EVERTON 1-1 ARSENAL
Walcott 1 min, Fellaini 27 mins
Att: 37,141
Following their insipid performance at Aston Villa on Saturday, Arsenal traveled to Merseyside needing a win to keep their League form bubbling nicely. Arsenal were greeted by the return of Thomas Vermaelen, Bacary Sagna and Jack Wilshere, who were all rested, and notably Theo Walcott, returning after a shoulder injury. The contract saga seemed to have disappeared into the shadows of late, but with the return of the young winger came the speculation over his future. With less than a year left on his contract, the situation is becoming desperate, especially for a large quantity of Gooners who realise how valuable he is.
And, as if by pure coincidence, Walcott was off the mark in the opening minute. A quick move and pass by Aaron Ramsey set THEO WALCOTT on his way, and the 23 year old coolly obliged in finding the net. 1-0, Arsenal fans left gobsmacked at the sheer difference Walcott makes to the team. It appeared at Saturday's performance that Arsenal really looked average, and many pundits felt that it was the absence of Walcott that did the damage. Needless to say, Wenger will undoubtedly want to slap a long-term contract on the Englishman, before it's too late.
Arsenal were dealt an early blow, however. Laurent Koscielny had to be replaced in the 5th minute after overstretching for a loose ball. Kieran Gibbs came on for the Frenchman, with the extent of the injury still yet to be seen.
After their early sting, Everton did not let their heads drop. For the next 26 minutes, Arsenal were denied by Everton's stubbourn midfield maestro, Marouane Fellaini, his physical presence proving to be a handful for Arsenal's relatively lean midfield. And the Belgian got his reward for his recent match-winning performances. In the 27th minute, MAROUANE FELLAINI picked up the ball and drilled a shot into the bottom left corner of the goal, Szczesny left for dead by his defence who had fallen asleep. A goal that, quite honestly, had been on the cards for a long time.
After this, an ever shaky Arsenal defence were subjected to more pressure, especially from former Rangers striker Nikica Jelavic. But while Arsenal were uncertain in one half of the pitch, they began to wake up on the front line. Jack Wilshere was pulling the strings for the Gunners, seemingly looking fresh from his recent lay-off, and there were numerous half-chances for the Arsenal forwards to try and feed on; however, there as no killer bite, and the evenly matched first half ended rather quickly.
As the teams returned for the second half, there was a real sense of urgency oozing out of Everton. A team that has been backed widely to secure a top four place, Everton began much the better side, seemingly building on their confident first-half display. Though Arsenal hadn't performed particularly badly, there was no "sharpness" (as Wenger calls it), and as the game trundled to the hour mark, Arsenal were hanging by a thread.
Olivier Giroud, who had been rather quiet, did attempt to get himself into the game, and was desperately unlucky not to score in the 67th minute, his effort wide of the target. As much as Giroud tried, Arsenal were simply being dealt with by Everton, and were left looking second best in 50-50 challenges. In fairness, one limitation of Everton would be that they are guilty of sloppy passing in the final third, and a more clinical team would have scored two or three this evening.
Everton began to utilise the height advantage of stocky Belgian Marouane Fellaini, with Bolton-esque long balls reigning down on Arsenal's 18-yard line. His efforts in feeding Jelavic were seemingly inaccurate, with balls bouncing either side of Mertesacker, before Thomas Vermaelen safely booting the ball into near outer-space on most occasions.
As the game entered the final ten minutes, both sides continued to push for a winner, with Everton looking the most likely tenders. Arsenal so desperately needed three points to annul their blank performance at Villa Park, but there just seemed to be no coherency or clarity in the front line. Matters only worsened with the arrival of out of form Ivorian Gervinho. With Lukas Podolski unavailable, one struggled to see any kind of bonding between Gervinho and Olivier Giroud, both seemingly getting caught trying to do the same thing. Meanwhile, Everton's pushes for a goal were equally in vain, as mad goalmouth scrambles were seemingly 'dealt with' by Arsenal's defence.
Arsene Wenger seemed to settle for a point, substituting Santi Cazorla for Francis Coquelin, and the game ended at 1-1. After two draws away from home, the next two home games against Swansea and West Bromwich Albion are must-win for the Gunners, otherwise they will undoubtedly slip further down the table. They currently sit below Everton, seventh and 12 points behind league leaders Manchester United. All is unsettled at the Arsenal.
The BSM march takes place this Saturday, meeting on Blackstock road at 13:30, near Finsbury Park. If you are thinking of going, let me know as I'll be there! Let's kick greed out of football.
Wednesday, 28 November 2012
Sunday, 18 November 2012
Outstanding, marvelous...and bloody ridiculous!
ARSENAL 5-2 TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR
Adebayor 10 mins, Mertesacker 24 mins, Podolski 42 mins, Giroud 45 mins, Cazorla 60 mins, Bale 71 mins, Walcott 90 mins
Adebayor sent off 18 mins
Att: 60,111
Fantastic. Unbelievable. Shocking. These words sprung to mind when thinking about the last meeting between Arsenal and Spurs, back in February. Coming into this game, I pondered what kind of Arsenal will turn up. It has been proven that this tie produces goals, goals and more goals; and yet, not many people would have predicted an identical scoreline. Contextually, yesterday's game was very, very different. An almost completely new midfield has replaced the first-teamers of last season, and furthermore, Arsenal's front line has completely changed too; at least, their talismanic striker was not there.
