There was excitement to be had all across the Premier League this weekend with some big clashes at both ends of the table.

Manchester United came away from Anfield with a rare win, while champions Manchester City dropped points for the second consecutive week.

Meanwhile, Southampton proved that they have what it takes to triumph in the top flight with a 4-1 hammering against Aston Villa.

Here, Sports Mole doffs its hat to the 11 players who earned their corn for their respective sides.

Vito Mannone (Arsenal)
Yes, he was largely to blame for Manchester City's opener, but the Italian produced a number of impressive saves as his side earned a point at the Etihad.

Rafael da Silva (Man Utd)
The livewire full-back curled in a wonderful equaliser against Liverpool as his side took away three points from Anfield for the first time since 2007.
Laurent Koscielny (Arsenal)
Was part of a Gunners defence that soaked up a lot of pressure against Manchester City before going up the other end and whacking a belter past Joe Hart.
Phil Jagielka (Everton)
The England centre-back was rock solid at the back for the Toffees during their 3-0 romp at Swansea City.
Ashley Cole (Chelsea)
Cole was once again the epitomy of reliability against a lively Stoke side and was on hand to grab a late winner that could prove valuable for the Blues.

Michael Kightly (Stoke)
Kightly epitomised everything about the hard-working Potters at both ends of the pitch as they were unlucky to come away from Chelsea without a point.
Aaron Ramsey (Arsenal)
The Welshman was calmness personified on the ball against Manchester City, driving forward from midfield with great confidence when necessary.
Steven Gerrard (Liverpool)
On an emotionally-charged day at Anfield against Manchester United, the Reds skipper did what he does best - lead from the front.
Hatem Ben Arfa (Newcastle)
Tricks, skill and wizardry - the Frenchman provided great entertainment during the Magpies' 1-0 triumph over Norwich City.

Rickie Lambert (Southampton)
The Premier League's highest-scoring Englishman this season added another couple to his tally as the Saints got their first win of the campaign against Aston Villa.
Steven Fletcher (Sunderland)
The Scot is already looking like great value for money as he scored his fourth goal in four games for the Black Cats against West Ham.