Thursday, December 30, 2010

Time To Own Up


Lucky Pennant
 Sorry my post-match review is a bit tardy.  I needed some time to ponder the performance and result of the Wigan game.  There has been an abundance of opinion written already, of course, and I wanted to wade through the rollercoaster of emotions and come to a logical, rational outlook.  Here is what I have come up with.

It's all my fault.

I broke the number one rule in all of fandom.  If it ain't broke, don't fix it.  This imperative is represented in different forms in my "A Thank You" post.  If you the fan did something during a match to help our boys win...make sure to do the exact same thing next time.  All three goals against Chelski came as I was holding the above pennant in my hand on Monday.  I knew I needed it for the match on Wednesday.

I forgot it at home.

Not only did forgetting my lucky talisman (crafted by my nieces) affect our team's performance, it hampered my ability to watch the game.  I could not find one stream that would work without stopping every three seconds and then continuing with the players looking as though they were running in slow motion.  There was definately some bad juju going on there.  Apparently, magic flags have far-reaching affects. 

So I apologize to all my fellow Gooners for my inconsiderate and forgetful behavior.  I've taken full responsibility so you all can stop the bickering amongst one another about where the fault lies.  I mean sure, Wenger should know that if Cesc is suspended, the combination of Rosicky and Nasri can make up for that.  But TR7 alone?  I guess he could have played them together that night and then rested Nasri at Birmingham when Cesc was back.

And one could reason that starting injury-riddled Diaby may have seemed naive against a sprightly Wigan although I heard he was looking the best out there in the beginning.  Of course, now he's out until...when exactly?  He and Denilson filling in for Song and Spiky Jack may have had an impact I suppose.  Again, sitting them both out at the same time may be something he could re-think.  We really don't seem to have a pound-for-pound substitute for Song.  Ping-Pong is the young likely candidate and he's out (although looking good according to Wenger).

But let's not point fingers.  Remember, when you point your finger at someone, you have three pointing back at yourself.  My mom says so.

I suspect one can venture a guess as to what kind of training goes on at Colney when Wenger states that there is not enough organization on set pieces.  They have coaches for those kind of drills, don't they? I never played the game, but isn't the goalie suppose to help in that organization process by yelling at everyone?  And what about he'squietinreallifebutloudonthepitch Squillaci?  We know he and Koz understand only the Language of Love between them, not the language of football, so someone else needs to redirect them.  I think Chezzers would have been all over them.  Not that it would have mattered without the Lucky Charm.  Let's remember that.

Well, not to worry.  We have our third game in six days on Saturday and I'm pretty confident we'll get the three points we all covet.  Sure, Cesc being back from suspension will help.  Having Song plug up the midfield/score goals is a positive too.  Even having Djourou back in the lineup will definately be a bonus.  But when the final whistle blows, and we finish the week bagging seven out of nine possible points, you all know who to thank. 

Here's to a great win on Saturday and a Happy New Year to you all!

Wednesday, December 29, 2010

And That's How It's Done People! May I Have More Sir?


"Gooner Parking Only" sign created by always supportive Nieces

Due to my computer coming down with its own virus infestation, my Chelsea review post was put on hold and will be melded with my preview for the Wigan game today.

To start, I have to how fun it was to watch the game at my brother's home.  This is saying a lot because if you are a regular reader, you know that the group of Gooners I usually watch with have moved.  But my nieces helped create great atmosphere by making signs (see above) and Gunner pennants for us to wave throughout the match.  In fact, it has to be said that they are lucky pennants now.  I was holding mine when each goal was scored so we all know what that means.  Yep - they will have to be a permanent fixture in my clenched fists from now on during matches.

Anyway, pace and pressing was the name of the game on Monday as we did not give Chelsea any space, fought for every ball and forced errors.  Yes, Chelsea are in a bit of a funk these days, but Drogba is Drogba.  And to hold him scoreless was a treasure.  I disagree whole heartedly with those who say we won because Chelsea were poor.  I think we won because we were great and made them look out of sorts.  The team I saw on Monday is a team that can win the league.  All of Wenger's playing philosophy was proved correct as we played possession football, had Song going forward and everyone tracking back on defense.  I can't count the number of times Chelsea tried to catch us on a counterattack and there were already five red shirts back behind the ball.  Clichy actually had help shutting down his side and dawdled over the ball only one time.  Sagna and Theo made sure Cashley didn't get any of his crosses off.  And Djourour (my Man of the Match) and Koz beat Drogba to headers.

We went down after foolishly giving away a free kick, and although we looked shaky for a bit afterwards, we didn't cave.  Overall, I did not have one single complaint from the game.  It was pure euphoria and glee for me.

So, it's onto Wigan.  We have three games in 10 days coming up and today is the first chance we have to continue the winning form from Monday.  The way the table is looking, we need all nine points.  More importantly, the energy and discipline from our Chelsea win has to be translated to any player who did not get time on Monday.  I'm pretty sure Arshavin won't stay on the bench today, so he has a chance to show he can press all over the park as well as Nasri.  Cesc is out suspended, so Tomas perhaps has another opportunity to show that not only can he produce a great workrate, but he can score as well...Come on TR7!

I wouldn't be surprised if Bendtner gets some time today.  He can come off the wing allowing Wenger to sart Chamakh as well.  Will RVP get another start?  I thought he looked very dangerous Monday.  I've forgotten what a difference he can make with his aggression and strength.  I think he and Cesc have great chemistry on the pitch.  Sagna may get a rest as well putting Eboue into right back.  Poor old Clichy may have to defend the left side all by his lonesome if Arshavin plays, but Gibbs is still out so he'll just have to grin and bear it!

Matrinez' Wigan don't play the usual physical type style so traditional with the Northern football teams.  He likes to actually play and pass.  The danger is that they are fighting to stay out of the relegation zone.  No matter what style they play with though, if we play  like we played  on Monday, it's three points in the bank.

That's about it.  I'll be back (hopefully) with a post-match report.  GO YOU GUNNERS!!



Monday, December 27, 2010

Pedal to the Metal, Boys!

It's time, isn't it? Time for our guys to step up, play fearlessly, and walk away from Chelsea with their heads held high.  Walking away with three points wouldn't be too shabby either.  It's time to just go for it.  Playing cagey, stilted, cautiously, or half-heartedly will not dent this opponent even if they're having a dip in form.  They're looking to get back their confidence too.  We can't let them.  I say we take it to'em. 

Pedal to the metal.

What's that going to take?  We're going to need our offense to take more shots and pass less in the final third.  Make Cech work.  Be there for the second or third ball off the rebound and keep taking our chances.  Van der Sart got off easy in the Manure game.  We only took 11 shots and only 5 were on goal. That's not enough.  Let's also pressure them into conceding corners and see if our lousy record on converting those improve.  It's time, isn't it?

Our players up top are going to have to press and pressure on defense.  That means you Arshavin.  All the players have had two weeks off.  No international duty or Cups.  Everyone should be rested and ready to go.  Clichy will need help from Arshavin this week.  If he happens to toe a ball away from Anelka, Andrey, be there to double team and take the ball upfield.  Don't leave Gael to dawdle.  Sagna is going to battle Cole who likes to go forward and has delivered some nasty crosses leading to goals against us.  He needs to be shut down.  Malouda needs to be pushed out wide and nullified as well.  Sagna's side of the pitch, I think, is going to be very busy.

Pedal to the Metal boys

Song and Jack need to protect Cesc from Essien and shut down Lampard who is struggling to find form after being gone so long due to injury.  Let's not let Frankie get into the flow of things and start feeding The Beast known as Drogba.  He loves to score against us (13 for 13?) as we all know.  Cut off his supply and we won't leave our center backs so vulnerable.  Song - don't concede stupid fouls in their final third leading to free kicks and opportunities for Chelsea to score off headers.  Drogba and company are good at that as well.  Allow Jack to go forward and you stay back.

I'm not sure what forward is going to start today - Robin or Chamakh.  Wenger may play them both with RVP behind Maroune, but I don't think that formation has worked well so far.  Maybe Robin is pouting because he hasn't been first choice yet.  If I had to make the selection, I'd pick Robin because he's used to the physicality that Chelsea brings.  Chamakh has a great workrate, but is still adapting.  I think he would be easier to shut down.  Both need to take their chances. 

Shoot, shoot, shoot.
Run, run, run
Press, press, press

Pedal to the metal.

This tempo of game that I'm advocating means that we could tire - as well the old men of Stamford Bridge.  I'm hoping Wenger will look to substitute earlier than usual in the second half...espeically if Arshavin starts.  Bringing Theo on in the 60th minute or so will allow more time for him to make an impact.  Van Persie may tire as well.  Please don't wait until the 70th minute to make substitutions, Arsene.

