It’s All Mental, Liverpool vs Arsenal, Match Peview
Meaningful Football Once Again
With a fixture that hasn’t had a scoreless draw in 28 meetings over 10 years, the Liverpool v Arsenal match is one supporters of each squad always look forward to. And why not, the last time these two teams met supporters from both sides were treated to either a scoring masterclass or a dreadful defencive performance – depending on your perspective. When Arsnal and Liverpool met at Anfield this season both sides are hoping that only one of them has a similar form.
With either team right now, each one is dealing with its own mental frailties, for Arsenal we are all well aware of the injuries and the effects they have had on the squad. If Arsenal are to proceed in their hunt for the EPL title, they will need to get over whatever mental hurdles they have and buck up until Arsene has a chance to bring in fresh players in January.
For Liverpool their mental block deals around a long run of poor performance. Whatever the reason, Rafa Benitez’s side have not looked like the squad that pressed Manchester United for the title last season. As a matter of fact they’ve recently looked more like a squad trying to stave off relegation. What all this is attributed to is anyone’s guess? But suffice it to say, Liverpool are clearly out of the EPL title hunt (though Scousers won’t admit it) and out of the Champion’s League (the ramifications of which may not be felt until next year).
At the start of the season all the pundits were saying it would be Arsenal struggling to get a top 4 spot. However right now it is the merseyside giants who are on the outside looking in. And while the road is long ahead, the journey will be frought for both squads.
Liverpool are in a an absolute must win situation. There is no wiggle room for a draw or a loss. A loss – and Rafa Benitez may finally have seen his last days at Anfield. Should ‘Pool draw, the din for changes at Anfield will likely grow. In fairness as an outside observer the blame can only be partially Rafa’s. For him it is his dodgy transfer policy that hasn’t brought in a suitable backup for Fernando Torres so that while he was injured they wouldn’t lose a step. Additionally, you have to question letting go their midfield maestro, Xabi Alonso. Say what you will about Gerrard but it was Alonso who created a lot of the chances that Liverpool got. The lack of scoring Pool has shown this season can be directly attributed to that. But if Rafa is to blame for that – then Hicks and Gillette are to blame for shackling the club with so much debt that Rafa can’t do anything. If Gooners need an example of why I am happy our club is run the way it is – they need look no further then Liverpool. It is a model of what can go wrong if you are not prudent in you financial abilities. Should the club finish out of the big four and Champion’s League football – Pool fans should watch out – the club will be worse than it is now.
Liverpool fans will take heart that Torres and Gerrard seem to be getting back to health and that midfield acquisition Aquilani looks like he is also coming of form back. Though I would remain tepid on Torres. Yes, even hurt he is a fantastic striker but the injury he has been struggling with is a groin injury that is bad enough that surgery will be needed to ultimately fix it. The Spanish FA would like him to do it sooner rather than later ahead of the World Cup. But his club are resistant beacuse without even an injured Torres they have shown themselves to be toothless.
Dirk Kuyt who is having an off year should feature in spite of this seasons’ deficiencies. The games he has managed to show up for are the big ones like wins over Everton and Manchester United. And he has had some success against Arsenal in the past, though he did look mediocre against our young guns in the Carling Cup.
The interesting thing about this years fixture is that there is very little change in the squads from last season. For Liverpool the biggest change is the loss of the Alonso. For Arsenal last season saw a 50% Kolo Toure and the ancient Mikhail Silvestre anchor the centre of the Arsenal defence. This season we should be tighter back there with the tandem of Gallas and Vermaelen in front of the ‘keeper. Additionally, Arsenal will start someone other than Nicky B in the front. Last season he started the match but overall was a non-factor missing more than hitting. So whomever starts in his place should hopefully be better. The point is both squads that take the field tomorrow are only slightly different than the one who faced each other in the 4-4 slug fest last season:
Pool’s Lineup at Anfield Last Season:
Reina
Arbeola Aurelio Agger Caragher
Mascerherano Alonso Bnayoun Kuyt
Rierra Torres
Al Zhar on for Kuyt
The Arsenal linup for last season at Anfield:
Fabianski
Sagna Toure Silvestre Gibbs
Fabregas Song Denilson
Arhsavin Bendtner Nasri
Walcott for Denilson, Diaby for Nicky B
So what’s the point? The match could take on the same tenor as last season but for Arsenal we are much improved at the CB position. Though we could all argue that none of our ‘keeper choices inspires much confidence. So how this game plays out is really is a mystery?
For Arsenal the mental hurdle is getting over the perceived lack of size and the recent scoring drought they had gone through. Though none of the pundits point out that the lack of scoring has mostly come with the kids and not with its senior squad. For Arsenal a loss would likely make the league title a distant chance, a draw keeps them in the top 4 but a closer target for the likes of VIlla, Spurs and City. A win and the Gunners can keep pressure on United and to some extent Chelsea.
Arsene has to play Arshavin up front again. He showed last week against a very physical stoke that he can overwhelem a squad with his ability. In that match he created 3 solid scoring chances converting on a a fourth. He was deceptive by sitting back and forcing the defenders up to him only to out hustle them to the ball and in some cases out muscle them. Noone should doubt AA23 for his size is very strong – especially down low. In last week’s Stoke match to set up the Ramsey score, he was going down with the ball at his feet and still managed to get it to Ramsey who rocketed the goal in.
Liverpool are not a squad that are going to out muscle us. They do not play the Chelsea way and even if they could, it is not Rafa’s style. In some way he plays a flowing attack football much like our own style that should benefit Arsenal. Like Arsenal, Pool have always done well against European competition in the CL only to lose to English clubs. So the style of game should look very familiar to fans of European football. It will be wide open and will be more about the squad that capitalize on its chances than it will be about people out muscling each other for the ball.
Arsenal will be anchored in the middle by Alexander Song and Cesc Fabregas. Fabregas for the attack and Song for the holding role. Song to me is this season’s star. It would be easy to pick Cesc or RvP, but after last season and the summer transfer window when a holding midfielder did not come in, Gooners were openly worried that we would be weak there. Song has gone to show that Wenger knows what he has in terms of talent. Song is everywhere on the pitch. Against Chelsea he successfully contained their midfield. Shackling them at every opportunity. It was on the wing where Arsenal lost that match not in the midfield. Song should be more than capable of handling even Aquilani.
Vermaelen and Gallas have shown themselves to be a solid defencive pairing. Game after game they continue to impress with their ability to shut down the opposition attack (too bad our keeper doesn’t know how). Even after they make mistakes, ala Chelsea, they have come back and shown performances like Stoke where no header, no play in the middle or around the box had any chance for success. They will need to continue that form and growth process if Arsenal are going to continue to push for silverware.
For what it’s worth I think Arsenal match up as we currently are against even a healthy Liverpool Squad. Against a half fit Pool Arsenal would have a clear advantage – even with RvP and Nicky B at the doctors. As it is, it is very hard to call this match because I am not sure which squad will show up for either side.
How the Match Should Play:
To me each team is a mirror of each with the roles from last season reversed. Last season it was Arsenal that had to go on an extended run to fight for its CL spot and hope that everyone above it went on a run of bad form. Liverpool need that now and will be looking to make this match the start of the turnaround. Arsenal are looking to continue an upward press. With such desperation at Anfield, Arsenal will need to weather the first 15-20 minutes of pressure. If it were me I would keep the wings back for a bit until we were sure of the Pool attack plan. Once we have snuffed it out then we can press forward. Better to have 6 attacking then 8 and run the risk of giving up the early goal. Finally, put the ball at Arshavin’s feet around the box. He has shown what he can do against Pool’s defense and Reina. It will be an open affair that is for sure and a style of play that Arsenal should like and thrive in.
