Happy Lampard keeps his feet on the ground
FRANK LAMPARD declared himself “absolutely delighted” but stressed that “it’s only a start” after Everton recorded their first Premier League win under him by beating Leeds 3-0 at Goodison Park.
The Toffees went 2-0 up in the first half thanks to headers from Seamus Coleman and fellow defender Michael Keane, before Richarlison’s shot went in off Anthony Gordon to move Everton five points clear of the relegation zone.
Lampard said: “I’m absolutely delighted. From minute one, right through the game, against a really good team… Leeds are a fantastic team... they never stop, great quality, but we didn’t allow them anything today.
“I know they hit the bar from distance, but in terms of our effort, our work rate, the nature of the team, how we wanted to play, how compact we were, some of the quality play, opportunities created, we created so many good opportunities in the game – I’m really happy.
“I’ve been here two weeks, it’s only a start, that’s for sure and I won’t get overexcited. But I can enjoy it. Seeing my team play like that was everything we wanted.”
In the late game, Raheem Sterling scored a hat- trick as Manchester City claimed a 4- 0 victory at Norwich that sees them move 12 points clear at the top of the table.
The visitors created plenty of chances before Sterling curled home a fine opener, Phil Foden then doubling the lead early in the second half. Sterling headed in his second from close range and completed his hat- trick by tapping home after seeing a last- minute penalty saved.
Che Adams fired Southampton to a deserved point at Old Trafford as Manchester United blew their lead after a goal from Jadon Sancho, to draw 1-1 for the third straight game.
Christian Eriksen got the biggest cheer of the day before Brentford were held to a goalless draw by Crystal Palace. Eriksen was introduced to supporters ahead of kick- off, eight months to the day since his cardiac arrest at Euro 2020.