Basically, I'm advocating for us to go all out.   For us to leave every ounce of sweat and guts on the pitch.  Take the handbrake off - it doesn't suit our style of play.  If we do that for the whole game, I think the fearlessness that we have been looking for from our players will be seen.  I mean, if you're playing at such a high tempo, how do you have time to remember you have a mental block?

Pedal to the Metal.

I really think we can do this playing our way.  If we start off cagey and cautious, I think it'll be over before it even starts.  We have a chance to accomplish a lot of things today.  We can earn three points and move back up the table ahead of Manchester City on goal differential and stay within two points of Manchester Untied.  We can continue building up our wins at the Emirates leaving behind a poor home record.  Most of all though, we can overcome the supposed mental block this team has in big games by ending Chelsea's dominant winning run against us.  I think the latter is the most important.

It's just time, isnt it.

So let's go you guys.  Pedal to the Metal.  You can do it.  COME ON YOU REDS!

Saturday, December 25, 2010

All I Want For Christmas

One would think with a title like the one above, this would be a post about world peace, a cure for cancer, or that no child would ever go hungry in the world ever again.  But alas, it is not about those very meaningful wishes.  And...I have all my teeth as well.  So, let's talk about my wishes for Arsenal.

  • My Numero Uno wish is for Thomas Vermaelen to return to the side in January to lead our defense.  I know that he won't be fully able to sustain whole games at first, but I think his presence on the pitch will inspire the players and fans.  It is very important that he not re-injure himself, so Wenger's long suffering patience is an important element to the Verminator's successful return.
  • I also would like Song to stop roaming quite so much.  We all know he's been given leave by the manager to do so in order to combat our competitors midfield congestion, but I think it would be better that Cesc and Jack be the ones going forward while Alex drops back.  Jack has stated he needs to hone his defensive skills in order to balance out his offensive proficiency, but we can't expect him to succeed all the time.  He's 18 years old for goodness sake. And when Song hustles back after going forward, he gives away cheap fouls due to his clunky lack of speed.  I like Alex, but he may need some competition for his place to make him make better decisions which leads me to my next wish.
  • We need another defensive midfielder to challenge Alex for his starting spot.  I'm not sure Denilson is up to the task.  His pass completion rate is impressive, but he and Song both remind me of my old Ford F150 who would never shift to 3rd gear.  He is slower than Alex tracking back on defense and has let referees and opponents sprint right past him.  I liked Rambo when he played there in that he's faster than Deni and Song, was aggressive, and had an eye for a forward pass.  I thought he also tackled and pressed better than Jack.  Who knows what he will mentally be like when he returns, but if he is operating on all physical and mental cylinders, he could put some needed pressure on Alex.  There also is a nice article on the Young Guns site on the progress of Coquelin presently out on loan to Lorient FC in Ligue 1.  He and Frimpong could also add pressure - but probably not for another season.  Here's one more idea.  Djourou was originally a defensive midfielder when he came to Arsenal.  If Vermie makes a successful comeback, why not have DJ as an option in the midfield?  Opinions?
  • I would like closure on the Almunia ordeal.  Mostly for the Spaniard.  I feel for him that his "injuries" have left him on the sidelines watching the two Poles solidify their bids for Number One and Two.  He needs to move on and Wenger needs to be honest about it.  Arsene may have already told Almunia that he's leaving in January and just lied to the press.  Let's face it, Wenger would probably sell his own mother if it meant protecting his players from the media.  Hopefully, Manuel's contract is affordable and he can find success in a less competitive league.  He seems like a genuinely nice guy and deserves some frankness.
  • Let's not forget about El Capitan.  I would love for him to find his form in the second half of the season.  Recovering from World Cup duties, hamstring injuries, and perhaps an "I didn't get to join Barcelona" hangover, our beloved Cesc peaking in the next few months would mean, I think, that Arsenal's form would follow suit.  He is as frustrated with his play as we are, and hopefully with injuries behind him, he can lead the way...followed by an in-form
  • Robin Van Persie.  Can you imagine our athletic, creative, left-footed wonder in breathtaking shape at the same time as our Skipper?  I don't know if playing him behind Chamakh is going to work out, but we all now what he's like when he gets rolling.  I salivate at the thought.
  • What about Clichy?  I think the fact that Gibbs needs to stay healthy to keep the pressure on is obvious.  But, I also think he needs a winger a head of him who is going to offer some protection and help.  I admittedly slam Clichy on a regular basis when he works his tail off to dispossess an opponent and then proceeds to dawdle which leads to the opponent winning the ball back.  Having a teammate track back to offer someone to pass to after winning a ball or to help double team an opposing player is vital, and right now Arshavin isn't doing his part. 
  • Andrey needs to be benched when he doesn't work.  He doesn't have to score every match.  He just needs to improve his workrate and help out the leftback whether it be Cichy or Gibbs.  Playing him whether he plays full team defense or not just leaves us vulnerable to attacks from the wing. 
  • I really want Maroune to outscore Drogba in our match on Monday.  I will preview the game in full probably Sunday night, but right now, I just want the Frech-born Moroccan to make more goals than the Ivory Coaster.  Didier loves to score against us.  Let him get one, Chamakh two, and there's the game.  I love Chamakh in that he is so effusive in his happiness at being at Arsenal.  His workrate is unimpeachable, and he hasn't scored since the Aston Villa game.  If Cesc is playing, I think he'll see more of the ball.
  • And of course, I would love to see Super Sammy continue his run of confident goal-scoring.  He was shackled in the Manure game, but he has a chance on Monday to get back on track.  It's just fun isn't it?  Watching him come into his own while wading past two and three defenders to score?  His attacks really add entertainment to the game and seem to lift his teammates as well.
I guess that's it for now.  'Tis the season not to be jolly - not greedy.  I hope all you Gooners have a blessed Christmas which culminates in a victory at the Emirates on Monday.  JamrockRover has predicted a 2-1 victory for us on his blog.  Sounds good to me.  Enjoy your weekend and time spent with family and friends.  I'm off to church.   Until tomorrow...

Saturday, December 18, 2010

A Thank You

Well, in light of the plethora of Premier League cancellations, I decided to fore go my usual pre-match write up and try something a little different.  Today was important personally not just because my club had a chance to step on the heads of Stoke players and fans on their re-ascension to the top of the league, but because my group of fellow Arsenal fans has broken up.  The two main pillars of the club - and my close friends to boot - left the area today heading toward warmer climate and new adventure.

Jeane and Doc are moving south, and today is the official moving day. Change is a part of life, I know, but that doesn't mean it gets any easier.  Jeane and I became obsessed with the Gunners and the beautiful game at the same time thanks to her husband's mania.   Doc taught me the basics of the game - but more importantly, he taught me the etiquette involved with being a fan.  I thought I would share some of these well-learned lessons with you as I bid a very fond farewell to my friends.

  1. One must always sit in the same seat every game unless the team is losing, then exchanging seats with another club member is permissible, but not until the second half.
  2. If you don't watch the other team taking a penalty and our goalie saves it, you can never watch another penalty being taken ever again. 
  3. No talking about a subject other than football is allowed during the match - that 's what halftime is for. 
  4. If we lose a match while watching at a club member's house, someone else has to host the next match.
  5. No one is allowed to talk negative about an Arsenal player while they are still playing for Arsenal (during the Henry era),
  6. Inventive explicatives are a sign of your passion for the game.
  7. Guinness can be consumed before 11:00 AM.
  8. Any new members must be approved for invitation into the club.
  9. If you ever voice favor of another sport over soccer in the local newspaper, you are expected to bring a six-pack of beer to every match for the rest of the season.
  10. Never say anything at anytime during the match that could possibly, in any way, perhaps jinx a player or the club or the coach...
  11. Non-Americans know 1000% more about this game than Statesiders
  12. If you hide your face in your scarf for set pieces and corners while Arsenal is on defense, and we hold, you have to do that until it doesn't work anymore.
  13. If you know a fellow club member cannot watch a match live, assume they are watching it later and DO NOT TEXT UPDATES!
  14. No one is to invite a guest who possibly could root for the other team "just for fun".  Ruins the whole match.
  15. If we lose, talking is not necessary...for the men.
  16. You are a new member and not taken seriously for the first five years as a probate.
  17. You should know who we play next.
  18. If Arsenal are consistently not playing well and it is the end of the season...do not expect Doc to cook breakfast.  
  19. If you fall asleep during a match because you were up all night partying, Doc will hit you over the head to wake you up.
  20. The MLS will never measure up.
  21. Pacing helps the team perform better.
  22. Washing your jersey is optional - especially if Arsenal won the last time you wore it.
  23. Snow should not keep you from attending matches...hence my getting stuck in drifts last Monday.
  24. Watching matches with friends is better than watching on your own.
  25. The dog is lucky, let him stay in the room...no he's unlucky, put him out...the dog is lucky, let him stay in the room...no...
The most important lesson I learnt, of course, was that soccer is the best game in the world, and Arsenal are the best at playing it.

