Theo Walcott is a player really growing in confidence at the moment and his double in Arsenal's 2-0 win over FC Basel will have done him the world of good.
When he was selected to start against Chelsea last time out, I questioned his selection, but his performances in that game and the Champions League class with FC Basel have been superb.
If Walcott and his team-mates can maintain this level of performance consistently in the coming months it could be a very exciting season, but it is still very early days yet.
Although the tempo of the game dipped a bit after the break, the first-half performance by the Gunners was of the highest quality. We may not have been playing the toughest of opponents but, I have to give credit where credits due, it was still a great display.
Arsenal opened the scoring after just eight minutes through Walcott's thumping header. Alexis Sanchez raced onto a great ball from Santi Cazorla before sending a first-time cross into the box. Walcott sprinted into the box to meet the Chilean's cross with a fine powerful header to give Basel goalkeeper Tomas Vaclik no chance.
Arsene Wenger's men were in total control and putting together some excellent passing moves, with the same confidence as which they had dispatched of Chelsea in their last game. It was a joy to watch and it was hardly surprising when the Gunners added a second after 26 minutes and again Walcott was at the heart of it. The forward passed to Sanchez before running into space and receiving the ball back from the Chilean in time to fire a shot in off the far post.
The score could have got worse for FC Basel had Vaclik not put in a great performance, with the goalkeeper doing well to deny Nacho Monreal, Sanchez, and Hector Bellerin before the break.
The second-half wasn't quite at the same tempo, but Arsenal still looked in control for large spells. Alex Iwobi, who again looked lively, saw his shot go just wide.
Chances were few and far between for FC Basel, but they did come close to reducing the deficit through Birkir Bjarnason, but the Icelandic midfielder saw his effort excellently tipped over the bar by David Ospina in the Arsenal goal.
Arsenal were unable to add to the scoreline as Sanchez sent a shot wide, but the hosts still got the job done by getting all three points and now sit joint top in Group A following PSG's 3-1 win at Ludogorets.
GROUP A
There is still plenty to play for in Group A, but Arsenal can be pleased with their start of four points from a possible six.
With a double header against Ludogorets coming up next in their Champions League campaign two more wins look likely, although we must make sure not to get complacent and to not underestimate our Bulgarian opponents.
Unless some shock results happen, it does seem likely that our home clash with PSG in the fifth round of fixtures will be the game that decides who finishes top and second in the group.
But we mustn't rest on our laurels and we need to make sure we get the job done without any silly mistakes but, all in all, I am happy with the start we have made to this season's Champions League.
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
Recent performances are certainly very encouraging for Arsenal and if we can keep up the same high level of tempo, intensity, skill, hunger and determination, then things will continue to look up for us this season.
But we need to just take each game one at a time and not get carried away. A trip to Turf Moor to face Burnley awaits in our next Premier League game and, although we cannot underestimate the Clarets, I am quietly confident about this one, especially with the form Walcott, Sanchez and Ozil are in at the moment.
My only minor negative from the recent matches is that we haven't seen new signing Lucas Perez get more of a run out but, when the starting players are all playing so well, it is hard to make a case to drop anyone at the moment. The competition for places is intense, but that is a good thing surely.
Let's make sure we do to Burnley what we did to Chelsea and FC Basel, dominate, play well and, above all, win!
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
Wednesday, 28 September 2016
Sunday, 25 September 2016
Classy Gunners thrash Chelsea
Absolutely bossed it! Superb performance! Not the analysis I was expecting to give after a match against Chelsea, but the 3-0 victory over our London rivals really was of the highest quality.
Three well-taken goals by Alexis Sanchez, Theo Walcott and Mesut Ozil got us all three points, with the latter being picked out as man of the match by BBC Sport. Fellow attacking player Alex Iwobi was given man of the match by BT Sport, but what impressed me the most was the defence. The centre-back pairing of Laurent Koscielny and Shkodran Mustafi kept the Chelsea attack of Eden Hazard and Diego Costa very quiet. In fact, the whole back four were solid for the most part and we played with a lot of fluidity in attack. I should take this moment to praise the performance of Theo Walcott. Before the match I was questioning his selection and said to a friend how I wouldn't have started him, but he certainly silenced by criticism with an excellent display. In truth, our attack maybe should've scored more, but it was still an excellent result.
Chelsea only had two shots on target in the entire match and each time I kept thinking, 'I bet Chelsea nick a goal out of nowhere to scupper us', we had other ideas and continued to pressure our opponents.
I don't want to get carried away as it is only one game and there is still a long way to go this season but if, and it's a big if, we can produce performances like that on a regular basis this could yet be an exciting season. Whatever happens, that is a performance we can really enjoy! Especially when you consider this was our first league win over Chelsea since 2011, it made it all the sweeter! It came at a cost with Francis Coquelin being forced off injured with a knee problem. I would've also liked to have seen summer signing Lucas Perez given a run out, but I'm sure his time will come, and beating Chelsea was the main thing!
Arsenal started brightly with Santi Cazorla forcing Thibaut Courtois into a save, while Sanchez shot deflected over the bar. The Chilean had better luck next time as he opened the scoring after 11 minutes. Sanchez pressured Gary Cahill and forced the England defender into an error before racing clear on goal and chipping the ball over Courtois.
