Erling Haaland once again rewrote the Premier League history books, reaching 100 goals faster than any player before him as Manchester City survived a late scare to beat Fulham 5-4. But the drama of the night did not end in London. Up north, Newcastle and Tottenham played out a frantic 2-2 draw soaked in controversy that reignited football’s endless debate about VAR.
For Premier League fans in South Africa, the night felt like one of those chaotic midweek fixtures where the league proves, once again, that it remains unmatched in pure entertainment value.
City’s Record-Breaking Star Delivers On A Night Of Nerves
Haaland’s first-half strike at Craven Cottage was enough to etch his name into league history, becoming the fastest player to hit 100 Premier League goals. He reached the milestone in only 111 appearances, beating Alan Shearer’s long-standing record of 124 matches.
But despite racing into a 5-1 lead, City once again flirted with disaster. Their defence, which has looked unusually fragile this season, allowed Fulham to claw back three goals and nearly snatch an equaliser deep in stoppage time. Pep Guardiola’s frustration was clear. After also blowing a lead against Leeds last weekend, this latest wobble raises questions about whether his side can keep pace with log leaders Arsenal.
Yet through all the chaos, Haaland stood tall. His goal, his assist, and his presence were reminders that if City are to chase a seventh title under Guardiola, he remains the heartbeat of the project.
Foden’s Spark And Doku’s Influence Keep City Afloat
Phil Foden added two brilliant finishes, continuing a run of form that has delighted fans who have long believed he thrives best in a deeper, playmaking role. Jeremy Doku was also lively, his cut-back and deflected shot helping City stay ahead even as the match spiralled into frenzy.
Fulham’s spirited fightback, inspired by Nigerian Internationals Alex Iwobi and Samuel Chukwueze, earned applause from neutrals and frustration from City supporters who are tired of late-match panic attacks. Even so, City’s 19th straight win over Fulham keeps them firmly in the title race.
VAR Storm Dominates The Night In Newcastle
Source: NUFC on X
While City were clinging on in London, the Premier League’s other headline-grabbing storyline unfolded at St James’ Park, where Tottenham snatched a 95th-minute equaliser through Cristian Romero’s outrageous overhead kick.
But most fans were talking about something else entirely: the VAR call that handed Newcastle a late penalty.
The referee initially waved play on after Dan Burn went down, but VAR stepped in and urged a second look. After checking the monitor, the referee awarded the penalty, much to the fury of Spurs boss Thomas Frank, who did not mince his words post-match. He insisted it was never a foul and criticised the lack of consistency in officiating.
Supporters online echoed the frustration, with many saying the intervention went against the intended spirit of VAR. Even some Newcastle fans reportedly suggested the decision was soft.
Romero To The Rescue As Spurs Salvage Pride
Source: Spurs Official on X
Despite the controversy, Tottenham showed courage. Romero, who had already cancelled out Bruno Guimaraes’ opener earlier in the match, delivered a captain’s moment deep into stoppage time. His acrobatic finish silenced the home crowd and sparked wild celebrations from the Spurs travelling supporters.
For Newcastle, the draw felt like two points dropped after Anthony Gordon’s penalty had given them the lead. Coach Eddie Howe admitted the defensive lapses were disappointing, especially after controlling large spells of the match.
A Premier League Night That Had Everything
Between Haaland’s record-breaking moment, City’s defensive rollercoaster, and the storm surrounding VAR in Newcastle, the evening felt like pure Premier League theatre. It was unpredictable, emotional, and chaotic in the best possible way.
South African fans, who often stay up late midweek to catch every kick, were rewarded with two matches that reminded the world why this league remains football’s most binge-worthy drama series.
If this is how December has started, the title race and top-four chase promise fireworks right into the new year.
Source: Various
Featured Image Source: Man City on X
Read More: Romero bicycle kick rescues point for Spurs on soccermag
