Jordy Clasie scored his first goal for Southampton as a poor home performance saw Arsenal dumped out of the EFL Cup following a 2-0 defeat at the Emirates.
Arsenal went into the cup tie on the back of a 19-game unbeaten run in all competitions, but they never really got going and it was the manner of the performance rather than the result that was the most disappointing factor.
Although we performed very badly credit should be given to Southampton, who closed us down very well and did a number on us. Southampton boss Claude Puel played under Arsene Wenger's management at Monaco and had the last laugh as he sent his former employer crashing out of the cup.
The first half was particularly poor for the hosts with Arsenal barely even mustering a shot on goal apart from the odd few efforts blocked by the visitors' defence.
Southampton did better in front of goal and opened the scoring after 13 minutes. Sofiane Boufal saw his shot blocked before Dutchman Clasie thumped home the loose ball.
It got worse for Arsenal eight minutes before the break as Southampton doubled their advantage, with Boufal again heavily involved. The midfielder broke clear before cutting the ball back to Ryan Bertrand, whose low strike went beyond Emiliano Martinez and into the bottom corner of the net.
Arsenal's first-half misery continued as Mohamed Elneny was forced off injured shortly before half-time and, even with 45 minutes still to play, there didn't seem like there would be any way back.
The Gunners did, in fact, make a much better and lively start to the second half, but when the chances arrived Lucas Perez and Aaron Ramsey both shot straight at Fraser Forster in the Southampton goal.
At the other end, Southampton threatend to add to their lead, but Shane Long headed over before seeing his next effort parried by Martinez.
Substitute Granit Xhaka's long-range free-kick was well saved by Forster, while Perez and Francis Coquelin saw their efforts deflect wide.
Arsenal failed to make the most of the chances that did come their way and Southampton were also looking dangerous on the break, but Steve Davis and Long both shot off target.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain came on for Arsenal and injected a bit more pace, but he really should have done better with his effort in the box that he ended up blazing over the bar. Fellow substitute Ainsley Maitland-Niles very nearly set up a goal for Arsenal when Kieran Gibbs got on the end of his cross, but the defender's header was cleared off the line by Maya Yoshida.
Arsenal were creating chances, but it was clear that it wasn't going to be our day. We just seemed to lack that extra hunger and spark to change the game. Although I would defend some of the criticism about Wenger's team selection by saying the starting XI was actually fairly strong, the fact we didn't at the very least have Alexis Sanchez and/or Mesut Ozil on the bench was very irritating and a big mistake.
Rob Holding saw his header deflect wide before Forster denied Alex Iwobi as Arsenal continued to try, but fail, to get back into the game. In fact, it very nearly got worse for Arsenal, but Martinez managed to get a fingertip to tip Josh Sims' shot wide of the goal. Martinez was called into action again soon after, this time denying Pierre-Emile Højbjerg.
Arsenal tried in vain to even get a consolation goal as Gibbs blazed over the bar in stoppage time on what was a miserable night for the Gunners.
OPPOSITION VIEW
Southampton fan Mavis John was understandably delighted by her side's cup victory.
"Well done Saints!" said John. "Into the semi-finals for the first time in 30 years!
"With the stats and Southampton's inability at times to capitalise on their chances, I wasn't particularly hopeful. However, all credit to the lads for playing really well.
"Claude Puel continued the squad rotation he's employed over the season so far and it worked. Good to see goalscorers who aren't usually on the score sheet - and to see Josh Sims again after his debut on Sunday.
"Arsenal were under strength and not at their best but Saints still won a famous victory."
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
Although it is good to see some younger players given a run out that game highlighted, although everyone already knew this, just how important the likes of Ozil and Sanchez are.
They have the potential to change a game when you are under the cosh and I would have liked to see them come on at half-time to inject more belief into the side. Instead we are out of the EFL Cup for another season.
Although the EFL Cup is not a big priority it would still have been nice to win it and I am very disappointed at our exit. It will be crucial how we react to this. We simply can't let it derail our season. The unbeaten run is now over and it is up to Wenger and the players to make sure we don't let this spiral us out of control and instead we need to dust ourselves down and go win at West Ham!
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
Wednesday, 30 November 2016
Monday, 28 November 2016
Sanchez cherry picks win
At times it looked like it might not be our day, but in the end we did what mattered most and got all three points with a 3-1 victory over Bournemouth.
Alexis Sanchez struck either side of a Theo Walcott header as the Gunners extended their unbeaten run with 19 games in all competitions.
Callum Wilson scored Bournemouth's goal and the visitors were left wondering what might have been as, had they been given another penalty, things maybe could have been different. But, in truth, Arsenal deserved the win and are three points behind leaders Chelsea.
In some ways we look better equipped this year to be able to maintain a title challenge for longer, but I also wouldn't be surprised if we didn't. It is hard to call, but the main thing at the moment is our unbeaten run continues and we are back to winning ways after two consecutive league draws.
Although Arsenal deserved their win they opened the scoring in rather fortuitous circumstances. Sanchez seized on a poor underhit backpass from Steve Cook before rounding the goalkeeper and slotting the ball into the empty net.
Some Arsenal fans felt Sanchez should have been given a penalty following a foul by Nathan Ake, but I felt personally the contact was just outside the box and both sides had for and against them in this one so I have no complaints.
Arsenal suffered a blow just minutes later when Mathieu Debuchy, who was making his first appearance since November 2015, was forced off with a hamstring problem and early indications are that it could be a serious injury. With Hector Bellerin also out injured this is worrying, but hopefully we can get through it.
