3-2, FA Cup Final, Wembley, 17 May 2014
Cazorla 17,
Koscielny 71,
Ramsey 109
Nine years (and 400 blog posts) down the road, we're back. However, in the true Arsenal spirit, it started out heading for disaster.
Within the first fifteen minutes we were two-nil down and Gibbs had just cleared a header, following a Hull corner, on the goal-line. The first goal did, coincidentally, come from a corner as a shot from outside the 18-yard-box, following a corner, was re-directed by a fellow Hull player into the goal. Four minutes later Hull scored yet again, Fabianski did make the initial save but the rebound was fired into the back of the net.
Fortunately, from that moment on we were brilliant, created more or less all of the chances (at the very least it must have been 85% of them) and slowly but steadily got back in the game! It all started with getting one goal back fairly quick, and what a goal it was! Santi Cazorla thundered a free-kick into the top corner of the goal! Stunning goal to match the occasion from the Spaniard!
Even though we would not grab another goal until the second half, we continued creating lots and lots of chances. Özil had a couple of brilliant chances midway through the half, the first one taking place right in front of the goal, but as he did not get a direct hit it did not end up on target. The second shot, however, was on target, unfortunately it was cleared by a defender just in front of the goal. Giroud wrapped up the half with a series chances of various kinds. The first being a shot that was blocked by a defender (with the follow-up by Podolski being cleared into a corner), the second being an effort from a rather steep angle going wide and the third and final being a cross into the box that just barely eluded all team-mates present.
We continued the second half in similar fashion, although it did take approximately twenty minutes until we actually began creating some decent chances again. Before that, however, Hull did have a shot going over the bar.
Fortunately we were not left ruing this, but we had three penalty shouts in throughout the game, all of them were strong, but one in particular was completely obvious. In the first half, Giroud was brought down in the box by having an arm flung over his throat (not exactly standard football-playing, is it?), and then in the second half Cazorla was brought down in the box. But in between those two, there was one situation so obvious it could only be denied by a lack of competence from the ref. Or just complete ignorance, although that would most likely be a result of the lack of competence. Anyhow, a Hull player did, in their own box, flung out both hands in the box and struck the ball clear. How the ref could either have missed it or deemed it legit is beyond me.
The goal that would buy us enough time to find the winner was not long in the coming, though, and it came at the hand (or rather, foot) of this one guy who keeps popping up with goals when we seem to need them the most: Laurent Koscielny. He fired past the 'keeper in the scramble following a corner! Brilliant from the absolutely amazing Frenchman!
Although we would not score again in this half, Gibbs did get THE opportunity to win the game, but his strike from right in front of a virtually completely open goal went over the bar in an attempt to get it over the on-rushing 'keeper (which, by the way, it clearly did). Then Giroud and Sanogo fired away a few more shots before the game went into extra time, the former having two shots saved by the 'keeper and the latter firing a shot inches wide of the goal!
Entering extra time, it did not even take five minutes for Giroud to deliver a header onto the bar! It was a perfect cross from Ramsey who brought it about, and we would see more of the Welshman before the end of this clash... During the first fifteen minutes he forced a save out of the 'keeper and fired into the side-netting, but it was his achievement in the last fifteen minutes of the extra time that would make history.
It was a goal that not only won us the game, but it won us the game in true Arsenal fashion. Giroud back-heeled the ball to the one and only Aaron Ramsey, who fired his shot right into the bottom corner of the goal! Yes, Aaron freakin' Ramsey. Rambo. He has definitely been our player of the season (at least he got my vote!) and he proved that one final time before the end of the season! However, it must be mentioned that we very nearly had to face penalties as Hull got forward and Fabianski went as far as to leave the 18-yard-box completely! Fortunately the shot went wide, although we had players running back, monitoring the shot. Fabianski then had to make an excellent save as Hull produced one last shot. We did, however, get the last say in the game as Rosicky's effort was saved on the line by a defender!
So, there it is then. Nine years later we're back as the winners of the FA Cup, and we're back winning a trophy! Cheers for this season Arsenal, I guess there's just one thing left to say: we did it.
Saturday, May 17, 2014
Monday, May 12, 2014
Norwich vs. Arsenal
0-2, Premier League, Carrow Road, 11 May 2014
Ramsey 53,
Jenkinson 62
We ended the Premier League season on a high with this win over Norwich. Although the points in themselves mean little, since we had already secured the fourth spot last weekend, the win will give us a boost for next weekend, as our season is not quite over yet...
Although the first half was goalless, the second proved more bountiful with two goals that gave us the win. The first goal of this last PL game could very well be the best of the season, Giroud chipped the ball across the box to Aaron Ramsey, whose strike on volley went into the top corner of the goal! Absolutely stunning goal! The second goal came not even ten minutes later, and was no less special. Carl Jenkinson score his first goal for the first team, running into the box, reaching the ball and firing it into the back of the net! It is also worth to mention that Diaby came on for the final fifteen minutes of this game, hopefully his long injuries are behind him now!
So it was the younger generation that won the game for us, and they will hopefully be just as deadly on Saturday! But this was the end of the Premier League season of 13/14. It was a season that started with much promise and hope, but ended up as another season of reaching no higher than the fourth spot.
Ramsey 53,
Jenkinson 62
We ended the Premier League season on a high with this win over Norwich. Although the points in themselves mean little, since we had already secured the fourth spot last weekend, the win will give us a boost for next weekend, as our season is not quite over yet...
Although the first half was goalless, the second proved more bountiful with two goals that gave us the win. The first goal of this last PL game could very well be the best of the season, Giroud chipped the ball across the box to Aaron Ramsey, whose strike on volley went into the top corner of the goal! Absolutely stunning goal! The second goal came not even ten minutes later, and was no less special. Carl Jenkinson score his first goal for the first team, running into the box, reaching the ball and firing it into the back of the net! It is also worth to mention that Diaby came on for the final fifteen minutes of this game, hopefully his long injuries are behind him now!
So it was the younger generation that won the game for us, and they will hopefully be just as deadly on Saturday! But this was the end of the Premier League season of 13/14. It was a season that started with much promise and hope, but ended up as another season of reaching no higher than the fourth spot.
Sunday, May 4, 2014
Arsenal vs. West Bromwich Albion
1-0, Premier League, Emirates Stadium, 04 May 2014
Giroud 14
A solid, final home game of the season proved enough to grant us another three points as we secure the fourth spot in the league and a place in the Champions League for next season.
We scored just at the fifteen minute mark, Cazorla swung in a brilliant corner that was met by Olivier Giroud, who headed the ball into the back of the net as he outran the defender! The first half in general contained lots of decent chances for us and a very good over-all play.
WBA got forward a lot more in the second half and created several decent chances, but we did manage to hit the woodwork in the final fifteen minutes and Özil had a decent free-kick going on target.
1-0 to the Arsenal proved enough in this game, however, and we can now look ahead even further to the FA Cup final in a couple of weeks!
Giroud 14
A solid, final home game of the season proved enough to grant us another three points as we secure the fourth spot in the league and a place in the Champions League for next season.
We scored just at the fifteen minute mark, Cazorla swung in a brilliant corner that was met by Olivier Giroud, who headed the ball into the back of the net as he outran the defender! The first half in general contained lots of decent chances for us and a very good over-all play.
WBA got forward a lot more in the second half and created several decent chances, but we did manage to hit the woodwork in the final fifteen minutes and Özil had a decent free-kick going on target.
1-0 to the Arsenal proved enough in this game, however, and we can now look ahead even further to the FA Cup final in a couple of weeks!
Tuesday, April 29, 2014
Arsenal vs. Newcastle
3-0, Premier League, Emirates Stadium, 28 April 2014
Koscielny 26,
Özil 42,
Giroud 66
We are now looking quite likely to finish at fourth, since Everton dropped more points this weekend.
This game was more or less sealed already in the first half, as we scored twice before the half-time whistle was blown. Santi Cazorla's free-kick was met by an on-rushing Laurent Koscielny, who got a foot to it and poked it into the back of the net for the first goal of the game! Towards the end of the half the second goal came, this one after some insane play around the box where Giroud had shots saved twice before the rebound fell to Mesut Özil, who tapped the ball into a more or less open net!
We looked convincing in the second half as well, and got the third and final goal midway through the half. Ramsey, back from injury and in terrific form yet again, passed the ball to Özil, who swung it into the box for Olivier Giroud to head past the 'keeper! Brilliant play and a brilliant goal!
With this win we are now one win away from securing the fourth spot and turning the focus to the FA Cup final!
Koscielny 26,
Özil 42,
Giroud 66
We are now looking quite likely to finish at fourth, since Everton dropped more points this weekend.
This game was more or less sealed already in the first half, as we scored twice before the half-time whistle was blown. Santi Cazorla's free-kick was met by an on-rushing Laurent Koscielny, who got a foot to it and poked it into the back of the net for the first goal of the game! Towards the end of the half the second goal came, this one after some insane play around the box where Giroud had shots saved twice before the rebound fell to Mesut Özil, who tapped the ball into a more or less open net!
We looked convincing in the second half as well, and got the third and final goal midway through the half. Ramsey, back from injury and in terrific form yet again, passed the ball to Özil, who swung it into the box for Olivier Giroud to head past the 'keeper! Brilliant play and a brilliant goal!
With this win we are now one win away from securing the fourth spot and turning the focus to the FA Cup final!
Monday, April 21, 2014
Hull vs. Arsenal
0-3, Premier League, Emirates Stadium, 20 April 2014
Ramsey 31,
Podolski 45, 54
A comfortable win that not only further ensures that fourth spot, but also gives us a taste of what might be in the FA Cup final....
The first half contained plenty of chances for both teams, Szczesny had to make several decent saves throughout the half. However, we were the only ones to actually score! The first goal was scored by Aaron Ramsey, proving that he is getting back to the brilliant form he was in before the injury. Özil passed to Ramsey who, via a quick interchange of passes with Cazorla, got through the defence and neatly placed the ball past the 'keeper!
Mere minutes later Hull hit the post, but that was as close as they would get. Just before the half was over Lukas Podolski smashed the ball into the back of the net with a powerful strike, Ramsey had used his chest to get the ball down for the German to reach. These two players in particular proved to be the winning recipe of this game...
We began the second half much like we had ended the first one, with a goal! The 'keeper made an excellent save from Ramsey's thundering shot, but the rebound fell perfectly for Lukas Podolski, who tucked it home! Ten minutes later Giroud hit the bar! He stole the ball off of the 'keeper, but got into a very steep angle and was only able to kick the ball up into the bar, so close though!