It got even better just three minutes later as Walcott finished off a great team move. Alex Iwobi released Hector Bellerin with a perfectly-timed pass before the Spanish defender sent in a first-time cross for Walcott to slot home.
Even at 2-0, I knew Chelsea weren't out of it yet and the visitors came close to reducing the deficit when Willian shot just wide.
The Gunners then completed a fine first half with a third goal five minutes before the break. Ozil intercepted the ball in his own half before running at the opposition and passing to Sanchez, who returned the ball back to him in plenty of space with an excellent cross for the German to volley home.
What an excellent first half it was and some were comparing it to last season's victory over Manchester United, but I think this one was even better! I half thought the second half would peter out but, even though we didn't add to the score, we continued to attack and look in total control of the game for large periods. Walcott came close to adding his second goal of the afternoon, but Courtois did well to block his effort.
At the other end, Chelsea did try to mount attacks, but our defence held firm with some great challenges. We really looked up for the game and determined to get a result.
Just as Pedro looked like he might be about to burst through, Bellerin raced back superbly to deny him with an excellently-timed tackle. The closest Chelsea came to a goal was when Michy Batshuayi raced towards goal, but Petr Cech was on hand to block the substitute's effort.
What a performance and what a day to remember! But we need to make sure we make this count and reproduce this again next week and the weeks that follow!
OPPOSITION VIEW
Chelsea fan Paul Boulter admitted his side had been second best at the Emirates.
"Fair play to Arsenal, they absolutely put Chelsea to the sword," said Boulter. "I don't think I have seen the Blues dominated so much during the Abramovich era.
"Arsenal scored three very well worked goals as it seemed Chelsea weren't at the races. Conte needs to sort out the defence and quick, but Arsenal sent out a real statement.
"Arsenal will have a good season judging by this game. It seems Wenger has his house in order."
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
After one of, if not our best league performance in recent seasons, we must now try reproduce more of the same as attention turns to the Champions League and the visit of Swiss outfit FC Basel.
If we can play like we did against Chelsea again FC Basel could be in for a hiding, but we must take each game on at a time and not get carried away or complacent.
But no matter how things pan out we can finally say that we have ended our Premier League Chelsea hoodoo and in perfect style.
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
Three well-taken goals by Alexis Sanchez, Theo Walcott and Mesut Ozil got us all three points, with the latter being picked out as man of the match by BBC Sport. Fellow attacking player Alex Iwobi was given man of the match by BT Sport, but what impressed me the most was the defence. The centre-back pairing of Laurent Koscielny and Shkodran Mustafi kept the Chelsea attack of Eden Hazard and Diego Costa very quiet. In fact, the whole back four were solid for the most part and we played with a lot of fluidity in attack. I should take this moment to praise the performance of Theo Walcott. Before the match I was questioning his selection and said to a friend how I wouldn't have started him, but he certainly silenced by criticism with an excellent display. In truth, our attack maybe should've scored more, but it was still an excellent result.
Chelsea only had two shots on target in the entire match and each time I kept thinking, 'I bet Chelsea nick a goal out of nowhere to scupper us', we had other ideas and continued to pressure our opponents.
I don't want to get carried away as it is only one game and there is still a long way to go this season but if, and it's a big if, we can produce performances like that on a regular basis this could yet be an exciting season. Whatever happens, that is a performance we can really enjoy! Especially when you consider this was our first league win over Chelsea since 2011, it made it all the sweeter! It came at a cost with Francis Coquelin being forced off injured with a knee problem. I would've also liked to have seen summer signing Lucas Perez given a run out, but I'm sure his time will come, and beating Chelsea was the main thing!
Arsenal started brightly with Santi Cazorla forcing Thibaut Courtois into a save, while Sanchez shot deflected over the bar. The Chilean had better luck next time as he opened the scoring after 11 minutes. Sanchez pressured Gary Cahill and forced the England defender into an error before racing clear on goal and chipping the ball over Courtois.
It got even better just three minutes later as Walcott finished off a great team move. Alex Iwobi released Hector Bellerin with a perfectly-timed pass before the Spanish defender sent in a first-time cross for Walcott to slot home.
Even at 2-0, I knew Chelsea weren't out of it yet and the visitors came close to reducing the deficit when Willian shot just wide.
The Gunners then completed a fine first half with a third goal five minutes before the break. Ozil intercepted the ball in his own half before running at the opposition and passing to Sanchez, who returned the ball back to him in plenty of space with an excellent cross for the German to volley home.
What an excellent first half it was and some were comparing it to last season's victory over Manchester United, but I think this one was even better! I half thought the second half would peter out but, even though we didn't add to the score, we continued to attack and look in total control of the game for large periods. Walcott came close to adding his second goal of the afternoon, but Courtois did well to block his effort.
At the other end, Chelsea did try to mount attacks, but our defence held firm with some great challenges. We really looked up for the game and determined to get a result.
Just as Pedro looked like he might be about to burst through, Bellerin raced back superbly to deny him with an excellently-timed tackle. The closest Chelsea came to a goal was when Michy Batshuayi raced towards goal, but Petr Cech was on hand to block the substitute's effort.
What a performance and what a day to remember! But we need to make sure we make this count and reproduce this again next week and the weeks that follow!
