Casualties of War

We ended up even with Barcelona last night. But it came with a price. The injury update from Wenger today was disheartening and sad as we head into the climatic end of our EPL season and hope to extend play by prolonging our existence in the Champions League. Here is how things stand as of today with our walking wounded: Gallas - out for at least three weeks with re-injured calf Arshavin - out for at least three weeks with an injured calf Clichy - a "maybe" for the Wolves game Saturday as his back problem has flared up again. Denilson - a "maybe" for the Wolves game Saturday because of a groin injury . And Captain Cesc - out for at least six weeks with a small crack in his right fibula which means he's out for the rest of the EPL season. If we can go farther in the Champions League, Cesc may have a shot at still playing this season. Sounds like if all goes well with his rehab, he should also make the World Cup. There has been a lot of chatter today on blogs and sports shows about our match yesterday. Barcelona was described as "first class". Our description has been varied. Some have described us "lucky", "out of our depth" and "gutsy". I think gutsy applies. I also think that Barcelona were the better team...they are world class. No one can deny that. But they also have their flaws. They let us back in the game. They weren't smart with some of their fouls. And, I think they were tired at the end. Now don't get me wrong, playing at Camp Nou will be formidable as Barcelona will have their home crowd behind them. But they also will have some players missing due to suspension, namely Puyol and Pique. By the way, can tell I am tired of reading how Puyol's red card was "soft". Cesc fractured his leg in that foul!! How soft can that be? This is demonstrated in the highlights below. Take a peek, especially if you did not get to see the game. These highlights are extended. I am still shocked at going into halftime 0-0. Also, I love this clip because you can hear the announcer say each starter's first name and the fans complete by chanting the last name. So cool!! Okay, that's it for now. I wanted to give a brief "shout out" to the "Whits" family who are leaving our little town to return to their Chicago roots. Hope you enjoyed your Hoosier stay. You definitely brought something to us, and you will be missed. See you Gooners later!