The half-time whistle has sounded around Premiership grounds and it’s been a 45 minutes which has seen Chelsea answer their Carling Cup critics. They lead West Ham 3-0 with goals from Frank Lampard, Joe Cole and Michael Ballack, although Lampard has been sent-off after a confrontation with Luis Boa Morte.
Despite resting Ronaldo, Rooney et al, Man United continue their ruthless form, beating Fulham 2-0 at half-time. The goals coming from Owen Hargreaves and Ji Sung Park. Aston Villa lead 1-0 at the Emirates after a Phillipe Senderos own goal after 27 minutes.
Spurs have also rested three players and are without formidable defensive pairing Jonathan Woodgate and Ledley King. They trail Birmingham 1-0 after ex-Chelsea striker Mikael Forsell’s strike.
Elsewhere there are 0-0 draws at the Riverside for Middlesborough against 18th placed Reading. Newcastle too are desperate for a win but are being held by Blackburn at St James’s Park. The “game of the day” at Pride Park is a bore draw so far. Manchester City host Wigan at 17.15
A big 45 minutes then for the struggling sides and for Arsenal who need at least a draw to maintain their lead at the top of the table.
Posted by Steve 