OPPOSITION VIEW
Chelsea fan Paul Boulter admitted his side had been second best at the Emirates.
"Fair play to Arsenal, they absolutely put Chelsea to the sword," said Boulter. "I don't think I have seen the Blues dominated so much during the Abramovich era.
"Arsenal scored three very well worked goals as it seemed Chelsea weren't at the races. Conte needs to sort out the defence and quick, but Arsenal sent out a real statement.
"Arsenal will have a good season judging by this game. It seems Wenger has his house in order."
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
After one of, if not our best league performance in recent seasons, we must now try reproduce more of the same as attention turns to the Champions League and the visit of Swiss outfit FC Basel.
If we can play like we did against Chelsea again FC Basel could be in for a hiding, but we must take each game on at a time and not get carried away or complacent.
But no matter how things pan out we can finally say that we have ended our Premier League Chelsea hoodoo and in perfect style.
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
Wednesday, 21 September 2016
Perez double sinks Forest
Summer signing Lucas Perez scored his first goals for the club as Arsenal hammered Championship outfit Nottingham Forest 4-0 in the third round of the EFL Cup.
Granit Xhaka once again proved his excellent ability at shooting from distance before Perez added two in the second half, including one from the penalty spot to put the result beyond doubt. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain put the icing on the cake with a fine fourth for the Gunners in stoppage time.
Cup games against lower league opposition always have that element of being a potential banana skin about them but, fortunately, Arsenal had little trouble in getting the better of their opponents at the City Ground.
Prior to the match, the two sides had met twice before in the League Cup. Both encounters were won by Arsenal - in 1987 and 1993 - and on each of those occasions the Gunners went on to win the trophy...let's hope this is a good omen!
The game started a lot like my luck at finding a decent online feed of it to watch...poorly!
Nottingham Forest wasted an opportunity to take an early lead when Patjim Kasami sliced a shot wide, while Chuba Akpom later saw his effort saved by Vladimir Stojkovic in the Forest goal.
Both sides gave former Forest manager and footballing legend Brian Clough a standing ovation in the 12th minute to mark the 12th anniversary of his death.
There was finally some match action to cheer about for the visiting supporters after 23 minutes when Xhaka netted Arsenal's 400th goal in the League Cup and what a goal it was! The Swiss midfielder, who scored a wonder goal in the recent victory at Hull, hit a great strike to beat Stojkovic from 35 yards albeit via a deflection.
Arsene Wenger's men continued to push forward, but were unable to add to their lead before the break as Jeff Reine-Adelaide shot just wide.
Before Arsenal new-boy Perez could take centre stage, former Gunner Nicklas Bendtner tried his luck on goal, but his effort sailed wide of the far post.
Perez grabbed the first of his two goals on the hour mark after Michael Mancienne fouled Akpom in the box, leaving the Spanish forward to calmly score from the spot. Perez showed further signs of his potential 11 minutes later as he beat Mancienne and the goalkeeper before slotting the ball into the empty net, although some may argue that the Forest defender should have done far better.
Perez was denied a hat-trick when his shot was comfortably saved by Stojkovic, but the Gunners would add one final goal before the end. A fine move ended with Oxlade-Chamberlain racing into the box and sending a low finish beyond Stojkovic to cap a great night for Wenger's men.
It may not have been a vintage Arsenal performance, but Perez is off the mark and we march on into the next round, so it's been a good evening!
OPPOSITION VIEW
Forest fan Rob Terrace admitted there was a clear gulf in class between the teams at the City Ground.
"Not a lot to say," said Terrace. "You could see the difference between the two sides.
"Had we taken our early chance, it may have been different, but any team that starts with £60m+ of talent on, is a very good team in my books.
"Xhaka was brilliant, as was Lucas, but the defence originally struggled under pressure. Lots for Wenger to learn from though."
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
You can only beat what's in front of you and, after last season's shock exit to Sheffield Wednesday, I am much happier with how we performed this time around.
Focus must quickly turn back to the Premier League and the visit of Chelsea. Chelsea is a side we have often struggled to get the better of in recent years and this really has got to change, especially if we want to be serious about mounting a serious title challenge. We need to make sure we improve our results against the so-called 'big' sides. We need to make home advantage count and we will need to produce one hell of a mammoth performance and I'll be getting behind the lads in the hope they can do just that.
As for the League Cup, I admit it isn't a competition I think that highly of, but I still want to see us progress as far as possible and hopefully lift the trophy, so let's hope for a good draw in the next round.
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
Granit Xhaka once again proved his excellent ability at shooting from distance before Perez added two in the second half, including one from the penalty spot to put the result beyond doubt. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain put the icing on the cake with a fine fourth for the Gunners in stoppage time.
Cup games against lower league opposition always have that element of being a potential banana skin about them but, fortunately, Arsenal had little trouble in getting the better of their opponents at the City Ground.
Prior to the match, the two sides had met twice before in the League Cup. Both encounters were won by Arsenal - in 1987 and 1993 - and on each of those occasions the Gunners went on to win the trophy...let's hope this is a good omen!
The game started a lot like my luck at finding a decent online feed of it to watch...poorly!
Nottingham Forest wasted an opportunity to take an early lead when Patjim Kasami sliced a shot wide, while Chuba Akpom later saw his effort saved by Vladimir Stojkovic in the Forest goal.