In the end three goals were enough, and we are now looking more likely to qualify for the Champions League yet another year!
Ramsey 31,
Podolski 45, 54
A comfortable win that not only further ensures that fourth spot, but also gives us a taste of what might be in the FA Cup final....
The first half contained plenty of chances for both teams, Szczesny had to make several decent saves throughout the half. However, we were the only ones to actually score! The first goal was scored by Aaron Ramsey, proving that he is getting back to the brilliant form he was in before the injury. Özil passed to Ramsey who, via a quick interchange of passes with Cazorla, got through the defence and neatly placed the ball past the 'keeper!
Mere minutes later Hull hit the post, but that was as close as they would get. Just before the half was over Lukas Podolski smashed the ball into the back of the net with a powerful strike, Ramsey had used his chest to get the ball down for the German to reach. These two players in particular proved to be the winning recipe of this game...
We began the second half much like we had ended the first one, with a goal! The 'keeper made an excellent save from Ramsey's thundering shot, but the rebound fell perfectly for Lukas Podolski, who tucked it home! Ten minutes later Giroud hit the bar! He stole the ball off of the 'keeper, but got into a very steep angle and was only able to kick the ball up into the bar, so close though!
In the end three goals were enough, and we are now looking more likely to qualify for the Champions League yet another year!
Friday, April 18, 2014
Arsenal vs. West Ham
3-1, Premier League, Emirates Stadium, 15 April 2014
Podolski 44, 78
Giroud 55
We are unfortunately in a situation where we will, most likely, have to win all the rest of our games this season in order to qualify for the Champions League (by secure the 4th spot). Fortunately we are off to a good start, winning whilst Everton dropped points!
West Ham looked quite dangerous in the first half, grabbing several mildly threatening chances before their goal. Szczesny made the initial save by the rebound went past him to Jarvis, who headed the ball into the back of the net. Luckily we came up with a quick response, just a minute before half-time! Cazorla produced a fast-paced pass into the box that was met by Lukas Podolski, who instantly smashed it past the 'keeper! A quick and resolute response that would eventually lead us to victory!
Merely ten minutes into the second half we grabbed the lead that we would keep for the rest of the game. Vermaelen provided the amazing assist, coming from half a pitch away, but even more brilliant was Olivier Giroud's first touch and perfect strike to hit the back of the net! The Frenchman then played a part in the final goal, as he played the ball into the box, which was then headed onwards by Ramsey to Lukas Podolski, who once again came up with a powerful shot that soared past the 'keeper, effectively sealing the win!
We have it all in our own hands now, so let's just make sure to win the rest of the games then!
Podolski 44, 78
Giroud 55
We are unfortunately in a situation where we will, most likely, have to win all the rest of our games this season in order to qualify for the Champions League (by secure the 4th spot). Fortunately we are off to a good start, winning whilst Everton dropped points!
West Ham looked quite dangerous in the first half, grabbing several mildly threatening chances before their goal. Szczesny made the initial save by the rebound went past him to Jarvis, who headed the ball into the back of the net. Luckily we came up with a quick response, just a minute before half-time! Cazorla produced a fast-paced pass into the box that was met by Lukas Podolski, who instantly smashed it past the 'keeper! A quick and resolute response that would eventually lead us to victory!
Merely ten minutes into the second half we grabbed the lead that we would keep for the rest of the game. Vermaelen provided the amazing assist, coming from half a pitch away, but even more brilliant was Olivier Giroud's first touch and perfect strike to hit the back of the net! The Frenchman then played a part in the final goal, as he played the ball into the box, which was then headed onwards by Ramsey to Lukas Podolski, who once again came up with a powerful shot that soared past the 'keeper, effectively sealing the win!
We have it all in our own hands now, so let's just make sure to win the rest of the games then!
Saturday, April 12, 2014
Wigan vs. Arsenal
1-1 (2-4 after penalties), The FA Cup, Wembley Stadium, 12 April 2014
82 - Mertesacker
This was most certainly a game that we were expected to win, meaning that (in a sense) we went into the game with everything to lose, which can be quite nerve-wrecking. This was no exception, but we came out victorious and are now real close to the first trophy for quite some time!
We had a good initial five minutes of the first half, the Ox rushed forward in the first minute as Ramsey played him in, but the 'keeper got there first. Then Sanogo had a header right in front of the goal going straight at the 'keeper, it was a great pass by the Ox, though.
The rest of the half was rather lame, Wigan did not create anything particularly dangerous and we produced a Podolski free-kick wide as well as a Sanogo one-on-one with the 'keeper that was saved.
Fifteen minutes into the second half Wigan were awarded with a penalty when Mertesacker brought a player down in the box. Wigan scored and we had to replace Monreal, due to an injury, with Gibbs. Towards the end we brought some much-needed urgency into our game. The Ox had a shot on target saved with fifteen minutes to go and we had a header hitting the post! Also, Gibbs saw a header saved on the goal-line by a defender before we actually managed to get back in the game. It was a big fucking German that got to redeem himself for the penalty situation, Per Mertesacker threw himself down after some scramble in the box and used his chest to get the ball past the 'keeper! A rather unusual method, but nonetheless an effective one!
Before the end of the initial 90 minutes Giroud had a shot on target saved by the 'keeper and Mertesacker had a header going over the bar following a corner.
During extra-time we had one major chance to score, the Ox thundered a shot into the bar, leaving it shaking for quite some time! It was heading straight for the top corner and would have been an amazing goal to settle the game had it hit the back of the net. Instead, we were heading to penalties.
Fabianski turned out to be the one who saved it all for us, he made two incredible, solid saves from Wigan's first two penalties, leaving us in a golden position to take home the game! Arteta was first up for us and buried it at the bottom corner, then Källström scored as well for us while Wigan had not yet scored a single one. Wigan did, however, score their third penalty, but Giroud scored our third as well. Even though Wigan did score their fourth as well Cazorla could send us into the final should he put his penalty into the back of the net, which he did!!!
So we are into the final of the FA Cup now! We will face a similar situation as we did in this game, no doubt, as we are still the team with "everything to lose". But considering the fact that we actually have something to lose in this stage of the season sure is amazing and no small feat!
82 - Mertesacker
This was most certainly a game that we were expected to win, meaning that (in a sense) we went into the game with everything to lose, which can be quite nerve-wrecking. This was no exception, but we came out victorious and are now real close to the first trophy for quite some time!
We had a good initial five minutes of the first half, the Ox rushed forward in the first minute as Ramsey played him in, but the 'keeper got there first. Then Sanogo had a header right in front of the goal going straight at the 'keeper, it was a great pass by the Ox, though.
The rest of the half was rather lame, Wigan did not create anything particularly dangerous and we produced a Podolski free-kick wide as well as a Sanogo one-on-one with the 'keeper that was saved.
Fifteen minutes into the second half Wigan were awarded with a penalty when Mertesacker brought a player down in the box. Wigan scored and we had to replace Monreal, due to an injury, with Gibbs. Towards the end we brought some much-needed urgency into our game. The Ox had a shot on target saved with fifteen minutes to go and we had a header hitting the post! Also, Gibbs saw a header saved on the goal-line by a defender before we actually managed to get back in the game. It was a big fucking German that got to redeem himself for the penalty situation, Per Mertesacker threw himself down after some scramble in the box and used his chest to get the ball past the 'keeper! A rather unusual method, but nonetheless an effective one!
Before the end of the initial 90 minutes Giroud had a shot on target saved by the 'keeper and Mertesacker had a header going over the bar following a corner.
During extra-time we had one major chance to score, the Ox thundered a shot into the bar, leaving it shaking for quite some time! It was heading straight for the top corner and would have been an amazing goal to settle the game had it hit the back of the net. Instead, we were heading to penalties.
Fabianski turned out to be the one who saved it all for us, he made two incredible, solid saves from Wigan's first two penalties, leaving us in a golden position to take home the game! Arteta was first up for us and buried it at the bottom corner, then Källström scored as well for us while Wigan had not yet scored a single one. Wigan did, however, score their third penalty, but Giroud scored our third as well. Even though Wigan did score their fourth as well Cazorla could send us into the final should he put his penalty into the back of the net, which he did!!!
So we are into the final of the FA Cup now! We will face a similar situation as we did in this game, no doubt, as we are still the team with "everything to lose". But considering the fact that we actually have something to lose in this stage of the season sure is amazing and no small feat!
Sunday, April 6, 2014
Everton vs. Arsenal
3-0, Premier League, Goodison Park, 06 April 2014
Ahead of this game we were aware that losing would put us in serious danger of losing the fourth spot, and now that it is only five games left of the season that looks like a real possibility.
The game started off fairly even, Osman fired towards the top corner while Podolski also had an effort going wide within the first five minutes. Then Flamini had a decent shot on target before things went south for us. Everton scored approximately fifteen minutes into the game, Szczesny saved Lukaku's shot from right in front of the goal, but the rebound reached fellow Everton player Naismith who tucked it into the back of the net. Before the half was over Everton would score yet again, this time through Lukaku.
In the second half we never looked too likely to score, until at the very end when the Ox had a shot being tipped onto the bar by Everton 'keeper Howard. Unfortunately Everton did score in the second half as well and we have to face another crushing defeat.
In short, nothing appears to be going well for us at the moment. Next up is Wigan in the FA Cup semi-final, so things had better turn around now!
Injury Update:
- Ramsey is back! He started on the bench but eventually got to play for a while.
Ahead of this game we were aware that losing would put us in serious danger of losing the fourth spot, and now that it is only five games left of the season that looks like a real possibility.
The game started off fairly even, Osman fired towards the top corner while Podolski also had an effort going wide within the first five minutes. Then Flamini had a decent shot on target before things went south for us. Everton scored approximately fifteen minutes into the game, Szczesny saved Lukaku's shot from right in front of the goal, but the rebound reached fellow Everton player Naismith who tucked it into the back of the net. Before the half was over Everton would score yet again, this time through Lukaku.
In the second half we never looked too likely to score, until at the very end when the Ox had a shot being tipped onto the bar by Everton 'keeper Howard. Unfortunately Everton did score in the second half as well and we have to face another crushing defeat.
In short, nothing appears to be going well for us at the moment. Next up is Wigan in the FA Cup semi-final, so things had better turn around now!
Injury Update:
- Ramsey is back! He started on the bench but eventually got to play for a while.
Sunday, March 30, 2014
Arsenal vs. Manchester City
1-1, Premier League, Emirates Stadium, 29 March 2014
Flamini 53
A win was needed in order to retain some hope of the league title. Unfortunate our display, even though it was a definite improvement from recent games, was not enough in the end. However, as mentioned the display in this game was a clear improvement, which is something to bring into the FA Cup semi-final fast approaching.