Bournemouth levelled matters through Wilson's spot-kick after 23 minutes. I thought the penalty, which was given fouling Nacho Monreal's challenge in the box, was soft and more just shoulder to shoulder. But the Cherries saw another penalty shout waved away later following Shkodran Mustafi's push on Cook so maybe the decisions evened themselves out to an extent.
The visitors really should have taken the lead before the break. Bournemouth's players were unhappy by Laurent Koscielny's challenge on Harry Arter and, from the resulting free-kick, they will rue having not scored a goal. Junior Stanislas sent the ball in and, after Arsenal failed to clear the danger, Ake nodded it back across goal and Adam Smith somehow headed over when it looked easier to have scored.
Arsenal also missed a good chance before half-time as Sanchez's powerful strike hit the crossbar, but the Gunners made amends with their second goal of the afternoon within nine minutes of the restart. Mesut Ozil twisted defender Simon Francis inside and out before finding Monreal and the defender's inch-perfect first-time ball back over the top was headed home by Walcott.
Bournemouth maybe felt they had been denied a good chance of an equaliser following Monreal's alleged handball in the box. It did hit his hand, but I wonder how much he really could have done to prevent it and maybe a penalty would have been harsh. Either way, it was a relief to see nothing given.
The Cherries refused to give up and kept battling on and it took a fine save from Petr Cech to deny former Gunner Benik Afobe from close range 11 minutes from time.
It was a nervy end for Arsenal, but the victory was finally assured as Sanchez netted his second of the game in stoppage time. Substitute Olivier Giroud exchanged passes with Ozil before pulling the ball back for Sanchez to tap home.
It was a difficult game and credit to Bournemouth for never giving up but, while some may think our performance wasn't as good as it should have been, a win's a win and I'm more than happy with the result.
OPPOSITION VIEW
Bournemouth fan Tristan Chapman found plenty of reasons to be positive with the performance of his side despite the result.
"This was one of the key matches in the season for the Cherries," said Chapman. "An opportunity to see just how far we had come over the past season and visit one of the top stadiums in the country.
"It was always going to be a tough match and even more so with Wilshere sidelined due to his loan agreement with his parent club.
"None of us were disappointed by the game. We really took the game to Arsenal and showed that little Bournemouth are also capable of playing attractive attacking football. At times we out Arsenal'd Arsenal.
"If it wasn't for the slip by Cook early in the first half which allowed Sanchez an easy goal we could have been going into the break on top.
"The Bournemouth fans were in great voice throughout the match and lifted the volume for Nathan Ake, who was immense at the back once again, and probably deserved to be recognised as the MOTM.
"Great to see us get a goal at the Emirates, just a little disappointed that the scoreline didn't give a true reflection of the match.
"We were pick-pocketed a bit, outdone by class in the last third and a couple of dubious refereeing decisions (or lack of). Still it was a measure and we didn't come up too short so I think we all went home fairly happy after a Sunday afternoons entertainment.
"Can see why Wenger allowed Wilshere to come to Bournemouth. The synergies between the styles is evident. Howe is revered at Bournemouth and obviously Arsenal can see that he fits the mould as a future suitor for the AFC manager's role.
"I think we all hope that we will have bedded into the top flight before that approach comes, which if we carry on progressing the way we are, will undoubtedly happen. Still for now we're going to enjoy hob-nobbing with the big wigs and hopefully pick up enough points to give it another go next season. UTCIAD!!"
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
Attention switches to the EFL Cup and our clash with Southampton before we return to league action with a tough derby clash at West Ham. We need to make sure we keep up the pace as, although the rest of the top four will drop more points as the season progresses, we need to do better at taking advantage when they do.
West Ham, Everton and Manchester City present us with three very tough league matches for our next three away outings so we need to make sure we are in good form if we are to stand a chance of getting a decent points tally over the next month.
But one thing's for sure, no matter what happens, I'll be 100% behind the boys and hope we can have a successful end to 2016.
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
Alexis Sanchez struck either side of a Theo Walcott header as the Gunners extended their unbeaten run with 19 games in all competitions.
Callum Wilson scored Bournemouth's goal and the visitors were left wondering what might have been as, had they been given another penalty, things maybe could have been different. But, in truth, Arsenal deserved the win and are three points behind leaders Chelsea.
In some ways we look better equipped this year to be able to maintain a title challenge for longer, but I also wouldn't be surprised if we didn't. It is hard to call, but the main thing at the moment is our unbeaten run continues and we are back to winning ways after two consecutive league draws.
Although Arsenal deserved their win they opened the scoring in rather fortuitous circumstances. Sanchez seized on a poor underhit backpass from Steve Cook before rounding the goalkeeper and slotting the ball into the empty net.
Some Arsenal fans felt Sanchez should have been given a penalty following a foul by Nathan Ake, but I felt personally the contact was just outside the box and both sides had for and against them in this one so I have no complaints.
Arsenal suffered a blow just minutes later when Mathieu Debuchy, who was making his first appearance since November 2015, was forced off with a hamstring problem and early indications are that it could be a serious injury. With Hector Bellerin also out injured this is worrying, but hopefully we can get through it.
Bournemouth levelled matters through Wilson's spot-kick after 23 minutes. I thought the penalty, which was given fouling Nacho Monreal's challenge in the box, was soft and more just shoulder to shoulder. But the Cherries saw another penalty shout waved away later following Shkodran Mustafi's push on Cook so maybe the decisions evened themselves out to an extent.
The visitors really should have taken the lead before the break. Bournemouth's players were unhappy by Laurent Koscielny's challenge on Harry Arter and, from the resulting free-kick, they will rue having not scored a goal. Junior Stanislas sent the ball in and, after Arsenal failed to clear the danger, Ake nodded it back across goal and Adam Smith somehow headed over when it looked easier to have scored.
