Erling Haaland is on the verge of a historic achievement. If he scores a hat-trick against Brentford this Saturday, he will become only the fifth player in English top-flight history to score hat-tricks in three consecutive games.
Haaland, who has already scored hat-tricks in his last two Premier League games, is looking to join a select group of players who have achieved this feat, with the last occurrence dating back to 1946.
The history of this remarkable achievement is both unique and fascinating. Let’s take a look at the stories of the four players who have accomplished this remarkable feat.
Opponents: Liverpool, Leicester City, West Ham United
One of the players to achieve this incredible feat was Osborne, who played for Tottenham in the 1925-26 season. He scored hat-tricks in three consecutive games against Liverpool, Leicester, and West Ham, making history in the process.
Despite not scoring four goals in any of the matches, Osborne’s performance was outstanding. He finished the season with 25 goals in 39 league appearances, earning himself an international recall as well.
Tom Jennings, for Leeds United in 1926
Opponents: Arsenal, Liverpool, Blackburn Rovers
Jennings, a Scottish forward, made history by scoring hat-tricks in three consecutive games for Leeds United in the 1926-27 season. His remarkable feat helped elevate Leeds from 16th place to seventh in the league standings.
After scoring seven goals in the first three games, Jennings continued his scoring spree against Arsenal, Liverpool, and Blackburn Rovers, cementing his place in football folklore.
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Dixie Dean, for Everton in 1928
Opponents: Burnley, Arsenal, Bolton Wanderers
Considered one of the greatest goalscorers in English football history, Dean achieved the remarkable feat of scoring hat-tricks in three consecutive games for Everton in the 1927-28 season. His exceptional goal-scoring prowess helped Everton clinch the title that season.
Jack Balmer, for Liverpool in 1946
Opponents: Portsmouth, Derby County, Arsenal
Balmer’s incredible achievement in the 1946-47 season saw him score hat-tricks in three consecutive games for Liverpool, a feat that has rarely been replicated since. His goals propelled Liverpool to their first title in 24 years, showcasing his impact on the team.
Erling Haaland is now on the cusp of achieving a similar feat. With his recent form and goal-scoring prowess, all eyes will be on him as he attempts to etch his name alongside these legendary players in the history books.
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(Top photo: Haaland after his hat-trick against West Ham; Catherine Ivill/AMA via Getty Images)
