Premier League round-up: Arsenal win as Sunderland provide more laughs

The big news ahead of the 3pm kick-offs was Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers’ decision to start with Mario Balotelli up front despite the criticism dished out to the striker over the last few days. However, he worked hard, but the Reds could only draw at Anfield…

Liverpool 0-0 Hull
Dejan Lovren and Mario Balotelli both had chances to score for Liverpool, but they were denied by goalkeeper Eldin Jakupovic in the first half, while Jake Livermore saw his shot saved by Simon Mignolet. Hull were impressive in defence to keep Balotelli, who had further chances in the second half, at bay. The Italian was guilty of missing a sitter in the final seconds as Liverpool just couldn’t find a way through the Tigers defence.

Southampton 1-0 Stoke
Sadio Mane netted the winner for the Saints, who also hit the woodwork twice. Dusan Tadic looked every bit the midfield maestro as Southampton marched into second place, two points above Manchester City.

Sunderland 0-2 Arsenal
Sunderland were battered 8-0 by Southampton last weekend and there was more laughs from them here. Alexis Sanchez scored twice, the first after some comical defending from Wes Brown. It was all Arsenal from then on and victory was sealed thanks to another home howler, this time Vito Mannone gifting Sanchez one of the easiest goals of his career.

West Brom 2-2 Crystal Palace
Brede Hangeland and a Mile Jedinak penalty ensured the visitors went in at half-time 2-0 in front. West Brom pulled themselves back into the game immediately after the restart, however, with substitute Victor Anichebe heading in before England Under-21 striker Saido Berahino converted a penalty at the death to snatch the hosts a point.