The first half contained two goal, although ours was disallowed. We also had a penalty shout as Rosicky was brought down in the box where replays show that it very well could have, and possibly should have, been a penalty. Then Silva scored for City through a counter-attack. Four minutes later Flamini scored, but the goal was not given as he was offside.
We grabbed the equaliser at the start of the second half, Mathieu Flamini fired a show away from near the penalty spot that went past Hart in the City goal and into the back of the net! Shortly afterwards Podolski sent a great chance wide, and Fernandinho fired a shot just over the bar for City. Both teams went for the winning goal, though none found it.
So we must now muster what confidence and spirit we can and bring that into the FA Cup as well as the final games of the season!
Flamini 53
A win was needed in order to retain some hope of the league title. Unfortunate our display, even though it was a definite improvement from recent games, was not enough in the end. However, as mentioned the display in this game was a clear improvement, which is something to bring into the FA Cup semi-final fast approaching.
The first half contained two goal, although ours was disallowed. We also had a penalty shout as Rosicky was brought down in the box where replays show that it very well could have, and possibly should have, been a penalty. Then Silva scored for City through a counter-attack. Four minutes later Flamini scored, but the goal was not given as he was offside.
We grabbed the equaliser at the start of the second half, Mathieu Flamini fired a show away from near the penalty spot that went past Hart in the City goal and into the back of the net! Shortly afterwards Podolski sent a great chance wide, and Fernandinho fired a shot just over the bar for City. Both teams went for the winning goal, though none found it.
So we must now muster what confidence and spirit we can and bring that into the FA Cup as well as the final games of the season!
Saturday, March 29, 2014
Arsenal vs. Swansea
2-2, Premier League, Emirates Stadium, 25 March 2014
Podolski 73,
Giroud 74
This was a game that at first appeared to end in disaster, then the turning-point of our spring, but ended up as another dismal and disappointing result. However, there was some positive news in relation to the game since neither Gibbs nor the Ox was suspended for the game, considering the strange situation in the previous game.
Coincidentally, it was the Ox who had the first chance of the game with a shot on target. Ten minutes into the half, however, the initial disaster struck as Swansea scored with a header past Szczesny. The arguably best chance of the half that we produced was a Mertesacker header that hit the side-netting following a corner.
We had a complete turnaround in the second half, with two goals in two minutes! With approximately fifteen minutes to go Gibbs ran into the box, found Lukas Podolski right in front of the goal, and the German steered it past the 'keeper and into the back of the net! The following minute we completed the turnaround as the previous goalscorer set up Olivier Giroud, who put it into the back of the net from close range! Then, in the 90th minute Swansea equalised, through an unfortunate own-goal as Szczesny made the save with his legs, but the rebound hit Flamini and went into the open net.
So what could have been a significant point for the rest of the spring was spurned, turning into a dismal draw at our own turf. Källström had his debut for the latter part of the second half, but did not produce anything particularly astonishing.
Podolski 73,
Giroud 74
This was a game that at first appeared to end in disaster, then the turning-point of our spring, but ended up as another dismal and disappointing result. However, there was some positive news in relation to the game since neither Gibbs nor the Ox was suspended for the game, considering the strange situation in the previous game.
Coincidentally, it was the Ox who had the first chance of the game with a shot on target. Ten minutes into the half, however, the initial disaster struck as Swansea scored with a header past Szczesny. The arguably best chance of the half that we produced was a Mertesacker header that hit the side-netting following a corner.
We had a complete turnaround in the second half, with two goals in two minutes! With approximately fifteen minutes to go Gibbs ran into the box, found Lukas Podolski right in front of the goal, and the German steered it past the 'keeper and into the back of the net! The following minute we completed the turnaround as the previous goalscorer set up Olivier Giroud, who put it into the back of the net from close range! Then, in the 90th minute Swansea equalised, through an unfortunate own-goal as Szczesny made the save with his legs, but the rebound hit Flamini and went into the open net.
So what could have been a significant point for the rest of the spring was spurned, turning into a dismal draw at our own turf. Källström had his debut for the latter part of the second half, but did not produce anything particularly astonishing.
Sunday, March 23, 2014
Chelsea vs. Arsenal
6-0, Premier League, Stamford Bridge, 22 March 2014
In the second half we conceded two more, and were over-all poor.
We were down by 4-0 at the end of the first half and one man less after Gibbs was sent off in a weird situation. The Ox had touched the ball with his hand in the box and Chelsea was awarded with the penalty, yet the Ox did not even receive a yellow card. It also appeared as though he attempted to tell the ref he was wrong, but if he did it did not make any difference.
In the second half we conceded two more, and were over-all poor.
Sunday, March 16, 2014
Tottenham vs. Arsenal
0-1, Premier League, White Hart Lane, 16 March 2014
Rosicky 2
Not only were we in desperate need of three points, but it was from a North London Derby that we desperately needed those three points. And most importantly, it was from a North London Derby that we took those three points!
Rosicky 2
Not only were we in desperate need of three points, but it was from a North London Derby that we desperately needed those three points. And most importantly, it was from a North London Derby that we took those three points!
Just two minutes into the game we grabbed the lead that would last through the entire game. During a counter-attack Rosicky passed the ball to the Ox, then got it back at the edge of the 18-yard-box and fired an unstoppable shot past the 'keeper!
Before the end of the half Oxlade-Chamberlain got a decent chance himself to score, he rushed forward and with a chip got the ball over the 'keeper, but his effort went way wide instead of hitting the back of the net.
Before the end of the half Oxlade-Chamberlain got a decent chance himself to score, he rushed forward and with a chip got the ball over the 'keeper, but his effort went way wide instead of hitting the back of the net.
The second half consisted of Tottenham trying to find the equaliser. At the start of the half they had a cross being inches away from being met by an on-rushing player right in front of the goal. Then Adebayor had a header going wide from right in front of the goal.
Towards the end Mertesacker had a dangerous shot on target following a free-kick that forces a great save by Lloris.
As the end drew nearer Tottenham increased the pressure, but we held firm and ensured a season of 100% wins against Tottenham!
Thursday, March 13, 2014
Bayern Munich vs. Arsenal
1-1, Champions League, Allianz Arena, 11 March 2014
Podolski 57
Even though the game was more or less already decided due to the result of the first clash, we did go out in the right way with this display, even though it obviously wasn't enough.
Bayern Munich were solid throughout the game, posing constant threats to our defense while we looked to grab a goal (or two) ourselves. Schweinsteiger had a shot on target within the first five minutes, but it was comfortably dealt with by Fabianski, standing in as 'keeper due to Szczesny's red card in the previous game.
The main man going forward for us was, unexpectedly, Oxlade-Chamberlain. The Ox has been in immaculate form recently and will certainly prove important for the league run-in and the FA Cup semi-final (and hopefully final). The first we got to see of him in this game was as he surged forward, resulting in a defender bringing him down harshly, which, in turn, led to a free-kick and booking.
Bayern Munich did score in the first half, fortunately it was a clear offside and the goal was not given. Mere minutes later the Ox surged forward again with an astounding solo run, containing plenty of dribbling in order to get past the defenders, but he was eventually felled and a free-kick was given. That free-kick was taken by Cazorla and hit the wall, and in the resulting corner Giroud got a header on target, but it was saved by Neuer.
The half was concluded with a brilliant save by Fabianski as Götze fired a fast-paced shot on target.
At the start of the second half Robben fell easily in the box, shouting for a penalty, but nothing was given. Unfortunately it only took about four minutes after that penalty-shout before they actually got the lead, which inevitably ended much of whatever hope that was left for us. The space in front of the goal completely opened up for Schweinsteiger, leaving Fabianski quite helpless.
Somehow that seemed to ignite a spark within (or maybe it was just pure luck) but two minutes after that goal we grabbed one ourselves! And once again it was a German player who scored it! Lukas Podolski smashed the ball into the back of the net after winning the ball from Lahm! That goal did give us some hope, however futile, and the following minute the Ox had a shot on target, from outside the box, saved by Neuer.
But Fabianski had to remain vigilant till the very end, however unfortunate that was for us. Robben had an effort that he had to save with fifteen minutes to go, and then during the added time he had to face a penalty! Robben was brought down in the box and the ref gave the penalty this time around. Müller stepped up to take the penalty, but Fabianski produced an amazing save, somehow leaving the ball spinning on the goal-line to his left! So he threw himself back across the goal and poked it clear before any on-rushing Munich player could teach it! Astounding goalkeeping!
But going into this game we knew that goalkeeping alone would not save us, and we have to face being eliminated in the first knock-out stage yet again. It is quite disappointing, obviously, but not altogether unexpected and all we can do now is be sure to bring home the FA Cup trophy and have a decent finish to the league.
Podolski 57
Even though the game was more or less already decided due to the result of the first clash, we did go out in the right way with this display, even though it obviously wasn't enough.
Bayern Munich were solid throughout the game, posing constant threats to our defense while we looked to grab a goal (or two) ourselves. Schweinsteiger had a shot on target within the first five minutes, but it was comfortably dealt with by Fabianski, standing in as 'keeper due to Szczesny's red card in the previous game.
The main man going forward for us was, unexpectedly, Oxlade-Chamberlain. The Ox has been in immaculate form recently and will certainly prove important for the league run-in and the FA Cup semi-final (and hopefully final). The first we got to see of him in this game was as he surged forward, resulting in a defender bringing him down harshly, which, in turn, led to a free-kick and booking.
Bayern Munich did score in the first half, fortunately it was a clear offside and the goal was not given. Mere minutes later the Ox surged forward again with an astounding solo run, containing plenty of dribbling in order to get past the defenders, but he was eventually felled and a free-kick was given. That free-kick was taken by Cazorla and hit the wall, and in the resulting corner Giroud got a header on target, but it was saved by Neuer.
The half was concluded with a brilliant save by Fabianski as Götze fired a fast-paced shot on target.
At the start of the second half Robben fell easily in the box, shouting for a penalty, but nothing was given. Unfortunately it only took about four minutes after that penalty-shout before they actually got the lead, which inevitably ended much of whatever hope that was left for us. The space in front of the goal completely opened up for Schweinsteiger, leaving Fabianski quite helpless.
Somehow that seemed to ignite a spark within (or maybe it was just pure luck) but two minutes after that goal we grabbed one ourselves! And once again it was a German player who scored it! Lukas Podolski smashed the ball into the back of the net after winning the ball from Lahm! That goal did give us some hope, however futile, and the following minute the Ox had a shot on target, from outside the box, saved by Neuer.