Tottenham started more brightly than initially anticipated; the Arsenal didn't come out all guns blazing, and when Defoe capitalised on a silly defensive slip, EMMANUEL ADEBAYOR could not miss from all of about 4 yards, rebounding Defoe's effort. Arsenal looked shell-shocked, however as a Gooner aged 17 years old, the unfolding scenario seemed all too familiar; it seems the norm for Arsenal to concede before properly starting the engines.
The Spurs fans were reveling in the teams lead, though Arsenal fans were in good voice, and it proved to be a fierce atmosphere. More notably, the bitter chanting was aimed squarely at ex-Gunner, and goalscorer, Emmanuel Adebayor. Perhaps caught up in the heat of all the abuse, Adebayor produced a seriously mistimed and malicious challenge on Santi Cazorla, a foul which sparked outrage in the Arsenal faithful, who were calling for a red. Howard Webb, the day's referee, had little choice but to produce what the Arsenal fans were craving, and Adebayor was forced to leave the field in shame.
It can be said that this moment of madness is what inspired the Arsenal to come out and perform. Perhaps a mixture of a shaken Spurs side and a resurgent Arsenal side, but from that moment on, the Arsenal forwards were flooding wave after wave of attack. And eventually they got what they deserved, PER MERTESACKER rising high above ex-Gunner William Gallas to direct a Tony Adams-esque bullet header into the net, sending the Arsenal fans into delirium. His first goal for the Gunners, it was clear how much that goal meant to the lanky German, and Arsene Wenger could only be pleased for him.
Despite all the Arsenal pressure, it wasn't until the 42nd minute until Arsenal took the lead. LUKAS PODOLSKI scoring a rather scrappy goal, beating Spurs keeper Hugo Lloris, that squirmed into the right corner. That did not matter, however, and the German striker celebrated in similar fashion, and the crescendo of noise in the Emirates Stadium was startling.
The flood gates appeared to have opened, and when Santi Cazorla raced through the Tottenham defence, sending in a low cross, OLIVIER GIROUD nipped in front of Gallas and Vertonghen to sweep in a third for the Arsenal; his seventh of the season, the Frenchman does seem to be settling in rather well, at last. 3-1, and a flabbergasted Villas-Boas had a task on his hands to inspire his Spurs team who already looked down and out. The half time whistle couldn't have come quickly enough, and the teams returned to the dressing rooms for their briefings.
As the fans sat, trying to get their breath back, I can honestly say that these performances are not novelties any more; this kind of play is turning into a vintage Arsenal style, albeit a rather negative one. If the fans had their way, Arsenal would concede a minimal amount of goals; however, Adebayor's goal came far too easily, and this sort of defensive incompetency happens in great frequency, sadly. The teams returned from the dressing rooms, and Arsenal it seemed returned the more hungry.
Still benefiting from their numerical superiority, Arsenal continued to dominate the midfield passages, Cazorla notably demonstrating his claim for being Arsenal's best buy this summer. And as if by coincidence, the Spaniard was rewarded for his excellent performance. As the Spurs defence fell asleep, Lukas Podolski raced down the left flank before drilling a low cross for the waiting SANTI CAZORLA to drive home, low in to the bottom right corner, Lloris again left helpless by his lacklustre defence. It was a fitting moment, as Cazorla had arguably been Arsenal's man of the match thus far.
The Arsenal fans were rubbing their eyes in disbelief, and any neutral fan could spare some sympathy for the Spurs supporters, their team being taken apart by their most bitter rivals. However, Spurs did manage to score a consolation, a quite brilliant goal by GARETH BALE, penetrating the Arsenal defence before drilling in with his "weaker" foot. Bale had had a relatively quiet game, but he certainly reminded everyone of his presence and ability with that goal. Perhaps more concerning for the Arsenal fans was the fact that yet again, the defence had fallen asleep and let in a goal that in truth could have been avoided, or at least better dealt with. However, in retrospect, this goal didn't prove too detrimental to Arsenal.
As the game began to wittle away, the result was a formality and had been for some time. Arsenal fans were greeted by the re-apperance of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain from injury. And the young England star made an instant impact, as he stormed forward before squaring for THEO WALCOTT to put in the fifth goal, and his ninth of the season. There were four minutes of injury time, though Arsenal were content with seeing the game out; Howard Webb blew his full time whistle, and drew to an end a game which demonstrated the best and worst of Arsenal FC. From hapless defending to artistic attacking, Arsenal displayed a mixed bag, thankfully outweighed with positives. It seemed ridiculous to predict another 5-2 as in February, but this was a rather ridiculous game in truth!
Next up for the Arsenal is the return of the Champions League, Montpellier will be visiting the Emirates on Wednesday evening.
Adebayor 10 mins, Mertesacker 24 mins, Podolski 42 mins, Giroud 45 mins, Cazorla 60 mins, Bale 71 mins, Walcott 90 mins
Adebayor sent off 18 mins
Att: 60,111
Fantastic. Unbelievable. Shocking. These words sprung to mind when thinking about the last meeting between Arsenal and Spurs, back in February. Coming into this game, I pondered what kind of Arsenal will turn up. It has been proven that this tie produces goals, goals and more goals; and yet, not many people would have predicted an identical scoreline. Contextually, yesterday's game was very, very different. An almost completely new midfield has replaced the first-teamers of last season, and furthermore, Arsenal's front line has completely changed too; at least, their talismanic striker was not there.