Arsenal also missed a good chance before half-time as Sanchez's powerful strike hit the crossbar, but the Gunners made amends with their second goal of the afternoon within nine minutes of the restart. Mesut Ozil twisted defender Simon Francis inside and out before finding Monreal and the defender's inch-perfect first-time ball back over the top was headed home by Walcott.
Bournemouth maybe felt they had been denied a good chance of an equaliser following Monreal's alleged handball in the box. It did hit his hand, but I wonder how much he really could have done to prevent it and maybe a penalty would have been harsh. Either way, it was a relief to see nothing given.
The Cherries refused to give up and kept battling on and it took a fine save from Petr Cech to deny former Gunner Benik Afobe from close range 11 minutes from time.
It was a nervy end for Arsenal, but the victory was finally assured as Sanchez netted his second of the game in stoppage time. Substitute Olivier Giroud exchanged passes with Ozil before pulling the ball back for Sanchez to tap home.
It was a difficult game and credit to Bournemouth for never giving up but, while some may think our performance wasn't as good as it should have been, a win's a win and I'm more than happy with the result.
OPPOSITION VIEW
Bournemouth fan Tristan Chapman found plenty of reasons to be positive with the performance of his side despite the result.
"This was one of the key matches in the season for the Cherries," said Chapman. "An opportunity to see just how far we had come over the past season and visit one of the top stadiums in the country.
"It was always going to be a tough match and even more so with Wilshere sidelined due to his loan agreement with his parent club.
"None of us were disappointed by the game. We really took the game to Arsenal and showed that little Bournemouth are also capable of playing attractive attacking football. At times we out Arsenal'd Arsenal.
"If it wasn't for the slip by Cook early in the first half which allowed Sanchez an easy goal we could have been going into the break on top.
"The Bournemouth fans were in great voice throughout the match and lifted the volume for Nathan Ake, who was immense at the back once again, and probably deserved to be recognised as the MOTM.
"Great to see us get a goal at the Emirates, just a little disappointed that the scoreline didn't give a true reflection of the match.
"We were pick-pocketed a bit, outdone by class in the last third and a couple of dubious refereeing decisions (or lack of). Still it was a measure and we didn't come up too short so I think we all went home fairly happy after a Sunday afternoons entertainment.
"Can see why Wenger allowed Wilshere to come to Bournemouth. The synergies between the styles is evident. Howe is revered at Bournemouth and obviously Arsenal can see that he fits the mould as a future suitor for the AFC manager's role.
"I think we all hope that we will have bedded into the top flight before that approach comes, which if we carry on progressing the way we are, will undoubtedly happen. Still for now we're going to enjoy hob-nobbing with the big wigs and hopefully pick up enough points to give it another go next season. UTCIAD!!"
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
Attention switches to the EFL Cup and our clash with Southampton before we return to league action with a tough derby clash at West Ham. We need to make sure we keep up the pace as, although the rest of the top four will drop more points as the season progresses, we need to do better at taking advantage when they do.
West Ham, Everton and Manchester City present us with three very tough league matches for our next three away outings so we need to make sure we are in good form if we are to stand a chance of getting a decent points tally over the next month.
But one thing's for sure, no matter what happens, I'll be 100% behind the boys and hope we can have a successful end to 2016.
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
Thursday, 24 November 2016
Gunners unable to secure top spot
Top spot in Group A is now an uphill task for Arsenal following their 2-2 draw with PSG, but at least qualification into the next round of the Champions League is assured.
The Gunners had given themselves a good chance of finishing top of the pile after claiming 10 points from a possible 12 from their opening four group games.
Qualification was already confirmed after match-day four and, with home advantage against PSG, Arsenal started the game at the Emirates with their fate in their own hands. Whilst it is not impossible for them to still finish top, the chances are now slim after the draw.
As a stand-alone result a point against PSG is reasonable, but considering what was at stake it is very disappointing. What makes it more disappointing is the fact that for the second consecutive game we have managed just one shot on target throughout the whole game. That isn't good enough and needs to be addressed if we are to progress beyond the first knockout round of the Champions League.
Arsenal defender Kieran Gibbs kept the scores goalless with a goal-line clearance, but the Gunners were unable to do anything to prevent PSG's opener after 18 minutes. Edinson Cavani, who also scored when the sides last met in France back in September, slid in to convert Blaise Matuidi's cross.
PSG were looking the more confident of the two sides, but their hard work was done when Arsenal equalised through Olivier Giroud and got themselves right back into the contest on the stroke of half-time . Giroud won the ball on the edge of the box before Mesut Ozil played in Alexis Sanchez. The Chilean was then tripped by Grzegorz Krychowiak and, although it was soft, there was definitely contact and a penalty was given. Giroud made no mistake from the spot as he slotted home. Arsenal had been largely second best in the first half, but that goal appeared to change things as the Gunners came out with renewed purpose after the break.
Although Arsenal started the second half brightly, it was PSG who created the first decent chance after the restart when Lucas' curling free-kick hit the crossbar.
Arsenal took the lead on the hour mark albeit in rather fortuitous circumstances. Carl Jenkinson tried to set up Aaron Ramsey, but his team-mate was unable to connect with the ball properly, which allowed PSG to win back possession. But the French side failed to get rid of the danger as their clearance hit Marco Verratti on the shins before going into his own net.
Out of nowhere Arsenal were suddenly in the driving seat and had a chance of reaffirming their grip on top spot, but PSG refused to give up and had a penalty shout turned down when Cavani went down in the box. It looked like there was very little contact if any from Laurent Koscielny so it would have been very harsh had that gone against us.