But Fabianski had to remain vigilant till the very end, however unfortunate that was for us. Robben had an effort that he had to save with fifteen minutes to go, and then during the added time he had to face a penalty! Robben was brought down in the box and the ref gave the penalty this time around. Müller stepped up to take the penalty, but Fabianski produced an amazing save, somehow leaving the ball spinning on the goal-line to his left! So he threw himself back across the goal and poked it clear before any on-rushing Munich player could teach it! Astounding goalkeeping!
But going into this game we knew that goalkeeping alone would not save us, and we have to face being eliminated in the first knock-out stage yet again. It is quite disappointing, obviously, but not altogether unexpected and all we can do now is be sure to bring home the FA Cup trophy and have a decent finish to the league.
Saturday, March 8, 2014
Arsenal vs. Everton
4-1, The FA Cup, Emirates Stadium, 08 March 2014
Özil 7,
Arteta (pen) 68,
Giroud 83, 85
Özil 7,
Arteta (pen) 68,
Giroud 83, 85
There was no better way of responding to the recent tough games than a more or less comfortable win over Everton, taking us into the semi-finals of the FA Cup and Wembley!
We started the game in brilliant fashion, by scoring! In the first proper attack that we had Cazorla provided an excellent pass to Mesut Özil and the German international struck at once to put the ball past the 'keeper! It must have felt great for him to score again, since it has been quite some time since the last time and there has undoubtedly been some rough critique laid on him lately.
However, one player in particular that is worth mentioning from this game is Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. He may not have scored, but he sure was amazing nonetheless. He created most of our chances, at least it certainly felt that way, and in the first half he had one thundering shot from outside the 18-yard-box saved by the 'keeper, another shot blocked right in front of the goal and another shot forcing yet another decent save out of the 'keeper. Unfortunately he did not create a second goal at the time, and Everton had time to equalise before the end of the first half through Lukaku.
However, one player in particular that is worth mentioning from this game is Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. He may not have scored, but he sure was amazing nonetheless. He created most of our chances, at least it certainly felt that way, and in the first half he had one thundering shot from outside the 18-yard-box saved by the 'keeper, another shot blocked right in front of the goal and another shot forcing yet another decent save out of the 'keeper. Unfortunately he did not create a second goal at the time, and Everton had time to equalise before the end of the first half through Lukaku.
Fortunately we did step up for the second half, and ended up completely dominating it. Cazorla's curling shot forced a great save out of the 'keeper, and ten minutes later we would take the lead back. When Oxlade-Chamberlain was brought down in the box we were awarded with a penalty, and Arteta had to score it twice for it to register! He started with a low and assured strike that hit the back of the net, but it had to be re-done as Giroud stepped into the box too early (he redeemed it later, though) and Mikel Arteta slammed the second one in as well, this time going for a higher strike that went over the 'keeper!
As mentioned, Olivier Giroud redeemed himself before the end of the game. The first of the two goals came when Sagna cut the ball back to the fellow Frenchman, whose strike from close range left the 'keeper with no chance. The second goal of Olivier Giroud came two minutes later, through a great counter-attack. Rosicky played the ball to Özil, and Özil to Giroud, who fired it into the back of the net!
As mentioned, Olivier Giroud redeemed himself before the end of the game. The first of the two goals came when Sagna cut the ball back to the fellow Frenchman, whose strike from close range left the 'keeper with no chance. The second goal of Olivier Giroud came two minutes later, through a great counter-attack. Rosicky played the ball to Özil, and Özil to Giroud, who fired it into the back of the net!
At the semi-finals, played at Wembley, we will face Wigan, last year's winners, who beat Manchester City in their quarter-final!
Saturday, March 1, 2014
Stoke vs. Arsenal
1-0, Premier League, Britannia Stadium, 01 March 2014
This was quite possibly the most dismal game I've watched us play so far this season. We hardly created anything, in fact, the game in general hardly contained any chances.
Stoke had an effort inches wide of the post fifteen minutes into the half, and then there was more or less nothing happening until the final minutes of the half when Cazorla's shot on target was saved by Begovic.
In the second half Stoke created a bit more chances, while we remained over-all poor. Crouch created two chances within ten minutes, starting with meeting a free-kick, but his touch brought it up into the air rather than towards the goal. The second was a trademark header, which forced a great save out of Szczesny. From the resulting corner Cameron fired a shot wide.
Disaster struck with fifteen minutes to go, though it might not have been altogether unexpected. The fashion of the goal, on the other hand, was rather disagreeable. Stoke were awarded with a penalty as both Koscielny and the Stoke player went for the ball with high kicks, and both missed. Absolute joke by the ref to give in favour of one or the other.... Walters converted the penalty, giving us a tough outlook on the remainder of the season.
As we are approaching the final stretch of the league run, this was disastrous for our title chances. We truly face ending another season without a title at the moment.
This was quite possibly the most dismal game I've watched us play so far this season. We hardly created anything, in fact, the game in general hardly contained any chances.
Stoke had an effort inches wide of the post fifteen minutes into the half, and then there was more or less nothing happening until the final minutes of the half when Cazorla's shot on target was saved by Begovic.
In the second half Stoke created a bit more chances, while we remained over-all poor. Crouch created two chances within ten minutes, starting with meeting a free-kick, but his touch brought it up into the air rather than towards the goal. The second was a trademark header, which forced a great save out of Szczesny. From the resulting corner Cameron fired a shot wide.
Disaster struck with fifteen minutes to go, though it might not have been altogether unexpected. The fashion of the goal, on the other hand, was rather disagreeable. Stoke were awarded with a penalty as both Koscielny and the Stoke player went for the ball with high kicks, and both missed. Absolute joke by the ref to give in favour of one or the other.... Walters converted the penalty, giving us a tough outlook on the remainder of the season.
As we are approaching the final stretch of the league run, this was disastrous for our title chances. We truly face ending another season without a title at the moment.
Saturday, February 22, 2014
Arsenal vs. Sunderland
4-1, Premier League, Emirates Stadium, 22 February 2014
Giroud 5, 31,
Rosicky 42,
Koscielny 57
This was probably exactly what we needed at the moment, a confident and assuring win where we get to score a few goals and display some brilliant playing. Only minus is the fact that we did not keep a clean sheet, but considering the final result that can be overlooked for once!
The goalscoring began early, with the first goal coming merely five minutes into the game. Rosicky found Wilshere at the edge of the box and he played it to Olivier Giroud, who has been rested for a couple of games, and he fired the ball past Mannone in the Sunderland goal! On the other end Szczesny had to remain vigilant, even though we dominated the game with roughly 80% of possession, as a dangerous cross was swung into the box. At the half-hour mark our tall French striker was at it again with his second goal of the game. Olivier Giroud sneaked in to intercept a pass from a defender towards Mannone, and put the ball into the back of the net with ease! As the half was drawing to a close we added another goal to the score-line, this time the previous goalscorer was the one to set it up as he, through a quick touch, played the ball back to Tomas Rosicky who, with a chip, got it over Mannone and into the back of the net! It looked quite classy!
Sunderland started the half quite good, and Szczesny had to make a decent save at the beginning of the half. Then a Sunderland clearance almost turned into an own goal, but went just wide. From the resulting corner, however, there was a goal! Laurent Koscielny met the the ball with a thundering header past Mannone! About midway through the half Gnabry was brought on and he had a decent chance himself to score as he was released onto the goal, but Mannone made a good save. However, the final chances of the game went to Sunderland. First Sebastian Larsson fired a free-kick just wide of the top corner, then they did get one back right at the end through a long-distance shot that went in right by the post.
So slightly disappointing to let a goal in at the end, but when you've already scored four yourself there is no greater harm done! If we keep up this good form in the league we certainly still have a shot at bringing the league title to the Emirates!
Giroud 5, 31,
Rosicky 42,
Koscielny 57
This was probably exactly what we needed at the moment, a confident and assuring win where we get to score a few goals and display some brilliant playing. Only minus is the fact that we did not keep a clean sheet, but considering the final result that can be overlooked for once!
The goalscoring began early, with the first goal coming merely five minutes into the game. Rosicky found Wilshere at the edge of the box and he played it to Olivier Giroud, who has been rested for a couple of games, and he fired the ball past Mannone in the Sunderland goal! On the other end Szczesny had to remain vigilant, even though we dominated the game with roughly 80% of possession, as a dangerous cross was swung into the box. At the half-hour mark our tall French striker was at it again with his second goal of the game. Olivier Giroud sneaked in to intercept a pass from a defender towards Mannone, and put the ball into the back of the net with ease! As the half was drawing to a close we added another goal to the score-line, this time the previous goalscorer was the one to set it up as he, through a quick touch, played the ball back to Tomas Rosicky who, with a chip, got it over Mannone and into the back of the net! It looked quite classy!
Sunderland started the half quite good, and Szczesny had to make a decent save at the beginning of the half. Then a Sunderland clearance almost turned into an own goal, but went just wide. From the resulting corner, however, there was a goal! Laurent Koscielny met the the ball with a thundering header past Mannone! About midway through the half Gnabry was brought on and he had a decent chance himself to score as he was released onto the goal, but Mannone made a good save. However, the final chances of the game went to Sunderland. First Sebastian Larsson fired a free-kick just wide of the top corner, then they did get one back right at the end through a long-distance shot that went in right by the post.
So slightly disappointing to let a goal in at the end, but when you've already scored four yourself there is no greater harm done! If we keep up this good form in the league we certainly still have a shot at bringing the league title to the Emirates!
Thursday, February 20, 2014
Arsenal vs. Bayern Munich
0-2, Champions League, Emirates Stadium, 19 February 2014
What started out as a promising and lively game from both sides, a truly wonderful game from a neutral point of view, was spoiled before the end of the first half by a rash decision from the referee. Immensely disappointing.
The start of the first half was brilliant, from both sides. Szczesny had to make a great save in the initial minutes as Kroos fired towards the top corner. On the other end Sanogo, who got to start this game, created a few great chances himself. The most remarkable of which was a sizzling shot that forced a great save out of Neuer.
Cazorla had a decent chance as well not long after, but his shot went straight at the 'keeper. Then the moment came where we could have turned the game in our favour, Özil was brought down in the box and we were awarded with a penalty. He took it himself, but to our despair it was saved by Neuer, Özil attempted to wait the 'keeper out, but it did not work out that way and we squandered the one chance we could not afford to squander.
After that Bayern Munich got back in it, and Flamini had to make a block as Alaba had a shot following a corner. Throughout the game the Frenchman was brilliant, not only as a defensive midfielder but also as the one player urging the team on when things got tougher. As a result of some decent play around the box twenty minutes into the half Flamini also had a shot, unfortunately it went over the bar.
