Daijiworld Media Network – London
London, Aug 17: Tottenham manager Thomas Frank celebrated a “dream” home debut as his side thrashed Burnley 3-0, while Erling Haaland led Manchester City’s 4-0 demolition of Wolves on the opening weekend of the Premier League season on Saturday.
Frank, who replaced Ange Postecoglou despite the Australian ending Spurs’ 17-year trophy drought last term, was all smiles as Richarlison struck twice and Brennan Johnson sealed the win in north London. “Perfect start or dream start. A good performance against a difficult opponent,” Frank said after the match.
At Molineux, Pep Guardiola’s revamped City looked sharp, with Haaland bagging a brace. But it was new signing Tijjani Reijnders who stole the show, assisting in three goals and netting one himself on his Premier League debut. Rayan Cherki, another summer signing, rounded off the victory.
Sunderland marked their Premier League return in style, defeating West Ham 3-0 at the Stadium of Light with goals from Eliezer Mayenda, Dan Ballard, and Wilson Isidor.
Elsewhere, Newcastle were left frustrated in a 0-0 draw against 10-man Aston Villa, as star striker Alexander Isak continued to push for a Liverpool move. “We want a resolution quickly. It’s taking away focus from the team,” said Newcastle boss Eddie Howe.
In Brighton, Fulham’s Rodrigo Muniz struck deep into stoppage time to earn a 1-1 draw after Matt O’Riley’s penalty had given the Seagulls the lead.
On Sunday, Arsenal face Manchester United, while champions Liverpool, who began with a 4-2 win over Bournemouth on Friday, look to maintain their title defence momentum.