That's about it.  There are more stories rattling around in my brain, but the ones above really do sum up the last eight seasons.  So, my hat is off to Doc who was my main educator...to Jeane who was my fellow pupil and fanatic.  I will miss you both more than you can imagine.  I know we will keep in touch before, during, and after matches because we are Gooners 'til we die.  Thanks for everything.

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

We're Blaming the Pitch, Arsene?


Supporting this Arsenal team can be a cruel experience leaving one with feelings of distress and indifference all at the same time.  I really wanted this side to beat the Mancs for all the reason discussed pre-match.  I exhorted this belief to my cousin in Denver who is a Manure fan.  But when we put up the performance yesterday that rendered a 0 -1 loss...I really wasn't surprised.

I missed the entire first half because in my Gooner enthusiasm I was intent on ignoring the two feet of snow and blizzard conditions in my area and drive somewhere to obtain cable access to be able to watch the match.  This madness dominated my thinking despite my access to the main road being blocked by three foot high drifts and a county-wide state of emergency.  Notwithstanding the radio broadcaster's plea to "stay off the roads", I attempted driving anyway.  I had to see this game!  Needless to say, I got stuck in the aforementioned drifts, hiked to my neighbors where I sat having a beer with the wife while the boys pulled me out and plowed my lane.  What does Ms. Manners say about how long one should stay and visit after neighbors save your back side?  Umm...I decided two beers were enough and ventured on my way.  Long story short, I got to my destination at halftime.

I already knew we were down 1-0 thanks to my cousin who was not shy about texting something about the glory of ManUnited.  I wasn't too worried though.  I saw our lineup and thought we had a lot of creative force on the pitch.  We could equalize.  The second half started, and I began to worry.

We had some energy and the pundits said we looked better than the first half, but we were giving away passes.  Amazingly, we didn't concede on the counter attacks even with Nani flying down the flank.  Our best chance came when Van der Sar palmed away Nasri's low shot and Chamakh was there for the rebound.  He didn't finish it.

Cesc, RVP, and eventually Theo were subbed on but to no avail.  I think Theo made the most difference as he had a couple of great crosses into the middle but no one converted them into a goal.  Being one goal up, Manure seemed content to sit behind the ball and try to counter.  Time ran out and we once again had to witness Manchester United triumph over our Youth Academy-only-type club. 

Twitter and the blogsphere are full of people saying that Arsene was once again tactically outdone by Fergie who clogged the midfield with Carrick and Fletcher, benching Berbatov in the process.  Isn't our formation supposed to address a clogged midfield?  Isn't that the reason Wenger gave for urging Song to go forward instead of just sitting in front of the back four?  It just did not work against a solid defense.

So the answer is what?  I don't think blaming the condition of the pitch is one.  Neither is continuing to employ players who keep making mistakes.  Clichy poked away the ball from Nani three times and twice had it taken back by him because he dawdled on the ball.  I'd have rather seen Eboue in.  Yes.  Eboue.  Arshavin had a poor game against Belgrade.  Why did he start against ManU?  Our bench is deep, let's use it to pressure the starters. 

Can we really go for the title after five losses?  I can't see how we can afford to continue dropping points even with the table topsy turvy at times.  And we have tough games still coming up.  Stoke hate us (mutual), Chelsea is after Christmas, and then we have City after that.  Our boys are not known for hitting back after a loss.  Our pattern is to lose two and then get our heads up.  Champions League was one of the places we would lose.  We have none of those games to cushion a loss.  They're all EPL games until January.  There really is no more room for error.

So boys, get your heads up now.  You can do it.

I think.

Monday, December 13, 2010

The Table is Ours For the Taking

So here we are...Big Game Day.  I know many of you out there have said that playing Manchester United at this stage of the season does not make or break us.  I will respectfully disagree.  Points-wise, it won't hurt us too badly if we lose out on three.  We could still climb back up before May.  But it's the statement this team has been yearning to make over the past few seasons that is important.  Namely that Arsenal are a team to be reckoned with.  That our boys are tougher and stronger than past seasons and not to be intimidated.  They want to send the message that they are legitimate title contenders.

Beating the Mancs at Old Trafford will deliver that statement in spades.

Some of the boys have been talking about the match...some about what Evra the Idiot stated.  Nasri's response was that he didn't want to discuss the barbs; rather he would do his talking on the pitch.  Sagna stated that Evra just likes to wind people up.  Both of these responses are fine, but not what I would have liked to see.  My favored response would have been something like this:

Pundit:  So what do you make of Evra's comments in the papers about Arsenal being in crisis?
Sagna:  Someone said we were in crisis?
Pundit:  Um...yes.  Patrice Evra. He also stated that Arsenal were only good as a youth academy and were not a threat.
Sagna:  Who is this Patricia?
Pundit:  No, no...PATRICE Evra...you know...the starting left back for Manchester United?
Sagna:  Oh...the bloke on my national team that provoked a walkout and left all our nation in embarrassment?  I thought he retired.

Something like that...you get the idea.

Team news/rumor  ahead of the match is that Fabianski could be injured leaving an opening for our other Pole to fill.  Szczesny could get this start and what a statement he could make.  Many Gooners are salivating at the possibility.  I am curious to see how he will perform, but I would have liked to see him try things out against a team like Stoke.  Our defense is used to Lukasz, and he has been improving almost every match.  Throwing in a newbie when consistency is important could throw the team off rather than make us better.  Here's hoping Szczesny has a career maker of a match.  Question:  if our Number One goalie and Number Three goalie are both injured, whose going to be Wojo's backup today?

No mention if Cesc is fit enough to play today.  I think he will start on the bench and make an appearance only if we need an inspired cameo ala Aston Villa last year.  We have big games coming up too, so I think we should only use him if he is 100% fit - which I doubt.  We could use the combination of Tricky Tommy and Samir Swivel Hips to fill his creative void.  Having him on the bench and in the locker room, however, is important for morale.  Cesc is the most experienced player at Arsenal when it comes to playing Manure, and his presence could provide important motivation and advice to our less experienced squad players.

I'm thinking the squad will look something like this:  Szczesny, Sagna, Squillaci, Djourou, Clichy, Arshavin, Nasri, Rosicky, Jack, Song, Chamakh

Bench:  Van Persie, Theo, Bendtner, backup goalie (?), Denilson, Eboue, Cesc

That's abou it really.  Le Boss might start RVP instead of Chamakh only if he thinks Robin's experience in big games would outdo Chamakh's performaces so far.  I think our Moraccan can handle Rio who is in and out fitness-wise.  And I hope that when Chamkah beats Rio for a header, that he's wearing a snood doing it.

With Chelsea being so generous yesterday, the table really is ours to take.  I win will help us pull ahead of not only Manure but their hated cousins City as well.  Unfortunately, I don't think I'll be able to watch it live as I'm snowed in with three foot high drifts and a county in a state of emergency.  As I've whined about mentioned several times in past posts, I don't have cable either so it may come down to me just following the live commentary.  Sometimes living in the peaceful country can really bite.

Nevertheless, I am looking forward to supporting my Gunners any way I can.  Let's go out there and grab it all - first place again with some cushion, three points, and some friggin' respect.  Let's show Patricia that she doesn't know what she's talking about.  Come On You Gunners!

Thursday, December 9, 2010

Title Titillation

You know - I'm one of those people who doesn't write a title to fit the post...the post has to fit its title.  In fact, composition revolves around my title.  But today, after witnessing our less than stellar play, our victory, and various opinions out there in the Arsenal blogsphere, I've decided that my post will be composed (mainly) of possible titles.  Which one do you think fits best?
  1. Arsenal 3 - 1 Partizan...the Spanking That Wasn't
  2. Arsene Throws Another Water Bottle in Show of Confidence in Qualification
  3. So Wenger's Philosophy Works...Gulp!
  4. Fans Riot as Arsenal Win!
  5. Arsenal Qualify for Champions League Sweet Sixteen for 11th Straight Year...We Suck!
  6. Arsene Must Go As Arsenal Win 3 - 1
  7. Gibbs Unpredictedly and Shockingly Injured  - by the Turf!
  8. Arshavin Surprisingly Sluggish in 3-1 Triumph
  9. Arsenal Only British Team Not to Win Group...Yes They Finally Called Us British!
  10. Robin van Persie Does NOT Injure Knees in Goal Celebration
  11. Denilson Shaves Head  in Hopes of Increasing His Pace...Experiment Fails Miserably
  12. Song and Denilson...the Non-Dynamic Duo
  13. Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Shalke Dread Drawing Arsenal
  14. Nifty Nasri Continues Scoring Streak for Lucky Arsenal
  15. French Defensive Pair Not Speaking the Same Language
  16. Third Win at Home Adds to Doubts for Supporters
  17. Arsenal Manage A Weak Win With a 3-1 Scoreline
  18. Go  Braga! -No... Go Shaktar!...No...Go Braga!
  19. Eboue Shows Off New Calisthenic Warm Ups
  20. A Balanced View:  We Won and For Now That's Good Enough
That about sums it up for me.  If you have a title that suits the game better, feel free to submit it in the comment section.  There's no game this weekend which means no preview until Sunday.  If there are interesting things to discuss in the meantime, I'll be back.  Until then, have a good one Gooners.

Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Time to Spank Partizan

Hello Gooners...I apologize for this late post, but if you have been following me on Twitter (@gunneraddik), you know that I have had internet issues at home.  But how, do you ask, can you post on Twitter?  This is a good question.  I use my phone for Twitter.  Writing a blogpost via smartphone would be time consuming and painful.  Massive thumb cramping don'tcha know.

So what's been happening? Hours after I posted my last blog, it was reported that Koz has miraculously healed from his concussion and is playing in today's Champions League match.  Ironically, it's Djourou that has a slight niggle (thigh pull) that will keep him out tonight.  Arsene stated he could play DJ but did not want to aggravate the injury.  I'm guessing the Ivorian born Swiss will be picked for the Manchester United game on Monday.  He'd be my first choice.  Well, VERMIE would be my first choice.  But you know what I mean.

You know who else would be my first choice?  The medical squad.  Not.  These medics have stated firstly that Eboue would be out 4 - 6 weeks with a knee ligament injury.  He appeared for the next match.  And now Koscielny?  He was supposed to be out three weeks with a concussion.  He's playing after (counting on fingers) four days?  Is Wenger misleading the press so blatantly over injuries?  I don't think so.  Those two players aren't really worth lying over.  I have to say, as a fan, I'm, embarrassed about those misdiagnoses.  It looks as though our players are fakers (I know...it was Eboue after all).  If anyone who has contacts with the medics at Arsenal, could you get the 411 and pass it along?  I'm incredibly curious.

Other injury news is that Cesc is saying he will not risk his hamstring at the Manure match unless he's 100% fit.

“I’d like to be fit for the Manchester United game but we’ll see,” Fabregas told the Official Matchday Programme. “I’ll only be there if my hamstring is completely fine, because I don’t want to go up there and see it recur.  “With regard to my comeback we’ll have to wait a little longer before we know anything.  “I’ve been outside running for a couple of days now and it feels good – the sensations are OK but I haven’t gone at 100 per cent yet. For now we keep working.”

I think that's totally reasonable.  We have not been able to get the best out of our Captain this year because his fitness keeps getting interrupted by injuries.  Heal fully and then come back.  I think we can put up a good fight with the combination of Nasri and Rosicky in ht midfield.  that's a topic for another day, however.

Today is Partizan Belgrade who loss to us at their stadium in September 3 -1 and have lost all the matches they've played so far in this group.  We have a good chance of troucning them today.  We're home, we're desperate coming off of two wins at home, and our returning players are looking to shake that final layer of rusty film off of their form.  I'm thinking specifically of Robin who is starting today for us.    I thought his team play on Starudy when he came on was great and look forward to him hopefully playing behind Chamakh again.  We only got to see 20 minutes or so of that combination against Fulham.  65 or so minutes would be fun to watch I think.

The bottom line is that we need to win today so we don't have to worry about what Braga is doing against Shaktar.  If we don't earn as many points today as Braga...we are out, and that would be a tragedy.  I don't think I'm overstating.  I am not one of those Gooners advocating getting out of Europe so we can focus on the domestic cups.  I have purported that we have enough depth in the squad to compete on all fronts, and I still believe that.

Thtat's about it really.  So with no further ado...onto Partizan and victory at the Emirates..  LETS GO YOU REDS!

Monday, December 6, 2010

Mr. Alex Song -The Debate Continues...

Yesterday in my post-match report I wrote about my uncomfortability with Alex Song surging forward consistently in matches and leaving the back four vulnerable to counterattack. And many of you out there agree.  Le Boss yesterday finally addressed the issue directly  stating:

“The teams close us down so much high up because they know we play through the middle,” .... “I push my midfielders a bit up at the start to give us more room to build up the game....“When you come to the ball we are always under pressure, so Song is a bit naturally high up because I want him high up....“I am comfortable with that sometimes it leaves us open in the middle of the park. We want to play in the other half of the pitch and, therefore, we have to push our opponents back....“But my philosophy is not to be in trouble, but to fool the opponent into trouble.”

Well - there you go.  Wenger wants an extra midfielder pressing high up to help spread out the defensive congestion that is often in the midfield.  Teams know that our short-passing game means that they have to either plug the middle, kick us off the pitch, or sit behind the ball in the final third to stop us.  Sometimes they try a combination of all three.  Our options in responding are limited because of the type of players we have and the playing philosophy of our coach.  Arsenal are not going to beat a midfield traffic jam by booting up the long ball.  And that's fine by me.

The drawback to this style of play has been rather obvious and that is...we get caught on the counter attack.  While Alex is forward, Denilson or Jack or even Cesc stays back to help cover a fast break.  Our full backs are speedy and get back as fast as they can too, but they are as far forward at times as Song.  Denilson at times doesn't get out of third gear tracking back and Jack is still learning his defensive trade.  And it seems a waste to me having Cesc have to track back as his vision should be used to be creating in the final third in the first place. 

Where does that leave us then?  I think it really comes down to taking care of the ball.  We suffer most on a poor passing day - leaving us susceptible to interceptions and fast breaks.   If an opponent gets all the way down to the goal, our center backs are on their own.  Sometimes Song et al do make it back in time to help but have fouled at times attempting to do so conceding a free kick which is also a weak area for us.

It's ever so important now that Song have a good day of passing.  That Denilson and Jack fight the urge to go forward as far as Alex and read the game anticipating a possible interception or at least push the opponents out wide to the sideline - not allowing them to flow through the middle.  These are our options as I see it.  I think the other side to Wenger's philosophy coin is that the offense score efficiently to make up for the exposure at the back.  At halftime on Saturday, I think we can agree that the score could have easily been 3 - 1 or even 4-1.  Our offense can be breathtaking, but it also can be wasteful.  Waste Not - Want Not.  I think Le Boss would agree with that idiom - he probably has it stitched on his pillowcases.  What person with a Masters Degree in Economics wouldn't?  All in all, I'm glad Wenger explained things.  I guess I'll have to quit yelling at Song through the television.

Team news is that Vermie has been placed in a protective boot and again is not expected back until after the New Year.  I have no idea if the fact he is wearing this boot is a good or bad sign.  Many on Twitter seem to think it's a bad thing.  My only thought is that it has to be better than surgery.  With Koz out for three weeks with a concussion, we need as many center back options as possible.  Which leads me to wonder if Reserve Squadder Havard Nordveit might be used as a back up.  Wenger doesn't want to push Djourou too much in order to avoid any small tugs and pulls, so other than Song, who is going to fill in?  He doesn't have to play right away - not in the next three matches anyway.  But his presence on the bench would be warranted.  He was recently spotlighted on the official site.  Coincidence?  I think not.

Course, there is the school of thought that our center back woes will be fixed in January when the window opens.  Wenger has stated that he is not bringing in any new players because he has no room in the squad.  Twitter and the Arsenal-blogoshere has been full of folks thinking that Wenger is bluffing to reduce the possibility of inflating the market.  He is a wily coyote, we all know that.  But who would he get rid of?  The easiest answer would be Almunia.  He is still unable to fully extend his elbow even after playing a Reserves game, so he seems a bit like dead weight to me.  Perhaps I'm being unduly callous but I can't believe he's happy now either.  The problem is that if Wenger did try and loan him out or boot him out, who's going to want a one-armed man/goalie?

The last bit for today is about Mr. Super Samir who has been voted EA Sports Player of the Month.  A well-earned recongition for him.  Congratulations!  The other interesting article about Sammy is that Sagna asserts he is a hit in the locker room.  This to me is interesting news considering that Gallas wouldn't speak to Samir for a year and conversely, Sam wouldn't shake his hand at the beginning of the Spuds match.  I guess if you're not a moody, gum-chewing centreback, you're okay with with Sammy.  The article made me chuckle a bit.

That's it for today.  Remember we have a big Champions League on Wednesday.  I'll be back later to preview that.  Until then, continue to enjoy being on top Gooners!  Take care.

Sunday, December 5, 2010

Top of The World Ma! Thanks to Super Sammy!

Notorious November is gone...exorcised by a 2-1 home win today against Fulham, and December was ushered in by a superb goal scoring display by Nasri.   It was another imperfect performance by this team with the result making it very easy to forgive flaws but leaving one with a slight sense of trepidation for next Monday. 

Fulham arrived at the Emirates with having only won two games...but drawn nine.  They also had never won against us at home.  But, frankly I was nervous.  I knew Fulham was good enough to hold us scoreless or equalize if we scored.  I was especially anxious about set pieces because of their 6'4" center back Hangeland (who I have just discovered was born in the States but represents Norway - I love learning new stuff!).  When I saw that it was Koscielny's turn in the rotation, I tried to picture the narrow-headed Frenchman out jumping Brede for a ball - and it just wasn't happening.

When the game got underway though, the apprehension fell away.  We were running the show.  Great runs, terrific energy, excellent passing and we created chances.  The first 25 minutes, in fact, were all Arsenal. 
Arshavin was entirely unbridled, running like a Russian whose country just won the bid for the 2018 World Cup,  He shot on goal after a free kick from Jack only to have it saved by Schwarzer.  He then sent Nasri through on goal but that shot Samir sent wide.  But in the 14th minute, Arshavin tried some more magic and sent another pass Nasri's way.  This time, Mr. Swivel Hips deked around two defenders and shot it home.  It was a great goal.

And then the inevitable happened.  Koz, who was having a very solid game up until the 33rd minute, collided heads with Squillaci - both trying to clear a ball.  Squillaci kept moving and so did Koz...sort of.  He stood upright instead of falling down and clutched his face at one point.  Dempsey took advantage of Koz being dazed and confused, chipped the ball over to an onside (for once) Kamara who sent the ball past Fabiasnki.  The talking point of course was that the ref should have blown the whistle immediately after the collision to check on the players.  Others say (including Arsene) that the ref thought Koz was going to play on because he didn't drop to the ground.  Either way, the goal counted and Koz was involved in allowing that to happen in, albeit, an indirect way.  I've never collided heads/faces the way I saw those two do it.  I assume one has clangers going off, stars whizzing by making it very difficult to make a decision.  "Do I fall down or do I play on...there's no place like home...no place like home".  It just had to be Koz, didn't it?

So Koz went off on a stretcher looking as if he might be unconscious and Djourou came on.  And all the air went out of our tires.  We looked sluggish and imprecise for the rest of the half.  Fulham definitely had the momentum going their way   I don't know if it was just the goal that shook us or the way it happened.  Were the guys worried about their teammate or scared that their losing ways at home were going to resurface?  We went into halftime 1-1 with one substitution already used up.

The second half started with Arsenal taking some chances on goal again.  Rosicky fired wide, Arshavin weaved in and out of the Fulham defense ala Nasri but had his shot saved by the Aussie.  Song fought Pantsil for the ball, won it, was wide open, and sent it over the bar.  Van Persie had come on for Tomas and Theo for Jack.  Arsene was going all out offensively.  The changes paid off.

Arshavin once again was involved in Samir's goal as he fed Van Persie who looked like he was going to square up to shoot but instead linked up to Nasri who shaked and baked his way past a defender, and the goalie but found himself in a tough angle on the line.  He turned inside and made a spectacular goal on a tight angle.  The photos  on the official website show his goals frame by frame and will explain in pictures his dexterity that I cannot put amply into words.  Check them out  here.  We hung on for another 19 minutes and game won!

Things I noticed:

!) Djourou stepped up as a sub and won almost every header he attacked.  He was consistent and calm.  Wenger states that he's been rotating DJ so he does not incur those tedious niggly injuries that vex players returning from such a long lay-off.  But since Koz is out with a concussion now, DJ will be playing alongside Sqillaci for the next few weeks.  Let's hope those nigglies do not surface, otherwise we'll be down to just one starting center half.


2) Arshavin gave another great energetic display.  He couldn't find the back of the net, but he had one assist for Nasri's first goal, and started the movement that led to his second.  He was involved on both ends of the pitch and on both sides.  He seemed everywhere.  Question.  Are there any other two players in the Premier League who control the ball so tightly at their feet so well as our Arshavin and Nasri?


3) Our full backs had great games.  Clichy had another six interceptions without one single brain fart that I could see.  His great cross from far on the left which was wasted by one of our players ( I can't remember who) and all around energy and pace were tremendous.  Sagna was solid as well and produced a run and cross that was perfect for Chamakh to head in.  Too bad it ended up right at Schwarzer.

4) Even though Robin didn't score, his assist to Nasri for the second goal was sublime.  He has moxy too which was seen when he took an elbow to the face and gave the offender heck for it while being seen to by medics.  Maybe his fire is what has been missing as well as his link-up play.  Either way, it's great to have him back.  I also loved his celebration with Nasri after the second goal.

5) Song had bad game.  I don't know how else to put it.  He looked sluggish and missed a great open opportunity in front of the net after battling so hard to win the ball.  He also had a bad passing day misplacing 13 out of 37 passes and only was successful clearing the ball one time out of six.  He may have just been having a bad day like players do at times.  He was going forward a lot in this game again.  I -like many of you - would prefer he just sit in front of our wobbly -at- times- back four and protect them.  Our two center backs could use some assistance.

6) Nasri looked injured at end of game.  He was hobbling around and looked to be calling for a sub but we had none left.  I haven't heard anything about an injury and probably won't until Arsene's pre-Belgrade interview.  Let's hope it's not serious.  With Cesc out, the combination of Rosicky and Nasri is vital in my eyes.  I don't know if we can do without both at the same time.  On a brighter note, Cesc is saying he's looking to be back in time for the Manchester United game.


All in all, we seem to still be doing things the hard way, but the win put us top of the league thanks to Chelsea drawing with Everton and Mancheter United having to reschedule their game.  The view from the top is nice, but feels a bit insecure.  Perhaps after opening the month of December with a win at the Emirates, our guys can build on their foundation so we don't crumble like a house of cards because I kinda like it up here - don't you?


Arsenal v Fulham
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Sunday, November 28, 2010

Arsenal Bounce Back Despite Swiss Cheese Defense


Well, we got what we wanted on a lot of levels.  Most importantly is the win which puts us into second place behind Manchester United.  If Chelsea lose tomorrow, we stay in second all my our lonesome.  If they draw, we share the second place spotlight, and if they win?  Well, they're back in first place tied with Manure.  Anyway, we have no control over how other teams perform, only ourselves.  And I thought we did pretty well at that. 

All the players seemed to have a bounce in their step and we started having Chamakh return to the striker role with both Bendtner and Van Persie on the bench.  Tomas and Samir started in the middle with Arshavin back on the left along with Jack and Song to help out defensively.  Clichy was at left back, Koz took over center back duties from Djourou and paired with Squillaci.  Sagna was back starting at right back and Fabianski was in goal.  The rest of the bench consisted of DJ, Denilson, Gibbs, Szczesny, and Walcott.

The first half was eerily similar to the first half of the game from hell last week.  We dominated possession, zipped the ball around, created opportunities and ended the half up 2-0 with wonderful goals by Arshavin and Nasri.  I actually gulped when halftime began as I noticed the similarities.  The announcer didn't help of course as they reminded the listeners of Arsenal's second half capitulation to Spurs the week previous.  Even the second half began with a deja vu -type experience as Villa subbed at the half bringing on a speedy striker for our legendary Pires whose aged legs just weren't quite up to the task. 

Villa did try and create a chance by both Ashley Young and Nathaniel Delfouneso had chances which were snuffed out.  And then Clark scored thanks to Clichy backing off him  and referee Mark Clannteburg not calling offside on Carew who impeded Fabianski's view.  Fab was peeking around the left of Carew and Clark hit the ball right.  I highly recommend taking a look at OhioGooners breakdown of Clichy's mistake.  We all groaned as we let Villa back in the game.  How would we respond?  Quickly.

It only took about three minutes for Rosicky to thread a great ball to Chamakh who poked it home past Friedle.  A collective sigh escaped from everyone all around me and it was nice to see the fight back.  Surely that third goal would break Aston Villa and they would give up?  Ah, but no.  The drama continued with a corner by Ashley Young getting to the same Clark whose header hit the underside of the bar and bounced back in behind the line and behind Fabaianski.  These guys were not going away.  Could we hold onto a one goal lead with nearly 20 minutes left on the clock?

Arsene responded to the pressure by taking out some offense and strengthening the defense.  Denilson and Gibbs subbed  for Arshavin and Nasri - both whom had outstanding games.  I guess Djourou was set to sub also but never made it onto the pitch.  One would think he was going to be brought on for Koz to handle possible last ditch long balls into the box.  I'm not really sure.

But not to worry as we put the final nail in the Villa coffin.  Chamakh - whose hustle in the late minutes of a match should inspire all - took a rebound from a deflected Denilson shot, and lobbed it to Jack who notched his first Premier League goal by diving head first.

Some things I noticed:
1) Koscielny may be more agile than Djourou, but he misses a lot of headers.  I can't tell if he's getting out-muscled on them, if his timing is off on his jump, or if he just has no hops.  Talk during the game today among my friends brought up the point that Koz' head may be too narrow to compete for the onslaught of headers that prevail in the EPL.  I can see why Wenger would choose him against quicker opponents, but as most teams are going to try and expose us in set pieces, I am much more comfortable with Djourou handling those responsibilities.  On the other hand, he was successful seven out of eight times on his tackles.

2) Arshavin came to play today.  I think he gave his best perforamce of the season.  He was everywhere, running full out when released by a pass, providing assists, helping out on defense, and was a nightmare for Villa's center halves.  He may be small, but he was mighty.  This is the Arshavin we would like to see on a regular basis please.

3) Chamakh has a non-stop hustle to him.  He may not be some people's idea of a quality striker, but for someone who has three months of Premier League action under his belt, his seven Premier League goals in 14 appearances is nothing to scoff at.  His goals total 10 overall.

4) Clichy had six interceptions today.  His gaffe that allowed the first goal is typical of his current inability to focus, but his desire, speed, and ability to anticipate also had an impact.  This Jekyll/Hyde aspect to his game is making me a bit schizophrenic. Gibbs really needs to stay healthy in order to keep the pressure on Gael.

5) Whenever an opponent broke away or booted one into the box for someone to head in - my breath caught.  I just don't trust our defense right now.  The first goal should have been disallowed by the ref, but the shot never should have gotten off.  Clark was given too much space as Clichy backed away from him.  Clark's  second goal was a case of ball watching I think as Dunne headed the corner onto Clark and we weren't expecting that.

6) With all our attacking prowess and marvelous midfield, we could be dominating this league if not for our defense.  The fact that other clubs are struggling as well has made things a bit easier for us, but I would like us sitting at the top of the table because of everything we did right.  Not because of other teams doing things wrong.

I guess that's it.  Thanks to the win, the rest of my weekend should go swimmingly.  We have Wigan on Tuesday for some Carling Cup action and then Fulham on Saturday.  Until then  - have a good one Gooners.

Friday, November 26, 2010

It's Alive! It's Alive!

After needing a few days off to absorb the consecutive poor play by our boys, I've mustered enough energy to get back at it.  We have a game tomorrow morning (6:45 AM my time), and with it, another chance for a great club to remember who the hell they are and who they represent.

I pretty much had forgotten the glory of being an Arsenal fan this week.  I admittedly sulked and pouted, only glancing now and again at Twitter and my favorite blogs (Cesc Is God and the mighty Arseblogger).  I don't think I even left one comment.  Yesterday was a turning point however, as I celebrated Thanksgiving with my family.  I usually only see my mom's side of the family now about once a year, and I hadn't seen my youngest cousin in over a year.  He's a senior in college now, and last spring he studied abroad in Copenhagen.  Like almost all members of my nuclear and hugely extended family, Tim is a sports nut.  He loves American football, played basketball in high school, and now, is  a European football fan.  So, of course, we had lots to talk about.  Do you know what I discovered?  His last week across the pond was spent in London, rooming with two Arsenal fans who took him on a tour of the Emirates.  He sat in Wenger's heated stadium seat.  He visited the locker room and eyed the players' jerseys which were hanging in the individual cubbies.  He got to come out the tunnel and described the history of the club displayed in photos all along it.  And you know what?  I was totally jealous.  The passion that had hibernated for three days came roaring back - penetrating the wall of apathy I had erected in self-defense.  I pulled my Gooner of a brother into the conversation yelling with enthusiasm "Tim has been to the Emirates!" (My mother kindly patted me on the back, soothingly reasuring me "Some day Lisa, you'll be there -  some day ).

Anyway, that's when I rediscovered my true feelings for this sport and our club.  So what if we have the worse November record since I've been watching the club (2002-2003 season)?  So what if our Captain is out once again with hamstring injuries.  So what if we all worry that our spine is soft and Arsene maybe has lost his touch with motivating the aging youngsters?  So what?

Okay, settle down.  I know it matters.  I know that winning at Aston Villa is necessary not only for us to keep within reach of the title, but in order to restore confidence to our players and fans.  It's important for us to regain our lost momentum and reinstate just a smidgen of the pride that has been lost.  I say "so what" in the vein of a supporter who knows our squad could be great if not for this continual bump in the road.  If we can get back on track, put a few wins together ( seven or eight would be great), then we can arrive finally at those pearly...golden...arches that we've been missing since the dismembering  of The Invincibles.

Speaking of Invincibles, we face a former at Villa tomorrow in the handsome visage of Bobby Pires.  He came off the bench last week and probably will start there again unless needed because of Aston Villa being at the very top of the table at physioroom.com.    According to that table, Carew, Cuellar, Sidwell, and Reo-Coker could be back for the match - all listed with "slight doubt".  They  have had Agbonlahor back for their last three matches, but Houillier stated today that Agbonlahor had been ill and missed two days of training so he may not play.   I still remember the match last year where Vermie streaked back to close down Gabriel's counterattack and won the ball from him.  What grit and determination he had.  Sigh.

I think after Koz's poor perfromace at Braga, DJ will get his spot back alongside Squillaci.  With Cesc out for the infamous "two weeks", Nasri and Jack will probably share some creative midfield responsibilities helped out defensively by Song and maybe not so much by Denilson.  Hey - just because I rediscovered my fervor doesn't mean I'm completely blind to our weak links.  I think Theo should get another start as his crosses may actually get met by a striker in the box if that striker is Chamakh.  Arshavin has had his "rest" so he also should be playing.  Sagna and Clichy will round out the back four.

The bench, I think, is up for grabs in some positions.  Van Persie could be there, Bendtner could be there, Koz will probably be there, Tommy will definately be there.  Will Almunia or Szezesny  be the Number 2?  The JET has not gone out on loan unlike Ramsey (until January) and Henri Lansbury so he could also be riding pine.  Gibbs will be there as backup for Clichy.  Yep, I think that's everyone.

Okay then.  Let's head up to Villa Park, take a win, three points, and the lead at the top (if only for a day).  What I don't want is to have to read apologies on Twitter or the official site by the players...even if they are by Spiky Jack and very genuine.  It's far better not to have to apologize in the first place.  My ardor has been ressurected and is alive, but fragile.  It needs reinforcement.

So let's go you guys.  Like I said at the beginning of the post.  Remember who the hell you are.  Remember, you wear the Red and White of The Arsenal.  Let's Go You Gunners.

Sunday, November 21, 2010

What Is It About The Emirates?

Here I am in the cold light of The Day After, facing the obligation of writing a post-match report for the most gut-wrenching loss of the season. After going ahead 2-0 at halftime, we lost 2-3 in the end - at home to the Spuds. We lost at the Emirates for the third time this season. This is the first time we have endured one of these losses after going ahead. The West Brom defeat was a result of us never looking to be up for the game until the last 10 minutes, and the Newcastle game was a 0-1 loss to a team that was still riding high after squashing their previous opponent 5-1. These losses, in my eyes, have all been very different with only one common denominator...The Emirates.


Football fandom in England, from what I have read, has undergone a big transformation in the last 20 years. Once a game played and rooted by the working class, it has drawn the admiration and the money from the middle and upper classes. There are family sections at stadiums now where alcohol and "passionate" language are banned. These new stadiums costs dearly to erect, so prices and the amenities such as food and beverage are a bit extravagant. In other words, a different kind of fan is attending matches. And since we know that the fans are a team's 12th man, I'm left wondering if the change in fan culture has affected the 12th man's effectiveness?

Most of you who read my blog - my Faithful Five readers- know that I'm a Yank who has never stepped foot into England, so my experience of the home crowd comes from listening through the television and reading the blogs of writers who have been to the games. And my conclusion is that while there is still the contingent of zealous fans who cheer and try to uplift their team while verbally crushing the opponent, there is a larger, less ardent body of them who won't chant, leave early, and don't seem to take their job as a fan seriously. This group is in direct opposition to the fan who travels to away games. Their willingness to travel demonstrates their fervor. I think we have made progress in away games. Actually, we have one of the best away records in the league, and we've learned to hang onto leads away (Everton and Wolves), so why not at home? For me, it the answer, in part, lies with the fans and atmosphere of the home matches.

