After a couple of weeks of all-out action packed football, where the defenders were basically put to the sword and out of the contest, we finally saw some form of semblance this weekend with teams showing better defensive nous. With a match still to go, we already have 5 clean sheets in the 9 matches which have taken place so far. Alex Ferguson rightly said, ” Attackers win you matches, defenders win you titles”. We take some time out and take a glance at the three defenders who stood out this weekend.
NATHAN AKE (BOURNEMOUTH)
Bournemouth bounced back after a dip in the results with a well deserved 1-0 win over Stoke City at the Bet365 Stadium. Nathan Ake’s goal was the difference between the two sides and he expectedly takes away all the plaudits. Stoke were on a tremendous run and to win at their home needed a good performance. Ake, on loan from Chelsea, not only scored the winning goal, he also helped his side keep a clean sheet. He made as many as 15 clearances to relieve his side of pressure helping start counters of their own. He will look to carry on in this vein of form.
JOSE FONTE (SOUTHAMPTON)
Southampton pulled a surprise out of the bag as they kept a clean sheet against a high-flying Liverpool outfit. The Reds came into the match as the highest scoring team in this calendar year and it was expected to be another goal fest involving the Reds. But what we saw, enhanced out views of Southampton’s season. Especially of their two centre-backs who have been impeccable so far.
Jose Fonte was linked heavily with Manchester United in the summer but being the thorough professional that he is, he has not let his performances be affected at all despite the rumours. He made 3 interceptions while blocking two goal-bound shots and also cleared his lines 5 times, heavily contributing to a precious clean sheet and a point against the then 1st placed Liverpool side.
YOUNES KABOUL (WATFORD)
Watford are seemingly determined to better their last season’s finish and are looking like a well-drilled unit under Walter Mazzarri. Their 4-match unbeaten streak was ended rudely by Liverpool before the international break, as the Reds demolished them 6-1.
But the Hornets have bounced back in emphatic fashion by defeating reigning Champions 2-1 thus maintaining their 8th place in the table. Kaboul was a stand-out performer for them in defence as the former Tottenham and Sunderland man intercepted the ball 4 times while blocking a goal-bound shot. In addition, he also cleared his lines 12 times.