Both sides gave former Forest manager and footballing legend Brian Clough a standing ovation in the 12th minute to mark the 12th anniversary of his death.
There was finally some match action to cheer about for the visiting supporters after 23 minutes when Xhaka netted Arsenal's 400th goal in the League Cup and what a goal it was! The Swiss midfielder, who scored a wonder goal in the recent victory at Hull, hit a great strike to beat Stojkovic from 35 yards albeit via a deflection.
Arsene Wenger's men continued to push forward, but were unable to add to their lead before the break as Jeff Reine-Adelaide shot just wide.
Before Arsenal new-boy Perez could take centre stage, former Gunner Nicklas Bendtner tried his luck on goal, but his effort sailed wide of the far post.
Perez grabbed the first of his two goals on the hour mark after Michael Mancienne fouled Akpom in the box, leaving the Spanish forward to calmly score from the spot. Perez showed further signs of his potential 11 minutes later as he beat Mancienne and the goalkeeper before slotting the ball into the empty net, although some may argue that the Forest defender should have done far better.
Perez was denied a hat-trick when his shot was comfortably saved by Stojkovic, but the Gunners would add one final goal before the end. A fine move ended with Oxlade-Chamberlain racing into the box and sending a low finish beyond Stojkovic to cap a great night for Wenger's men.
It may not have been a vintage Arsenal performance, but Perez is off the mark and we march on into the next round, so it's been a good evening!
OPPOSITION VIEW
Forest fan Rob Terrace admitted there was a clear gulf in class between the teams at the City Ground.
"Not a lot to say," said Terrace. "You could see the difference between the two sides.
"Had we taken our early chance, it may have been different, but any team that starts with £60m+ of talent on, is a very good team in my books.
"Xhaka was brilliant, as was Lucas, but the defence originally struggled under pressure. Lots for Wenger to learn from though."
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
You can only beat what's in front of you and, after last season's shock exit to Sheffield Wednesday, I am much happier with how we performed this time around.
Focus must quickly turn back to the Premier League and the visit of Chelsea. Chelsea is a side we have often struggled to get the better of in recent years and this really has got to change, especially if we want to be serious about mounting a serious title challenge. We need to make sure we improve our results against the so-called 'big' sides. We need to make home advantage count and we will need to produce one hell of a mammoth performance and I'll be getting behind the lads in the hope they can do just that.
As for the League Cup, I admit it isn't a competition I think that highly of, but I still want to see us progress as far as possible and hopefully lift the trophy, so let's hope for a good draw in the next round.
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
Sunday, 18 September 2016
Sanchez Tames Tigers
Alexis Sanchez struck twice as Arsenal secured their third consecutive league win with a 4-1 victory at Hull.
Sanchez, who took his tally for the season to four in all competitions, maybe should've had a hat-trick but his penalty was well saved by Eldin Jakupovic in the Hull goal.
The Chilean international took 17 minutes to open the scoring - Theo Walcott's ball in was pushed out by Jakupovic and fell at the feet of Alex Iwobi, whose subsequent shot was turned into the net via a deflection from Sanchez.
Arsenal really should have doubled their lead when Iwobi's shot was excellently saved by Jakupovic and the rebound fell to Mesut Ozil, but the German international somehow blazed the follow-up over the crossbar.
At the other end, Robert Snodgrass saw his first-time strike saved by Petr Cech, but it was Arsenal who were having the better chances and missed another great opportunity to double their lead five minutes before the break. Francis Coquelin's shot was blocked by the hand of Jake Livermore and Arsenal were given a penalty. There were no doubts in my mind about the award of the penalty, but would a yellow card have sufficed instead of the subsequent red card for deliberate handball!? Either way, it was a certain penalty, but Jakupovic got down well to parry Sanchez's spot-kick.
Jakupovic then prevented one of his own players from scoring an own goal with a decent save before Iwobi saw his shot blocked by the defence.
Arsenal extended their lead after a fine one-two between Walcott and Iwobi gave the visitors their second goal of the afternoon within 10 minutes of the restart. Walcott raced forward before passing to Iwobi, who then returned the ball to him with a fine back-heel, leaving the England international to calmly clip the ball over Jakupovic.
Hull tried to find a way back into the game with Abel Hernandez's acrobatic effort hitting the crossbar, although the flag had also already been raised for offside.
The hosts reduced the deficit 11 minutes from time through a Robert Snodgrass penalty. I can have no complaints over the award of the penalty itself other than the delay in awarding it. It appeared as though nothing had been given until several seconds later when the referee pointed to the spot. Needless confusion and delay, but Hull were eventually and deservedly awarded the penalty. At first glance I was initially worried that Cech might get sent off following his collision with Hull substitute Dieumerci Mbokani in the box. Maybe a yellow was fair, but then again on another day a red could've been given. Snodgrass smashed home the resulting penalty to give Hull hope of a comeback.
Arsenal restored their two-goal cushion as Sanchez struck again seven minutes from time. Walcott's initial effort was well saved by Jakupovic, but the rebound fell to Sanchez, who took a touch and composed himself before firing a shot into the roof of the net.