Tottenham started more brightly than initially anticipated; the Arsenal didn't come out all guns blazing, and when Defoe capitalised on a silly defensive slip, EMMANUEL ADEBAYOR could not miss from all of about 4 yards, rebounding Defoe's effort. Arsenal looked shell-shocked, however as a Gooner aged 17 years old, the unfolding scenario seemed all too familiar; it seems the norm for Arsenal to concede before properly starting the engines.
The Spurs fans were reveling in the teams lead, though Arsenal fans were in good voice, and it proved to be a fierce atmosphere. More notably, the bitter chanting was aimed squarely at ex-Gunner, and goalscorer, Emmanuel Adebayor. Perhaps caught up in the heat of all the abuse, Adebayor produced a seriously mistimed and malicious challenge on Santi Cazorla, a foul which sparked outrage in the Arsenal faithful, who were calling for a red. Howard Webb, the day's referee, had little choice but to produce what the Arsenal fans were craving, and Adebayor was forced to leave the field in shame.
It can be said that this moment of madness is what inspired the Arsenal to come out and perform. Perhaps a mixture of a shaken Spurs side and a resurgent Arsenal side, but from that moment on, the Arsenal forwards were flooding wave after wave of attack. And eventually they got what they deserved, PER MERTESACKER rising high above ex-Gunner William Gallas to direct a Tony Adams-esque bullet header into the net, sending the Arsenal fans into delirium. His first goal for the Gunners, it was clear how much that goal meant to the lanky German, and Arsene Wenger could only be pleased for him.
Despite all the Arsenal pressure, it wasn't until the 42nd minute until Arsenal took the lead. LUKAS PODOLSKI scoring a rather scrappy goal, beating Spurs keeper Hugo Lloris, that squirmed into the right corner. That did not matter, however, and the German striker celebrated in similar fashion, and the crescendo of noise in the Emirates Stadium was startling.
The flood gates appeared to have opened, and when Santi Cazorla raced through the Tottenham defence, sending in a low cross, OLIVIER GIROUD nipped in front of Gallas and Vertonghen to sweep in a third for the Arsenal; his seventh of the season, the Frenchman does seem to be settling in rather well, at last. 3-1, and a flabbergasted Villas-Boas had a task on his hands to inspire his Spurs team who already looked down and out. The half time whistle couldn't have come quickly enough, and the teams returned to the dressing rooms for their briefings.
As the fans sat, trying to get their breath back, I can honestly say that these performances are not novelties any more; this kind of play is turning into a vintage Arsenal style, albeit a rather negative one. If the fans had their way, Arsenal would concede a minimal amount of goals; however, Adebayor's goal came far too easily, and this sort of defensive incompetency happens in great frequency, sadly. The teams returned from the dressing rooms, and Arsenal it seemed returned the more hungry.
Still benefiting from their numerical superiority, Arsenal continued to dominate the midfield passages, Cazorla notably demonstrating his claim for being Arsenal's best buy this summer. And as if by coincidence, the Spaniard was rewarded for his excellent performance. As the Spurs defence fell asleep, Lukas Podolski raced down the left flank before drilling a low cross for the waiting SANTI CAZORLA to drive home, low in to the bottom right corner, Lloris again left helpless by his lacklustre defence. It was a fitting moment, as Cazorla had arguably been Arsenal's man of the match thus far.
The Arsenal fans were rubbing their eyes in disbelief, and any neutral fan could spare some sympathy for the Spurs supporters, their team being taken apart by their most bitter rivals. However, Spurs did manage to score a consolation, a quite brilliant goal by GARETH BALE, penetrating the Arsenal defence before drilling in with his "weaker" foot. Bale had had a relatively quiet game, but he certainly reminded everyone of his presence and ability with that goal. Perhaps more concerning for the Arsenal fans was the fact that yet again, the defence had fallen asleep and let in a goal that in truth could have been avoided, or at least better dealt with. However, in retrospect, this goal didn't prove too detrimental to Arsenal.
As the game began to wittle away, the result was a formality and had been for some time. Arsenal fans were greeted by the re-apperance of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain from injury. And the young England star made an instant impact, as he stormed forward before squaring for THEO WALCOTT to put in the fifth goal, and his ninth of the season. There were four minutes of injury time, though Arsenal were content with seeing the game out; Howard Webb blew his full time whistle, and drew to an end a game which demonstrated the best and worst of Arsenal FC. From hapless defending to artistic attacking, Arsenal displayed a mixed bag, thankfully outweighed with positives. It seemed ridiculous to predict another 5-2 as in February, but this was a rather ridiculous game in truth!
Next up for the Arsenal is the return of the Champions League, Montpellier will be visiting the Emirates on Wednesday evening.
Wednesday, 14 November 2012
Why we are angry
To fellow football fans in the UK and I guess most of Europe, the idea of Arsenal fans being unhappy or discontent in any way may seem farcical. Indeed, what right do we, fans of a hugely successful club, have to be angry? How can we possibly have the sheer cheek to complain?