The French giants levelled the scores 13 minutes from time as Lucas sent a header towards goal before the slightest touch from Alex Iwobi took it beyond goalkeeper David Ospina and into the net.
Arsenal were now in desperate need of a third goal if they were to snatch top spot back, but it was PSG who looked more like scoring another. Fortunately for Arsenal, Cavani was wasteful in front of goal so they were at least able to take a share of the spoils. Cavani broke clear and looked almost certain to beat Ospina, but he went to chip it and his effort was comfortably saved by the Colombian shot-stopper. Cavani had another chance to make amends, but this time he headed wide from Lucas' cross.
Arsenal have still not lost since their 4-3 defeat by Liverpool back in August and, whilst this form is encouraging, we really need to stop drawing so many games. In some ways it shows great resilience, but it could also be what stops us from winning silverware, so improvements are needed in getting more shots on target and converting more of our chances.
GROUP A
With just one round of fixtures left to play, Arsenal look set for another second-place finish in the group stages. Although it is our own fault that we now lie second behind PSG, there is a rule that I find very irritating.
It isn't just because I'm an Arsenal fan as I would feel some sympathy to PSG if the situation was the other way round. If the two teams are still level on points after the final round of group games it gets decided by head-to-head. To me, as both games between the sides were drawn, it should then be decided by goal difference, but that isn't the case. Instead the French champions have the advantage on head-to-head away goals. That seems such a silly rule, but rules are rules, so we have to just accept it and get on with it.
The only way we can get top spot in Group A now is if we go and get a win at FC Basel and PSG fail to beat Ludogorets. It is a very big ask. Had it been in Bulgaria, I would have felt slightly more slim hope of an upset, but I really can't see PSG losing at home to Ludogorets, who they beat 3-1 in the previous meeting. But I guess while there is mathematically still a chance we can't give up.
If we do end up finishing second, which looks likely, then we would have to face a group winner in the round of 16. Usually this means a tougher opponent, but finishing top of the group wouldn't necessarily mean an easier game. As things stand Bayern Munich and Real Madrid would also finish as runners-up of their respective groups, so should we somehow get a miracle and overhaul PSG at the top we could still get one of the toughest draws. There are no guarantees in football and, whatever happens, the round of 16 is going to be tough once again.
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
If finishing second means we avoid Bayern Munich and Real Madrid then some may say that's a good thing, but I can't help but feel disappointed that we are not top of our group.
It really felt like this year we would stop the rot of finishing second and actually claim top spot and it is frustrating that it looks like this isn't going to happen.
But, what will be will be, and we need to just get on with it and make sure we get a positive result against FC Basel. Whether we finish second or somehow get top spot the next round is going to be tricky.
There is no point being in the Champions League if you don't want to pit your wits against the best sides, so I don't actually mind who we draw in the next round, but we certainly need to up our game.
Before our European adventure resumes again we need to switch our focus back to the league and the visit of Bournemouth. It is definitely a winnable game and we really must stop our run of draws and get back to winning ways. But we can't take the Cherries lightly and need to make sure we put in a performance of a very high standard.
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
The Gunners had given themselves a good chance of finishing top of the pile after claiming 10 points from a possible 12 from their opening four group games.
Qualification was already confirmed after match-day four and, with home advantage against PSG, Arsenal started the game at the Emirates with their fate in their own hands. Whilst it is not impossible for them to still finish top, the chances are now slim after the draw.
As a stand-alone result a point against PSG is reasonable, but considering what was at stake it is very disappointing. What makes it more disappointing is the fact that for the second consecutive game we have managed just one shot on target throughout the whole game. That isn't good enough and needs to be addressed if we are to progress beyond the first knockout round of the Champions League.
Arsenal defender Kieran Gibbs kept the scores goalless with a goal-line clearance, but the Gunners were unable to do anything to prevent PSG's opener after 18 minutes. Edinson Cavani, who also scored when the sides last met in France back in September, slid in to convert Blaise Matuidi's cross.
PSG were looking the more confident of the two sides, but their hard work was done when Arsenal equalised through Olivier Giroud and got themselves right back into the contest on the stroke of half-time . Giroud won the ball on the edge of the box before Mesut Ozil played in Alexis Sanchez. The Chilean was then tripped by Grzegorz Krychowiak and, although it was soft, there was definitely contact and a penalty was given. Giroud made no mistake from the spot as he slotted home. Arsenal had been largely second best in the first half, but that goal appeared to change things as the Gunners came out with renewed purpose after the break.
Although Arsenal started the second half brightly, it was PSG who created the first decent chance after the restart when Lucas' curling free-kick hit the crossbar.
Arsenal took the lead on the hour mark albeit in rather fortuitous circumstances. Carl Jenkinson tried to set up Aaron Ramsey, but his team-mate was unable to connect with the ball properly, which allowed PSG to win back possession. But the French side failed to get rid of the danger as their clearance hit Marco Verratti on the shins before going into his own net.
Out of nowhere Arsenal were suddenly in the driving seat and had a chance of reaffirming their grip on top spot, but PSG refused to give up and had a penalty shout turned down when Cavani went down in the box. It looked like there was very little contact if any from Laurent Koscielny so it would have been very harsh had that gone against us.
The French giants levelled the scores 13 minutes from time as Lucas sent a header towards goal before the slightest touch from Alex Iwobi took it beyond goalkeeper David Ospina and into the net.
Arsenal were now in desperate need of a third goal if they were to snatch top spot back, but it was PSG who looked more like scoring another. Fortunately for Arsenal, Cavani was wasteful in front of goal so they were at least able to take a share of the spoils. Cavani broke clear and looked almost certain to beat Ospina, but he went to chip it and his effort was comfortably saved by the Colombian shot-stopper. Cavani had another chance to make amends, but this time he headed wide from Lucas' cross.