Sanchez missed an opportunity to seal a hat-trick when his late effort was saved by Jakupovic, but Arsenal would get on the scoresheet again before the end via a wonder goal from summer signing Granit Xhaka. The Swiss international, who came off the bench after 67 minutes, rifled home a sublime long-range strike, and his first goal for the club, in stoppage time to complete a fine victory for the Gunners.
OPPOSITION VIEW
Hull fan Richard Madden tried not to feel too downbeat at the result and always knew his side would be in for a tough clash against Arsene Wenger's men.
"It's hard not to feel slightly disappointed by the result but it's not games against arsenal that will define our season," said Madden. "Getting any points from one of the 'big' sides is always a big ask but to do it with 10 men was always going to be a struggle once Jake Livermore saw red.
"The positive is that Hull City sounded like they put in a decent effort and created chances, but ultimately it was a step too far for Mike Phelan's men."
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
Another decent result and one we can be very pleased with but, without being disrespectful to Hull, the bigger test to show what direction our season is likely to go in is set to come in our next league game when we host Chelsea.
But before that we must focus our attentions on the trip to Nottingham Forest in the EFL Cup. Former Gunner Nicklas Bendtner recently joined Forest and I just have this horrible feeling that the player, who many of us Arsenal fans used to slate, may score against us.
Nothing is ever certain in cup games, but I think providing we don't get complacent we should have enough about us to see off this tie even if we decide to field a line-up made up more of our fringe and younger players.
Compared to the other three competitions we are in the league cup doesn't rank as highly, but as a fan, I still want us to win every competition we are in and will be cheering the lads on against Forest.
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
Sanchez, who took his tally for the season to four in all competitions, maybe should've had a hat-trick but his penalty was well saved by Eldin Jakupovic in the Hull goal.
The Chilean international took 17 minutes to open the scoring - Theo Walcott's ball in was pushed out by Jakupovic and fell at the feet of Alex Iwobi, whose subsequent shot was turned into the net via a deflection from Sanchez.
Arsenal really should have doubled their lead when Iwobi's shot was excellently saved by Jakupovic and the rebound fell to Mesut Ozil, but the German international somehow blazed the follow-up over the crossbar.
At the other end, Robert Snodgrass saw his first-time strike saved by Petr Cech, but it was Arsenal who were having the better chances and missed another great opportunity to double their lead five minutes before the break. Francis Coquelin's shot was blocked by the hand of Jake Livermore and Arsenal were given a penalty. There were no doubts in my mind about the award of the penalty, but would a yellow card have sufficed instead of the subsequent red card for deliberate handball!? Either way, it was a certain penalty, but Jakupovic got down well to parry Sanchez's spot-kick.
Jakupovic then prevented one of his own players from scoring an own goal with a decent save before Iwobi saw his shot blocked by the defence.
Arsenal extended their lead after a fine one-two between Walcott and Iwobi gave the visitors their second goal of the afternoon within 10 minutes of the restart. Walcott raced forward before passing to Iwobi, who then returned the ball to him with a fine back-heel, leaving the England international to calmly clip the ball over Jakupovic.
Hull tried to find a way back into the game with Abel Hernandez's acrobatic effort hitting the crossbar, although the flag had also already been raised for offside.
The hosts reduced the deficit 11 minutes from time through a Robert Snodgrass penalty. I can have no complaints over the award of the penalty itself other than the delay in awarding it. It appeared as though nothing had been given until several seconds later when the referee pointed to the spot. Needless confusion and delay, but Hull were eventually and deservedly awarded the penalty. At first glance I was initially worried that Cech might get sent off following his collision with Hull substitute Dieumerci Mbokani in the box. Maybe a yellow was fair, but then again on another day a red could've been given. Snodgrass smashed home the resulting penalty to give Hull hope of a comeback.
Arsenal restored their two-goal cushion as Sanchez struck again seven minutes from time. Walcott's initial effort was well saved by Jakupovic, but the rebound fell to Sanchez, who took a touch and composed himself before firing a shot into the roof of the net.
Sanchez missed an opportunity to seal a hat-trick when his late effort was saved by Jakupovic, but Arsenal would get on the scoresheet again before the end via a wonder goal from summer signing Granit Xhaka. The Swiss international, who came off the bench after 67 minutes, rifled home a sublime long-range strike, and his first goal for the club, in stoppage time to complete a fine victory for the Gunners.
OPPOSITION VIEW
Hull fan Richard Madden tried not to feel too downbeat at the result and always knew his side would be in for a tough clash against Arsene Wenger's men.
"It's hard not to feel slightly disappointed by the result but it's not games against arsenal that will define our season," said Madden. "Getting any points from one of the 'big' sides is always a big ask but to do it with 10 men was always going to be a struggle once Jake Livermore saw red.
"The positive is that Hull City sounded like they put in a decent effort and created chances, but ultimately it was a step too far for Mike Phelan's men."
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
Another decent result and one we can be very pleased with but, without being disrespectful to Hull, the bigger test to show what direction our season is likely to go in is set to come in our next league game when we host Chelsea.
But before that we must focus our attentions on the trip to Nottingham Forest in the EFL Cup. Former Gunner Nicklas Bendtner recently joined Forest and I just have this horrible feeling that the player, who many of us Arsenal fans used to slate, may score against us.
Nothing is ever certain in cup games, but I think providing we don't get complacent we should have enough about us to see off this tie even if we decide to field a line-up made up more of our fringe and younger players.