Players to Watch:
Arsenal: Andrei Arshavin. Back to scene of last seasons amazing show. In only his second month with the team, he showed why there was so much interest in him. He is one of the best when on his game. As the center of the Arsenal attack this weekend it will fall to him again to be the tip on the Arsenal attack. Again, since he has been the most vocal player about the club’s form he will need to show that he can continue to deliver.
Liverpool: Fernando Torres. Arguably the best striker in the world when he is healthy. But how healthy is he? If Liverpool want to mount a challenge for their top 4 spot they will need him. If his injury is still nagging him then he may not be as effective but even still, Vermaelen should lock him up like he has Wayne Rooney.
Probable Starting XI:
Probables for Sunday's Match
Injuries:
Arsenal: Eboue (hamstring), Rosicky (groin), Gibbs (foot), van Persie (ankle), Clichy (back), Bendtner (hernia), Djourou (knee)
Liverpool: El Zhar (ankle), Babel (ankle), Kelly (ankle)
Officials:
Referee: Howard Webb
Assistant Referees: Darren Cann, Mike Mullarkey
Fourth Official: Andre Marriner
Recent League Form:
Arsenal: WLLWW
Liverpool: DWDDL
YAMA Prediction:
Arsenal 2 – Liverpool 2
US TV:
Fox Soccer Channel : 11:00AM (11:00PM rebroadcast)
UK TV
Sky Sports 1 16:00
Streams:
www.atdhe.net
www.iraqgoals.net
www.justin.tv
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Oh boy, I was out and missed the game. I guess I missed all the comments in the heat of the battle both in the gameday chatroom and YAMA.
All in all, it’s a good result. That’s all that matters.
Well, if it makes you feel better neither team’s play was particularly pleasing to the eye for more than a few sporadic minutes at a time. Just find a highlight of Arshavin’s goal on youtube or something and that’s all you need. It was quite nice.
CG, “quite nice” is understating it. :)
The best thing about the AW’s Half-time Sèche-cheveux (tirade)…is that it worked! He got the team’s ear and they listened and it actually panned out (woeful, pathetic, all-we-can-do-is-dive Liverpool notwithstanding) so maybe they’ll listen to him about the need for consistency, how it’s a big 6 now (i.e., the Villa match will be tough), etc. If we can get 3 points at a time in December then it will be time to listen to himself and buy, not just for the future or for the CL but to try and win the league (in addition to the other objectives). We’ve got several games for players to show that THEY don’t need a ready-made replacement, but when the time comes, this could be the obvious season to go for it. In the meantime, the team needs to back up this result, toot sweet, starting Weds in Burnley….
Ok I apologise for calling Wenger a wanker. That was a bit uncalled for.
Now you’re just being English. ;-)
Stiff upper lip old boy. Why, we are The Arsenal after all ;)
That is thoroughly decent of you old chap ;-)
Dynamite result. Arshavin owns Liverpool. I know Reina had to be thinking “off the post, again? This isn’t for real! This is a dream and I’m going to wake up soon”.
I said it earlier in the season that Liverpool are done-son. They are flogging a barely fit Torres. They have no plan b. They concede late goals. They have some good players but no team. It’s all because Benitez keeps moving players on before they settle. At full strength, they lost at home to Fiorentina and then to a broke-down Arsenal. It will be very difficult for them to be in the top four at the end of the season. If Liverpool are smart, they’ll sack him come end of the season. He can only ride that CL win for so long.
The past few seasons, I’ve always felt that every time we played Liverpool, they could score at will. In the CL game, I knew they would score a late winner. Even last season, after Arshavin scored his fourth goal, I knew that Liverpool would, more likely than not, get an equaliser. Vermaelen has put that notion to bed. He’s just what the doctor ordered.
Now, we need a keeper in a big way. I was always opposed to Wenger dropping Lehmann after his mistake. Lehmann was always better. A dip in form is temporary. A lack of class is permenant. I hope Almunia can pull his head out of his ass but I won’t hold my breath. It seems that since Capello has ruled Almunia out of contention, his game has actually gotten worse. I like Espanyol’s keeper, the Cameroonian dude. He’s a top keeper who’s been linked with a move to a bigger club in Spain for years but it’s never happened. We should go for him, and Adriano. That might get us the title.
Speaking of keepers, did you guys hear about Lehmann taking a piss during their game on Wednesday? That’s absolutely hilarious! Who else would do something like that? I miss that guy; always good for a laugh. Like I said the other day, he gave us real personality. Strikers and keeper should get away with being a little twisted.
I felt bad for Torres, there was that one run where he kept the ball in but you could see that it nearly killed him, and that he couldn’t do any better when he was one on one with Manny…well, it was just too bad (but good for us). Is he back to Spain w/Rafa?
Vermaelen has been huge and I keep waiting for the bubble to burst (with a rash challenge in the box, for example) but he seems to know when to be aggressive and when to hang back. I can’t even fault him for the OG against Chelsea as Gallas whiffed the clearance and Manny should’ve called them both off.
As for keepers, Almunia’s mentally shot and needs a change of scenery; a new hair-do won’t cut it. I think Mad-Fab can do a substantially better job but he’ll still make mistakes–and I loved the way he phrased his recent dig at Almunia. If you want crazy, I think he’s your guy. The Espanyol keeper looked good from what I saw of the Catalunya derby, but it’d be rough on Mad-Fab (MF?, Crazy MF?) to bring in someone so young. On Saturday Commentators were saying that if Cech doesn’t get his act together Chelsea should buy in January, so maybe we could pick him up on the cheap. ;-)
But josh….nothing about Denilson? (or the rest of the MF)….
We were lucky, on that one-on-one with Manny, to have faced out-of-form Torres. That’s one he normally puts in laughing.
That’s one I think even Bendtner wouldn’t miss on, and he misses more easy chances than anyone.
“16 Conclusions” from the match: http://www.football365.com/story/0,17033,8742_5769631,00.html
A very excellent read. One of the “conclusions” is that on closer inspection, the Liverpool goal was offsides. I haven’t gone back and watched it yet, and I may not get the chance, but perhaps someone else could confirm this?
I have not watched the entire match but did see the run of play that led to Pools goal. I have seen 1 replay.
Based on standard interpretation of the offside’s law, Pool were blatantly offsides, but of course all the media spin is on the Gerrard deserved penalty.
By the way, if you watch the replay you’ll see that Gerrard loses control of his dribble b4 the contact with Gallas, and that’s how I believe Webb interpreted a no call.
I’m sure Almunia would’ve blocked the spot kick if it had been given, he’s a “shot-stopper” after all. From the victor’s perspective we easily say that it “all evened out,” but a neutral, while probably not impressed by our performance (minus Andrey’s moment of brilliance) would agree that the result was just….thus kudos to Howard Webb and his (never silent for long) whistle.
Great win, but garbage performance, complete and utter garbage. In fact it was so bad I wasn’t even nervous in injury time cause we would have deserved whatever we got.
Heartening that Wenger gave them earful at half time, and that was all on him as much the players. He bought them, he installs the mentality, and lets face it – it’s nothing new. We’ve seen the same zombie, lifeless performances from the likes of Nasri, Denilson, Diaby(when he came on as well) MANY times in the past, yet he acts surprised when it happens for the umpteenth time and still trots them out like lambs to the slaughter.
