Premiership round-up

Sep 21 2008

FURIOUS Arsene Wenger slammed Bolton's strongarm tactics as Arsenal came from behind to win 3-1 and climb to the top of the Premiership table.

Goals from Emmanuel Eboue, Nicklas Bendtner and Denilson rallied Gunners after Kevin Davies' early opener for Wanderers.

But Wenger was raging after Gael Clichy was injured in the first-half from a late tackle by Davies.

The French gaffer said: "They tried to intimidate us but I felt we dealt well with the problem.

"We were strong in the tackle and fought back in a convincing way. We were brilliant in every area on the pitch."

In Liverpool, boss Rafa Benitez hit out at the decision to chalk off a Steven Gerrard strike as the Reds drew 0-0 with Stoke.

Dirk Kuyt was judged to have interfered with play as Gerrard's free-kick sailed home. Benitez moaned: "It's a key decision. If the goal had stood it would have been a much more open game.

"It was a massive mistake and I don't think anyone can explain the decision."

Gianfranco Zola enjoyed a winning start as West Ham boss as he led them to a 3-1 win over struggling Newcastle.

David Di Michele struck twice for Hammers and Matthew Etherington added the third before Michael Owen clawed a goal back.

Zola said: "It means a lot to me and the players. It's a good result and the way they got it is a great satisfaction."

He was delighted too at the reception from fans, adding: "They were shouting my name but I didn't hear a thing - my mind was totally crossed!"

Two late goals by Michael Chopra earned Sunderland a 2-0 win over Middlesbrough.

Matt Derbyshire scored the only goal in Blackburn's 1-0 win over Fulham.