Compared to the other three competitions we are in the league cup doesn't rank as highly, but as a fan, I still want us to win every competition we are in and will be cheering the lads on against Forest.
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
Wednesday, 14 September 2016
Sanchez rescues point for Gunners
Alexis Sanchez netted a vital equaliser as Arsenal started their Champions League campaign with a hard-fought 1-1 draw at PSG.
It looked as though we could be in for a nightmare evening when Edinson Cavani opening the scoring inside the opening minute of the match. PSG had started at a blistering pace, but somehow we weathered the storm and gradually managed to find our feet in the match.
The first half was somewhat disappointing, but we improved after the break and could've maybe nicked it in the latter stages. PSG could also have claimed victory had Cavani been more clinical and Arsenal goalkeeper David Ospina also not had an inspired game between the sticks. There is no doubting we should've played better, but a draw is still an impressive result against the French giants who many other sides have found a tough nut to crack at the Parc des Princes. PSG have lost only one of their last 40 home games in European competition, so that shows that the draw isn't too bad a result.
The game ended on a sour note following the late dismissals of PSG midfielder Marco Verratti and Arsenal substitute Olivier Giroud. There must have been a feeling of déjà vu for Giroud as he was also sent off in Arsenal's opening champions league game last season - a 2-1 defeat by Dinamo Zagreb.
PSG took just 44 seconds to open the scoring and, although it was far too early to panic, there must have been some Gunners' fans thinking 'oh no not again'. Serge Aurier crossed the ball in for Cavani to head home - a simple yet very effective goal!
The hosts continued to grow in confidence and nearly extended their lead when Angel Di Maria set up Adrien Rabiot, but Laurent Koscielny came to Arsenal's rescue to deny him.
At the other end, Arsenal didn't create too many clear-cut chances as Alex Iwobi saw his effort deflect behind, while Shkodran Mustafi and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain were off target with their headers.
We were extremely fortunate that, after his goal, Cavani appeared to be having an off day because otherwise the score would've been worse. The striker went past Ospina on the edge of the box, only to miss an open net, before falling as he tried to convert Di Maria's cross soon after. A big let off for Arsenal and it meant we were only 1-0 behind going in at the break.
PSG were playing well and restricting our chances but, with only one goal in it, we always stood a chance providing we kept things solid at the back. Although the defence was decent for parts of the match, we did have to rely on Ospina other times and he really did prove his worth. The Colombian shot-stopper rushed out to deny Aurier before producing even better saves to deny Cavani and Di Maria. Those saves proved cruical as, instead of the Gunners falling further behind, they found themselves in with a chance of actually getting something from the game.
Arsenal finally found an equaliser through Sanchez 13 minutes from time. When Iwobi's initial effort was superbly parried by Alphonse Areola I genuinely thought it wasn't going to be our day, but up stepped Sanchez to slam home the rebound and suddenly the game began to look up again.
Both sides had chances to win it before the end, with Ospina once again denying Cavani before Areola dived to his left to keep out Iwobi's shot at the other end.
An off the ball altercation saw Verratti and Giroud dismissed in stoppage time and, although that tainted the result, a draw is still a pretty decent start considering the tough opposition we had faced. At first glance the dismissal seemed a tad harsh, but also silly of the players who should have known better and tried to avoid any off the ball confrontation.
GROUP A
The group is wide open and all to play for after the opening round of fixtures. FC Basle and Ludogorets also shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw to leave all four sides level in Group A.
The visit of Swiss side FC Basel awaits in the next round of Champions League fixtures later this month and, with home advantage, that is really one we should be looking to take maximum points from.
It is very early stages in Group A and hard to really analyse the direction in which our Champions League journey is going, but if we can make sure we don't drop any points before we meet PSG against at the Emirates, then the next meeting with the French outfit could decide the group.
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
Performances will need to improve in all competitions, but a draw from what was always likely to be our toughest group match is fairly decent, so we need to make sure we build on this and kick on positively and only time will tell whether we can prove ourselves in Europe this year or if it is going to turn into the same old story. Some expected us to lose this opening game though so we should feel rather upbeat after that result.
A trip to Hull awaits when we return to action in the Premier League and we really need to start upping our game, scoring more goals and really making it count. The Tigers are a team we really should be beating, but we also know from past experience that it won't be easy.
We need to go out there and put in a string of strong and clinical performances, week in week out, and the next month or two should give us a much better idea of what will happen to the Gunners this season. Whatever happens I'll be backing the boys all the way!
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
It looked as though we could be in for a nightmare evening when Edinson Cavani opening the scoring inside the opening minute of the match. PSG had started at a blistering pace, but somehow we weathered the storm and gradually managed to find our feet in the match.
The first half was somewhat disappointing, but we improved after the break and could've maybe nicked it in the latter stages. PSG could also have claimed victory had Cavani been more clinical and Arsenal goalkeeper David Ospina also not had an inspired game between the sticks. There is no doubting we should've played better, but a draw is still an impressive result against the French giants who many other sides have found a tough nut to crack at the Parc des Princes. PSG have lost only one of their last 40 home games in European competition, so that shows that the draw isn't too bad a result.