Arsenal have still not lost since their 4-3 defeat by Liverpool back in August and, whilst this form is encouraging, we really need to stop drawing so many games. In some ways it shows great resilience, but it could also be what stops us from winning silverware, so improvements are needed in getting more shots on target and converting more of our chances.
GROUP A
With just one round of fixtures left to play, Arsenal look set for another second-place finish in the group stages. Although it is our own fault that we now lie second behind PSG, there is a rule that I find very irritating.
It isn't just because I'm an Arsenal fan as I would feel some sympathy to PSG if the situation was the other way round. If the two teams are still level on points after the final round of group games it gets decided by head-to-head. To me, as both games between the sides were drawn, it should then be decided by goal difference, but that isn't the case. Instead the French champions have the advantage on head-to-head away goals. That seems such a silly rule, but rules are rules, so we have to just accept it and get on with it.
The only way we can get top spot in Group A now is if we go and get a win at FC Basel and PSG fail to beat Ludogorets. It is a very big ask. Had it been in Bulgaria, I would have felt slightly more slim hope of an upset, but I really can't see PSG losing at home to Ludogorets, who they beat 3-1 in the previous meeting. But I guess while there is mathematically still a chance we can't give up.
If we do end up finishing second, which looks likely, then we would have to face a group winner in the round of 16. Usually this means a tougher opponent, but finishing top of the group wouldn't necessarily mean an easier game. As things stand Bayern Munich and Real Madrid would also finish as runners-up of their respective groups, so should we somehow get a miracle and overhaul PSG at the top we could still get one of the toughest draws. There are no guarantees in football and, whatever happens, the round of 16 is going to be tough once again.
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
If finishing second means we avoid Bayern Munich and Real Madrid then some may say that's a good thing, but I can't help but feel disappointed that we are not top of our group.
It really felt like this year we would stop the rot of finishing second and actually claim top spot and it is frustrating that it looks like this isn't going to happen.
But, what will be will be, and we need to just get on with it and make sure we get a positive result against FC Basel. Whether we finish second or somehow get top spot the next round is going to be tricky.
There is no point being in the Champions League if you don't want to pit your wits against the best sides, so I don't actually mind who we draw in the next round, but we certainly need to up our game.
Before our European adventure resumes again we need to switch our focus back to the league and the visit of Bournemouth. It is definitely a winnable game and we really must stop our run of draws and get back to winning ways. But we can't take the Cherries lightly and need to make sure we put in a performance of a very high standard.
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
Sunday, 20 November 2016
Super sub Giroud rescues point
Trips to Old Trafford are always tough for Arsenal and this one proved no difference as they had to rely on a late header from Olivier Giroud to rescue a 1-1 draw.
Wenger has not won at Old Trafford in the league since September 2006 and this was a hoodoo fans had been hoping could finally end, but it wasn't to be.
Before the game I'd have taken a point from what is always a hard encounter, but the manner of the performance seems to have disappointed many and that's why the result is more frustrating. Had we played better and got the point I think Gunners' fans would be feeling more upbeat. It wasn't what we wanted, but a draw isn't too bad. At the time of writing this we are currently two points behind leaders Liverpool so all is not lost, but a big improvement is certainly needed.
Juan Mata sent an early free-kick wide for the hosts, while Arsenal also created some decent early chances, although they were unable to make the most of them. Alexis Sanchez saw his long-range strike deflect over before the Chilean sent a header back across goal.
Francis Coquelin and Ander Herrera both volleyed off target before the referee, Andre Marriner, had two big calls to make. Manchester United and their manager Jose Mourinho were unhappy not to have been awarded a penalty when Nacho Monreal appeared to fall across Antonio Valenica. Even if they were perhaps hard done by, I think the decisions got evened out. Before that incident Manchester United defender Matteo Darmian, who had already been booked, committed another foul on Carl Jenksinon so maybe he was lucky to be on the pitch? It would have been soft, but it was a foul and he had already been booked, so the two decisions cancel each other out perhaps.
Arsenal were indebted to their goalkeeper Petr Cech to ensure the score remained goalless going in at the break. Cech got a hand to Mata's effort to parry it wide before producing another fine save to tip over Martial's strike. Martial tried his luck again before half-time, but sent his next shot straight at Cech.
Cech denied Martial again early in the second half, but the hosts were not to be denied as they took the lead after 68 minutes. Paul Pogba slid the ball through to Herrera and the midfielder's excellent cutback was fired home by Mata.
Manchester United came close to doubling their advantage when Daley Blind's cross was headed wide by Marcus Rojo.
It wasn't looking too good for Arsenal until two substitutes combined to rescue a point for the Gunners in the final minute of normal time. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain beat his man and powered down the wing before crossing for Giroud to power in a header.
OPPOSITION VIEW
Manchester United fan Mark Hainsworth was encouraged by the performance more than the result at Old Trafford.
"Clearly an opinion piece written after an 89th minute equaliser is going to differ from one that might be written in the 88th minute, but this was an encouraging United performance, but very disappointing result that leaves us losing touch with the leading pack," said Hainsworth.
"That well known pressing defensive midfielder and hard-man Jamie Redknapp has been critical of the 19-year-old striker Marcus Rashford’s full-back skills, but to single him out is unfair. There is always a reason for conceding a goal, but sometimes you've got to simply accept an opponents' good play.
"Going forward I do feel there are signs that the team is coming to terms with Mourinho’s way of playing. Defensively, despite a makeshift feel of the back four, the team look pretty solid and going forward, at times, they looked dangerous particularly when upping the tempo and playing like a Manchester United team.