Arsenal's apparent transfer policy:
Big arrivals since 2006:
Arsenal's apparent transfer policy:
Big arrivals since 2006:
- Olivier Giroud, c. £12,000,000, 2012 summer transfer window
- Lukas Podolski, c. £11,000,000, 2012 summer transfer window
- Santi Cazorla, c. £16,000,000, 2012 summer transfer window
- Mikel Arteta, c. £10,000,000, 2011 summer transfer window
- Per Mertesaker, c. £8,000,000, 2011 summer transfer window
- Gervinho, c. £10,800,000, 2011 summer transfer window
- Thomas Vermaelen, c. £9,000,000, 2009 summer transfer window
- Andrei Arshavin, c. £15,000,000, 2009 winter transfer window
- Samir Nasri, c.£11,000,000, 2008 summer transfer window (Now at Manchester City)
- Bacary Sagna, c. £6,000,000, 2007 summer transfer window
- William Gallas, c. £5,000,000 + Ashley Cole, 2006 summer transfer window (now at Tottenham Hotspur)
- Emmanuel Adebayor, c. £3,000,000, 2006 winter transfer window (now at Tottenham Hotspur)
Big exits since 2006:
- Robin Van Persie left the Gunners in the summer of 2012, for reasons left unknown to Arsenal fans, though the general consensus being that he wanted trophies.
- Samir Nasri left the Gunners in the summer of 2011, for reasons made very known to Arsenal fans, "I want trophies with Man City" translating to "I want more money".
- Cesc Fabregas left the Gunners in the summer of 2011, for reasons made very known to Arsenal fans, he wished to return to the club he supported as a child (and win trophies), Barcelona FC.
- Gael Clichy left the Gunners in the summer of 2011, for reasons made very known to Arsenal fans, "I want trophies with Man City" translating to "I want more money".
- Emmanuel Adebayor left the Gunners in the summer of 2009, for reasons made very known to Arsenal fans, a fall-out with the club and manager, presumably over his contract.
- Kolo Toure left the Gunners in the summer of 2009, for reasons made very known to Arsenal fans, Man City clearly offered a better contract and promised trophies.
- Mathieu Flamini left the Gunners in the summer of 2008, for reasons left unknown to Arsenal fans, though the general consensus being that the board had ballsed up his contract offer.
- Alex Hleb left the Gunners in the summer of 2008, for reasons made known to Arsenal fans, believing that Barcelona was the place for him to develop his promising career into a successful one.
- Thierry Henry left the Gunners in the summer of 2007, for reason made known to Arsenal fans, after struggling with injury, Henry sought a new challenge for his career, moving to Barcelona, but keeping Arsenal very close to his heart. He returned briefly on-loan in 2012, during the New York Red Bulls off-season. His statue sits proudly outside Emirates Stadium - a genuine club legend.
- Ashley Cole left the Gunners in the summer of 2006, for reasons made very known to Arsenal fans, after the club offered Cole a contract offer that seriously underestimated him as a world-class left-back.
Number crunching - the price of football
This weekend sees the Emirates open up its doors to Tottenham Hotspur, as part of the famous North-London Derby. On 26 February 2012, I managed to get a ticket as a junior member of the club's supporters schemes, and my ticket cost a very reasonable £18. However, since I am now not a junior member, should I wish to sit in the exact same seat as an adult member, the ticket would cost £62.
On 22 January 2012, Arsenal welcomed Manchester United to the Emirates Stadium, their first meeting since the dreaded 8-2 "Trafford-gate" incident. Similarly, as a junior member, my ticket sitting in the Upper tier was again, a reasonable £24. However, should I wish to watch the same fixture this season as an adult member, on 27/28 April, the cost would be £81.50.
All ticket prices for the Arsenal home matches are clearly displayed on the Tickets page of Arsenal.com
Living in an area which is predominantly West Ham territory (though a positive number of Gooners live in my locality), I am very well informed of the ticket prices for their home matches - £24 for a seat in the Bobby Moore lower against Arsenal. Now this may seem like a pointless comparison, but I believe that the sheer difference in price is concerning as a young football fan who struggles to count the cost of supporting Arsenal. To form a proper comparison, however, one must look at the prices of season tickets. To do this, I must compare Arsenal's season ticket prices with those of the Premier League Champions, Manchester City, and other clubs of a supposedly similar stature:
Manchester City season tickets - £425-£745
Manchester United season tickets - £532-£950
Chelsea season tickets - £595-£1250
Arsenal season tickets - £985-£1955
Arsenal FC can also 'boast' that they have the most expensive match-day ticket - a Category A fixture at the Emirates, seated in the Centre Upper, will cost £123.50.
The club's promises
The club, mainly the board, has promised season after season that Arsenal have ambitions, and do want to win trophies, and do recognise the constantly mounting cost of watching Arsenal FC. Something positive I can say about the board is the fact that they have listened, well sort of, to the Arsenal Supporters Trust, and have introduced a Category C type ticket price - for games like Southampton, Swansea, West Brom, Sunderland, Wigan - and that adult members can purchase a ticket for as little as £25.50. However, while they have lowered prices for a handful of games, they have risen ticket prices for both Category A and B fixtures, which, coincidentally, makes up the majority of Arsenal's home fixture list. In essence, the club has raised ticket prices, as they have done for consecutive years, but disguised it by introducing "cheap" prices for adult members. Furthermore, the club promised high-profile signings - in hindsight, the club has in part fulfilled this promise; however, the frequent departures of first-team players are never re-established, and some of the first-team spots are left to young, still-developing players.
Winning trophies. A promise or a distant dream?
When considering the Trophy haul of fellow clubs, the only way to compare Arsenal against other "big clubs" is to list the current list of honours since 2006.