The game ended on a sour note following the late dismissals of PSG midfielder Marco Verratti and Arsenal substitute Olivier Giroud. There must have been a feeling of déjà vu for Giroud as he was also sent off in Arsenal's opening champions league game last season - a 2-1 defeat by Dinamo Zagreb.
PSG took just 44 seconds to open the scoring and, although it was far too early to panic, there must have been some Gunners' fans thinking 'oh no not again'. Serge Aurier crossed the ball in for Cavani to head home - a simple yet very effective goal!
The hosts continued to grow in confidence and nearly extended their lead when Angel Di Maria set up Adrien Rabiot, but Laurent Koscielny came to Arsenal's rescue to deny him.
At the other end, Arsenal didn't create too many clear-cut chances as Alex Iwobi saw his effort deflect behind, while Shkodran Mustafi and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain were off target with their headers.
We were extremely fortunate that, after his goal, Cavani appeared to be having an off day because otherwise the score would've been worse. The striker went past Ospina on the edge of the box, only to miss an open net, before falling as he tried to convert Di Maria's cross soon after. A big let off for Arsenal and it meant we were only 1-0 behind going in at the break.
PSG were playing well and restricting our chances but, with only one goal in it, we always stood a chance providing we kept things solid at the back. Although the defence was decent for parts of the match, we did have to rely on Ospina other times and he really did prove his worth. The Colombian shot-stopper rushed out to deny Aurier before producing even better saves to deny Cavani and Di Maria. Those saves proved cruical as, instead of the Gunners falling further behind, they found themselves in with a chance of actually getting something from the game.
Arsenal finally found an equaliser through Sanchez 13 minutes from time. When Iwobi's initial effort was superbly parried by Alphonse Areola I genuinely thought it wasn't going to be our day, but up stepped Sanchez to slam home the rebound and suddenly the game began to look up again.
Both sides had chances to win it before the end, with Ospina once again denying Cavani before Areola dived to his left to keep out Iwobi's shot at the other end.
An off the ball altercation saw Verratti and Giroud dismissed in stoppage time and, although that tainted the result, a draw is still a pretty decent start considering the tough opposition we had faced. At first glance the dismissal seemed a tad harsh, but also silly of the players who should have known better and tried to avoid any off the ball confrontation.
GROUP A
The group is wide open and all to play for after the opening round of fixtures. FC Basle and Ludogorets also shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw to leave all four sides level in Group A.
The visit of Swiss side FC Basel awaits in the next round of Champions League fixtures later this month and, with home advantage, that is really one we should be looking to take maximum points from.
It is very early stages in Group A and hard to really analyse the direction in which our Champions League journey is going, but if we can make sure we don't drop any points before we meet PSG against at the Emirates, then the next meeting with the French outfit could decide the group.
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
Performances will need to improve in all competitions, but a draw from what was always likely to be our toughest group match is fairly decent, so we need to make sure we build on this and kick on positively and only time will tell whether we can prove ourselves in Europe this year or if it is going to turn into the same old story. Some expected us to lose this opening game though so we should feel rather upbeat after that result.
A trip to Hull awaits when we return to action in the Premier League and we really need to start upping our game, scoring more goals and really making it count. The Tigers are a team we really should be beating, but we also know from past experience that it won't be easy.
We need to go out there and put in a string of strong and clinical performances, week in week out, and the next month or two should give us a much better idea of what will happen to the Gunners this season. Whatever happens I'll be backing the boys all the way!
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
Sunday, 11 September 2016
Birthday Boy Kos Downs Saints
Birthday boy Laurent Koscielny started his celebrations in style as his overhead kick helped Arsenal to a 2-1 win over Southampton.
The defender's spectacular effort cancelled out Petr Cech's own goal before a late Santi Cazorla penalty saw the Gunners claim a dramatic three points at the Emirates.
Fellow birthday boy Lucas Perez made his debut for the hosts, along with fellow new signing Shkodran Mustafi, but the duo were unable to do anything to prevent Southampton from taking an 18th-minute lead. Cech did excellently to get a touch on the ball and tip Dusan Tadic's curling free-kick onto the woodwork, but the rebound hit his back and went into the net for an unfortunate own goal.
Arsenal hit back with an expertly-taken equaliser after 28 minutes. Perez headed the ball towards Koscielny and the defender met it with a sweetly struck overhead kick and one that looked more like what you'd expect from a striker.
Southampton's defence held firm and blocked any attempted shots on goal from the Gunners to ensure the scores were level going in at the break.
Shane Long tried his luck from distance in the second-half, but his effort was comfortably saved by Cech, before Hector Bellerin missed a chance at the other end with his powerful strike fizzing across the face of goal.
Both sides were failing to make the most of the opportunities coming their way. Tadic and Long combined well before the latter raced into the box, only to send his effort harmlessly wide. At the other end, Alexis Sanchez latched onto a pass from Mesut Ozil before shooting just over the bar, while Nacho Monreal saw his effort deflect wide.
Southampton maybe should've taken the lead with eight minutes remaining. Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg's shot hit a defender on its way to goal and Cech did excellently to parry it away, but Long really should've done better with the rebound. Credit to Cech for reacting quickly to save Long's follow-up with his leg, but the striker didn't hit it with enough conviction to really trouble the goalkeeper.