The official Arsenal USA site posted the writings of  an American Gooner who attended the Emirates for the Wolves game in last April. His intention was to compare the experience to other sporting events he's attended. Here's what he said about the atmosphere of the Emirates:


"But the major myth that was busted for me was that every English soccer match is full of singing and chanting from the opening whistle to final one. It was actually fairly quiet compared to what I was expecting. I once saw a match in Buenos Aires that was non-stop noise and excitement for about 120 minutes (20 minutes before kickoff, the entire first half, most of halftime, and the entire second half)... That said, for the majority of the contest, it was a fairly low level of noise and emotion compared to other soccer matches I’ve seen. It was certainly below Argentina and the World Cup matches I’ve been to. It was also a shade below the USA/Netherlands friendly I saw in the Amsterdam Arena in the early 2000s."



Just for the record, if the enthusiasm at the Emirates is comparable to anything the US squad are involved in, that speaks volumes. Let me be clear. I am not saying it is the fans' responsibility to win games. It is the players' and coaches'. And maybe something needs to change in those two categories. Our manager's strategic substitutions? Late as always, and therefore rendered somewhat useless. Tactically, Wenger allowed Twitchy to outmaneuver him. And permitting your most reviled rivals a win in your own house? Well, it does reflect a fragility in our team's mentality which has been dissected ad nauseum. I think we won't learn to win until we've won which is a worse puzzle than trying to figure out the chicken and egg question. But to help your team get over a hump...to lift their spirits in order to give them an edge...that is our job. And I have a feeling that no one really did their jobs yesterday. We hold the squad and the team leaders feet to the fire when they don't produce. Why should we fans be any different?

So, be cynical before a match, cuss out the television during the match, and by all means critique the team and manager after the match. But, if you have the privilege to be present at our stadium during a match? Hold your own feet to the fire. Chant, exhort, and push your team onto victory. In other words - do your job.  Because if you do that, maybe -just maybe - our boys will do their job a bit better.  And who couldn't do with that?

Try and have  a good one...

Friday, November 19, 2010

Time to Take on Mr. Twitchy Potato-Head

Okay - so much a mid-week MLS update.  What can I say?  No excuses as I let time get away from me and my laptop.  So a quick International Round-Up and then it's onto the North London Derby preview.

First things first.  Guess who got injured during the International Friendlies Wednesday?  That's right - no one.  Is the world really flat after all?  In fact, Jack had to be dropped from the English squad because of a slight back problem that apparently has worked itself out in time for the match tomorrow.  I can't see us getting more fortuitous than that.  But wait - Robin Van Persie played 45 minutes for Holland - and didn't come away with any niggles, sprains, or strains.  In fact, the playing did his wonders for his match fitness as Wenger states he and Bendtner are now close to the same level.  This is November, right?  Notorious November? Nah.  Gibbs even came through unscathed.  The only players not fit for the Derby are Diaby, Almunia, and Vermie.  According to the injury update,  Diaby, Ramsey, and Almunia are back to full training.  The only one on hte outside looking in right now is The Verminator.  This has got to be a first.  Wenger is indeed going to have a headache picking the lineup for tomorrow.  How nice for a change.

Spurs - who are now in second  place...on physioroom.com (I wanted to make sure you were paying attention)  are without Bentley, Huddlestone, Keane, Santos, DeFoe just to name a few.  We have the advantage on several fronts.  We're playing with almost a full squad and have tremendous depth, we're playing at home, and we can rotate players.  Okay, the playing at home advantage hasn't worked out recently, but so what?  This is the weekend to put that aright.  We beat them on their turf 4-1 in September when they put out a "weaker" side.  Their strongest assets tomorrow are probably Bale, Pavlyuchenko,

and van der Vaart.  I think that like the Everton game, controlling the midfield will be important as well as not giving Speedy Gareth room to work up steam.  Which begs the question.  Who is going to start in the holding role with Song?  Denilson?  Or will Wenger put Jack straight back into the squad for some added "oomph" going forward.

Hard to say.  Deni did make a difference when he came on.  He stayed back while Song charged forward.  If we have no one watching the rear guard tomorrow, Speedy could catch us on the counter attack.  I think Denilson has earned a start.  Should be interesting.

Arshavin played all 90 minutes for Russia Wednesday which could mean he's really tired or finally match fit?  I look for Arshavin to be sitting on the pine while Theo starts.  Everyone seems to want to see the two former teammates on the pitch at the same time so why not?  If Twitchy just sits behind the ball then Theo will probably not have much of an impact.  Depends on the Spuds strategy I suppose.

If I were a betting man  person, I'd lay odds on Theo, Nasri, Denilson, Cesc, and Song with Chamakh up front and the quartet of Sagna, Squillaci, DJ, and Clichy in the back sitting in front of Mr. Fab.  Jack, Andrey, Van Persie, Bendtner, Szczesny, Rozicky, and Eboue on the bench.

I'm thinking we should come away with 2-0 win at home which will help to put to rest those pesky losing-on-your-own-turf -demons that have been hanging around our necks lately.  here's to a strong performance, a clean sheet, and another win over our lesser North London neighbors.  I'll be back later on Saturday with a post-match report.  Until then, remember -WE ARE THE ARSENAL!!

Sunday, November 14, 2010

Denilson Makes The Difference As Arsenal Edge Everton 2-1


It's a good weekend to be a Gooner, isn't it? We won another three tough points and finally did that when our top four opponents dropped points. We came through and took advantage. Currently we are sitting in second place, two points behind Chelsea and only six goals behind them in goal differential. Manure, though, are only one point behind us, drafting in third. Let's not bother looking over our shoulder yet, though. Let's enjoy what we gained for the next six days.




I thought the game started off very fast-paced with Everton attempting to beat us to lose balls and streaking down the sidelines during counterattacks. They pressed and harassed us and we, in the first half of the first half, seemed to be affected by it. Misplaced passes were common by us, which to the loyal watcher, should be most uncommon. I was hoping that around the 50th minute or so, the Toffees would show some fatigue. They did eventually. During that time of frenzy, though, it looked as though Everton were going box to box without being asked to stop in the midfield. There was not a lot of holding going on. I noticed Song surging ahead as usual along with Jack which left Cesc to clean up in the back. And he did run down a lot of the Everton players attempting to counter and pushing them toward the sidelines. He eventually got a yellow for his trouble though after colliding with Disten. Both had their feet stepped on by the other - and it seemed accidental. I think Webb gave the foul to Cesc because he looked to tackle just a tad late. Still, a soft yellow for a team trying to battle its way back up the Fair Play table. Again, it shows how discipline given by the ref can be subjective which means one can't take the Fair Play table at face value.



Finally we went ahead in the 36th minute when Sagna fired a shot on goal from a terrifically tight angle after being set up by Andrey. His all time second goal for Arsenal gave us just a bit of breathing room and more confidence. We went into halftime 1-0.



Coming out for the second half, I notice a strange phenomenon...Wenger was making a substitution? Denilson (sans corn rows) came on for Spiky Jack. There was a lot of speculation among my friends about why Deni was coming on. We mostly thought that Jack - who had received a few tough tackles during the first half - was being taken out as a precaution. Jack, along with Gibbsy and Theo, have been called up for the England friendly on Wednesday and we thought Wenger was being thoughtful in his change. After the game, though, Wenger was quoted as having said,



"I wanted a second holding player to win the second ball from headers".



And it worked. I can't say I noticed that we won more second balls off of headers. Still being a student of the game, I don't always pick up on those things yet. What I did notice is that Everton did not have free run of the pitch and that our midfield was holding more. It's nice for me to be able to write that Deni made such a positive difference. I'm not a huge fan of his and often his lack of pace or urgency last season drove me to the brink. But this season, I think he is taking his chances well when he is presented with first-team opportunities. We seemed to then play with more discipline and control, as we saw less errant passes and more intricate play. This was true especially after our second goal - scored by El Capitan.



Cesc had been guilty of mislaying his share of poor passes in the first half, but his leadership was not in doubt. He had been directing players, helping out on defense, and arguing with Webb the entire game. Right after the start of the second half, Denilson picked off a pass from Arteta, pushed upfield, passed to Cesc, who found Chamakh. The Chamak-atak then fed the ball back to Cesc who slotted it past Howard. 2-0 us in the 48th minute. Now all we needed to do was hang onto the lead.



We made a couple more shots on goal. Nasri had a great run nearly all by himself but Howard was up to the task. A few minutes later Cesc crossed a great ball into the box which Chamkah booted over after making a slide for it. He was wide open too. I really wanted that third goal just to make my breathing a little easier.



Everton did not give up. They did look tired after the 60th minute or so, but they had two fine chances to score and both were denied by equally fine goalkeeping. Fabianski kept out both Beckford and Pienaar's attempts. Everton finally got on the scoreboard thanks to their Aussie. Cahill was on the receiving end of a nice header from Saha at the far post and scored at close range in the 89th minute. Four minutes of injury time were added, but we held firm.