Manchester City:
FA Cup 10/11
Barclays PL 11/12
FA Community Shield 2012
Chelsea:
Barclays PL 05/06 09/10
FA Cup 06/07 08/09 09/10 11/12
League Cup 06/07
FA Community shield 2009
UEFA CL 11/12
Manchester United:
Barclays PL 06/07 07/08 08/09 10/11
League Cup 05/06 08/09 09/10
FA Community Shield 2007 2008 2010 2011
UEFA CL 07/08
FIFA World Club Cup 2008
Arsenal:
Summary
Why are we angry? As Arsenal fans, it seems that in recent years, since 2006 at least, we have had to be contempt with Champions League qualification. Arsenal have been in two cup finals since 2006, both in the League Cup, both defeats to Chelsea (06/07) and Birmingham City (10/11) respectively. It would be unfair to not mention Arsenal's agonisingly close finish in 07/08, finishing just 5 points off the pace, and the few semi-final appearances Arsenal have made as well. However, much of the team that were part of these so-near-but-yet-so-far seasons have moved on to better, more successful clubs, and Arsenal's squad has been left to sag and replenish itself with below-par signings who simply don't fill the boots left behind. What's more, the fans have to pay astronomical prices to watch their non-successful team, and that is quite a bitter pill to swallow in the grand scheme of things. And as the years have rolled on, the fans feel more and more isolated from their club, as passionless board members, such as Ivan Gazidis, Peter Hill-Wood and Stan Kroenke, are more focused on the financial situation of Arsenal FC rather than the progress of the club, and refuse to communicate with Arsenal fans, leaving Wenger as the scape-goat for Arsenal's failures. As much as Arsenal like to think they are role-models for a perfectly ran football club, this simply cannot be said when the club are greeted by no successes in eight long years. In today's world, money talks, and Arsenal are definitely not famous for spending money...only its fans are.
Of course, I accept that people will disagree with my views, that is simple fact of life. If you do disagree with anything I have said, please feel free to message me your views, they are always valued!
However, if you do agree with my thoughts on the club at present, please join the "Where Has Our Arsenal Gone?" protest march on 1 December 2012, starting at Blackstock Road opposite the Gunners Pub; let's kick greed out of football.
Tuesday, 6 November 2012
A decent point.
SCHALKE 2-2 ARSENAL
Walcott 18 mins, Giroud 26 mins, Huntelaar 45 mins, Farfan 67 mins
Att: 50,000
Arsenal came into this evening's match with a real task on their hands. Two weeks previously, Schalke visited the Emirates and the result was one that should have been a wake-up call for the slacking Gunners. Goals from Huntelaar and Afellay sealed the win and sent Die Königsblauen back to Germany sitting at the top of Group B, and as Arsene Wenger looked on from the stands, serious questions were asked about this seemingly below-par performance. Needless to say, after that nightmare, Arsenal fans would have been content with taking just a point from the Veltins-Arena against this breathtaking Schalke team.
After Saturday's shrug of a performance, Andre Santos was dropped, and Arsenal's defence was rotated to include three centre-halves, with Vermaelen shifting to left-back; a string of poor games for the Brazilian, compounded by his ludicrous "half-time shirt-swapping incident", condemning Santos to a relatively inexperienced substitutes bench. Further up the field, Jack Wilshere started alongside Santi Cazorla and Mikel Arteta, with Podolski, Giroud and Walcott up front; a 4-3-3 formation. Walcott was placed on the right-wing against his wishes, despite much of the pre-match hype claiming that he would be starting in a centre-forward role.
And so to the match, and from the offset Schalke made clear their intentions. Indeed, it was mostly one-way traffic, with Schalke enjoying plenty of the ball and regularly advancing towards the Arsenal goal. However, in these early exchanges, all was basically well in the Arsenal defence, managing to fend off any danger with relative ease. As Arsenal struggled to find their feet, an opportunity suddenly presented itself in the form of Olivier Giroud, thanks to a Bolton-esque long ball from Per Mertesacker, sending the Frenchman through on goal, with Theo Walcott sprinting in support. Giroud dawdled on the ball, and a quite brilliant sliding challenge from Benedikt Howedes managed to dispossess him; however, THEO WALCOTT was on hand to round the goalkeeper and dink the ball into the net. A quite messy goal, not a typically "Arsenal goal", however, a precious goal, nonetheless.
And things would only get better for the Gunners. Some Arsenal pressure was seemingly snuffed out by the Schalke defence, though Giroud retained the ball, poking it wide for Lukas Podolski to keep the attack alive. Podolski then sent in a bullet-cross which was headed home by OLIVIER GIROUD to give Arsenal an unexpected 2-0 lead. Baffled Arsenal fans watched on, as they witnessed a team playing with confidence, something which has been in short supply of late, especially for the rising-up Olivier Giroud; goals can only be positive.
Arsenal were now coasting, all was well for Wenger. It's at times such as these that one can understand Arsenal fans frustrations. On Saturday at Old Trafford, the team seemed to display little ambition or attacking intent, and were beaten as if it were a formality. And yet, against similarly tricky opposition tonight, there were spells when Arsenal played with the kind of spirit and intent that has been missing in recent weeks.
And yet, as quick as lightning, Schalke struck back on the cusp of half-time, KLAAS JAN-HUNTELAAR the goalscorer, The Dutch striker latching onto a header by Lewis Holtby, burying the ball into the bottom right corner, a striker's finish.
The half-time whistle went, and both teams returned to the dressing rooms to ponder the events of the first half. On balance, Arsene Wenger will have been satisfied with his team's performance, though that familiar crushing feeling will have been ripe after conceding in the manner in which they did.