“Not fit to wear the shirt”
That justifes everything I said about Arsene at half time, and I’ve been wanting him gone for YEARS Andez, so I don’t know why your making a big deal out me repeating that at half time. I still want him gone. This team won’t win anything with Denilson, Diaby, Song in midfield.
p.s- thank god Benitez took Mascherano off and put on Aquilani. That’s where the game was won in my opinion.
Star men- Arshavin and Vermaelen. Arshavin showing Denilson and Diaby how you close down, and yet they are supposed to be the ones shoring things up.
If it is fair to say “Not fit to wear the shirt” to our players
I am sure it would also be fair to say that some of our “supporters” are not “fit to support the club” In fact they don’t appear to support the club at all rather all they do is moan even when we win, and deride our players and manager and label our team with tags such “bottlers.”
With “supporters” like these who needs haters, they are one and the same
I’m still struggling to envisage how ‘support’ manifests itself on a forum?
I’m guessing in your eyes it is displayed in the form of banal cliches, which doesn’t really appeal. So with that mind you can stick your ‘support’ where the sun don’t shine Arthur ;)
As usual, everything I type here is my honest observations on what I see, and if this season plays out how I think it will, I will be proven correct… again…..and you and few others will pipe down, again, and go into blog hibernation.
You are so funny Mazza, I simply cannot get annoyed with you for very long.
I have noticed that you will not stick your neck out on the line like you did season before last season claiming we would end up 10 points behind the leaders.
I go and watch the games too when I can. I have watched three games this season and sang at everyone. While the Mazzas behind me moaned about Eboue, Gallas and whatever else they could find to moan about.
I like blog hibernation. It makes me fresh and ready to take on a all the haters and Mongers once again ;-)
@Arthur
Would you have been so brave as to sing your Ade songs standing among the Arsenal support that day?
Of course not.
What have I just proved?
That you know at least one difference between a Message Board and Real Life.
Vibe, what you have written here can be summed up in the immortal words of Kenny Bania….
“That’s Gold, Jerry! Gold!”
A Seinfeld reference on YAMA. Sweet.
No, what you wrote was sweet….The posturing at the keyboard drags us down to the level of every other stupid board (on any subject). Just my $.02, as they say….
And why would I want to?
Did they insult me? Did they insult my mother or tell me to F’ OFF?
No they didn’t. But I would sing the song in your face though.
What does that prove I know at least one difference between a bunch of angry Gooners and a girls blouse :-D
You’re not following your own premise, Art. But your own account, you were terribly offended on Ade’s behalf. They said things about his mommy!
Based on your principled, brave stand on here, standing among the support your surely would have asked them to stop picking on Ade. When they were done dumping their beer on you, I’m sure you would have begun with the songs.
OR you’re talking crap.
——————
“What does that prove I know at least one difference between a bunch of angry Gooners and a girls blouse”
Yesh, the girl’s blouse will be the one under your Christmas tree. :-)
I’m glad to hear AW gave the team an earfull at halftime. Sometimes you need a good kick in the ass to get your head out of there, and they definitely had their heads up there for the first 45 minutes.
And since ‘pools only real highlights were on his hair today, this one goes out to Fernando Torres…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SRkbkvAjI3o
Arsenal now have to pick up maximum points at Turf Moor before returning home to stuff Hull, to ensure the advantage of today’s win is not thrown away immediately.
The next two games, Burnley and Hull should be straightforward.
Just noticed we play Villa, Man U, Chelsea and Liverpool in consecutive games at the end of January-beginning of February!!! WOW!
Its not an understatement to call that run of games the ultimate decider of our season. We get 7 points out of those twelve and we are good because the only teams we would meet till the end of the season are lower leaguers.
Too bad Song will miss ALL of those games!!!
Huge part of the season.. we need momentum going in. We could, if we play like we did in todays 2nd half, win every game till then (villa home being the trickiest of the lot).
As for my post above.. Wenger seems to have lost his temper at half time. He also talked about the fear of losing big games.
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story?id=712638&sec=england&cc=3436
Ozi, What AW said in half time seems to be in perfect tune on what you said in a previous comment – the fear to lose a big match had crippled the team.
And once they fell behind, they had their freedom back, as u said, nothing to lose.
Great result and a huge win. Before the game, I would have been delighted if Arsenal had come back from a goal down to win 2-1 in the last minute, sort of like Fiorentina did. But scoring the winner before the hour mark was better because all of Anfield could witness an inept Liverpool muster nothing and see Arsenal handle whatever else was on offer over the last 30+ min. No magical night at Anfield anymore. With this loss, Liverpool have something like 3 wins in their last 15 games in all comps.
I think this is Arsenal’s first win against the big 4 (soon to be big 3 unless something changes) in any competition since that 2-1 away win to Chelsea end of Nov 2008. This run included 6 defeats and 3 draws (2 draws with Liverpool). Ofcourse, Arsenal have to solve Man Utd and Chelsea if they have to overtake them. But first, they have to get rid of Almunia. He cannot be a liability anymore. When will it be enough for him? Lehmann was withdrawn after 2 back to back blunders but Almunia has been a constant blunder, with few exceptions last season.
Update: Cesc said in an interview that AW yelled at them that they weren’t fit to wear the Arsenal shirt at half time; and that he hadn’t seen the boss that angry ever.
Not pretty. We won. Very important result and we’re back in it again.
Almunia should have caught that, not flapped at it. That apart and the early Torres chance I didn’t see why we were that shit. Yeah we got overrun a little bit first half..but not by much really.
Stunner by Arshavin. Big Big game player.
Denilson plays 93″ . We win. He had a very good game really..even better than Cesc although that will seem hard to digest for many here. Having said that Cesc sacrificed a little forward movement to work incredibly hard today.
Traore n AA23 both looked to have tight hamstrings. That’ll take the count to what..13? Ridiculous really.
Theo was disappointing tbf although he kept Aurelio back all game. Nasri ditto…but to a lesser extent. The rest were excellent. TV ws great and Torres didnt get a sniff apart from that early breakaway. Not a penalty IMO..50-50. Looked as if he caught him but can’t be sure.
Very very happy though and we should now build on this and win another 3 or 4 in a row. More later maybe.
Denilson was awful. So was Cesc but I think you would agree Cesc might the better option in the long term.
Song was the worst of the lot today though. All his flaws were exposed. Slow, slow, slow. In fact our whole midfield is the footballing manifestation of rheumotoid arthritis.
Have you gone absolutely BONKERS or what?
Flipping lunatic! First you have the audacity to call for our greatest ever managers head at half time, now you tell us the only other contender for MOTM other than Vermaelen, Song was the worst of the lot today.
Either you have lost your marbles are you have had an unfortunate accident and have become partialy sighted, which one?
Is half time some sort of sacred ritual in football when people can’t be criticised?
What’s the difference between wanting Wenger to leave at half time and wanting him to leave after the match?
LOL!
Probably a bit harsh on Song. He did well defensively in the second half. Still was far too sloppy in possession though.
anyone has any thought on Steven Gerrard. he’s one player i always admire – his big game mentality. But today he’s simply pathetic – his attempt to dive and win freekicks again and again. how he got away with not a single booking is beyond me.
