Premier League festive period: Hits and misses
The Premier League’s festive period is a time when football fans anticipate thrilling matchups, unexpected results and potential turning points in the season.
As 2023 came to a close and 2024 started, certain teams emerged as resounding hits, while others faced the bitter taste of disappointment.
Here’s a look at the hits and misses during this captivating period.
Hit: Wolverhampton Wanderers
Gary O’Neil’s Wolverhampton Wanderers made a resounding statement during the festive fixtures, becoming the only team to secure victories in all three of their games between Christmas and the New Year.
Wolves kicked off the celebrations with a 2-1 win over Chelsea on Christmas Eve, followed by convincing triumphs over Brentford (4-1) and Everton (3-0).
Wolves’ festive success once again showcased their ability to challenge top sides and marked a high point in their campaign.
Miss: Newcastle United
Newcastle United faced a challenging festive season to coincide with their turbulent start to the season.
The Magpies struggled to live up to expectations, suffering four defeats in five matches against Tottenham, Luton Town, Nottingham Forest and Liverpool.
While a solitary win over Fulham offered a glimmer of hope, the overall performance raised concerns among the Newcastle faithful about the trajectory of their season.
Eddie Howe will be hoping that his team can start picking up wins again, but the Villa v Newcastle betting odds aren’t in their favour ahead of their January 30 clash.
Hit: Liverpool
At the pinnacle of the Premier League, Liverpool enjoyed a festive period filled with success.
The Reds maintained their unbeaten run with victories over Fulham, Sheffield United, Crystal Palace, Burnley and Newcastle, coupled with draws against Manchester United and Arsenal.
Sitting comfortably atop the table with a three-point lead, Liverpool showcased their title credentials and reaffirmed their status as serious contenders for the Premier League.
Miss: Manchester United
For Manchester United, the festive period was more of a rollercoaster than a celebration.
Aside from the unconvincing comeback win over Aston Villa, Erik ten Hag’s side suffered a humiliating 3-0 defeat at the hands of Bournemouth and disappointing losses to West Ham and Nottingham Forest.
The inconsistent performances left Old Trafford in a state of unease, with questions lingering about the team’s direction under the Dutchman.
Hit: West Ham United
Contrary to pre-season expectations, West Ham have excelled this campaign and embraced the festive period with open arms.
The Hammers went unbeaten in four games, notching wins against Manchester United and Arsenal — the latter being one of the biggest shocks of the season thus far as David Moyes’ men were 9/1 in the epl odds.
Currently sitting in a commendable sixth position, West Ham have defied expectations and are eyeing a coveted European spot — adding a touch of festive cheer for their supporters.
Miss: Brentford
Brentford experienced a challenging December, enduring a torrid run of five consecutive defeats as Thomas Frank’s men faced setbacks against Brighton, Sheffield United, Aston Villa, Wolves and Crystal Palace.
While the postponement of their game against Manchester City due to the Club World Cup provided a slight respite, Brentford’s struggles during the festive period raised concerns about their form and ability to navigate the Premier League’s demands.
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An honorary mention must go to Tottenham Hotspur, as aside from a 4-2 defeat to Brighton, they beat Newcastle, Forest, Everton and Bournemouth, while Arsenal, Burnley and Sheffield United also had some of the worst festive period forms.