The teams emerged for the second half, and Schalke started the half as they meant to go on. Arsenal fans were gritting their teeth, it was plain to see that Schalke were not going to lie down easily. Indeed, they enjoyed long spells of possession, stroking the ball to each other in the sort of arrogant manner which Arsenal used to master all too well with the likes of Fabregas and Alex Song. And yet, the goal would not come. As in-form Huntelaar was sent through one-on-one, Arsenal keeper Vito Mannone must have thought he was finished. Huntelaar let rip, but Mannone pulled off a fine stop, parrying the ball out for a corner.
Sensing Arsenal's defensive weaknesses down the left-flank, Schalke decided to ambush. Jefferson Farfan, a pacy winger, rained cross after cross into the Arsenal box, but to no avail. Later on, Lewis Holtby and Afellay shot from close in, both dealt with by Mannone. Arsenal's defence was seemingly holding out, though they were not showing much intent down the opposite end of the field - Giroud was practically non-existent throughout the second half.
However, in the 67th minute, JEFFERSON FARFAN leveled the score for Schalke, his shot deflecting in off Arsenal skipper Thomas Vermaelen. A goal that had been coming, and Arsenal were firmly on the rack.
A blow for Arsenal, who yet again saw a two-goal lead slip away. Despite this, and quite refreshingly, Arsenal tried to get back into the game, Theo Walcott re-emerging out of the woodwork notably. However, nothing really seemed to click for Arsenal, and especially for Lukas Podolski, who has not been at his best since the international break. Both teams tired, and the game seemed to draw itself to a conclusion - before Theo Walcott was gifted with a golden opportunity two minutes into stoppage time, only to strike against goalkeeper Unnerstall. A frustrating miss, and an opportunity that could have stolen the points for the Gunners.
Overall, the Gunners can be pleased with earning a point against a hard-to-beat Schalke team. Arsenal were taken apart at the Emirates less than two weeks ago by this side, so to take a point from away from home is decent. Next up is a home game against Fulham in the Barclays Premier League.
Walcott 18 mins, Giroud 26 mins, Huntelaar 45 mins, Farfan 67 mins
Att: 50,000
Arsenal came into this evening's match with a real task on their hands. Two weeks previously, Schalke visited the Emirates and the result was one that should have been a wake-up call for the slacking Gunners. Goals from Huntelaar and Afellay sealed the win and sent Die Königsblauen back to Germany sitting at the top of Group B, and as Arsene Wenger looked on from the stands, serious questions were asked about this seemingly below-par performance. Needless to say, after that nightmare, Arsenal fans would have been content with taking just a point from the Veltins-Arena against this breathtaking Schalke team.
After Saturday's shrug of a performance, Andre Santos was dropped, and Arsenal's defence was rotated to include three centre-halves, with Vermaelen shifting to left-back; a string of poor games for the Brazilian, compounded by his ludicrous "half-time shirt-swapping incident", condemning Santos to a relatively inexperienced substitutes bench. Further up the field, Jack Wilshere started alongside Santi Cazorla and Mikel Arteta, with Podolski, Giroud and Walcott up front; a 4-3-3 formation. Walcott was placed on the right-wing against his wishes, despite much of the pre-match hype claiming that he would be starting in a centre-forward role.
And so to the match, and from the offset Schalke made clear their intentions. Indeed, it was mostly one-way traffic, with Schalke enjoying plenty of the ball and regularly advancing towards the Arsenal goal. However, in these early exchanges, all was basically well in the Arsenal defence, managing to fend off any danger with relative ease. As Arsenal struggled to find their feet, an opportunity suddenly presented itself in the form of Olivier Giroud, thanks to a Bolton-esque long ball from Per Mertesacker, sending the Frenchman through on goal, with Theo Walcott sprinting in support. Giroud dawdled on the ball, and a quite brilliant sliding challenge from Benedikt Howedes managed to dispossess him; however, THEO WALCOTT was on hand to round the goalkeeper and dink the ball into the net. A quite messy goal, not a typically "Arsenal goal", however, a precious goal, nonetheless.
And things would only get better for the Gunners. Some Arsenal pressure was seemingly snuffed out by the Schalke defence, though Giroud retained the ball, poking it wide for Lukas Podolski to keep the attack alive. Podolski then sent in a bullet-cross which was headed home by OLIVIER GIROUD to give Arsenal an unexpected 2-0 lead. Baffled Arsenal fans watched on, as they witnessed a team playing with confidence, something which has been in short supply of late, especially for the rising-up Olivier Giroud; goals can only be positive.
Arsenal were now coasting, all was well for Wenger. It's at times such as these that one can understand Arsenal fans frustrations. On Saturday at Old Trafford, the team seemed to display little ambition or attacking intent, and were beaten as if it were a formality. And yet, against similarly tricky opposition tonight, there were spells when Arsenal played with the kind of spirit and intent that has been missing in recent weeks.
And yet, as quick as lightning, Schalke struck back on the cusp of half-time, KLAAS JAN-HUNTELAAR the goalscorer, The Dutch striker latching onto a header by Lewis Holtby, burying the ball into the bottom right corner, a striker's finish.
The half-time whistle went, and both teams returned to the dressing rooms to ponder the events of the first half. On balance, Arsene Wenger will have been satisfied with his team's performance, though that familiar crushing feeling will have been ripe after conceding in the manner in which they did.
The teams emerged for the second half, and Schalke started the half as they meant to go on. Arsenal fans were gritting their teeth, it was plain to see that Schalke were not going to lie down easily. Indeed, they enjoyed long spells of possession, stroking the ball to each other in the sort of arrogant manner which Arsenal used to master all too well with the likes of Fabregas and Alex Song. And yet, the goal would not come. As in-form Huntelaar was sent through one-on-one, Arsenal keeper Vito Mannone must have thought he was finished. Huntelaar let rip, but Mannone pulled off a fine stop, parrying the ball out for a corner.