Oxlade-Chamberlain, who is in brilliant form at the moment, came inches from reaching the ball in a race with the 'keeper as Sanogo won the ball in the middle, but Neuer got to it first, by no large marginal, and swooped it clear. Ten minutes later Gibbs picked up an injury and had to be replaced by Monreal, the first in a series of poor things that were to shape the game for us.
As the half was approaching its end our defence kept up the hard work and Mertesacker made a vital block as Robben fired a shot away from inside the box. Then the true disaster of the game struck as Szczesny accidentally brought Robben down in an attempt to get the ball, and was quite unbelievably shown a red card for it. In that moment, the ref single-handedly killed the game. Cazorla had to go off and Fabianski was brought on to face the penalty. Even though Alaba hit the post and there was some momentary joy amidst the despair, the game was settled the moment we knew that we would be down to ten men for the rest of the game, and it was the home game as well.
The second half turned out as expected, Bayern Munich dominated possession while our team had to defend valiantly, which they did. Sadly it was not enough, and for all the saves that Fabianski produced and all the blocks and dedicated defending of the team two goals slipped in, an unstoppable shot from Kroos and a header from Müller. This gives us a pretty bleak chance of qualifying, yet anything can happen. It's a real shame, though, as it felt as though we were definitely up for the task when it was 11 against 11...
What started out as a promising and lively game from both sides, a truly wonderful game from a neutral point of view, was spoiled before the end of the first half by a rash decision from the referee. Immensely disappointing.
The start of the first half was brilliant, from both sides. Szczesny had to make a great save in the initial minutes as Kroos fired towards the top corner. On the other end Sanogo, who got to start this game, created a few great chances himself. The most remarkable of which was a sizzling shot that forced a great save out of Neuer.
Cazorla had a decent chance as well not long after, but his shot went straight at the 'keeper. Then the moment came where we could have turned the game in our favour, Özil was brought down in the box and we were awarded with a penalty. He took it himself, but to our despair it was saved by Neuer, Özil attempted to wait the 'keeper out, but it did not work out that way and we squandered the one chance we could not afford to squander.
After that Bayern Munich got back in it, and Flamini had to make a block as Alaba had a shot following a corner. Throughout the game the Frenchman was brilliant, not only as a defensive midfielder but also as the one player urging the team on when things got tougher. As a result of some decent play around the box twenty minutes into the half Flamini also had a shot, unfortunately it went over the bar.
Oxlade-Chamberlain, who is in brilliant form at the moment, came inches from reaching the ball in a race with the 'keeper as Sanogo won the ball in the middle, but Neuer got to it first, by no large marginal, and swooped it clear. Ten minutes later Gibbs picked up an injury and had to be replaced by Monreal, the first in a series of poor things that were to shape the game for us.
As the half was approaching its end our defence kept up the hard work and Mertesacker made a vital block as Robben fired a shot away from inside the box. Then the true disaster of the game struck as Szczesny accidentally brought Robben down in an attempt to get the ball, and was quite unbelievably shown a red card for it. In that moment, the ref single-handedly killed the game. Cazorla had to go off and Fabianski was brought on to face the penalty. Even though Alaba hit the post and there was some momentary joy amidst the despair, the game was settled the moment we knew that we would be down to ten men for the rest of the game, and it was the home game as well.
The second half turned out as expected, Bayern Munich dominated possession while our team had to defend valiantly, which they did. Sadly it was not enough, and for all the saves that Fabianski produced and all the blocks and dedicated defending of the team two goals slipped in, an unstoppable shot from Kroos and a header from Müller. This gives us a pretty bleak chance of qualifying, yet anything can happen. It's a real shame, though, as it felt as though we were definitely up for the task when it was 11 against 11...
Sunday, February 16, 2014
Arsenal vs. Liverpool
2-1, The FA Cup, Emirates Stadium, 16 February 2014
Oxlade-Chamberlain 16,
Podolski 47
We got the chance to take vengeance for the last game, and we took it! It may not have been a complete thrashing, but at least it feels as though we are back on track.
The game could have started just as the one a week ago did, when Sturridge let loose a shot mere minutes from the start, fortunately Fabianski was there to make a decent save. The same striker then fired wide a few minutes later, before we introduced our attacking play.
Oxlade-Chamberlain and Sanogo linked up well together as the former played it to Sanogo, who instantly played it back to the Ox, brilliant from Sanogo but unfortunately the angle got too steep for the Ox before he released his effort and the chance was squandered. The same, however, cannot be said for the Englishman's second chance. Sanogo headed the ball down and fired it towards the goal, but it was blocked by Gerrard and fell to Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, who put it past the 'keeper! It was definitely important to get a good start to the game, to dispel any lingering ghosts from the former game, and it was certainly gratifying that we got it!
Before the end of the half Özil created a decent chance as he advanced towards the goal, showcasing some skilful footwork, but his cross/shot was blocked and it fell to Podolski, whose shot was fired over the bar. On the other end Fabianski had to make another save, this time it was Suarez who fired it.
The second half began as the first one ended, with a great Fabianski save from a Suarez shot. Then it was time for us to, once again, to find the back of the net. It was a quick counter that did the trick this time, Özil passed the ball to the Ox, who cut it back toward the penalty spot and Lukas Podolski got there in time to fire the ball into the back of the net! A while later Özil fired a dangerous shot towards the goal that was saved by the 'keeper, while Fabianski had to make a save himself on the other end.
Things took a turn for the worse with half an hour to go as Liverpool was awarded with a penalty and Gerrard scored from the penalty spot. However, Fabianski was determined not to let another one go past him and he made a stunning save, jumping in right before the feet of Sterling and punching the ball clear with just the one hand, shortly after the penalty.
Even though he had been very solid throughout the game, Fabianski did provide some drama towards the end as he missed a punch when Liverpool had a free-kick, fortunately Agger headed it wide!
With this result we qualify for the quarter finals, where we will face Everton. Once again we will be playing it at the Emirates, we have certainly been lucky with all the home draws so far!
Oxlade-Chamberlain 16,
Podolski 47
We got the chance to take vengeance for the last game, and we took it! It may not have been a complete thrashing, but at least it feels as though we are back on track.
The game could have started just as the one a week ago did, when Sturridge let loose a shot mere minutes from the start, fortunately Fabianski was there to make a decent save. The same striker then fired wide a few minutes later, before we introduced our attacking play.
Oxlade-Chamberlain and Sanogo linked up well together as the former played it to Sanogo, who instantly played it back to the Ox, brilliant from Sanogo but unfortunately the angle got too steep for the Ox before he released his effort and the chance was squandered. The same, however, cannot be said for the Englishman's second chance. Sanogo headed the ball down and fired it towards the goal, but it was blocked by Gerrard and fell to Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, who put it past the 'keeper! It was definitely important to get a good start to the game, to dispel any lingering ghosts from the former game, and it was certainly gratifying that we got it!
Before the end of the half Özil created a decent chance as he advanced towards the goal, showcasing some skilful footwork, but his cross/shot was blocked and it fell to Podolski, whose shot was fired over the bar. On the other end Fabianski had to make another save, this time it was Suarez who fired it.
The second half began as the first one ended, with a great Fabianski save from a Suarez shot. Then it was time for us to, once again, to find the back of the net. It was a quick counter that did the trick this time, Özil passed the ball to the Ox, who cut it back toward the penalty spot and Lukas Podolski got there in time to fire the ball into the back of the net! A while later Özil fired a dangerous shot towards the goal that was saved by the 'keeper, while Fabianski had to make a save himself on the other end.
Things took a turn for the worse with half an hour to go as Liverpool was awarded with a penalty and Gerrard scored from the penalty spot. However, Fabianski was determined not to let another one go past him and he made a stunning save, jumping in right before the feet of Sterling and punching the ball clear with just the one hand, shortly after the penalty.
Even though he had been very solid throughout the game, Fabianski did provide some drama towards the end as he missed a punch when Liverpool had a free-kick, fortunately Agger headed it wide!
With this result we qualify for the quarter finals, where we will face Everton. Once again we will be playing it at the Emirates, we have certainly been lucky with all the home draws so far!
Thursday, February 13, 2014
Arsenal vs. Manchester United
0-0, Premier League, Emirates Stadium, 12 February 2014
We should have won this game, not only considering the way we dominated it, but also considering last weekend's result. However, we did not and missed out on the chance to take back the top spot.
That said, United certainly had a couple of decent chances to score themselves, the first one coming merely two minutes into the first half when we lost the ball inexcusably right in front of the goal, fortunately Szczesny was there to save van Persie's shot! A couple of minutes later we had our first chance of the game as Wilshere dribbled his way through the defence, but his shot was blocked by a foot in the last moment and went out for a corner, which Giroud headed wide.
Rosicky was back in the starting XI for this game, and had a long distance shot deflected off of Vidic saved by De Gea in the first half. Giroud headed another corner wide, and sent a shot over the bar before the end of the half while Gibbs had a header straight at De Gea. As the half was drawing to a close Cazorla had a shot blocked, which incidentally more or less summed up the half.
The second half looked more or less just like the first one, the only difference being that we actually managed to build up some pressure towards the end. Fifteen minutes into the half we got really close to getting that first goal, as Cazorla's corner was met by Koscielny, unfortunately Valencia was there to clear it on the line! In the following minute Giroud had a diving header, but just missed the ball and in his next chance, a cross from Gibbs, he headed it wide.
Our 'keeper had to remain vigilant, as he made a vital interception, clearing the ball with his head, to prevent van Persie from reaching it. Then, with approximately fifteen minutes to go, Giroud came inches away from scoring as Sagna sent a brilliantly struck cross into the box that the French striker just missed. As just mentioned, Szczesny had to stay prepared for just about anything, and he made a great save as we lost possession and Rooney's cross was met by van Persie in the box, whose header was punched off the bar to safety by our Polish 'keeper.
Cazorla had a trio of chances near the end, the first forcing a great save out of De Gea, while the second one was blocked by defenders and the third one forced another save out of the 'keeper.
So in the end a rather dismal result, but at least we kept a clean sheet, which considering the recent result is, to say the least, progress.
We should have won this game, not only considering the way we dominated it, but also considering last weekend's result. However, we did not and missed out on the chance to take back the top spot.
That said, United certainly had a couple of decent chances to score themselves, the first one coming merely two minutes into the first half when we lost the ball inexcusably right in front of the goal, fortunately Szczesny was there to save van Persie's shot! A couple of minutes later we had our first chance of the game as Wilshere dribbled his way through the defence, but his shot was blocked by a foot in the last moment and went out for a corner, which Giroud headed wide.