"Attack! Attack! Attack! Is expected from United and it was good to see this week."
FINAL THOUGHTS
Whether this is considered a point gained or two points dropped, we must quickly move on and focus our attentions to the Champions League and the top-of-the-table decider with PSG.
Home advantage could prove key, but we will need to put in a much-improved performance if we are to get the vital win.
The next league game sees Bournemouth visit the Emirates and nothing other than a win will do if we are serious about wanting to be in the title race this season!
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
Wenger has not won at Old Trafford in the league since September 2006 and this was a hoodoo fans had been hoping could finally end, but it wasn't to be.
Before the game I'd have taken a point from what is always a hard encounter, but the manner of the performance seems to have disappointed many and that's why the result is more frustrating. Had we played better and got the point I think Gunners' fans would be feeling more upbeat. It wasn't what we wanted, but a draw isn't too bad. At the time of writing this we are currently two points behind leaders Liverpool so all is not lost, but a big improvement is certainly needed.
Juan Mata sent an early free-kick wide for the hosts, while Arsenal also created some decent early chances, although they were unable to make the most of them. Alexis Sanchez saw his long-range strike deflect over before the Chilean sent a header back across goal.
Francis Coquelin and Ander Herrera both volleyed off target before the referee, Andre Marriner, had two big calls to make. Manchester United and their manager Jose Mourinho were unhappy not to have been awarded a penalty when Nacho Monreal appeared to fall across Antonio Valenica. Even if they were perhaps hard done by, I think the decisions got evened out. Before that incident Manchester United defender Matteo Darmian, who had already been booked, committed another foul on Carl Jenksinon so maybe he was lucky to be on the pitch? It would have been soft, but it was a foul and he had already been booked, so the two decisions cancel each other out perhaps.
Arsenal were indebted to their goalkeeper Petr Cech to ensure the score remained goalless going in at the break. Cech got a hand to Mata's effort to parry it wide before producing another fine save to tip over Martial's strike. Martial tried his luck again before half-time, but sent his next shot straight at Cech.
Cech denied Martial again early in the second half, but the hosts were not to be denied as they took the lead after 68 minutes. Paul Pogba slid the ball through to Herrera and the midfielder's excellent cutback was fired home by Mata.
Manchester United came close to doubling their advantage when Daley Blind's cross was headed wide by Marcus Rojo.
It wasn't looking too good for Arsenal until two substitutes combined to rescue a point for the Gunners in the final minute of normal time. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain beat his man and powered down the wing before crossing for Giroud to power in a header.
OPPOSITION VIEW
Manchester United fan Mark Hainsworth was encouraged by the performance more than the result at Old Trafford.
"Clearly an opinion piece written after an 89th minute equaliser is going to differ from one that might be written in the 88th minute, but this was an encouraging United performance, but very disappointing result that leaves us losing touch with the leading pack," said Hainsworth.
"That well known pressing defensive midfielder and hard-man Jamie Redknapp has been critical of the 19-year-old striker Marcus Rashford’s full-back skills, but to single him out is unfair. There is always a reason for conceding a goal, but sometimes you've got to simply accept an opponents' good play.
"Going forward I do feel there are signs that the team is coming to terms with Mourinho’s way of playing. Defensively, despite a makeshift feel of the back four, the team look pretty solid and going forward, at times, they looked dangerous particularly when upping the tempo and playing like a Manchester United team.
"Attack! Attack! Attack! Is expected from United and it was good to see this week."
FINAL THOUGHTS
Whether this is considered a point gained or two points dropped, we must quickly move on and focus our attentions to the Champions League and the top-of-the-table decider with PSG.
Home advantage could prove key, but we will need to put in a much-improved performance if we are to get the vital win.
The next league game sees Bournemouth visit the Emirates and nothing other than a win will do if we are serious about wanting to be in the title race this season!
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
Sunday, 6 November 2016
Derby draw for Gunners
In some ways it feels like a satisfactory point but in another the 1-1 draw with North London rivals Tottenham was also very frustrating.
If we had won the game we would have gone top, albeit temporarily after Liverpool's 6-1 thrashing of Watford, so it feels like a missed opportunity to have stamped our authority in the title race. We need to take better advantage of chances like this as the performance should have been better and I was disappointed we didn't get all three points.
However, the tense derby clashes with Tottenham are usually difficult and nobody has beaten them in the league yet this season, so a draw also isn't too bad a result. We should have done better, but if someone had said to me before the game that we would get a draw I would probably have reluctantly taken a point. The main positives for me from the game were the performances of our full-backs, with Nacho Monreal and Hector Bellerin both putting in decent displays. We just weren't ruthless enough in attack and we need to improve this.
Arsenal nearly fell behind when Harry Kane's header bounced just wide, but the hosts started to test the Tottenham goal more as the half wore on. Mesut Ozil shot wide and Alex Iwobi's shot was comfortably saved by Hugo Lloris.
There was very nearly a derby classic goal from Theo Walcott but his thunderous strike hit the woodwork before Ozil blazed the rebound over. But the Gunners did finally break the deadlock three minutes before half-time as Kevin Wimmer headed into his own net from Ozil's free-kick.
The goal was controversial with some believing it should have been disallowed for offside but, by the letter of the law, the goal appeared to be correctly awarded, although admittedly the new changes to the rules regarding offside this season leave too much of a grey area. Even the pundits were getting confused as former referee Howard Webb explained why referee Mark Clattenburg had been correct in awarding the goal. Whether or not some fans thought it was a bit iffy, it was a fair goal by the letter of the law and that's what matters.