It looked like it was going to end all square when Olivier Giroud's header hit the side-netting, but Arsenal had other ideas. As Cazorla sent a the ball into the box and Koscielny ended up getting hurt and went down clutching his face. But play continued and Arsenal sent the ball back into the box where Giroud went down under a challenge from Jose Fonte, who appeared to tug at the Frenchman's shirt. It could be seen as a soft penalty, but Fonte was pulling at Giroud's shirt in the box, which is always a risky thing to do. After Koscielny had received treatment, Cazorla stepped up and made no mistake as he scored from the resulting stoppage-time penalty.
Southampton had a chance to level deep into stoppage time, but Long didn't get enough power on his header which was comfortably saved by Cech.
It wasn't the prettiest of victories, but a wins a win and I am delighted with the result. Sixth place and seven points out of a possible 12 is far from ideal though, but at least we were able to win a game when a point had looked more likely until the late drama.
OPPOSITION VIEW
Southampton fan Mavis John
"This hasn't been the best of starts to the season for Saints, but today's performance left me feeling rather more optimistic.
"We played well for more than just 10 minutes at a time, but had the all too frequent Southampton problem of creating chances but not putting them away - Shane Long particularly at fault this afternoon.
"There were some strange refereeing decisions at the end of the match when play wasn't stopped despite an Arsenal player being on the ground with a head injury - and then the penalty! Disappointing not to come away with a point."
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
In previous seasons this could've been a game that we might have lost. It wasn't the greatest performance, but we got the result and that's what matters and we'll have to wait and see how the next few weeks pan out before we really know what direction are season is going in.
Focus now turns to the Champions League and the first match up for the Gunners is arguably their toughest group game - away against PSG. We will need to be at the top of our game to get a result in France, but it is a possibility. If we are to improve on our previous Champions League campaigns we need a strong start and prove early on that we mean business, so let's wait and see what happens.
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
The defender's spectacular effort cancelled out Petr Cech's own goal before a late Santi Cazorla penalty saw the Gunners claim a dramatic three points at the Emirates.
Fellow birthday boy Lucas Perez made his debut for the hosts, along with fellow new signing Shkodran Mustafi, but the duo were unable to do anything to prevent Southampton from taking an 18th-minute lead. Cech did excellently to get a touch on the ball and tip Dusan Tadic's curling free-kick onto the woodwork, but the rebound hit his back and went into the net for an unfortunate own goal.
Arsenal hit back with an expertly-taken equaliser after 28 minutes. Perez headed the ball towards Koscielny and the defender met it with a sweetly struck overhead kick and one that looked more like what you'd expect from a striker.
Southampton's defence held firm and blocked any attempted shots on goal from the Gunners to ensure the scores were level going in at the break.
Shane Long tried his luck from distance in the second-half, but his effort was comfortably saved by Cech, before Hector Bellerin missed a chance at the other end with his powerful strike fizzing across the face of goal.
Both sides were failing to make the most of the opportunities coming their way. Tadic and Long combined well before the latter raced into the box, only to send his effort harmlessly wide. At the other end, Alexis Sanchez latched onto a pass from Mesut Ozil before shooting just over the bar, while Nacho Monreal saw his effort deflect wide.
Southampton maybe should've taken the lead with eight minutes remaining. Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg's shot hit a defender on its way to goal and Cech did excellently to parry it away, but Long really should've done better with the rebound. Credit to Cech for reacting quickly to save Long's follow-up with his leg, but the striker didn't hit it with enough conviction to really trouble the goalkeeper.
It looked like it was going to end all square when Olivier Giroud's header hit the side-netting, but Arsenal had other ideas. As Cazorla sent a the ball into the box and Koscielny ended up getting hurt and went down clutching his face. But play continued and Arsenal sent the ball back into the box where Giroud went down under a challenge from Jose Fonte, who appeared to tug at the Frenchman's shirt. It could be seen as a soft penalty, but Fonte was pulling at Giroud's shirt in the box, which is always a risky thing to do. After Koscielny had received treatment, Cazorla stepped up and made no mistake as he scored from the resulting stoppage-time penalty.
Southampton had a chance to level deep into stoppage time, but Long didn't get enough power on his header which was comfortably saved by Cech.
It wasn't the prettiest of victories, but a wins a win and I am delighted with the result. Sixth place and seven points out of a possible 12 is far from ideal though, but at least we were able to win a game when a point had looked more likely until the late drama.
OPPOSITION VIEW
Southampton fan Mavis John
"This hasn't been the best of starts to the season for Saints, but today's performance left me feeling rather more optimistic.
"We played well for more than just 10 minutes at a time, but had the all too frequent Southampton problem of creating chances but not putting them away - Shane Long particularly at fault this afternoon.
"There were some strange refereeing decisions at the end of the match when play wasn't stopped despite an Arsenal player being on the ground with a head injury - and then the penalty! Disappointing not to come away with a point."
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
In previous seasons this could've been a game that we might have lost. It wasn't the greatest performance, but we got the result and that's what matters and we'll have to wait and see how the next few weeks pan out before we really know what direction are season is going in.
Focus now turns to the Champions League and the first match up for the Gunners is arguably their toughest group game - away against PSG. We will need to be at the top of our game to get a result in France, but it is a possibility. If we are to improve on our previous Champions League campaigns we need a strong start and prove early on that we mean business, so let's wait and see what happens.
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
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