Rosicky was back in the starting XI for this game, and had a long distance shot deflected off of Vidic saved by De Gea in the first half. Giroud headed another corner wide, and sent a shot over the bar before the end of the half while Gibbs had a header straight at De Gea. As the half was drawing to a close Cazorla had a shot blocked, which incidentally more or less summed up the half.
The second half looked more or less just like the first one, the only difference being that we actually managed to build up some pressure towards the end. Fifteen minutes into the half we got really close to getting that first goal, as Cazorla's corner was met by Koscielny, unfortunately Valencia was there to clear it on the line! In the following minute Giroud had a diving header, but just missed the ball and in his next chance, a cross from Gibbs, he headed it wide.
Our 'keeper had to remain vigilant, as he made a vital interception, clearing the ball with his head, to prevent van Persie from reaching it. Then, with approximately fifteen minutes to go, Giroud came inches away from scoring as Sagna sent a brilliantly struck cross into the box that the French striker just missed. As just mentioned, Szczesny had to stay prepared for just about anything, and he made a great save as we lost possession and Rooney's cross was met by van Persie in the box, whose header was punched off the bar to safety by our Polish 'keeper.
Cazorla had a trio of chances near the end, the first forcing a great save out of De Gea, while the second one was blocked by defenders and the third one forced another save out of the 'keeper.
So in the end a rather dismal result, but at least we kept a clean sheet, which considering the recent result is, to say the least, progress.
Saturday, February 8, 2014
Liverpool vs. Arsenal
5-1, Premier League, Anfield, 08 February 2014
Arteta 69 (pen)
Ahead of the game there was only expectations and hope, twenty minutes into the game there was only deafening disappointment.
In the very first minute of the game Liverpool took the lead, but unjustly so. As a free-kick was swung in, Skrtel was in an offside position before he got a leg to the ball and scored from close range, and from then on things only got worse. We did have one chance in the first half, a Monreal run was spotted by Wilshere and when Mignolet came out to clear it it bounced off of a defender back into Monreal's path, unfortunately a second defender was there to clear it before the Spaniard could tuck it in.
In the following minute Szczesny made a save as Liverpool got a shot away, and the minute after that the second goal was scored. Once again it was Skrtel, this time it was a header following a corner that did the trick.
The coming ten minutes proved increasingly dark, starting with a Sturridge chip going wide and a Suarez shot hitting the post and culminating in two more goals for Liverpool. Sterling and Sturridge got one each as the former was completely unmarked at the edge of the box and Koscielny was unable to keep up with the latter as he surged forward down the centre.
Needless to say our first half can only be described as consisting of one thing: shocking defending.
At the start of the second half Cazorla had a free-kick deflected over the bar for a corner, a positive indicator that proved false. For five minutes later Sturridge scored another goal, Szczesny saved the first shot but could do nothing to deny the rebound. Once again we displayed absolutely shocking defending.
At least we got the last word in the game, goal-wise, and building up to that we had a few chances. Giroud headed straight at the 'keeper and Oxlade-Chamberlain saw his effort saved by Mignolet as well. Before our consolation goal (if you can even call it that) Szczesny had to make a save as Suarez's tricky free-kick approached the top corner of the goal.
We were awarded with a penalty as Oxlade-Chamberlain was brought down, and Mikel Arteta scored from the penalty spot.
Unfortunately that proved to be all that we would get out of the game, a very dismal, disappointing and down-right terrible game. We have some tough games up ahead and now we quite decidedly need to win them, starting with Manchester United on Wednesday. Following the result today, we will quite certainly lose the top spot, again, but this time risk falling down to third.
Arteta 69 (pen)
Ahead of the game there was only expectations and hope, twenty minutes into the game there was only deafening disappointment.
In the very first minute of the game Liverpool took the lead, but unjustly so. As a free-kick was swung in, Skrtel was in an offside position before he got a leg to the ball and scored from close range, and from then on things only got worse. We did have one chance in the first half, a Monreal run was spotted by Wilshere and when Mignolet came out to clear it it bounced off of a defender back into Monreal's path, unfortunately a second defender was there to clear it before the Spaniard could tuck it in.
In the following minute Szczesny made a save as Liverpool got a shot away, and the minute after that the second goal was scored. Once again it was Skrtel, this time it was a header following a corner that did the trick.
The coming ten minutes proved increasingly dark, starting with a Sturridge chip going wide and a Suarez shot hitting the post and culminating in two more goals for Liverpool. Sterling and Sturridge got one each as the former was completely unmarked at the edge of the box and Koscielny was unable to keep up with the latter as he surged forward down the centre.
Needless to say our first half can only be described as consisting of one thing: shocking defending.
At the start of the second half Cazorla had a free-kick deflected over the bar for a corner, a positive indicator that proved false. For five minutes later Sturridge scored another goal, Szczesny saved the first shot but could do nothing to deny the rebound. Once again we displayed absolutely shocking defending.
At least we got the last word in the game, goal-wise, and building up to that we had a few chances. Giroud headed straight at the 'keeper and Oxlade-Chamberlain saw his effort saved by Mignolet as well. Before our consolation goal (if you can even call it that) Szczesny had to make a save as Suarez's tricky free-kick approached the top corner of the goal.
We were awarded with a penalty as Oxlade-Chamberlain was brought down, and Mikel Arteta scored from the penalty spot.
Unfortunately that proved to be all that we would get out of the game, a very dismal, disappointing and down-right terrible game. We have some tough games up ahead and now we quite decidedly need to win them, starting with Manchester United on Wednesday. Following the result today, we will quite certainly lose the top spot, again, but this time risk falling down to third.
Sunday, February 2, 2014
Arsenal vs. Crystal Palace
2-0, Premier League, Emirates Stadium, 02 February 2014
Oxlade-Chamberlain 47, 73
Before writing about this game, it is worth to mention that we signed Swedish midfielder Kim Källström, on loan till the end of the season, on the final day of the transfer window. He is currently 31 years old and signed from Spartak Moscow.
Back to this game, which was, as more or less all games, a must-win. We have lost the top spot following last week's draw, but a win here would reclaim that spot at least until tomorrow, when City and Chelsea face off.
The first half was rather dismal. We had complete domination of possession, but did not create that many clear-cut chances. Within the initial twenty minutes all that happened was that Monreal had a shot saved by the 'keeper as he was released onto the goal by Özil, Cazorla hit a free-kick over the bar and Szczesny made a timely interception as Chamakh had a surge forward.
The best chance of the half came through a Koscielny header that forced a decent save out of the 'keeper, while Szczesny had to make quite the save himself as he managed to get his hand low by the near post to steer an effort into a corner. Finally we had a couple of chances, Özil's corner-kick was headed on by Mertesacker, straight at the 'keeper though, and Koscielny had a volley shot ending up quite wide.
Right at the start of the second half we got the much-needed first goal, and through a young player that has just returned from an almost six months long absence. A brilliant run into the box from Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain was spotted by Cazorla, and the run was finished with a cheeky chip over the 'keeper! It may not be all that popular to compare Oxlade-Chamberlain with Walcott, but when he is scoring goals like these it is all but impossible not to!
However, Szczesny was also called back into action for the second half as Jerome had a diving header right in front of the goal, fortunately the Polish 'keeper was there to deny him an equaliser. Before the second goal that more or less sealed the game Podolski fired into the side-netting and Crystal Palace had a shot over the bar.
So the second goal then. It certainly established, if it was not already decided, who was to be the match-hero of the day. There was some quite slick play involved as Rosicky passed the ball to Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, who instantly produced a back-heel to Giroud, who played the Englishman back in and another brilliant run led to another brilliant goal for Chamberlain!
In the final stages of the game Özil had a shot on target saved by the 'keeper while Szczesny made a vital, last-minute interception as Crystal Palace came forward.
This was most definitely a vital win, one that takes us back to the top of the league! Ahead we have some rather tricky game, Liverpool away, Manchester United at home, Liverpool at home and then Bayern Munich at the Emirates... Some interesting and defining games are certainly coming up...
Injury Update:
- While a new signing tends to be good news, the bad news this time around is that Källström is injured for 4 to 6 weeks, and perhaps even worse news is that the same goes for Ramsey.
Oxlade-Chamberlain 47, 73
Before writing about this game, it is worth to mention that we signed Swedish midfielder Kim Källström, on loan till the end of the season, on the final day of the transfer window. He is currently 31 years old and signed from Spartak Moscow.
Back to this game, which was, as more or less all games, a must-win. We have lost the top spot following last week's draw, but a win here would reclaim that spot at least until tomorrow, when City and Chelsea face off.
The first half was rather dismal. We had complete domination of possession, but did not create that many clear-cut chances. Within the initial twenty minutes all that happened was that Monreal had a shot saved by the 'keeper as he was released onto the goal by Özil, Cazorla hit a free-kick over the bar and Szczesny made a timely interception as Chamakh had a surge forward.
The best chance of the half came through a Koscielny header that forced a decent save out of the 'keeper, while Szczesny had to make quite the save himself as he managed to get his hand low by the near post to steer an effort into a corner. Finally we had a couple of chances, Özil's corner-kick was headed on by Mertesacker, straight at the 'keeper though, and Koscielny had a volley shot ending up quite wide.
Right at the start of the second half we got the much-needed first goal, and through a young player that has just returned from an almost six months long absence. A brilliant run into the box from Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain was spotted by Cazorla, and the run was finished with a cheeky chip over the 'keeper! It may not be all that popular to compare Oxlade-Chamberlain with Walcott, but when he is scoring goals like these it is all but impossible not to!
However, Szczesny was also called back into action for the second half as Jerome had a diving header right in front of the goal, fortunately the Polish 'keeper was there to deny him an equaliser. Before the second goal that more or less sealed the game Podolski fired into the side-netting and Crystal Palace had a shot over the bar.
So the second goal then. It certainly established, if it was not already decided, who was to be the match-hero of the day. There was some quite slick play involved as Rosicky passed the ball to Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, who instantly produced a back-heel to Giroud, who played the Englishman back in and another brilliant run led to another brilliant goal for Chamberlain!
In the final stages of the game Özil had a shot on target saved by the 'keeper while Szczesny made a vital, last-minute interception as Crystal Palace came forward.
This was most definitely a vital win, one that takes us back to the top of the league! Ahead we have some rather tricky game, Liverpool away, Manchester United at home, Liverpool at home and then Bayern Munich at the Emirates... Some interesting and defining games are certainly coming up...