I thought the goal would see us kick on more in the second half, but instead we conceded an equaliser within six minutes of the restart. Mousa Dembele ran into the box before being fouled by Laurent Koscielny. There was contact and it was a correctly awarded penalty, but it was also soft. Kane made no mistake, sending Petr Cech the wrong way as he fired his penalty into the centre of the goal.
It nearly got worse for Arsenal, but Cech reacted well to keep out Christian Eriksen's shot.
Arsenal really should have scored when Iwobi sent in a great cross, but Granit Xhaka didn't manage to get his head to the ball. Although Arsenal didn't test Lloris nearly as much as they would have liked, the Spurs' goalkeeper did have to produce a decent save to keep out Ozil before later keeping out substitute Olivier Giroud's header.
Tottenham also had chances to win it with Eriksen's free-kick hitting a post, but in the end the spoils were shared at the Emirates and it was probably a fair result.
OPPOSITION VIEW
Spurs fan Adrian Drakes was satisfied by the result during what he feels has been a difficult time for his side.
"I think we're both happy with a draw in the end and I'm happy with an away derby point," said Drakes. "The Arsenal goal was iffy, but I am more than happy their defender lost his mind and gifted us a penalty to level it.
"There were so many chances for both sides so I am surprised it wasn't a higher scoring game, far from boring though.
"I'm happy with an away point at their place especially given the players we're missing and the bad run we're going through
"We have lots of problems, no open play goals in six games now I think and lots of key injuries (main central defender, now Walker, Dele, Lamela and Kane still not match fit), no suitable back-ups in the squad and huge games coming up - West Ham, Chelsea and a must win away Monaco game.
"That's why even though we could have won on a different day I'm very happy with the draw. I expected the worst given what we are going through, away at their place and their current form.
"I am glad of the international break for sure, physios need to work overtime!"
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
Of course my fellow Arsenal fans and I would have preferred a victory and we really need to be winning these kinds of games if we are to have a chance of winning the league. A point isn't all that bad though, but it does mean that it is even more imperative that we beat Manchester United at Old Trafford in our next game. We certainly can't be dropping too many more points.
I'd almost rather it wasn't the international break coming up as I want us to be back in action as soon as possible and not just because I'll miss the Premier League, but so that we could bounce back to winning ways quicker.
We will need to up the performance level for sure if we are to win that one, so let's hope our players come back from the international break raring to go!
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
If we had won the game we would have gone top, albeit temporarily after Liverpool's 6-1 thrashing of Watford, so it feels like a missed opportunity to have stamped our authority in the title race. We need to take better advantage of chances like this as the performance should have been better and I was disappointed we didn't get all three points.
However, the tense derby clashes with Tottenham are usually difficult and nobody has beaten them in the league yet this season, so a draw also isn't too bad a result. We should have done better, but if someone had said to me before the game that we would get a draw I would probably have reluctantly taken a point. The main positives for me from the game were the performances of our full-backs, with Nacho Monreal and Hector Bellerin both putting in decent displays. We just weren't ruthless enough in attack and we need to improve this.
Arsenal nearly fell behind when Harry Kane's header bounced just wide, but the hosts started to test the Tottenham goal more as the half wore on. Mesut Ozil shot wide and Alex Iwobi's shot was comfortably saved by Hugo Lloris.
There was very nearly a derby classic goal from Theo Walcott but his thunderous strike hit the woodwork before Ozil blazed the rebound over. But the Gunners did finally break the deadlock three minutes before half-time as Kevin Wimmer headed into his own net from Ozil's free-kick.
The goal was controversial with some believing it should have been disallowed for offside but, by the letter of the law, the goal appeared to be correctly awarded, although admittedly the new changes to the rules regarding offside this season leave too much of a grey area. Even the pundits were getting confused as former referee Howard Webb explained why referee Mark Clattenburg had been correct in awarding the goal. Whether or not some fans thought it was a bit iffy, it was a fair goal by the letter of the law and that's what matters.
I thought the goal would see us kick on more in the second half, but instead we conceded an equaliser within six minutes of the restart. Mousa Dembele ran into the box before being fouled by Laurent Koscielny. There was contact and it was a correctly awarded penalty, but it was also soft. Kane made no mistake, sending Petr Cech the wrong way as he fired his penalty into the centre of the goal.
It nearly got worse for Arsenal, but Cech reacted well to keep out Christian Eriksen's shot.
Arsenal really should have scored when Iwobi sent in a great cross, but Granit Xhaka didn't manage to get his head to the ball. Although Arsenal didn't test Lloris nearly as much as they would have liked, the Spurs' goalkeeper did have to produce a decent save to keep out Ozil before later keeping out substitute Olivier Giroud's header.
Tottenham also had chances to win it with Eriksen's free-kick hitting a post, but in the end the spoils were shared at the Emirates and it was probably a fair result.
OPPOSITION VIEW
Spurs fan Adrian Drakes was satisfied by the result during what he feels has been a difficult time for his side.
"I think we're both happy with a draw in the end and I'm happy with an away derby point," said Drakes. "The Arsenal goal was iffy, but I am more than happy their defender lost his mind and gifted us a penalty to level it.
"There were so many chances for both sides so I am surprised it wasn't a higher scoring game, far from boring though.
"I'm happy with an away point at their place especially given the players we're missing and the bad run we're going through
"We have lots of problems, no open play goals in six games now I think and lots of key injuries (main central defender, now Walker, Dele, Lamela and Kane still not match fit), no suitable back-ups in the squad and huge games coming up - West Ham, Chelsea and a must win away Monaco game.
"That's why even though we could have won on a different day I'm very happy with the draw. I expected the worst given what we are going through, away at their place and their current form.
"I am glad of the international break for sure, physios need to work overtime!"
