Landon's 1st EPL game & 2nd Half Season Preview

Landon Donovan's EPL debut for Everton came today against Arsenal at a snowy (it was almost a blizzard in the 2nd half) Emirates Stadium, and the American did not fail to impress. His 1st half corner was met by a thundering Leon Osman header to give the Toffees a 1-0 lead. Donovan would be subbed off around the 68th minute, ending his EPL debut. The game overall was very exciting and would end 2-2. Unfortunately for Everton, both Arsenal goals would come off of deflections (one off Osman, the other off of Lucas Neill). Anyway, as for Donovan, I give him a 7.5 out of 10. He was a little nervy at first, made some heavy touches etc, but overall his effort was outstanding. He made some great runs, got an assist, and seemed to fit into the team immediately. Hopefully, this is a sign of things to come from the best American born player ever.

Now, for my EPL 2nd half preview:

Champions- Manchester United: Look, I know that may seem like a homer thing for me to do, but I think Sir Alex has a few tricks up his sleeve. Currently, United sit 2nd in the table behind Chelsea. The main reason I feel United will pip Chelsea for the top spot is that the African Nations Cup will most likely cause Chelsea to drop some points. Another reason is that this is Ancelotti's first season in the Prem. I think the experience of Sir Alex in the late season fixture pile up will be the difference and United will win a 4th title in a row.

Rest of the top half:

2. Chelsea

3. Arsenal

4. Tottenham

5. Aston Villa

6. Birmingham: I know this seems high, but the Blues have new ownership with wads of cash, and they are already 8th right now. Plus, they have the Ecuadorean Chucho Benitez

7. Man City

8. Fulham

9. Everton

10. Liverpool- I only see Liverpool slipping further down the table (they are currently 7), which is not good for Rafa (who will be fired before seasons end)

Relegated Clubs: Wolverhampton, West Ham, and Portsmouth (It really is sad to be a Pompey fan nowadays)

Promoted Clubs from the Championship: Newcastle, Nottingham Forest, and Cardiff City will win the promotion playoff.

Golden Shoe (most goals) and Golden Ball (best player)- Wayne Rooney: Super Wayne currently is tied for the league lead in goals, and I don't see that stopping in the second half. I think he will shoot United to the title. The boys on the form of his life right now, and for England's World Cup chances, nothing could be better.