Sensing Arsenal's defensive weaknesses down the left-flank, Schalke decided to ambush. Jefferson Farfan, a pacy winger, rained cross after cross into the Arsenal box, but to no avail. Later on, Lewis Holtby and Afellay shot from close in, both dealt with by Mannone. Arsenal's defence was seemingly holding out, though they were not showing much intent down the opposite end of the field - Giroud was practically non-existent throughout the second half.
However, in the 67th minute, JEFFERSON FARFAN leveled the score for Schalke, his shot deflecting in off Arsenal skipper Thomas Vermaelen. A goal that had been coming, and Arsenal were firmly on the rack.
A blow for Arsenal, who yet again saw a two-goal lead slip away. Despite this, and quite refreshingly, Arsenal tried to get back into the game, Theo Walcott re-emerging out of the woodwork notably. However, nothing really seemed to click for Arsenal, and especially for Lukas Podolski, who has not been at his best since the international break. Both teams tired, and the game seemed to draw itself to a conclusion - before Theo Walcott was gifted with a golden opportunity two minutes into stoppage time, only to strike against goalkeeper Unnerstall. A frustrating miss, and an opportunity that could have stolen the points for the Gunners.
Overall, the Gunners can be pleased with earning a point against a hard-to-beat Schalke team. Arsenal were taken apart at the Emirates less than two weeks ago by this side, so to take a point from away from home is decent. Next up is a home game against Fulham in the Barclays Premier League.
Saturday, 3 November 2012
Lacklustre and definitely second-best
MANCHESTER UNITED 2-1 ARSENAL
van Persie 3 mins, Evra 67 mins, S. Cazorla 94 mins
Rooney missed pen 45 mins
Wilshere sent off 69 mins
Att: 75,492
It was a crisp, fine start to the day in Manchester. As Old Trafford opened up its turnstiles, one name was on the mouth of every supporter entering the stadium: Robin van Persie.
Arsenal headed into today's game off the back of a 7-5 victory in midweek against Reading, though it was plain to see that the game at Old Trafford would pose a different challenge. Manchester United had lost only twice in the Premier League this season prior to today's game, but had won their remaining seven games. What's more, in-form striker Robin van Persie, would be starting against his old club.
The game began, and the first goal was conceded before any of the players had a chance to catch their breath. ROBIN VAN PERSIE pounced on a mistake by Arsenal skipper, Thomas Vermaelen, to drive home a powerful low drive into the bottom left corner. Much criticised for his summer move to United, Van Persie demonstrated professionalism in not celebrating in front of the travelling Arsenal fans.
After this, the Arsenal appeared to be in shell-shock, not managing to muster anything meaningful in front of goal; indeed, the half proved a spectacle for United goalkeeper David de Gea, who barely had a save to make. The United defence, despite having Nemanja Vidic, Phil Jones and Chris Smalling sidelined, looked to be in total control, snuffing out any approaches made by the Arsenal front-line.
While United's defence were relatively comfortable, they were always looking for any opportunity to attack the rather lackluster Arsenal defence. Andre Santos appeared to be struggling with the sheer speed of United's Antonio Valencia. Being constantly pulled out of position, the neat, quick passing from United always seemed to unlock the Arsenal defence, and it would appear that Arsenal fans cannot wait for the return of first-choice Kieran Gibbs.
Jack Wilshere was booked for 'unsporting behaviour' on in the 14th minute, as a frustrated Arsenal midfield failed to gel properly. Furthermore, with Theo Walcott on the bench, one may ponder the choice of Aaron Ramsey on the right-wing, given the Welshman's recent run of bad-form.
As the first half began to draw to a close, United were awarded a penalty. A blatant handball by Santi Cazorla gifted United a golden opportunity to go into the break two goals to the good. Van Persie opted not to take the spot-kick, and in his place stepped United talisman Wayne Rooney. Having scored a hattrick in this fixture last season, all but everyone expected him to convert the penalty. However, Rooney blazed wide, completely missing the target. The half-time whistle went, and though United were only a goal ahead, they needn't have worried themselves too much, as an Arsenal side lacking confidence trudged into the dressing room.
The teams reconvened for the second half, and it was plain to see that Sir Alex Ferguson wanted more goals from his side. United rained shots in on the Arsenal goal in the early stages, but still Arsenal escaped. In the 51st minute, Arsenal made their first change, Aaron Ramsey being replaced by Theo Walcott. After the break, Arsenal appeared to come out of their shell and managed to attack the United defence - Olivier Giroud struck the post in the 54th minute, and it seemed that Arsenal needed to build on this chance if they wanted to steal a point from the game.
However, despite this chance, Arsenal didn't look like scoring against this United defence. A neat move from the Arsenal midfield sent Andre Santos through down the left-side with time to pick out a cross, but he could only blaze the ball out of play, a huge waste.
The game moved into the 65th minute, and United sensed they needed to score to squash any chances of an Arsenal comeback. And they did just that. Wayne Rooney worked a short corner before eventually sending in a cross that was headed in by United skipper PATRICE EVRA. 2-0 to Manchester United, and Arsenal staring down the barrel of another defeat.
A bitter blow for Arsenal, and matters only worsened when Jack Wilshere was dismissed in the 68th minute, a second bookable-offence doing the damage. The could be no arguments, as Wilshere clumsily barged into United goalscorer Patrice Evra.