Yeah, that quote i mentioned earlier from F365… well here’s the full thing:
“Incredibly, they did not even manage a single shot on target during the second-half. And Steven Gerrard’s behaviour is now embarrassing.”
and what made him look more embrassing is he’s a big lad. While most of our players are small. So seeing him dropped to the ground after a 50/50 challenge from a player who’s much smaller than him looked a bit comical!
Great result but not the greatest performance. Thank God for Arshavin :-D
They tried to outmuscle and out hustle us throughout and were very effective with it in the first half. They did not allow us to get into our rhythm thus we were not effective.
At the end of the day they played like a home team who had to win the game and we should expect to come to Anfield and dominate, last season they were far the better side than us at Anfield as well.
We did not “bottle it” so I think as a supporter we should enjoy the result and not complain too much about the performance it was good enough.
I do not see what Denilson did that was so wrong today that is worthy of derision. Nasri was not particularly stand out either. Denilson is also just returning from injury and would need a little time to get to him optimal. As for Big Al’ he cannot be trusted it seems however I still believe he is the less risky of the 3 keepers we have.
People also need to note that Liverpool did not create too many chances either.
you are right arthur.
I had criticised Arshavin before for only TALK and not exactly been performing.
But today he shut me up. Not that he had a great game (a great goal though), but his workrate was impressive. Closing down the central half time and time again before getting booked.
It’s something I always love to see – hardwork.
He does work so hard.
And imagine he is not even in the best of form yet this season yet he can pull the cat out the bag in any instant.
Absolutely fantastic.
Andez your criticism at the time was justified.
He was talking too much, it was counterproductive to team morale and he needed to up his game too. I agreed with everything you said.
Arthur supports YOUR right to criticize, Andex. I see.
PS: Thank you Glenn Johnson!
Something makes me uneasy about that statement.
Can you not find any of our own players to thank.
Criticise our players but thank theirs. What’s up with that?
I personally thank Arshavin. He OWNS the scouse.
Rich coming from you Arthur!
Sorry, I cant thank Adebayor … he wasnt playing today ;-)
You should understand.
Oh how childish Fred!
What has Dade Blue to do with this.
We win and you moan, our player scores a screamer, instead of praising him you praise scorer of their own goal.
Rather a strange attitude from an Arsenal “supporter.” Well I suppose you are quite…. hmmmm…. unorthodox anyway so I should expect no better. :-D
arthur3sheds Reply:
December 13th, 2009 at 3:24 pm
Something makes me uneasy about that statement.
——————
You know what made me uneasy? You singing songs for Ade after City thumped us and he showed up the Arsenal supporters. Clown.
Vibe, you and Fred save me from typing out about twenty more comments day. Words right out of my mouth, but with much more effect ;)
FOOL I sung a song for Ade to wind you haters up.
It worked really well, I enjoyed it :-D . Almost as much as Ade must have enjoyed scoring and celebrating infront of those cowardly biatches who are brazen enough to insult his mother because they know they would not have to face the consequences.
I will forever back Ade against shit so called Arsenal “supporters” like youselves. If you have the to audacity to insult someones mother you should be man enough to take a fist in your face. You biatches are crying about his celebration, effing hypocrites
He was always going to be a big factor today. I didn’t think this would be his biggest contribution though!
In the first half, he had a lot of penetrating runs. I really wish we could’ve put a move together to punish him for it.. Didn’t matter in the end.
His own goal changed the game … and OUR luck.
Great result!! It wasn’t pretty but we made it.
Away win at a top four club, coming from a goal down, keeping a tight defense despite a Gk handicap. It should all help the self belief of the players.
Now only Almunia stands tall between Arsenal and a credible title challenge.
According to Football365, Liverpool did not have a single shot on target for the entire 2nd half.
And THAT is the SOLE reason we won this game.
SOLE reason?? I don’t know about that. A contributing factor, yes, but the only reason? No. If it was the only reason, then we’d have drawn 1-1. But Arshavin scored a screamer, and I’d say that’s a pretty big reason as well.
agree. it can’t possibly be a sole reason.
besides, if our players didn’t do all the chasing, closing down… anyone really thinks Liverpool would still have zero shot on goal in the 2nd half?
Exactly. Besides, if you assume it is the sole reason, that implies we didn’t do anything on offense. And if that’s the case, then how do you explain the fact that wee scored? You can explain away the first goal sure, but not the second one.
Are you guys logically impaired. Restricting the number of shots that get to Almunia (either by luck or by design) is the ONLY way for us to win games.
All the arguments you are making dont contradict that.
The fact that Liverpool, generally, stinks on wheels certainly has to be an acknowledged factor in our victory. Right? ;-)
@ chicago: I say sole reason, because even with Arshavins goal, I am pretty sure Almunia would have let in a few more if tested. I really, really believe that.
But conversely, suppose Liverpool didn’t manage a shot on goal in the 2nd half AND we didn’t score… then we’d have lost or drawn.
that i will have to agree with u Fred.
it seems like Almunia only be able to catch a high ball when there’s no player around him.
anyway, i think that’s the reason our defense should get even more credits today. Especially Vermaelen – my Man of the Match.
EXCELLENT.. Right back in it.
Just some thoughts on mentality. Wenger is going to come out and praise us for our mental performance for coming back. And he has a point. But we see this time and time again with us. I mentioned on gameday chat that we would need liverpool to score for our nerves to settle. I feel that we’re so scared to lose some of these big games we don’t play to our potential. When we go a goal down, we have nothing to lose and start clicking.
So while it is strong of us to come back from a goal down, isn’t it a mental weakness to not be able to perform at our second half level for the whole game? Or this could just be a crackpot theory (we did play well at old trafford without going down)
But for now, we should just enjoy this. Bring on Burnley… I wanted 20 out of 24 points I said a few threads back… we are well on our way. Other than the Villa game.. we are sailing pretty smooth till Villa away (where the rough patch starts). Momentum going into that patch will be nice. Injured players returning as well (HAAA.. I dreamm…)
Great result! This team have shown some great bottle to get out of Anfield with 3 points while fielding only 9 outfield player and NO goalkeeper.
We played like crap and we are very lucky they didnt test Almunia more than once. But I would blame the crap play on having only 9 players on the pitch. Besides, we have played better and lost before, so getting this result, away at a “big” club is extremely important.
No vibe, i am not a better fan. But I am just a HAPPIER fan when we WIN!!!
We are ALL happier when we win, Andez. Every. Single. One.
It’s not PLASTIC to see things differently from you.
If AW told the players at half-time they were not fit to wear the Arsenal uniform, was HE being a plastic supporter? Or was he frustrated at watching the same old shite?
It ain’t religion, man. Criticism of a football manager isn’t blasphemy.
Nicely put.
Calling a manager to be SACKED at HALF TIME when a match hasn’t even finished…… is merely a form of “criticism”?
Andez, You know Mazza wasn’t saying anything he hasn’t been saying for some time. That he repeated it at the end of a shitty half of Arsenal football–one so crap that even Arsene ‘Can’t damage the psychology of the YOUTH’ Wenger exploded–really, where’s the news?
So we should SACK our manager when we were 0-1 DOWN at half time huh?
Nice SUPPORT from some of you SUPPORTERS when we were DOWN. Final score : Arsenal 2 Liverpool 1
OOOPS!!
So WHO’s the WANKERS NOW?!! u guys must be PROUD of the way you SUPPORT the club!
:-D
What “support”??? This is a freaking forum you ******!
I am pretty sure Wenger doesnt browse this website.
so what are you doing here talking about Denilson every day?
Any “meaning” of it?
AW will ever read it?
like u said, it’s a freaking forum you****
btw, do u mean if you go to Emirates, you will be behaving completely DIFFERENT? And join up and sing “we love you Arsenal we do?” instead of moaning nonstop like you been doing in a daily basis?
that would be a bit phony wouldn’t u think?
You are questioning why I voice my opinion on a fan website??
You are ridiculous!
I love Arsenal. Wenger is NOT Arsenal. He is an EMPLOYEE.
Not everyone is a Wenger sheep like you. Get used to it.
I am not questioning your voice. Hell I wasn’t even talking to you at the first place.
Was you the one who called Wenger’s head on half time when we were 0-1 down?
But you decided to jump in from nowhere and join the fun. So what should I do? It would have been a bit rude had I not entertained you a bit wouldn’t it?!
btw, Arsenal WON today may I remind you. So what are you moaning for? Who’s ridiculous?
Same old shite. The sooner that wanker Wenger leaves the better.
—————————————
I don’t think anyone wants to be called a plastic fan. But when I see comment like that, honestly I don’t know what else I could call a SUPPORTER like that.
ARSHA!!!! BLINDER!!!!!!
So any fan that calls for his managers head is a plastic??
Go sit down!
No. Alternatively, you might call it supporter-who-loves-to-moan-when-we-are-down
but it sounds too LONG a term for me. so i’ll settle for plastic.
u could call it anyway you like though.
The varying perceptions of OUR club is part of what comes with being a supporter.
Of all the ideas you repeat endlessly on here, the concept that you are somehow a BETTER fan than anyone else is the silliest.
Not looking good at HT.
Almunia screws up again. How can we have a Gk who cannot catch a ball!!! Only God and Arsene knows. Hell, even God doesn’t know, only Arsene does.
1-0 halftime.. I expect us to finally get rid of the nerves second half. Pool will play the counter and without a physical presence up top we will struggle to break them down. We need to be tidy in defending the counters, not give up possession too easy (last 3 mins of first half were slightly encouraging).
Pulling this one out the bag is going to be a tough ask.
Ist half – we did a poor job maintaining possession….
did a poor job utilizing the pace of Theo…..
rarely was able to get the ball to Arshavin……
How will Arsene and the players adjust their tactics?
Same old shite. The sooner that wanker Wenger leaves the better. As per usual starts complaining over nothingy incidents when his little babies go a goal behind.
Denilson? As I said, plays in the same gear regardless of game intensity – reverse.
What you got to say now?
:-)
Everything I said still stands. Awful performance.
I think they pre-taped some of the commentary.
“And the goalkeeper {Almunia] looks very uncertain…”
“That’s clumsy by Denilson…”
“That’s poor by Almunia.”
For me the biggest match up is Almunia vs Reina. On paper, it is a no contest, so let us hope our man does the job today.
Starting XI
Arsenal: Almunia, Sagna, Gallas, Vermaelen, Traore, Fabregas, Song Billong, Denilson, Walcott, Arshavin, Nasri
Subs: Fabianski, Diaby, Eduardo, Vela, Ramsey, Silvestre, Wilshere
Liverpool: Reina, Johnson, Carragher, Agger, Aurelio, Mascherano, Lucas, Kuyt, Gerrard, Benayoun, Torres
Subs: Cavalieri, Aquilani, Insua, Ngog, Degen, Skrtel, Dossena
Well hell I only missed by one player:
I had Insua starting instead of Aurelio.
I got all of Arsenal right.
Good job on the lineups DAG.
I’m happy to see Arsh up front again, we have firepower on the bench if needed. Happy to see Nasri as well. Not so on Agger starting, he is sound positionally and AA is going to have to use all his cunning and his burst of speed to make things happen, but I think from what we have he is best suited to the job.
I would’ve preferred to see Insua start in Aurelio’s place as well. Insua doesn’t have as much experience and has shown to be lacking defensively at times.
30 mins to go…
The key will be to take advantage of Johnson who tends to wander too far forward.
Glad to see Theo get the start as his reputation for pace should help out. Aurelio and Insua are both as tiny as our normal left back (Clichy) but the former has one killer left foot so look for him as a sub (and more diving outside the box on our left) if they need a goal. Insua runs pretty well and we all remember his wonder strike in the CC. Still, Theo ought to scare them good and maybe get in a few of his signature “cross-shots.”
OK, headed to the GDC…
In any successful organization, the guys that tend to get promoted are the guys that the boss can trust to consistently make smart decisions. That trust in a subordnate’s judgement is IMPERATIVE. When a manager puts players on the field, he can’t tell them what to do. They’ve got to make smart decisions in the heat of the battle. For Denilson, at only 21, his ability to consistently make smart decisions is what I believe makes him exceptional.
For most youngsters, one day their brilliant and the next they’re horrible. Denilson tends to, more often than not, make the right decisions. He realises that in order for the team to play well, everyone can’t be Fabregas. You need a guy to do the dirty work for the team to excel. In an engine, you’ve got the computer, the parts that provide horsepower, the thrust, converters, and the torque. Denilson is the oil. He keeps it all running smooth; defense to attack. No one appreciates the oil until you run out.
As far as Samir, I think he is a fabulous player centrally but considering who we have available, I think it a better use of resources to employ him in attack. He’s not that much better an option centrally to Denilson compared to that much better an option in attack to Walcott.
And that is the crux. Denilson is a void, you think otherwise.
Hopefully Wenger wakes up about Almunia and Denilson very soon.
Awfully excited for the game today. It’s such a great opportunity for both teams. Yesterday’s results tightened up the top 4 race considerably, while Chelsea actually gained a point on United at the top despite letting in 3 goals and drawing at home. Crazy stuff.
I’ve been trying to consider how today’s game might play out and I think that ‘Pools defense will be extremely wary of our little Andrey given his exploits last time. It’s doubtful he’ll bag four again but he is one of those rare players who can make magic even in the brightest spotlight and with several defenders locked onto him. Last time nobody knew what to expect, today it’s different. Personally I hope Nasri gets a start alongside him as he has the intelligence and finishing class to capitalize on the focus AA will draw. And maybe it’s time for Theo, Carlitos Vela or Abou Diaby to show that we’ve got that strength in depth that AW says we have.
The debate about Denilson above is interesting. The smart money says he will play today in a MF 3 with Song and Cesc; Complaints about him playing in a single (low) gear remind me of what I used to think about Alex Song. At a certain point last season (the Villareal matches in the CL) I noticed Song beginning to vary his (lumbering?) pace on defense and make decisive sprints/tackles when needed. Denilson could do likewise, but he’ll still look lightweight defensively until he fills out. Both of them, however, are solid in possession and show growing maturity in their decision making. With Cesc as our 3rd MF, our tempo in possession IS slow as none of these guys has outstanding pace. The ball, of course, can move a lot quicker, but I worry that we sometimes force passes, looking for the killer through-ball when it’s not there. This is a bigger problem when we “need” goals, so I hope we can at least begin the match showing some patience.
Liverpool on the other hand, despite their worries over AA23, are desperate to win the game and will probably get into their usual frenetic game of fast, mid-range passes and wild running. Gerrard is given the whole width of the pitch to operate and others (esp. Kuyt) are adept at filling the spaces he vacates. I worry a bit about Traore chasing players and leaving our left side vacant as pace is his best defensive weapon. Vermaelen is a huge improvement back there but our youth and inexperience down that side seem like something they would try to target. If they can get the ball into that side of the box our young defenders need to stay disciplined as ‘Pool’s attackers have been known to go down rather easily. Did Gerrard teach N’Gog, or was it (the more artful) Torres? Hopefully Traore (who can play dangerous crosses himself) and whoever else we play out left can put an early scare into Glen Johnson and keep him focused on his defensive duties.
Which leads to a very big factor….Howard Webb seems to love the spotlight and hopefully he’ll use it to give some early yellows to foul happy Mascherano and Lucas or maybe one for Stevie the Starfish when he dives. (If Rooney could get one yesterday at OT, why not Stevie at Anfield?) ‘Pool would be wise to start out gently and save the drama for later in the match when even Webb might feel the heat with 40,000 Scousers screaming at him and Rafa’s job on the line. Their desperation in the match might not allow for such patience, so if we can withstand their early fervor (or better yet score first) it may get a bit wild.
Finally, it’s a big day for the Spanish National team….who will win them the World Cup–Cesc or Torres? And could this be Almunia’s chance to show that he ought to be at least considered for a spot behind Iker Casillas? If he could actually show that he was a “shot-stopper” (as I’ve been told he is) while (overrated/no CL?) Reina lets a couple in, well, that could be the difference. Certainly with Torres back you have to expect Manny to be tested a time or two.
Here’s to a good match and may the better team (Arsenal) prevail.
Almunia’s got nothing on Reina from what I’ve seen. I’m hoping I have to eat those words in 3 hrs time.
Can’t get to my local Arsenal Pub, anyone planning on being on gameday chat?
I will be on Gameday chat. I unfortunately have to catch the first 20 minutes on Sirius – as I will be out running an errand.
For today’s match with Pool, what will concern me:
How well will we play against set plays? Almunia and back 4
Can we avoid silly fouls in our defensive third?
Can our two CB’s stifle the counter attacks with Torres?
Offensively, I am not too concerned with who starts where. We have enough talent to
expose the defensive 4 of Pool.
Someone earlier mentioned the importance of the 1st 20 minutes, as they will start out of the gates fast! Totally agree, we need to stay composed at this time.
More wisdom from Mr. Session…and I find a lot of agreement with your thoughts on Denilson and the keys for the match….AND, (see below) you’re a hell of a lot more concise…
After Villa loss, Fergie loses lucrative endorsement:
http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b210/ns_gd/FergieTime.jpg
DENILSON (to continue Fred and Josh’s discussion)
Here is a kid that is technically and tactically solid offensively. Most agree he is NOT a DM because from his play he has shown the tendency to be a no show when going up for headers, not a risk taker to beat opponents on the dribble, and avoids 50/50 tackles.
Last season, when paired in mf with Cesc, Arsenal were boring and average – don’t talk to me about any streak of wins and draws, our play was void of any style. When Cesc was injured, Song was inserted as DM and it ended our memories of Flamini. Song does everything that Denilson and Cesc can’t and won’t do defensively.
English football, physicality is a fan and coach priority. My main argument with Denilson, is he has shown to be a liability in midfield for winning balls and taking any risk with passes or beating opponents with the dribble.
Nasri is more aggressive defensively and while he does not possess the physical strength of Song, Nasri is not afraid to mix it up, and WILL TAKE THE RISK TO BEAT PLAYERS WITH THE BALL.
I agree with Nasri being a better choice in midfield with Song and Cesc – Arsenal have a stronger midfield defensively, and if Cesc is overplayed, then Nasri is more than capable of taking over the CM role.
Ramsey holds a bright future for our club, but paired with Cesc he TOO OFTEN gets lost in the attack, similar to the tendency of Diaby.
Lets be honest with ourselves, Cesc is not much help defensively. Consequently, the other two in midfield have greater burden to produce.
Just read an interesting interview with Kolo Toure – he feels that at 28 his best has yet to come. As much as I like Kolo he should realize his best has passed him by.
He hasn’t been right since the last ACoN.
He’s still a decent enough athlete and if he can find a new level of maturity he could be right. He wouldn’t have his pace to back up any of his mistakes, but look at someone like Richard Dunne, playing his best at 30+…
I wish Kolo well. MotM performances every game (which city still hopefully lose)…
I don’t understand the love affair with Merida. Everytime I see him play, he makes maybe three or four good forward passes, but that’s about it. Some are blinded by his early promise, methinks. Ramsey and Wilshire are far better prospects.
Denilson is a much better option in midfield. He always presents himself for the ball and keeps things ticking along, and he doesn’t often lose possession. Might mean a few sideways balls, but he is always an outlet, which Merida just isn’t. And when you are passing sideways to Arshavin et al, then that is fine until someone better comes along.
The only problem with Denilson is that he doesn’t go in hard enough for certain challenges. He needs a bit more Song in him in that respect.
Personally, I would like to see Gibbs develop into the next Emmanuel Petit.
The love affair of Merida based on the fact he’s not playing regularly, and people have yet to find out his weaknesses.
Very much like the YouTube theory.
Like a couple seasons ago some folks kept saying Bendtner was better than Adebayor.
Or a short while ago, some suggested Wenger didn’t play Vela much because he didn’t like him….
Until those players got a run of games then people started to find out they too had their weaknesses, and there was a REASON on why Wenger did not play them as often.
Personally, I like all those players. But I don’t get to see them day in day out in training like our coaching staffs did. So I’d trust them to decide when they are ready to be the full time starters.
Bendtner for example, when he started to play more, all a sudden everyone seems to be able to only see his weaknesses rather than his potential.
It has always been like that in football. The one who looks like the REAL DEAL to many people are ALWAYS the one who’s in the reserve or youth team.
And the best players around to some people are always the one who’s not wearing the Arsenal kit.
Fred, you truly despise Denilson as a player. While I admit to going overboard with the “kaiser” comparison last year, I think his decision making for his age is exceptional and expect big things from him when his body finally catches up with his brain. I think Wenger feels the same. Perhaps we’ve both lost our minds. Maybe as a coach, I look at things a bit different than a fan. Anyway, time always tells.
So, enlighten as to why Nasri should play centrally? With our injuries, I think we need him more up front. You’re obviously thinking of something that I am not.
Yeah, I despise him as a player … I consider him along with Almunia as black holes holding back the club from winning things. Almunia ofcourse is far more dangerous, while playing Denilson is the equivalent of playing with 10 men.
What decision making does he do that is exceptional?
Nasri should play centrally because that is where he played in Marseilles coming thru the ranks.
He is no great shakes defensively but he is definitely better than Denilson who is a complete zero defensively. And ofcourse he can contribute upfront as well.
Wengers faith in him is as blind as his faith in Almunia and the other clowns populating our team.
Dunga, knows his CM/DM …. Denilson never even comes close. Dunga would rather call two-bit clowns in Ukraine or Lucas than call up Denilson. Its safe to say his views on Denilson are close to mine.
Wenger loves his “sweet ankles” though, so he will continue to play. And we will continue to have a large hole in our team.
Don’t know if you guys saw this but Arsenal are about to sue the Dutch FA for the wages they will lose with Robin Van Persie out. The amount – £20M.
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2009/dec/12/arsenal-holland-legal-action-van-persie
I hope something will come of this. Not money wise per say, but a change of the international fixture calendar, meaning no needless friendlies in the middle of the league season. I sometimes wish all the WC qualifying games are instead shifted to a summer tournament, and that way the league season can start a little later than usual. At most, teams should not have to play more than 6-8 games over a course of a month in the summer to qualify for the world cup and be free for the rest of the two years. The European Championship is going to be 24 teams in the future, so they wouldn’t need that many qualifying games considering almost half of the European teams will make it to the tournament. So the European Cup can drastically reduce their qualifying campaign.
