All four of the early matches played during Monday's Premier League fixtures produced an outright winner, with all four providing some serious entertainment. Aston Villa's great run of form has ended, while Blackburn couldn't keep up the momentum from their big win against Manchester United.
Premier League 2012, Week 20: Monday Wrap, Swansea, Stoke And Norwich All win
Aston Villa 0-2 Swansea City
This one got off to an awful start for Aston Villa, and it looked like they didn't know how to adjust when they went down early. Nathan Dyer scored the opener in the 4th minute, capitalizing on a terrible giveaway from Stephen Warnock. Wayne Routledge scored the second just after halftime, tapping in a narrow-angle rebound shot after Danny Graham hit the post.
Peter Crouch was the star of the show at Ewood Park, scoring a brace. His goals were scored in similar fashion and both were fantastic displays of skill, as Crouch knocked down the ball with his chest and finished with a half-volley for both of his goals. Both were scored in the first half, in the 17th and 45th minutes. David Goodwillie got one back for Blackburn in the 69th, but they couldn't find an equalizer.
Joey Barton got Rangers off to a great start, but it was ultimately his mistake that cost the team points. Barton scored from close-range in the 11th minute, but was sent off in the 36th minute. Norwich were the better side from then on out. Anthony Pilkington equalized with a 30-yard stunner in the 42nd minute and Steve Morison found the winner in the 83rd minute, finishing off a cross by Wes Hoolahan.
Related: Wolverhampton Wanderers 1-2 Chelsea
See More:
