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.
Showing posts with label FA Cup. Show all posts
Showing posts with label FA Cup. Show all posts
Saturday, May 17, 2014
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!
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!
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!
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!
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.
Monday, December 9, 2013
FA Cup Third-Round Draw
Our first game of the FA Cup this year will be a derby, and not just any derby, but the North London Derby!
We will face Tottenham at the Emirates on the 4th of January, in what will surely be a magnificent game!
Saturday, February 16, 2013
Arsenal vs. Blackburn
0-1, The FA Cup, Emirates Stadium, 2013-02-16
Go figures that when Swedish television finally sorts out the FA Cup situation and can broadcast it live, we are defeated, at home, by Blackburn Rovers... Absolutely dreadful.
We dominated this game from start to finish, but our shots went either wide or straight into the arms of the 'keeper. After fifteen minutes Koscielny headed the ball wide and Monreal provided a great cross from a tight angle, but no player was there to meet it. The next cross came from Oxlade-Chamberlain, but this one was a bit too high for Giroud to be able to reach it. We had plenty of corners, within the first twenty minutes we had had 6 of them, as a result of all of our corners. At the half-hour mark Vermaelen had a header on target, but it was saved by the 'keeper and Monreal had a shot deflected wide. Gervinho was the next one to fire the ball wide, he managed two within two minutes, one after a brilliant pass by Rosicky. The last chance of the half belonged to Arteta who fired a free-kick straight at the 'keeper.
The second half started rather slow, when suddenly Rosicky hit the bar! That brilliant chance was followed by a Diaby shot straight at the 'keeper. With twenty minutes to go Wilshere, Walcott and Cazorla, right after that Blackburn scored. After that we built up some pressure, far from enough though! Monreal fired wide as Walcott's cross was almost met by Giroud, who, two minutes later, headed the ball straight at the 'keeper. In the final minutes Diaby and Walcott had two powerful shots saved by the 'keeper, Giroud had a shot blocked and Arteta fired wide.
So obviously immensely disappointing to be knocked out of the FA Cup at the Emirates by Blackburn Rovers. I mean, that sentence pretty much says it all...
Injury Update:
- Not injury news exactly, but Gervinho started this game (having returned from the Africa Cup of Nations).
- Rosicky and Diaby were back from injury.
Go figures that when Swedish television finally sorts out the FA Cup situation and can broadcast it live, we are defeated, at home, by Blackburn Rovers... Absolutely dreadful.
We dominated this game from start to finish, but our shots went either wide or straight into the arms of the 'keeper. After fifteen minutes Koscielny headed the ball wide and Monreal provided a great cross from a tight angle, but no player was there to meet it. The next cross came from Oxlade-Chamberlain, but this one was a bit too high for Giroud to be able to reach it. We had plenty of corners, within the first twenty minutes we had had 6 of them, as a result of all of our corners. At the half-hour mark Vermaelen had a header on target, but it was saved by the 'keeper and Monreal had a shot deflected wide. Gervinho was the next one to fire the ball wide, he managed two within two minutes, one after a brilliant pass by Rosicky. The last chance of the half belonged to Arteta who fired a free-kick straight at the 'keeper.
The second half started rather slow, when suddenly Rosicky hit the bar! That brilliant chance was followed by a Diaby shot straight at the 'keeper. With twenty minutes to go Wilshere, Walcott and Cazorla, right after that Blackburn scored. After that we built up some pressure, far from enough though! Monreal fired wide as Walcott's cross was almost met by Giroud, who, two minutes later, headed the ball straight at the 'keeper. In the final minutes Diaby and Walcott had two powerful shots saved by the 'keeper, Giroud had a shot blocked and Arteta fired wide.
So obviously immensely disappointing to be knocked out of the FA Cup at the Emirates by Blackburn Rovers. I mean, that sentence pretty much says it all...
Injury Update:
- Not injury news exactly, but Gervinho started this game (having returned from the Africa Cup of Nations).
- Rosicky and Diaby were back from injury.
Monday, January 28, 2013
Brighton vs. Arsenal + 5th Round Draw
3-2, The FA Cup, Arnex Stadium, 2013-01-26
Giroud 16, 56,
Walcott 85
This turned out to be quite the intense cup game! Fortunately we managed to grab the late winner, but Brighton proved to be a rather tough obstacle to cross.
We took the lead after about fifteen minutes, through a brilliant shot by Olivier Giroud! He found the top corner of the goal with a powerful strike! Unfortunately the joy proved to be short-lived as Reading equalized from a corner approximately thirty minutes into the game.
At the start of the second half we recovered our lead, once again it was Olivier Giroud who scored for us! This time the Frenchman's shot was from a closer range, due to an amazing assist from Diaby, but it was quite an achievement to get a shot away as the keeper closed him down. Yet this lead proved to be even more short-lived than the first one as it took five minutes until Brighton found their second equalizer. However, we had one player on the bench who would come on to make the difference. Theo Walcott continued his good form with yet another goal, and it was quite an important one too! As we took a corner, the ball eventually found its way to Walcott, whose shot was deflected off a defender to find the back of the net!
Needless to say it is great to have qualified for the 5th round, where we will face Blackburn Rovers at the Emirates! It is always a relief to get drawn at home for these games. Next game will be against Liverpool on Wednesday in the Premier League.
Giroud 16, 56,
Walcott 85
This turned out to be quite the intense cup game! Fortunately we managed to grab the late winner, but Brighton proved to be a rather tough obstacle to cross.
We took the lead after about fifteen minutes, through a brilliant shot by Olivier Giroud! He found the top corner of the goal with a powerful strike! Unfortunately the joy proved to be short-lived as Reading equalized from a corner approximately thirty minutes into the game.
At the start of the second half we recovered our lead, once again it was Olivier Giroud who scored for us! This time the Frenchman's shot was from a closer range, due to an amazing assist from Diaby, but it was quite an achievement to get a shot away as the keeper closed him down. Yet this lead proved to be even more short-lived than the first one as it took five minutes until Brighton found their second equalizer. However, we had one player on the bench who would come on to make the difference. Theo Walcott continued his good form with yet another goal, and it was quite an important one too! As we took a corner, the ball eventually found its way to Walcott, whose shot was deflected off a defender to find the back of the net!
Needless to say it is great to have qualified for the 5th round, where we will face Blackburn Rovers at the Emirates! It is always a relief to get drawn at home for these games. Next game will be against Liverpool on Wednesday in the Premier League.
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Arsenal vs. Swansea
1-0, the FA cup, Emirates Stadium, 2013-01-16
Wilshere 86
It seemed as though this evening would end in tears for us as we kept on creating chances but just couldn't seem to convert them into goals, until a certain Jack Wilshere came in and saved the day! An absolutely stunning goal to get us through to the next stage of the FA Cup!
Our first decent chance to score came when Walcott crossed the ball to Giroud about five minutes into the game, unfortunately the header went wide and when the Frenchman got in a shooting position just after the header his shot went wide as well. Fifteen minutes later we had a great free-kick opportunity as Walcott was brought down right at the edge of the box, but Vermaelen's powerful shot went over the bar. Mere minutes later Bartley headed the ball against the bar for Swansea, a rather serious warning of the threat that Swansea posed in this game. Before half-time we had one more shot at goal, Walcott's strike was saved by the keeper though.
In the second half we began to build up even more pressure on Swansea and right as the half began Walcott was given a golden opportunity, quite surprisingly his shot went wide. Cazorla had a shot over the bar just a couple of minutes later.
Giroud continued to put his headers wide as he met Walcott's corner brilliantly but just couldn't seem to get it on target. Then Wilshere had two great chances, first his shot was deflected wide and from the resulting corner he eventually got a shot from close-range, which first was saved by the keeper and then saved on the goal-line by a defender. Another corner-kick just a minute later was yet again saved on the goal-line by a Swansea player.
We continued to create chance upon chance, Giroud had a shot on target saved by the keeper a minute before Walcott fired a shot wide. With ten minutes to go Giroud had a shot taken right at the keeper and Sagna's cross was almost met by Walcott, but ended up hitting the post. As extra-time approached Giroud had a header on target that was saved on the goal-line and the following shot was blocked.
Then salvation came as Jack Wilshere showed up, firing a powerful shot that went past the keeper and into the back of the net! A truly brilliant volley!
Jack has improved from game to game since returning from his long-term injury, we are fortunate to have him. Next up in the FA cup is Brighton away for us, that game will take place next weekend. This weekend we face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, which ought to be quite a challenge.
Injury Update:
- Arteta and Rosicky will both miss the Chelsea game through injury.
Wilshere 86
It seemed as though this evening would end in tears for us as we kept on creating chances but just couldn't seem to convert them into goals, until a certain Jack Wilshere came in and saved the day! An absolutely stunning goal to get us through to the next stage of the FA Cup!
Our first decent chance to score came when Walcott crossed the ball to Giroud about five minutes into the game, unfortunately the header went wide and when the Frenchman got in a shooting position just after the header his shot went wide as well. Fifteen minutes later we had a great free-kick opportunity as Walcott was brought down right at the edge of the box, but Vermaelen's powerful shot went over the bar. Mere minutes later Bartley headed the ball against the bar for Swansea, a rather serious warning of the threat that Swansea posed in this game. Before half-time we had one more shot at goal, Walcott's strike was saved by the keeper though.
In the second half we began to build up even more pressure on Swansea and right as the half began Walcott was given a golden opportunity, quite surprisingly his shot went wide. Cazorla had a shot over the bar just a couple of minutes later.
Giroud continued to put his headers wide as he met Walcott's corner brilliantly but just couldn't seem to get it on target. Then Wilshere had two great chances, first his shot was deflected wide and from the resulting corner he eventually got a shot from close-range, which first was saved by the keeper and then saved on the goal-line by a defender. Another corner-kick just a minute later was yet again saved on the goal-line by a Swansea player.
We continued to create chance upon chance, Giroud had a shot on target saved by the keeper a minute before Walcott fired a shot wide. With ten minutes to go Giroud had a shot taken right at the keeper and Sagna's cross was almost met by Walcott, but ended up hitting the post. As extra-time approached Giroud had a header on target that was saved on the goal-line and the following shot was blocked.
Then salvation came as Jack Wilshere showed up, firing a powerful shot that went past the keeper and into the back of the net! A truly brilliant volley!
Jack has improved from game to game since returning from his long-term injury, we are fortunate to have him. Next up in the FA cup is Brighton away for us, that game will take place next weekend. This weekend we face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, which ought to be quite a challenge.
Injury Update:
- Arteta and Rosicky will both miss the Chelsea game through injury.
Monday, January 7, 2013
Swansea vs. Arsenal
2-2, The FA Cup, Liberty Stadium, 2012-01-06
Podolski 81,
Gibbs 83
Quite remarkably and definitely disastrously Swedish television has stopped broadcasting the FA Cup! Hence, I was unable to watch this game... I have, however, seen the goals and can thus make a short post about them!
First up there was the goal by Lukas Podolski, which came at a rather vital moment in the game and it was a powerful shot by the German striker. But, what a strike by Kieran Gibbs! Absolutely amazing technique showcased by the full-back to get such a clean strike off a volley!
This result means that the game will be replayed at the Emirates, and the date for that game is January 16.
Podolski 81,
Gibbs 83
Quite remarkably and definitely disastrously Swedish television has stopped broadcasting the FA Cup! Hence, I was unable to watch this game... I have, however, seen the goals and can thus make a short post about them!
First up there was the goal by Lukas Podolski, which came at a rather vital moment in the game and it was a powerful shot by the German striker. But, what a strike by Kieran Gibbs! Absolutely amazing technique showcased by the full-back to get such a clean strike off a volley!
This result means that the game will be replayed at the Emirates, and the date for that game is January 16.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Sunderland vs. Arsenal
0-2, The FA-cup, Stadium of Light, 2012-02-21
We are having some grim times at the moment. We were very poor in this game and now we'll just have to focus on the league.
Injury Update;
-Ramsey, Coquelin and Squillaci all got injured in this game.
We are having some grim times at the moment. We were very poor in this game and now we'll just have to focus on the league.
Injury Update;
-Ramsey, Coquelin and Squillaci all got injured in this game.
Sunday, January 29, 2012
Arsenal vs. Aston Villa
3-2, The FA-cup: 4th Round, Emirates, 2012-01-29
van Persie 54 (pen), 61 (pen),
Walcott 56
Amazing comeback by the team! It takes a special team to come back from being two-nil down, and even though the confidence may not have been on top we did it and hopefully this will prove to be a real self-esteem booster! Three another amazing comebacks was to see Sagna, Arteta and Henry back in action after their injuries!
We somehow found ourselves two-nil down after the first half, we had dominated both possession and goal-scoring opportunities. Villa was just quite simply more efficient than us and they capitalised on our mistakes.
However, there was a change in luck for the second half. In less than ten minutes we found ourselves ahead! The first goal came when Ramsey was brought down in the box by Dunne, and who else than Robin van Persie scored from the penalty spot. Only two minutes later we got a taste of true luck when Theo Walcott made a great run inside the box, but his effort was turned away by a defender. Yet the defender managed to pick out Theo in the crowd, and the ball bounced off the young winger and into goal! The last goal of the game came, once again, from the penalty spot. Koscielny made a run into the box and was brought down. Robin van Persie stepped up once again and converted the penalty into a goal!
Before the end of the game Arteta, Sagna and Henry all made their first appearances back from injury and thus contributing to the amazing atmosphere at the stadium.
In the 5th round we'll be facing Sunderland or Middlesbrough away from home. It'll be difficult but we've definitely got a good shot at the cup!
Injury Update;
-Wilshere has suffered a setback, and will be out for longer than February.
-Gibbs and Jenkinson are not far away from making their way back into the squad.
-Diaby will be back on the pitch at earliest at the end of February.
van Persie 54 (pen), 61 (pen),
Walcott 56
Amazing comeback by the team! It takes a special team to come back from being two-nil down, and even though the confidence may not have been on top we did it and hopefully this will prove to be a real self-esteem booster! Three another amazing comebacks was to see Sagna, Arteta and Henry back in action after their injuries!
We somehow found ourselves two-nil down after the first half, we had dominated both possession and goal-scoring opportunities. Villa was just quite simply more efficient than us and they capitalised on our mistakes.
However, there was a change in luck for the second half. In less than ten minutes we found ourselves ahead! The first goal came when Ramsey was brought down in the box by Dunne, and who else than Robin van Persie scored from the penalty spot. Only two minutes later we got a taste of true luck when Theo Walcott made a great run inside the box, but his effort was turned away by a defender. Yet the defender managed to pick out Theo in the crowd, and the ball bounced off the young winger and into goal! The last goal of the game came, once again, from the penalty spot. Koscielny made a run into the box and was brought down. Robin van Persie stepped up once again and converted the penalty into a goal!
Before the end of the game Arteta, Sagna and Henry all made their first appearances back from injury and thus contributing to the amazing atmosphere at the stadium.
In the 5th round we'll be facing Sunderland or Middlesbrough away from home. It'll be difficult but we've definitely got a good shot at the cup!
Injury Update;
-Wilshere has suffered a setback, and will be out for longer than February.
-Gibbs and Jenkinson are not far away from making their way back into the squad.
-Diaby will be back on the pitch at earliest at the end of February.
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
Arsenal vs. Leeds
1-0, Premier League, Emirates, 2012-01-09
Henry 78
All you need to do is read the scoreline to know what this means to everyone involved with the club. There isn't words to describe the feeling when the King returns to score the winner for us in a cup tie!
The game was rather dismal until he came on, but how it all changed when the Legend took to the pitch! It took Thierry Henry less than ten minutes to win the game for us with a strike that is so often associated with the striker! He was, however, quick to point out that he is not the player he used to be and will not be able to score week in and week out in his post-match interview. What can you say to that..? What a man, what a player.
Injury Update;
-Coquelin picked up a hamstring injury, so the list of full backs (or centre-halves operating as full backs) out injured is currently: Sagna, Santos, Jenkinson, Gibbs, Vermaelen, Djourou, Coquelin... But there is hope that Djourou will return for the weekend's clash against Swansea.
-Wilshere is expected to return in mid-February
Here's the goal that created a fairytale! ::
Henry 78
All you need to do is read the scoreline to know what this means to everyone involved with the club. There isn't words to describe the feeling when the King returns to score the winner for us in a cup tie!
The game was rather dismal until he came on, but how it all changed when the Legend took to the pitch! It took Thierry Henry less than ten minutes to win the game for us with a strike that is so often associated with the striker! He was, however, quick to point out that he is not the player he used to be and will not be able to score week in and week out in his post-match interview. What can you say to that..? What a man, what a player.
Injury Update;
-Coquelin picked up a hamstring injury, so the list of full backs (or centre-halves operating as full backs) out injured is currently: Sagna, Santos, Jenkinson, Gibbs, Vermaelen, Djourou, Coquelin... But there is hope that Djourou will return for the weekend's clash against Swansea.
-Wilshere is expected to return in mid-February
Here's the goal that created a fairytale! ::
Sunday, January 8, 2012
FA Cup 4th Round Draw
If we beat Leeds tomorrow night we will face Aston Villa at home in the 4th round!
A decent draw, even though it is a Premier League opponent I'm confident that we will win, but, as mentioned, full focus on Leeds for now!
Saturday, March 12, 2011
Manchester United vs. Arsenal
0-2, the FA-cup, Old Trafford, 12/3 -11
Once again we find ourselves with nothing even though we've been the better team by far.. Though it may sound wrong to say that we were the better team even though we got nothing, but with Arsenal anything is possible, isn't that right?
We pretty much more or less dominated in possession, and we definitely had more shots on and off goal than United! But no matter how close we got it just wasn't our day and the ball wouldn't go in.
And when we pressed more than ever in the final ten minutes Djourou picked up a serious shoulder injury in a challenge with Hernandez, and had to be stretched off the pitch.
So we were down to ten men and two goals down with something like ten minutes left... What to do? Well, we actually managed to get to some more opportunities, while Ramsey (who came on to make his long awaited comeback in the second half) deputized as centre-half for the remainer of the game, though he did move up to midfield as soon as we had the ball.
In the end you could tell that we had some more tired legs than Man Utd, as they didn't have a midweek clash whereas we had one of the most daunting away games you can ever face, away against Barcelona, widely regarded as the best team in the world.
A couple of weeks ago I believe every Arsenal fan were convinced that we'd bring home a trophy this season (heck, I even thought we could take two!), but not so sure anymore... Though we will definitely have a good go at the league these final weeks! And who knows, if we do well enough in the remaining games we might very well end up with a trophy in may! But to do that we have to start scoring again, would you honestly believe that we haven't scored in the last three games?
Injury Update;
-No idea about Djourou yet, but we can most probably expect him to be out for the next couple of weeks.
-Hopefully Vermaelen will be back, SOON! Haven't heard anything about him since he was expected to be back for the Barcelona clash.
-Looking at the other side of the pitch,, Walcott is hopefully back soon, but don't have any update on it yet.
-Szczesny will be out for about six weeks with a dislocated finger as well as a tendon problem.
-Fabregas had a recurrence of his hamstring problem fifteen minutes into the Barcelona game, and he will have to wait for another couple of games until he returns.
-Song missed both this game and the Barcelona game, but he may make it back for next weekend.
Once again we find ourselves with nothing even though we've been the better team by far.. Though it may sound wrong to say that we were the better team even though we got nothing, but with Arsenal anything is possible, isn't that right?
We pretty much more or less dominated in possession, and we definitely had more shots on and off goal than United! But no matter how close we got it just wasn't our day and the ball wouldn't go in.
And when we pressed more than ever in the final ten minutes Djourou picked up a serious shoulder injury in a challenge with Hernandez, and had to be stretched off the pitch.
So we were down to ten men and two goals down with something like ten minutes left... What to do? Well, we actually managed to get to some more opportunities, while Ramsey (who came on to make his long awaited comeback in the second half) deputized as centre-half for the remainer of the game, though he did move up to midfield as soon as we had the ball.
In the end you could tell that we had some more tired legs than Man Utd, as they didn't have a midweek clash whereas we had one of the most daunting away games you can ever face, away against Barcelona, widely regarded as the best team in the world.
A couple of weeks ago I believe every Arsenal fan were convinced that we'd bring home a trophy this season (heck, I even thought we could take two!), but not so sure anymore... Though we will definitely have a good go at the league these final weeks! And who knows, if we do well enough in the remaining games we might very well end up with a trophy in may! But to do that we have to start scoring again, would you honestly believe that we haven't scored in the last three games?
Injury Update;
-No idea about Djourou yet, but we can most probably expect him to be out for the next couple of weeks.
-Hopefully Vermaelen will be back, SOON! Haven't heard anything about him since he was expected to be back for the Barcelona clash.
-Looking at the other side of the pitch,, Walcott is hopefully back soon, but don't have any update on it yet.
-Szczesny will be out for about six weeks with a dislocated finger as well as a tendon problem.
-Fabregas had a recurrence of his hamstring problem fifteen minutes into the Barcelona game, and he will have to wait for another couple of games until he returns.
-Song missed both this game and the Barcelona game, but he may make it back for next weekend.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Arsenal vs. Leyton Orient
5-0, the FA-cup 5th Round Replay, Emirates, 2/3 -11
Chamakh 7,
Bendtner 30, 43, 62 (pen),
Clichy 75
And we're off to Old Trafford once again!
Great game from the team, it contained all a fan could ever want, lots of goals and opportunities to score even more goals! Also great to see that Bendtner seems to find his goalscoring form, he will be needed even more now that van Persie will be gone for at least another three weeks...
As you might've guessed we dominated this game throughout and once again Miquel started the game, this time he was joined by Conor Henderson, who made his first team debut tonight actually! And he certainly had a good game, he is someone to keep an eye out for.
After just seven minutes we broke the deadlock through Chamakh, Rosicky did great to provide a pin-point pass through which the Moroccan international could easily tap in.
Half an hour into the game Bendtner more or less sealed the game when he headed home a cross, the ball went in a perfect arch over the 'keeper.
Just thirteen minutes later Bendtner were at it again, this time he cut inside from the left-hand side and placed the ball beautifully in the back of the net, we have seen him do this before, for example the one he scored against Ipswich at the Emirates earlier this season.
In the second half we slowed down a bit, but when Gibbs showed some great footwork in the box he proved too fast for the defense to handle, so when he was brought down Bendtner stepped forward to complete his hat-trick with an excellent strike from the penalty spot.
Shortly afterwards he was replaced by Wilshere, but that certainly didn't spoil the evening for the young Dane.
Clichy finished the scoring this evening with a great strike from a cross from Eboue which both Chamakh and Wilshere had previously skipped over. This was actually only the Frenchman's second official goal for us!
So after the trip to Barcelona next week we will be heading to Old Trafford!
Injury Update;
-van Persie damaged his knee during the final, and he will be missing for at least another three weeks... Its obviously a huge blow for us...
-Rosicky had to be replaced after 62 minutes after receiving a blow to the head, no idea yet though how long he will be.
Chamakh 7,
Bendtner 30, 43, 62 (pen),
Clichy 75
And we're off to Old Trafford once again!
Great game from the team, it contained all a fan could ever want, lots of goals and opportunities to score even more goals! Also great to see that Bendtner seems to find his goalscoring form, he will be needed even more now that van Persie will be gone for at least another three weeks...
As you might've guessed we dominated this game throughout and once again Miquel started the game, this time he was joined by Conor Henderson, who made his first team debut tonight actually! And he certainly had a good game, he is someone to keep an eye out for.
After just seven minutes we broke the deadlock through Chamakh, Rosicky did great to provide a pin-point pass through which the Moroccan international could easily tap in.
Half an hour into the game Bendtner more or less sealed the game when he headed home a cross, the ball went in a perfect arch over the 'keeper.
Just thirteen minutes later Bendtner were at it again, this time he cut inside from the left-hand side and placed the ball beautifully in the back of the net, we have seen him do this before, for example the one he scored against Ipswich at the Emirates earlier this season.
In the second half we slowed down a bit, but when Gibbs showed some great footwork in the box he proved too fast for the defense to handle, so when he was brought down Bendtner stepped forward to complete his hat-trick with an excellent strike from the penalty spot.
Shortly afterwards he was replaced by Wilshere, but that certainly didn't spoil the evening for the young Dane.
Clichy finished the scoring this evening with a great strike from a cross from Eboue which both Chamakh and Wilshere had previously skipped over. This was actually only the Frenchman's second official goal for us!
So after the trip to Barcelona next week we will be heading to Old Trafford!
Injury Update;
-van Persie damaged his knee during the final, and he will be missing for at least another three weeks... Its obviously a huge blow for us...
-Rosicky had to be replaced after 62 minutes after receiving a blow to the head, no idea yet though how long he will be.
Monday, February 21, 2011
Leyton Orient vs. Arsenal
1-1, the FA-cup, Matchroom Stadium, 20/2 -11
Rosicky 53
It seems like shipping in a goal in the dying minutes can only be described as "the beauty of the FA-cup" .... Don't know if I completely agree with that when it comes to Arsenal getting yet another game in a already tight schedule... But we're just gonna have to take it and make something better of it at our own ground. (Besides, what kind of name is "Matchroom" for a stadium anyway!?)
Leyton Orient fought really well throughout the entire game, to be honest they probably deserved a draw after all that effort they put in, but it was us who took the lead after a rather uneventful first half.
This was not a sentence I thought I would say before the game but Bendtner provided a really good cross for Rosicky (of all people!) to head in! Its usually the other way around, but this obviously work as well!
Ignasi Miquel made his debut in this game, and he played really well, can't recall a single mistake or anything like that, he even showed some great footwork and made his way past several Orient players on one occasion!
But eventually Leyton Orient got a draw when they equalized in the 88th minute..
Now we look ahead though to the game on wednesday against Stoke! We certainly need another three points! And after that we've got a juicy cup final against Birmingham on Sunday!! Excited anyone?
Injury Update;
-Basically the entire team that played against Barcelona was rested for this game (Song the only one left), but no serious injury from that game nor this game.
Rosicky 53
It seems like shipping in a goal in the dying minutes can only be described as "the beauty of the FA-cup" .... Don't know if I completely agree with that when it comes to Arsenal getting yet another game in a already tight schedule... But we're just gonna have to take it and make something better of it at our own ground. (Besides, what kind of name is "Matchroom" for a stadium anyway!?)
Leyton Orient fought really well throughout the entire game, to be honest they probably deserved a draw after all that effort they put in, but it was us who took the lead after a rather uneventful first half.
This was not a sentence I thought I would say before the game but Bendtner provided a really good cross for Rosicky (of all people!) to head in! Its usually the other way around, but this obviously work as well!
Ignasi Miquel made his debut in this game, and he played really well, can't recall a single mistake or anything like that, he even showed some great footwork and made his way past several Orient players on one occasion!
But eventually Leyton Orient got a draw when they equalized in the 88th minute..
Now we look ahead though to the game on wednesday against Stoke! We certainly need another three points! And after that we've got a juicy cup final against Birmingham on Sunday!! Excited anyone?
Injury Update;
-Basically the entire team that played against Barcelona was rested for this game (Song the only one left), but no serious injury from that game nor this game.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
FA Cup 5th Round Draw
We will face Leyton Orient away in the fifth round of the FA Cup, which is a good draw considering that towards the end it was us, Chelsea/Everton and United left!
It will be our first away game in the cup this season, but I'm confident that we will win it!
It will be our first away game in the cup this season, but I'm confident that we will win it!
Arsenal vs. Huddersfield Town
2-1, The FA-cup, Emirates, 30/1 -11
Bendtner 21,
Fabregas 86 (pen)
Our Captain Fantastic has kept us in this competition once again! And once again it was a late penalty that did it for us!
But this was a really tough game for us, but thankfully we made it through!
We dominated the game in the first half, starting with some great chances, though after barely 30 minutes Nasri picked up a hamstring injury, Rosicky replaced him, having recently returned from sickness.
Then came the goal, another great strike from Bendtner, Chamakh provided a brilliant pass for the Dane to finish off.
Just before half time everything changed for us though, Squillaci was shown red and we were down to ten men with another 45 minutes left!
For the second half Song came on to replace Chamakh and take place in the heart of defense, then it seemed inevitable for Huddersfield to score and they did from a corner.
It certainly felt that we would at the best get another replay, then came Fabregas and inspired the team to start pushing forward once again.
Eventually Bendtner was brought down in the box, penalty was awarded and Fabregas stepped up to take it, and scored!
Injury Update;
-Nasri is expected to be out for at least three weeks, and is likely to miss the Barcelona clash.
-Diaby was back for this game but obviously didn't look at his best just yet, Almunia returned as well for this game, he had a good game.
-As mentioned Rosicky came back for this game as well after being out for some time being ill.
Bendtner 21,
Fabregas 86 (pen)
Our Captain Fantastic has kept us in this competition once again! And once again it was a late penalty that did it for us!
But this was a really tough game for us, but thankfully we made it through!
We dominated the game in the first half, starting with some great chances, though after barely 30 minutes Nasri picked up a hamstring injury, Rosicky replaced him, having recently returned from sickness.
Then came the goal, another great strike from Bendtner, Chamakh provided a brilliant pass for the Dane to finish off.
Just before half time everything changed for us though, Squillaci was shown red and we were down to ten men with another 45 minutes left!
For the second half Song came on to replace Chamakh and take place in the heart of defense, then it seemed inevitable for Huddersfield to score and they did from a corner.
It certainly felt that we would at the best get another replay, then came Fabregas and inspired the team to start pushing forward once again.
Eventually Bendtner was brought down in the box, penalty was awarded and Fabregas stepped up to take it, and scored!
Injury Update;
-Nasri is expected to be out for at least three weeks, and is likely to miss the Barcelona clash.
-Diaby was back for this game but obviously didn't look at his best just yet, Almunia returned as well for this game, he had a good game.
-As mentioned Rosicky came back for this game as well after being out for some time being ill.
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