Anyway, FIFA will never allow any change though. Why would they want to do something good for the game?
Now if Navy can just hold on and beat Army again I will have the perfect Saturday.
DAG are you Navy retired, or just a Navy fan?
how come Man Utd didn’t get 6 minutes of stoppage time today? Surely a glitch in the Matrix…
Yeah, Oracle somehow knew Agent Smith was going to book Rooney for diving :)
good one :) I am afraid to ask this Oracle if Arsenal is “the one” to get the win on sunday (and long term, ofcourse).
Ofcourse, no soccer fan ever takes the blue pill but we all have to take the red pill and see how deep the rabbit hole goes. And then there is the disappointment when there is nothing at the end of the rabbit hole :)
My ideal team for tomorrow:
——–Almunia———–
Sagna—Gallas-Vermaelen–Traore
———-Song————–
—Fabregas—-Merida—–
Nasri————–Arshavin
———-Vela————-
What I think the team will be:
——-Almunia—-
Sagna—Gallas—Vermaelen—Traore
——–Song—-Denilson——–
————-Fabregas———-
Nasri——————-Diaby—–
————-Arshavin———
I’ve been telling you guys since we played them that Chelsea are not that much better than us. They had better luck on the day but I believe we can beat them to the title. We just need a cutting edge up front. Adriano anyone? He’s a super talnet and he’s free.
I watched Liverpool’s game on Wednesday and Torres came off the bench looking as sharp as ever. He’ll be a genuine concern for our defense.
DAG, I disagree that Rafa is not to blame for the demise of Liverpool. He has a revolving door of players there. It takes time for most players to be at their best in the BPL but he’s not respecting that. He’s gotten all of the players he’s asked for and has even convinced the owners to get rid of Rick Parry. There’s no one else to blame. He’s created that mess.
There is no way in Hades that Merida starts in front of Denilson. Merida’s time will come but it’s not right now. Denilson’s advantage over Merida and many of the other youngsters is, at 21, he’s already learned to play more with his brain. This makes his game more consistent.
Walcott, Vela, Ramsey, Merida, Bendtner, Wilshire, etc. are all exciting young talents but they’re all hot and cold (inconsistent). The quality of their game is based on their form at the time. Example, everyone was singing the praises of Craig Eastmond after the Liverpool game but how different was his game against Man City?
Denilson, like Deschamps, Pirlo, or Makelele, has enough intelligence and consistency to come in and play with a high level because his game, despite being less exciting, is more cerebral and efficient. You have to have that kind of player in your team to give you balance. Everyone can’t bring shock and awe.
Lastly, Denilson’s presence will allow Song to be a bit more dynamic, knowing someone will cover him if he pushes up. That’s the icing on the cake. Also, they can stay out of each other’s way. Anyone else will jam up our fluidity of play. All three CM’s will have to attack and defend but I think that Song and Denilson together is a better option for containing Gerrard than any other combination we have.
Actually, me and Mazza pointed that Eastmond will get killed against City.
Denilson never plays at a “high” level. That is the problem.
Losing the majority of your tackles and having most AMs run round you is the opposite of efficient.
Nasri should be the third midfielder.
I would have given Ramsay a starting role but he ballsed it up against Sunderland and occupies the same spaces as Fabregas and in general is a bit too similar, especially when he plays timidly, which he often does with the A team.
Get a cultured left footer in there who can do the obvious and take shots and spray balls over the top. That’s what teams like Villa do, and they’ve beaten both Liverpool and United away this season. Be blatant, be obvious, don’t play cock tease football, cause this lot can’t do it as well as the 07/08 mob.
I touched on your point of how Ramsey might congest the midfield in my post below. Sorry I didn’t see your post before I wrote my own.
Song can go forward but I still think he’s bit one dimensional and lacks confidence, which leads to dangerous counters when he gets crowded out.
I want Song to try and stay disciplined and patrol the area in front of the back four. He vacates that area too much for me.
Denilson plays in the same gear the whole game. Looking at Denilson in isolation, you would never know what the score was.
If there was a weekend when Arsenal had to win, this would be it. Heck, even Spurs lost at home. Plus, Arsenal have to truly repay Liverpool back for certain painful past results, so they have to stick it to Liverpool and it would be sweeter with a last minute winner.
The question is can Arsenal do it? It will be a very very long 19 hours ahead…
Wow, it’s almost as if we are well and truly being invited to the step up to the plate tomorrow and show the football world we mean business. United losing, Chelsea drawing, what a strange day.
The question is, are we gonna show some………bottle?
FFS it doesn’t get any more perfect than this. Well, actually it does – if we WIN tomorrow.
That Rooney dive today was at least as bad as Eduardo’s, let’s see how much he gets skewered and vilified by the press and public.
Yes it’s well and truly ON now with the big two slipping up :-D
Beat Liverpool and we have well and truly got out of jail. Arsha in the RvP role should open a lot of doors I expect us to score goals.
I didn’t expect Torres to be back for this game so I thought we would only have to contain Gerrard and Benayoun therefore it will be far more difficult defensively than I would like. It will hard to call but I expect no less than a draw, I fancy us to win it however if Torres has a bad game.
If Almunia had been Villa’s keeper, the score would have been 3-1 Man U. That guy is immense!
Also, the play of Evra is incredible! He is a constant attacking threat. Our full backs should study videos of his play daily to improve themselves.
Agree fully!
Evra is excellent……
Villa beat ManU at OT.
It is really up to us.
NOW IS THE TIME !!
Villa’s first win over United since 1995. First win at OT since 1983… how many of their squad were alive back then?
My prediction: Gerrard 2 dives – Arsenal 1 dive ;)
Thank God for Cech, who gifted a couple of goals with his dithering. This suddenly makes tomorrow’s game just that bit more interesting.
With Torres back, it won’t be easy. But L’pool have so much pressure on them now, we could capitalize. But so far, this season we haven’t shown we can the big teams either.
I see us both scoring and conceding. Hoping for a win. Expecting a draw.
I second Mazza, Denilson/Diaby would be the death of us.
Am still waiting for someone to tell me what Denilson does. Other than having “sweet Brazilian ankles” as Wenger said, sounding seriously like a pervert. I have said it several times, and I know it is very unlikely, but I would play Merida over Denilson anytime.
In a more realistic (Wenger-wise) scenario why cant Nasri partner Fabregas in midfield?
Anyway, Wenger better get his lineup and tactics right. Cos if we lose 3-0 at Anfield ….. hmmmmmmmm!
No Way Fred.
We have been over this one before.
Denilson is far better defensively than Fran at this stage in his career.
Our biggest problem this year and last has been our defence. It would be folly to introduce an inexperienced essentially AM in the place of the defensive minded Denilson no matter how bad you think he is as an offensive player he is far better than Fran as a DF minded MF option.
Yes, Denilson provided great defensive solidarity last year when he got his ass hauled off after sixty minutes when we were getting collectively RAPED.
This is the REAL test of our team. We win THIS game we are a REAL team with ability to win something.
If we dont, even the hippies would have to admit we are a junk team that has no chance of winning either the CL or league anytime soon.
At some point we would have to perform well against a BIG team when it really matters.
It has been set up PERFECTLY for us. We win, we are five points from the top with a game in hand.
Sure it is going to be tough to win away against a formidable team, but that is what CHAMPIONS have to do from time to time.
It is the only game tomorrow, we already know the scores from the other PL games. THERE ARE NO EXCUSES!
I am very excited about what we can do tomorrow… but at the same time if we lose I will not be crestfallen, b/c that’s happened enough now that I’ve learned my lesson.
No telling what will happen though, both teams have been ALL OVER THE PLACE this year. I pray that Wenger doesn’t make some idiotic last-minute selection change that screws the boys over by messing up their rhythm and sapping their confidence. That’s also happened enough that I’ve learned my lesson and have come to half-expect it before every big game.
I agree with you ‘Cago, especially with the Chelsea and ManU results a draw will not be detrimental. But a defeat would not do our morale any good.
Anyway here to cigar’s after the fat ladyu sings tomorrrow….
I hope :-D
If Arsenal win, they will be 6 points off the top with a game in hand, not 5.
I hope that whatever parallel universe is happening today is worn out before tomorrow.
hey DAG, a few of us are on the game day chat, where are you?
why? we haven’t beaten pool at anfield for a while.. maybe parallel universe has a good pool-spankng on the cards
It’s about time to book that serial diver.
Line from commentator: “I’m loathe to condemn him…” But it was sooo obvious they had to spend a few lines talking about it. And if his dives aren’t paying off then villa have a chance.
I’m really really hoping he gets frustrated and gets himself sent off.
edit- And he’s just smashed a free kcik agaisnt the wall and the ball against the bar so boiling pt approaching hopefully
Villa lead ManU !!
Awesome cross by Ashley Young.
Did they score 80mins too early??
WOW! Could United be spurning their chance to go level on points at the top?
And now Rooney booked for diving….
Arm/Steve, any of you on game day chat?
Are you there?. I don’t intend on staying long infront computer. I’ll be on and off.
Steve, Ozi and I are there.
Wow, Rooney is booked for diving !!
Ref doesn’t know the rules of OT??
Headlines tomorrow:
“… Ref got it wrong at OT …”
Commentator already said that although replays clearly showed that Rooney dived.
Agreed. Text-book perfect cross by Young. Man U cant be written off yet though. They have looked very dangerous and will score if they keep it up. Should be interesting footy anyway…
Villa is full of England youngsters / hopefuls – Milner, A Young, L Young, Agbonlahor, Downing, Reo Coker. Walcott would fit right in. ;)
Always been a trademark of Martin O’Neil, he loves those Brits. His teams play like that as well. We could use some of the qualities.. The grit etc etc
Will he pay 8M for Walcott?
I think he would actually. I don’t think it would meet Arsene’s valuation though…
25M?
LOL
Shit if we win tomorrow that puts us 5 behind Chelsea with a game in hand.
Again the big if is IF we win.
The last time the stars aligned we were beat.
Chelsea dropped 5 points in two matches since beating us. The Blue-a$$ kissers must be feeling kinda sad.
City drew. Spurs lost to Wolves at home!
Now let’s grab the chance with two hands and cut the deficit, shut the Arsenal-antis up.
Is beating Arsenal a curse? ;)
Man City went on a draw spree since beating us.
Sunderland haven’t won since beating us either.
so far I gotta admit it looks like one! :)
United and Shrek have done alrite unfortunately
Everton goals all from scrambled set pieces–and Cech seems like he doesn’t have his helmet on tight enough…..As tiny as we are these days I don’t know if we could take similar advantage…
Still, great results all around. United can go even on points with a home win vs Villa.
Gotta wipe snow off the dish so I can watch it…
Snow? Where do u live HT? Im burning in 37 degree heat here in Aus
South Lake Tahoe, California
We’re supposed to get 1-2 feet over the next 24 hours….
It’s nice weekend here in the Rockies after below zero F at the beginning of the week.
6 of the 8 games today ended in a draw.
Great weekend for Arsenal so far.
Chelsea draw.
Spurs lose.
City draw.
Of course, all this won’t matter if we don’t win tomorrow.
So the math is simple, we have to win.
Let’s see if Villa can kick Manc’s butts …
Villa haven’t won in 26 years at OT.
I saw the lineups. Despite the supposed injury crisis at ManU, they are looking strong.
It would be a (welcome) shock if Villa win.
In general, I don’t usually believe that history will have any influence in the outcome of the game. Different era, different team. If Villa lost today, they are just not good enough.
And the mighty Totts have lost to Wolves. This is a chance to put some separation between the rest of the teams near the top 4 and gain on Chelsea. Last year the team could never come through when it needed to so let’s hope it’s different this season.
I saw an “expert” predicting Spurs were going to win 5-0 prior to the match based on the logic they had won 9-1 against Wigan ! LOL
Crazy Shite on the TV this morning….
Chelsea and Everton are 3-3 as is Bolton-Man City. 15 mins to go in both matches….
Great results all around as both the above matches end drawn and Spurs lose to Wolves 0-1 at the Lane. United to play Villa next…lots of opportunity in the table…
I’m gonna try and enjoy this one. Liverpool should win with Torres and Gerrard back but without Alonso in the centre we shouldn’t get as dominated as we did last season so you never know.
I would play Merida in central midfield with Fabregas to shake things up cause I simply cannot tolerate Denilson/Diaby anymore. At least Merida can take a shot from the left side and always looks for forward options. Sounds simplistic but we need a new dynamic and he provides it.
Sorry, but Merida?….odds are long that he’ll make the bench tomorrow….
I would play him ahead of bambi(Diaby) and Denil.zzzzzzz
If we play Denilson and Diaby, we don’t win. Simple as. How many times do we have to mess up big games with them in the team for everyone, and Wenger, to realise that the formula does not work when those two weak-minded no marks are playing?
Arsene will play them just so that he can piss you off Maz :)
Denilson will start. I won’t be surprised if Diaby does too, because he adds “height”.
Merida would also provide a good set-piece taker. We haven’t really looked that threatening from them since VP.. (and i don’t mean just the direct ones). Pool defence has looked worse than ours in the air and on set-pieces and with good deliveries i can see gallas or TV5 getting a goal.
Stamford bridge is breached.. Lets hope Everton hold…
Meh so much for that.. 2-1 already. I’ll take the blame for jinxing them..
3-3
Everton 3rd goal was interesting.
I was happy with it. Awesome footballing day so far. Esp that Wigan goal
Good timely preview mate. Just switch the position of Insua with Carragher and I think you have their squad pretty nailed on correct. Only possible difference I see is Dossena/Aurelio starting in place of Insua or Benayoun.
Though I, being optimistic, am hoping for Arshavin 5-4 Gerrard/Torres.
Did anyone watch the Stoke vs Wigan game. Spectacular goal by Figueroa, scoring from his own half. Ballsy effort to even go for it.
As for Christmas wish, Sorenson. He’s premiership tested, been the backbone of Stokes defence (I believe they boasted the 2nd or 3rd best home defensive record in the league last season), he shouldn’t be too hard to pry away from Stoke, not English so should be priced fairly, Stoke have Simonsen as backup so their resistance to letting him leave for a fee wouldn’t be too great annnd.. he is absolutely brimming with confidence which is so so important for a goalie. He did get caught off his line today but hardly to blame seeing as the ball was in the opposing half.
What is everyones take on him?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r5StLIdQXpo
I was watching the match live……..fantastic does the moment injustice!