The conclusion of the match seemed to be a foregone conclusion, as if delaying the inevitable. United's defence can be commended for a strong performance, though serious questions will be asked about Arsenal's ability in front of goal. Eventually, and somewhat miraculously, Arsenal did manage to score a goal in stoppage-time, SANTI CAZORLA sweeping the ball into the net beautifully from inside the box. But it proved to be too little too late, as Mike Dean's full-time whistle signalled the end of a comprehensive win for Manchester United. The only criticism of United would be that they did not score enough goals, but in reality, this is a much deeper issue in the Arsenal camp, who managed their three shots on target in stoppage-time.
This result moves Manchester United to the top of the Barclays Premier League, and sees Arsenal slump to 7th place, before the rest of the day's action commences. Next up for the Gunners is a tricky away game in Schalke, on Wednesday evening.
van Persie 3 mins, Evra 67 mins, S. Cazorla 94 mins
Rooney missed pen 45 mins
Wilshere sent off 69 mins
Att: 75,492
It was a crisp, fine start to the day in Manchester. As Old Trafford opened up its turnstiles, one name was on the mouth of every supporter entering the stadium: Robin van Persie.
Arsenal headed into today's game off the back of a 7-5 victory in midweek against Reading, though it was plain to see that the game at Old Trafford would pose a different challenge. Manchester United had lost only twice in the Premier League this season prior to today's game, but had won their remaining seven games. What's more, in-form striker Robin van Persie, would be starting against his old club.
The game began, and the first goal was conceded before any of the players had a chance to catch their breath. ROBIN VAN PERSIE pounced on a mistake by Arsenal skipper, Thomas Vermaelen, to drive home a powerful low drive into the bottom left corner. Much criticised for his summer move to United, Van Persie demonstrated professionalism in not celebrating in front of the travelling Arsenal fans.
After this, the Arsenal appeared to be in shell-shock, not managing to muster anything meaningful in front of goal; indeed, the half proved a spectacle for United goalkeeper David de Gea, who barely had a save to make. The United defence, despite having Nemanja Vidic, Phil Jones and Chris Smalling sidelined, looked to be in total control, snuffing out any approaches made by the Arsenal front-line.
While United's defence were relatively comfortable, they were always looking for any opportunity to attack the rather lackluster Arsenal defence. Andre Santos appeared to be struggling with the sheer speed of United's Antonio Valencia. Being constantly pulled out of position, the neat, quick passing from United always seemed to unlock the Arsenal defence, and it would appear that Arsenal fans cannot wait for the return of first-choice Kieran Gibbs.
Jack Wilshere was booked for 'unsporting behaviour' on in the 14th minute, as a frustrated Arsenal midfield failed to gel properly. Furthermore, with Theo Walcott on the bench, one may ponder the choice of Aaron Ramsey on the right-wing, given the Welshman's recent run of bad-form.
As the first half began to draw to a close, United were awarded a penalty. A blatant handball by Santi Cazorla gifted United a golden opportunity to go into the break two goals to the good. Van Persie opted not to take the spot-kick, and in his place stepped United talisman Wayne Rooney. Having scored a hattrick in this fixture last season, all but everyone expected him to convert the penalty. However, Rooney blazed wide, completely missing the target. The half-time whistle went, and though United were only a goal ahead, they needn't have worried themselves too much, as an Arsenal side lacking confidence trudged into the dressing room.
The teams reconvened for the second half, and it was plain to see that Sir Alex Ferguson wanted more goals from his side. United rained shots in on the Arsenal goal in the early stages, but still Arsenal escaped. In the 51st minute, Arsenal made their first change, Aaron Ramsey being replaced by Theo Walcott. After the break, Arsenal appeared to come out of their shell and managed to attack the United defence - Olivier Giroud struck the post in the 54th minute, and it seemed that Arsenal needed to build on this chance if they wanted to steal a point from the game.
However, despite this chance, Arsenal didn't look like scoring against this United defence. A neat move from the Arsenal midfield sent Andre Santos through down the left-side with time to pick out a cross, but he could only blaze the ball out of play, a huge waste.
The game moved into the 65th minute, and United sensed they needed to score to squash any chances of an Arsenal comeback. And they did just that. Wayne Rooney worked a short corner before eventually sending in a cross that was headed in by United skipper PATRICE EVRA. 2-0 to Manchester United, and Arsenal staring down the barrel of another defeat.
A bitter blow for Arsenal, and matters only worsened when Jack Wilshere was dismissed in the 68th minute, a second bookable-offence doing the damage. The could be no arguments, as Wilshere clumsily barged into United goalscorer Patrice Evra.
The conclusion of the match seemed to be a foregone conclusion, as if delaying the inevitable. United's defence can be commended for a strong performance, though serious questions will be asked about Arsenal's ability in front of goal. Eventually, and somewhat miraculously, Arsenal did manage to score a goal in stoppage-time, SANTI CAZORLA sweeping the ball into the net beautifully from inside the box. But it proved to be too little too late, as Mike Dean's full-time whistle signalled the end of a comprehensive win for Manchester United. The only criticism of United would be that they did not score enough goals, but in reality, this is a much deeper issue in the Arsenal camp, who managed their three shots on target in stoppage-time.
This result moves Manchester United to the top of the Barclays Premier League, and sees Arsenal slump to 7th place, before the rest of the day's action commences. Next up for the Gunners is a tricky away game in Schalke, on Wednesday evening.
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