Injury Update:
- While a new signing tends to be good news, the bad news this time around is that Källström is injured for 4 to 6 weeks, and perhaps even worse news is that the same goes for Ramsey.
Wednesday, January 29, 2014
Southampton vs. Arsenal
2-2, Premier League, St. Mary's, 28 January 2014
Giroud 48,
Cazorla 52
We were quite miserable in the first half of this game. We, quite literally, created nothing going forward and more or less just let Southampton dominate the game completely. Fortunately, we managed to turn it around for the second half through a minor miracle.
Szczesny had to make some decent saves during the game, the first truly brilliant one came after eight minutes as we lost possession in our own box. Southampton then fired wide before finding the back of the net through a header at the edge of the box.
We should have gotten a penalty in the first half, even though we did not play very well at all, as there was a clear hand ball by a Southampton player, but nothing was given. Towards the end of the half we came close to finding ourselves two goals behind as Monreal fired a clearance into the back of a Southampton player, and the ball fell to the feet of Gallagher, who somehow managed to put it wide from right in front of the goal!
In the final minute we did create one chance, though, as Koscielny managed to get an effort on target following a corner, but unfortunately it was right at the 'keeper.
Right from the start of the second half the game pretty much exploded. A few minutes in we got the equaliser as Sagna provided a decent pass to Olivier Giroud, who steered the ball into the back of the net with a classy back-heel! Four minutes later we found ourselves in the lead, as Santi Cazorla fired a long-distance shot from outside the 18-yard-box past the 'keeper, burying it right by the post!
The turn-around would have been even more incredible had we not conceded a second goal shortly after, which effectively meant that we had to settle for just the one point in this game. However, before the end of the game Özil had time for a brilliant surge forward, but his effort glanced off a defender and hit the bar! And, on a more negative note, Flamini was shown a red card after a harsh tackle, which was especially miserable considering how good he was throughout the game.
The fact that we dropped two points here mean that we risk losing the top spot to either Manchester City (should they win their game later this evening) or/and Chelsea (should they win their game with a two-goal margin).
Giroud 48,
Cazorla 52
We were quite miserable in the first half of this game. We, quite literally, created nothing going forward and more or less just let Southampton dominate the game completely. Fortunately, we managed to turn it around for the second half through a minor miracle.
Szczesny had to make some decent saves during the game, the first truly brilliant one came after eight minutes as we lost possession in our own box. Southampton then fired wide before finding the back of the net through a header at the edge of the box.
We should have gotten a penalty in the first half, even though we did not play very well at all, as there was a clear hand ball by a Southampton player, but nothing was given. Towards the end of the half we came close to finding ourselves two goals behind as Monreal fired a clearance into the back of a Southampton player, and the ball fell to the feet of Gallagher, who somehow managed to put it wide from right in front of the goal!
In the final minute we did create one chance, though, as Koscielny managed to get an effort on target following a corner, but unfortunately it was right at the 'keeper.
Right from the start of the second half the game pretty much exploded. A few minutes in we got the equaliser as Sagna provided a decent pass to Olivier Giroud, who steered the ball into the back of the net with a classy back-heel! Four minutes later we found ourselves in the lead, as Santi Cazorla fired a long-distance shot from outside the 18-yard-box past the 'keeper, burying it right by the post!
The turn-around would have been even more incredible had we not conceded a second goal shortly after, which effectively meant that we had to settle for just the one point in this game. However, before the end of the game Özil had time for a brilliant surge forward, but his effort glanced off a defender and hit the bar! And, on a more negative note, Flamini was shown a red card after a harsh tackle, which was especially miserable considering how good he was throughout the game.
The fact that we dropped two points here mean that we risk losing the top spot to either Manchester City (should they win their game later this evening) or/and Chelsea (should they win their game with a two-goal margin).
Saturday, January 25, 2014
Arsenal vs. Coventry City
4-0, The FA Cup, Emirates Stadium, 24 January 2014
Podolski 15, 27,
Giroud 84,
Cazorla 89
This was without a doubt a game that we were expected to win with ease, but that certainly includes a degree of danger, since there has been quite a few shockers in this cup over the years. Fortunately for us, this was not the case this time around.
Our first, decent chance of the game was the product of an Oxlade-Chamberlain cross that was met by Podolski, but the effort went high and wide. However, that was not to be the case of his second attempt. Özil provided the assist, but in the end it was just sheer brilliance from Lukas Podolski, who rounded the 'keeper and put the ball into the back of the net!
Coventry did have a good chance to score after that, as Baker unleashed a shot towards our goal. Fortunately Fabianski came up with a wonderful save to deny Coventry an equaliser. Then the German was at it again. Gnabry sent a corner into the far end of the box, where Lukas Podolski was awaiting it and headed it past the 'keeper!
Coventry, once again, came up with quite the decent chance right at the start of the second half, as Clarke hit the post from the edge of the 18-yard-box. But that was as close as they would get in this game. Bendtner, back from injury, had a shot going wide before the end was approaching and we ensured the win.
With five minutes to go Gibbs' cross into the box found Olivier Giroud, who fired a shot into the back of the net! Then, in the very last minute before added time, Jenkinson had a shot cleared by the 'keeper, but only as fas as to Santi Cazorla, who produced a strike that made the final score-line of the game 4-0!
So this win takes us into the next round of the FA Cup, which is certainly a trophy that we will be aiming to win!
Podolski 15, 27,
Giroud 84,
Cazorla 89
This was without a doubt a game that we were expected to win with ease, but that certainly includes a degree of danger, since there has been quite a few shockers in this cup over the years. Fortunately for us, this was not the case this time around.
Our first, decent chance of the game was the product of an Oxlade-Chamberlain cross that was met by Podolski, but the effort went high and wide. However, that was not to be the case of his second attempt. Özil provided the assist, but in the end it was just sheer brilliance from Lukas Podolski, who rounded the 'keeper and put the ball into the back of the net!
Coventry did have a good chance to score after that, as Baker unleashed a shot towards our goal. Fortunately Fabianski came up with a wonderful save to deny Coventry an equaliser. Then the German was at it again. Gnabry sent a corner into the far end of the box, where Lukas Podolski was awaiting it and headed it past the 'keeper!
Coventry, once again, came up with quite the decent chance right at the start of the second half, as Clarke hit the post from the edge of the 18-yard-box. But that was as close as they would get in this game. Bendtner, back from injury, had a shot going wide before the end was approaching and we ensured the win.
With five minutes to go Gibbs' cross into the box found Olivier Giroud, who fired a shot into the back of the net! Then, in the very last minute before added time, Jenkinson had a shot cleared by the 'keeper, but only as fas as to Santi Cazorla, who produced a strike that made the final score-line of the game 4-0!
So this win takes us into the next round of the FA Cup, which is certainly a trophy that we will be aiming to win!
Saturday, January 18, 2014
Arsenal vs. Fulham
2-0, Premier League, Emirates Stadium, 18 January 2014
Cazorla 57, 62
This was a game that had quite the slow start, only to explode in the second half with a quick successions of goals, ensuring yet another win and three points!
The first half was fairly even, with no team getting the advantage. Right at the beginning of the half we had to decent chances, the first being a Sagna cross that was almost met by Giroud in the box and the second being an Özil shot/pass where he got past Fulham 'keeper Stockdale only to see a defender clear the effort. The 'keeper made a decent save, though, as Sagna had a rebound towards goal. On the other end, Szczesny was called into action a couple of times, first saving a Sidwell shot and then making a timely intervention to deny Kacaniklic a chance to score.
The start of the second half would prove to settle the tone for the remainder of the game, with a quick successions of chances and goals! The minute prior to the first goal we came extremely close to scoring as Gnabry fired a shot away after some scramble in the box, but his effort was saved by Stockdale.
Then came the two goals from the one goalscorer that essentially won us the game. Santi Cazorla started the attack, and via Giroud and Wilshere the Spaniard, who popped up in the box, got the ball back and fired past the 'keeper! Mere minutes later he was at it again, Monreal provided the cross that reached Santi Cazorla a couple of yards outside of the 18-yard-box, and the Spaniard fired another shot into the back of the net!
Podolski was brought on with approximately twenty minutes to go, and at once came close to scoring, twice! His first shot was blocked by a defender, and the second powerful strike hit the post! Then in the very final minutes Bent got past Szczesny and found the goal completely open, but Koscielny showed up to disturb the striker enough for him to fire wide! In the very last minute Oxlade-Chamberlain almost headed the ball into the back of the net, unfortunately it went just over the bar.
So, the final score-line of this game was to be 2-0, and I can definitely say that it was to my liking! Now we are going on a short break from the league, and prepare to face Coventry in the FA Cup on Friday evening.
Cazorla 57, 62
This was a game that had quite the slow start, only to explode in the second half with a quick successions of goals, ensuring yet another win and three points!
The first half was fairly even, with no team getting the advantage. Right at the beginning of the half we had to decent chances, the first being a Sagna cross that was almost met by Giroud in the box and the second being an Özil shot/pass where he got past Fulham 'keeper Stockdale only to see a defender clear the effort. The 'keeper made a decent save, though, as Sagna had a rebound towards goal. On the other end, Szczesny was called into action a couple of times, first saving a Sidwell shot and then making a timely intervention to deny Kacaniklic a chance to score.
The start of the second half would prove to settle the tone for the remainder of the game, with a quick successions of chances and goals! The minute prior to the first goal we came extremely close to scoring as Gnabry fired a shot away after some scramble in the box, but his effort was saved by Stockdale.
Then came the two goals from the one goalscorer that essentially won us the game. Santi Cazorla started the attack, and via Giroud and Wilshere the Spaniard, who popped up in the box, got the ball back and fired past the 'keeper! Mere minutes later he was at it again, Monreal provided the cross that reached Santi Cazorla a couple of yards outside of the 18-yard-box, and the Spaniard fired another shot into the back of the net!
Podolski was brought on with approximately twenty minutes to go, and at once came close to scoring, twice! His first shot was blocked by a defender, and the second powerful strike hit the post! Then in the very final minutes Bent got past Szczesny and found the goal completely open, but Koscielny showed up to disturb the striker enough for him to fire wide! In the very last minute Oxlade-Chamberlain almost headed the ball into the back of the net, unfortunately it went just over the bar.
So, the final score-line of this game was to be 2-0, and I can definitely say that it was to my liking! Now we are going on a short break from the league, and prepare to face Coventry in the FA Cup on Friday evening.
Thursday, January 16, 2014
Aston Villa vs. Arsenal
1-2, Premier League, Villa Park, 13 January 2014
Wilshere 34,
Giroud 35
Considering the fact that all the top teams had already won their games of this round, it was vital for us to beat Villa in order to remain top of the leauge. For a while it looked as though it wouldn't be a too difficult win, but towards the end things got pretty nerve-wracking!
