Manchester United

13:48 , Sarah Rendell

Surprisingly Fernandes is stepping up to take the kick over Ronaldo.

He’s had a howler! He hits it soft and it hits the post, Ronaldo goes over to comfort his teammate. How has he missed that?! Ramsdale goes the wrong way and he should’ve smashed that home.

Arsenal 2-1 Manchester United, 55 mins

13:46 , Sarah Rendell

Nketiah creates a good opportunity for Tavares but the ball bends away from goal. The first chance of the half goes to nothing.

McTominay fouls Xhaka and Arsenal take a free kick. Xhaka curls the ball in but Telles heads away, it comes back out for Saka who’s chance goes wide.

The England international hit a boot getting that ball away but he has ran the pain off.

McTominay is in trouble again as he fouls Gabriel in his own half. Another long spell of Arsenal pressure ends at the feet of De Gea.

Now United have a free kick as White fouls Sancho. The ball is pinged around and it ends with a United corner.

Fernandes takes the kick and he awards a penalty as Tavares handballs!

Arsenal 2-1 Manchester United, 50 mins

13:41 , Sarah Rendell

It’s been a slow start to the second half but Arsenal have had the lion share of possession.

A long spell with the ball ends with the Gunners running th eball out of play for a goal kick.

United are now looking to build but in the action Fernandes went down injured. He got back to his feet but he seems to be clutching his hip.

Back underway! Arsenal 2-1 Manchester United

13:36 , Sarah Rendell

The action at the Emirates is back underway.

Can Arsenal hold off United? Or will the visitors find a winner?

Half-time: Arsenal 2-1 Manchester United

13:30 , Sarah Rendell

Do you think this was a penalty?

Some people are saying it was soft but Telles does make contact with Saka in the box.

Have a look:

Half-time: Arsenal 2-1 Manchester United

13:22 , Sarah Rendell

Well what a half of football!

Tavares got the scoring underway with an early goal but United didn’t fade away after conceding.

They created chances but it was Arsenal who doubled their lead with a penalty from Saka.

But Ronaldo wasn’t going to let it be the Gunners having the only say as he hit a one touch finish to put United back into it. It was also the star’s 100th Premier League goal.

We are in for a huge second half. More of the same please!

Arsenal 2-1 Manchester United, 45 + 3 mins

13:19 , Sarah Rendell

There’s five minutes added to this thrilling half.

Odegaard whips the ball in but it doesn’t find a teammate. The Gunners are seeing out this half with style, having the majority of possession and chances.

Ramsdale feels the pressure from Ronaldo as Cedric passes back to the keeper who’s clearance is sloppy.

Telles gets a great shot away and Ramsdale saves well. Cedric then kicks it out of play for a corner. Fernandes gets a shot away but Arsenal block and they counter.

Odegaard gets a shot away with De Gea forced to make a save! I can’t type fast enough to keep up with this, unbelievable bit of football.

Arsenal 2-1 Manchester United, 44 mins

13:14 , Sarah Rendell

Elneny’s deft touch does enough to worry De Gea who pushes it wide for a corner.

Cedric takes the kick and the ball pinballs around the box. Saka hits it but it’s blocked by Elanga.

Sancho is having a good game and is a huge nuisance downt he left hand side. He has won a corner for the visitors with Fernandes the taker. Ramsdale has his eyes fixed on the ball and he collects. Odegaard was hit on the head in that exchange but the star is staying on the pitch.

Arsenal 2-1 Manchester United, 39 mins

13:09 , Sarah Rendell

Ronaldo has been everywhere for United and it is fitting he’s the one to bring them back into this game.

There’s a break in play as Telles has gone down with an injury. He is back on his feet and will play on.

As play gets back underway Ramsdale makes a howler of a mistake again with a short pass. United almost pounces on it, what a moment that would have been!

Saka wins an Arsenal throw in but United force them back to halfway.

GOAL! Arsenal 2-1 Manchester United (Ronaldo, 34’)

13:05 , Sarah Rendell

What a moment for Ronaldo! Fernandes whips the ball in and Ronaldo takes a one touch finish.

His 100th Premier League goal.

PENALTY! Arsenal 2-0 Manchester United (Saka, 32’)

13:03 , Sarah Rendell

A lovely penalty from Saka, the team are jumping all over him! De Gea went the wrong way.

Telles has also been booked for protesting the penalty call.

Arsenal 1-0 Manchester United, 30 mins

13:00 , Sarah Rendell

The goal has been chalked off.

I’m speechless, this came after Nketiah had an earlier chance which De Gea saved well.

Saka is taken down in the box and all the United players just stopped playing.

VAR have decided it’s offside but they are now checking to see if there’s a penalty with that Saka challenge by Telles.

It’s a penalty! What a horrible first half for United.

GOAL! Arsenal 2-0 Manchester United (Nketiah, 27’)

12:59 , Sarah Rendell

Oh my word, United have stopped as they thought there was a foul but Nketiah took his shot.

De Gea didn’t try to save it and it’s been given. VAR are checking to see if he’s offside but it looks okay.

Arsenal 1-0 Manchester United, 25 mins

12:55 , Sarah Rendell

McTominary hits the deck after being fouled and they get a free kick on halfway.

Ronaldo again gets the ball in the path to make an opportunity but the bounce isn’t kind.

United aren’t sleeping as Sancho gets into the box and then he and Ronaldo call for a handball. It’s checked by VAR and a penalty isn’t given, pundits are convinced it was a handball.

Cedric gives the ball away with Sancho pouncing. It’s threaded through the players and Diallo hits a stunning ball which hits the woodwork. That would have been an absolute cracker!

Arsenal 1-0 Manchester United, 20 mins

12:51 , Sarah Rendell

Sancho earns a corner with quick feet and Untied take it short. Fernandes looks to dink it into the box but his touch has too much on it.

How good is Nketiah? His dancing feet brings so much threat that Elanga fouls him to win a free kick just outside the box.

Odegaard takes it but it sails over the bar and so United look to create something fromt heir own half. Ronaldo gets a shot away, if he scores today he’ll bag his 100th Premier League score.

The forward is involved in all the good work from United so far, impeccable in the midfield.

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