Some other things I noticed were:



1) Bendtner did not make the bench. There were rumors that he was ill and rumors that Wenger was trying to send him a message after his complaining about his lack of playing time. Wenger's post-match interview might shed some light.



2) Theo got no playing time for two games now...a dent in his aspiration's to play consistently and be match ready for the National Side.



3) This is the second game we've won in non-traditional Arsenal style. We tend to play possession football and we were in our territory only 43.4% while Everton was in theirs 56.6%. Last week we won against Wolves with us having 45.9% and the Wolves 54.1%. Does this mean that we are getting better at taking our chances, or is our defense getting better at staying firm until we gain back the ball?



4) Johann Djourou has a ways to go working off the rust but is beginning to win me over as he won header after header today. Well done DJ.



5) Tomas Rosicky who came on for Arshavin in the 65th minute made a great sacrifice of his body as he stopped Coleman from crossing. He chased the ball down the pitch racing Coleman for it and blocked Coleman from getting at it which resulted in him getting pushed into diving headfirst into what looked like gravel. Gritty move from our Czech. I bet he's got some road rash down the front of him after that challenge.



That's about all for now. I'm just going off to bask in the glow of our current position in the league. There's no mid-week match coming up as there are international friendlies going on. I guess we'll spend the week crossing our fingers about players possibly getting injured. I'll try and be back mid-week for an update on Arsenal news and an MLS report. I know. I've neglected them for months now, but they are in playoffs right now which could provide an interesting paragraph or two. Okay one. Until then my fellow Gooners...cheers.

A Very Short Update and Everton Preview

My apologies for the lateness and shortness of the preview.  There has been the last two days problems with accessing the Internet from my home which makes it more inconvenient to read, write and post.  Which is too bad, really, because there's been some stuff to write about.  So, in order to cover the most news in the least amount of time, I've decided to go bullet style.  Here you go:

1) Another youthful player has shown some petulance.  Bendy threatened to quit.  John Cross in the Mirror seemed to have broken this story - translated from an interview Nik gave to a Danish paper.  Basically, he's complaining about not getting enough playing time.  Wenger asnered back by stating he needs to be patient just coming back from a long layoff and having Chamakh in decent form.  Considering Chamakh scored a bookend on Wednesday, replacing him will be no easy task.

2) Wenger is backing our Captain to return to form this game - he stated on Saturday that Cesc was at about 95% and maybe would have that 5% in place by today's match.  Wenger also said that from his experience players who return after playing in the final of a World Cup usually do not return to their top form until November.

3) Arsenal are at the bottom of the "Fair Play" table and therefore are getting guff from the press, managers, and some dirty players for not practicing what they preach.  Actually we're more in the middle, but WAY lower than usual.  We have four red cards and a handful of yellows.  Koz has two out of the four.  Wenger has addressed the issue of discipline.  I shrug my shoulders and say "we're getting tougher and refs give us more cards anyway".  Check out 7amkickoff.com for a great breakdown of this issue on his November 12th post.

Everton away has been good to us in recent years.  Last year's 6-2 opener was delightful.  But remember, Everton themselves traditionally start off slow and pick up the pace.  I like Everton and their manager.  Moyes seems gritty but fair and seems to get the most out of his players.  Tim Cahill  is a threat in the air so we have to cut down on stupid fouls that lead to free kicks and be tight on our marking off of corners.  We can beat them there so I'm predicting a 3-1 victory. 

That's all - a better post-match blog will be on it's way in a few hours..I promise.  Other than that, all I have to say is LET'S GO YOU REDS!!!

Thursday, November 11, 2010

Shhhhh... Arsenal Beat Wolves 2 - 0 - Opening and Closing by Chamakh

Has anyone else out there attempted to watch a match whilst sitting in the middle of a library?  Headphones plugged into my laptop squinting at the feed from ESPN3.com.  Yesterday was a match full of near-misses and wonderful saves which meant I had to squelch the "Oooohs" and "Ahhhs" into "ooohs" and "ahhs".  The noises I made were still noticeable however as several quizzical looks from patrons and one dirty look from a librarian helped me to keep in mind my surroundings.

Anyway.  I loved this game.  We played tough, energetic, and kept another clean sheet.  We're still in third place but only one point from second place and five behind the leaders.  Where we are gaining ground is in the Goal Differential column as we are now only 10 goals behind Chelsea.  I know, I know.  10 goals is too much.  But -  just last week we were 13 goals behind.  If Lukasz and our defense keep up the form we saw last night, I think we can do it.  Remember, Chelsea are old...I am still confident they will tire out as they play for three trophies.

We started off with a very familiar lineup.  The only changes were Arshavin who was back in on the left, Rosicky in for Nasri, and DJ was in for the suspended Koz.  I have to think though that the more physical Djourou might have been picked over the more lithe Koscielny anyway in light of our opponent.

Chamakh was back in the striker position and looked back to his energic self as he took a cross from Song and headed in in within the first minute of the match!  I like the early scoring.  It allows us fans to relax just a bit and provides ample time for more goals.  (On a side note - for those of us who noticed the dip in Chamakh's form last week, Wenger mentioned in his post match interview that Marouane  had been ill the week prior.  Glad he is feeling better!)

However, another goal was not to happen for about 89 more minutes.  In between there, we shot another thirteen times, with four of those blocked.  Cesc and Arshavin each had opportunities to score before halftime and were thwarted by Hahnemann.  The Wolves seemed to gain the momentum after almost 25 minutes of pressing us and we began to spend a lot of time down in their half of the pitch.  Fabianksi began the first of many saves as he palmed out a deflection that came from a Squillaci block and was heading toward a waiting Hunt.  Phew.  Disaster averted.  Halftime came and I felt relieved that we were still ahead.

The second half started with a near disaster at the Wolves end caused by Jack slipping and allowing Milijas a chance to equalize.  Everyone pitched in and blocked his attempt.  A few minutes later we were back in our own end when Tricky Tommy intercepted a bad pass from a Wolves player and fed our wide open Captain a bread and butter pass.  Cesc's shot went wide.  Another groan squelched.  When were we going to score again?  We needed to break these Wolves because they were not giving up.  They were not looking tired either.  I was getting a bit concerned.

Fabianski was again called into action just before the hour mark and responded magnificently.  Doyle shot out a bullet and Fab acrobatically finger tipped it over the bar.  The team responded to the following corner as Tommy cleared the ball off the line (I think it was with his knee).  The Wolves stayed down in their half, got a free kick, and nodded it over the bar.  Another reprieve.

We finally spent some time in our own half which gave The Fab a break.  Arshavin had two shots on goal in what seemed as many minutes.  One hit the post.  One was blocked.  More squelched sighing.  Squillaci and Djourou even got in on the missed scoring opportunities as both tried to find the back of the net after a corner.  Squillaci missed and Djourou had his attempt at the rebound deflected.

Wolves were still howling at our door.  Doyle had a shot that luckily went wide.  A few minutes later, Berra gave The Fab his best save of the night.  It was a low shot aimed at the Fabianski's left corner.  Fab dove low, blocked the ball with only his left hand...and hung onto the ball with one hand.  What a change in this player.  Remember when he had weak wrists?  His next move was just as important as he quickly distributed the ball out to Tommy who fed it long to the running Chamakh.  The Chamak-atak closed the game with his feet this time - finding the back of the net with the outside of his right foot.  Terrific.

Controversial moments?  Karl Henry's tackle on Arshavin was studs up and high on the shin which could have resulted in another broken leg.  No call.  The commentators at first discussed the tackle as being innocuous as they thought Andrey had tried to pull his leg back.  I have to give them credit though as upon further review, they agreed it was a very bad tackle by Karl and our little Russian was lucky to escape injury.  Let me say it again.  No call from the ref.

Cesc had a yellow card given to him for a tackle in the 88th minute when he tried to block Ward's attempt to clear the ball up the touchline.  Ward was stretchered off and the home crowd then booed Cesc whenever he touched the ball.  I haven't heard how damaged Ward's ankle is.  Cesc of course was just going for blocking the ball but reportedly went into the Wolves lockeroom after the match to apologize.  Wenger and Cesc both apologized in the press for the tackle.  Interestingly, Wenger did not bring up the no-call for Karl's tackle on Arshavin.  Hmmmm.

That's it really.  I thought it was an entertaining game with both teams going at it.  The Wolves may be at the bottom of the table but they have demonstrated they can play the game.  If they could just do something with that Karl Henry fellow.  I really don't care for him.  Man of the Match for me was Fabianski.  He not only kept us from going under, he did so coming back from a costly mistake the previous game.  Glad to see one mistake has not damaged his confidence.  I did not see any indecision from him during the game.  Great job.

We travel next to Everton on Sunday.  I'll have a preview up on Saturday and maybe a post in between there.  You never know.  Until then my fellow Gooners...have a good 'un.