Within the first fifteen minutes, both teams had had two chances going wide, Giroud with a header and Delph with a shot. It took us more than half an hour to get the lead, but once we did the second came mere seconds later. The first one happened as Monreal cut a pass back to Jack Wilshere at the edge of the box, who fired a shot that went in right by the right post! And the following minute we were at it again! Wilshere won the ball and played it to Olivier Giroud, who had an exquisite touch and got a bit lucky to get the ball with him, and the strike hit the same spot as Wilshere's in the previous minute!!
Szczesny was called into action in the second half as he saved a shot not five minutes into the half, and then made another one a while later. Unfortunately he could save Benteke's header with fifteen minutes to go, and all of a sudden Villa was back in the game. Fortunately they did not get closer than that and we held out to grab the important three points!
So it turned out to be a hard-fought for win, but a deserved one as well. Next up is Fulham on Saturday, definitely another must-win game for us!
Injury Update:
- Last week we received the devastating news that Theo Walcott will be out for six months due to the injury he picked up on his knee in the recent win over Tottenham. It is a very harsh blow, especially considering his current form and importance in the team.
- On a more positive note, the Ox is back! Having picked up an injury in the very first game of the season against Villa at the Emirates, the twenty-year old midfielder was brought on in the 86th minute to make his long-awaited return to the first team!
Wilshere 34,
Giroud 35
Considering the fact that all the top teams had already won their games of this round, it was vital for us to beat Villa in order to remain top of the leauge. For a while it looked as though it wouldn't be a too difficult win, but towards the end things got pretty nerve-wracking!
Within the first fifteen minutes, both teams had had two chances going wide, Giroud with a header and Delph with a shot. It took us more than half an hour to get the lead, but once we did the second came mere seconds later. The first one happened as Monreal cut a pass back to Jack Wilshere at the edge of the box, who fired a shot that went in right by the right post! And the following minute we were at it again! Wilshere won the ball and played it to Olivier Giroud, who had an exquisite touch and got a bit lucky to get the ball with him, and the strike hit the same spot as Wilshere's in the previous minute!!
Szczesny was called into action in the second half as he saved a shot not five minutes into the half, and then made another one a while later. Unfortunately he could save Benteke's header with fifteen minutes to go, and all of a sudden Villa was back in the game. Fortunately they did not get closer than that and we held out to grab the important three points!
So it turned out to be a hard-fought for win, but a deserved one as well. Next up is Fulham on Saturday, definitely another must-win game for us!
Injury Update:
- Last week we received the devastating news that Theo Walcott will be out for six months due to the injury he picked up on his knee in the recent win over Tottenham. It is a very harsh blow, especially considering his current form and importance in the team.
- On a more positive note, the Ox is back! Having picked up an injury in the very first game of the season against Villa at the Emirates, the twenty-year old midfielder was brought on in the 86th minute to make his long-awaited return to the first team!
Sunday, January 5, 2014
Arsenal vs. Tottenham
2-0, The FA Cup, Emirates Stadium, 4 January 2013
Cazorla 31,
Rosicky 62
Like every North London Derby, winning this game meant more than mere qualification to the next round in the cup. It is all about showing that North London Is Red.
We were excellent throughout this game, completely dominated through a brilliant passing game that has seen us through more or less this entire season so far. Fabianski was called into action early on, though, as Eriksen got into a one-on-one with the Polish 'keeper, who made a great save. On the other side of the pitch, where most of the action happened, Walcott had two shots, one on target that was saved by Lloris and a second that was deflected wide. In the resulting corner Gnabry fired mere inches over the bar. Eriksen created another chance for Tottenham with a free-kick that went slightly over the bar, while Cazorla fired wide and Walcott saw his effort saved as he too got in a one-on-one with the 'keeper.
Half an hour into the game we took the lead. Gnabry made a great run, and while Walcott drew the defenders' attention Santi Cazorla was completely unmarked on the left-hand side. Gnabry provided the necessary pass for the Spaniard to fire into the back of the net. He may not have scored too much so far this season, but he certainly chose the right occasion for this one! We almost added to the goal before the end of the half as Walcott had a volley going over the bar and a free-kick was inches away from being met by Sagna at the far post.
The second half started much like the first, there might have been a slight improvement in Tottenham's play, but it was most certainly far from enough. After fifteen minutes Walcott hit the side netting as he got past Lloris but found the angle to steep to score from, but then came the goal that sealed the game.
When Tottenham were looking for the equaliser with all save one man and the 'keeper in our half, Tomas Rosicky nicked the ball off of that one man and ran across the entire Tottenham half to chip the ball over Lloris and score! A truly wonderful goal, showing the true spirit of the Czech midfielder.
The only sad news of the day was that Walcott was stretchered off with ten minutes to go as he injured his knee. We can only hope that he will be back before long.
So another North London Derby played, and another North London Derby won. Things are definitely looking good at the moment!
In the next round we will face Coventry at the Emirates. It's a game that we will be confident to win, but one must never underestimate the opponents in these cups, as shocking results appear rather frequently.
Injury Update:
- Giroud missed out on this game due to sickness, but should be back for the Villa game next Monday.
- Bendtner will be out for a month due to the injury he picked up in the last game.
Cazorla 31,
Rosicky 62
Like every North London Derby, winning this game meant more than mere qualification to the next round in the cup. It is all about showing that North London Is Red.
We were excellent throughout this game, completely dominated through a brilliant passing game that has seen us through more or less this entire season so far. Fabianski was called into action early on, though, as Eriksen got into a one-on-one with the Polish 'keeper, who made a great save. On the other side of the pitch, where most of the action happened, Walcott had two shots, one on target that was saved by Lloris and a second that was deflected wide. In the resulting corner Gnabry fired mere inches over the bar. Eriksen created another chance for Tottenham with a free-kick that went slightly over the bar, while Cazorla fired wide and Walcott saw his effort saved as he too got in a one-on-one with the 'keeper.
Half an hour into the game we took the lead. Gnabry made a great run, and while Walcott drew the defenders' attention Santi Cazorla was completely unmarked on the left-hand side. Gnabry provided the necessary pass for the Spaniard to fire into the back of the net. He may not have scored too much so far this season, but he certainly chose the right occasion for this one! We almost added to the goal before the end of the half as Walcott had a volley going over the bar and a free-kick was inches away from being met by Sagna at the far post.
The second half started much like the first, there might have been a slight improvement in Tottenham's play, but it was most certainly far from enough. After fifteen minutes Walcott hit the side netting as he got past Lloris but found the angle to steep to score from, but then came the goal that sealed the game.
When Tottenham were looking for the equaliser with all save one man and the 'keeper in our half, Tomas Rosicky nicked the ball off of that one man and ran across the entire Tottenham half to chip the ball over Lloris and score! A truly wonderful goal, showing the true spirit of the Czech midfielder.
The only sad news of the day was that Walcott was stretchered off with ten minutes to go as he injured his knee. We can only hope that he will be back before long.
So another North London Derby played, and another North London Derby won. Things are definitely looking good at the moment!
In the next round we will face Coventry at the Emirates. It's a game that we will be confident to win, but one must never underestimate the opponents in these cups, as shocking results appear rather frequently.
Injury Update:
- Giroud missed out on this game due to sickness, but should be back for the Villa game next Monday.
- Bendtner will be out for a month due to the injury he picked up in the last game.
Thursday, January 2, 2014
Arsenal vs. Cardiff
2-0, Premier League, Emirates Stadium, 1 January 2014
Bendtner 88,
Walcott 92
On paper, this was one of those home games against a side on the other end of the table that is an essential, 'must-win' type of game. However, that is rarely the case in this league and this game turned out to be quite the struggle, fortunately it had an happy ending this time around.
The first half was rather uneventful, Sagna had a free-kick hitting the wall and Walcott fired both over the bar and into the side netting. The latter being a result of some brilliant dribbling from Cazorla that got him past a defender to cut it back to Walcott.
In the second half the need for a goal became more and more urgent and so the pressure we put on Cardiff increased as the game drew closer to the end. Wilshere saw a brilliant solo effort hitting the bar while Mertesacker had a double chance, ending with a header going just wide of the goal. Then both Wilshere and Walcott had efforts going wide and Bendtner came close to reaching crosses in the box twice, the first from Walcott and the second from Rosicky.
Two minutes before added time we got the much-needed goal. Monreal provided a cross into the box that was met by Sagna, whose header was saved by the 'keeper, only for Nicklas Bendtner to show up and slam the rebound into the back of the net!! Unfortunately the Danish striker injured himself in the process and had to be replaced, but that goal was vital for us to remain in the fight for the league title! Minutes later we sealed the game as Wilshere provided a pass through the defence, perfect for one of Theo Walcott's trademark runs and the Englishman chipped it over the 'keeper!
Szczesny had to make a great save in the very final minute as Cardiff tried to get a consolation goal.
These three points were absolutely vital and we have now started the new year as we ended it, with a win and the top spot in the league!
Bendtner 88,
Walcott 92
On paper, this was one of those home games against a side on the other end of the table that is an essential, 'must-win' type of game. However, that is rarely the case in this league and this game turned out to be quite the struggle, fortunately it had an happy ending this time around.
The first half was rather uneventful, Sagna had a free-kick hitting the wall and Walcott fired both over the bar and into the side netting. The latter being a result of some brilliant dribbling from Cazorla that got him past a defender to cut it back to Walcott.
In the second half the need for a goal became more and more urgent and so the pressure we put on Cardiff increased as the game drew closer to the end. Wilshere saw a brilliant solo effort hitting the bar while Mertesacker had a double chance, ending with a header going just wide of the goal. Then both Wilshere and Walcott had efforts going wide and Bendtner came close to reaching crosses in the box twice, the first from Walcott and the second from Rosicky.
Two minutes before added time we got the much-needed goal. Monreal provided a cross into the box that was met by Sagna, whose header was saved by the 'keeper, only for Nicklas Bendtner to show up and slam the rebound into the back of the net!! Unfortunately the Danish striker injured himself in the process and had to be replaced, but that goal was vital for us to remain in the fight for the league title! Minutes later we sealed the game as Wilshere provided a pass through the defence, perfect for one of Theo Walcott's trademark runs and the Englishman chipped it over the 'keeper!
Szczesny had to make a great save in the very final minute as Cardiff tried to get a consolation goal.
These three points were absolutely vital and we have now started the new year as we ended it, with a win and the top spot in the league!
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