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
Of course my fellow Arsenal fans and I would have preferred a victory and we really need to be winning these kinds of games if we are to have a chance of winning the league. A point isn't all that bad though, but it does mean that it is even more imperative that we beat Manchester United at Old Trafford in our next game. We certainly can't be dropping too many more points.
I'd almost rather it wasn't the international break coming up as I want us to be back in action as soon as possible and not just because I'll miss the Premier League, but so that we could bounce back to winning ways quicker.
We will need to up the performance level for sure if we are to win that one, so let's hope our players come back from the international break raring to go!
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
Tuesday, 1 November 2016
Gunners survive Bulgarian scare
Halloween may be over but Arsenal had to survive a mighty scare as they scraped past Ludogorets 3-2 in their Champions League clash in Bulgaria.
Jonathan Cafu and Claudio Keseru put the Bulgarian champions two goals to the good inside the opening quarter of an hour, but Granit Xhaka and Olivier Giroud pulled the Gunners level before the break.
A moment of individual brilliance from Mesut Ozil completed the comeback for leaders Arsenal, who now progress into the last 16 with two games to spare along with Group A rivals PSG.
Arsenal wasted two early chances with Aaron Ramsey sending an overhead kick harmlessly off target before Ozil shot straight at Milan Borjan in the Ludogorets goal.
Those misses looked like they might prove costly when the hosts raced into a two-goal lead. Cafu beat the defence to get on the end of a free-kick and steer the ball home after 12 minutes before turning provider for Ludogorets' second. The Brazilian got the better of Kieran Gibbs before crossing for Keseru to score just three minutes later.
Arsenal looked shell shocked and at that point, although I didn't want to give up, I did wonder if we would have the ability to recover or if it was going to be one of those nights.
Belief returned to me when Xhaka reduced the deficit after 20 minutes. Ozil just about kept the ball in play, although it was a very tight call, before crossing the ball into the box. Giroud failed to connect with it, but the ball then fell for Xhaka to place a fine shot beyond Borjan.
Arsenal continued to push forward with Alexis Sanchez curling a shot off target before Ozil saw a volley blocked, but the Gunners were able to level the scores four minutes before the break. The French striker was given too much space as he got up well to head in Ramsey's cross for his third goal in two games.
Ludogorets were still posing a threat on the counter attack though and piled forward soon after, only to see a shot deflect wide for a corner before half-time.
Wanderson twice came close to restoring the Bulgarian side's lead shortly after the hour mark, but on both occasions Arsenal goalkeeper David Ospina reacted well well to deny the Brazilian.
Those misses proved costly and Ludogorets' hard work was undone when Ozil produced a moment of genius to snatch all three points for Arsenal two minutes from time. Substitute Mohamed Elneny had only been on the pitch for a minute when he sent a perfectly-timed long ball over the top to Ozil. The German international then chipped the ball over the head of Borjan, bringing the ball back onto his left foot and showing great control to get the better of the defenders in his way before firing into the empty net. It was a truly great goal to watch and left me and my fellow Arsenal fans with a huge sense of relief.
GROUP A
We made very hard work of it, but the 3-2 win away to Ludogorets secured our qualification into the last 16.
Only goal difference separates the Gunners from second-placed PSG after the French giants hit a stoppage time winner at FC Basel, but I'm just glad we managed to recover from our nightmare start to cling onto top spot.
Top spot is likely to be decided by the result of our penultimate group game later this month when PSG visit the Emirates. We'll definitely have to defend much better than we did against Ludogorets and there is still plenty more work to be done. But if someone had said to me that we'd top the group after four matches I'd certainly have taken it!
CATCH-UP
There have been three games since the last blog due to me getting married and being away on honeymoon. The Gunners did fairly well in my absence with two wins and a draw.
A goalless draw at home to Middlesbrough was a tad frustrating, but at least it kept the unbeaten run going.
The EFL Cup is certainly the bottom of the priority list in terms of trophies, but silverware is silverware and I'd still love it if we were to win that competition as well, providing we also get glory in the Premier League. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain hit both goals as we dispatched of Reading and booked a quarter final tie against Southampton.
We then travelled to struggling Sunderland and I must admit that, when the hosts equalised via a Jermain Defoe penalty I did wonder whether it was just not going to be our day. Giroud stepped off the bench to turn the game back in our favour with a well-taken double before Sanchez added his second to complete a 4-1 win.
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
It may not have been pretty against Ludogorets...well apart from Ozil's winner, but at least we got the job done and won the match to secure qualification.
We will definitely have to up our game and produce performances of the highest quality as we prepare for a trio of very difficult games starting with the North London Derby against Tottenham at the Emirates. A trip to Manchester United and the visit of PSG then follow and these three games will be a true test of our credentials and help give an indication of what direction are season will go in.
Tottenham have actually yet to lose a league game so our next encounter will definitely be tough, so we need to go out there and prove that we are the best team in north London so let's hope we can do just that.
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
Jonathan Cafu and Claudio Keseru put the Bulgarian champions two goals to the good inside the opening quarter of an hour, but Granit Xhaka and Olivier Giroud pulled the Gunners level before the break.
A moment of individual brilliance from Mesut Ozil completed the comeback for leaders Arsenal, who now progress into the last 16 with two games to spare along with Group A rivals PSG.
Arsenal wasted two early chances with Aaron Ramsey sending an overhead kick harmlessly off target before Ozil shot straight at Milan Borjan in the Ludogorets goal.
Those misses looked like they might prove costly when the hosts raced into a two-goal lead. Cafu beat the defence to get on the end of a free-kick and steer the ball home after 12 minutes before turning provider for Ludogorets' second. The Brazilian got the better of Kieran Gibbs before crossing for Keseru to score just three minutes later.
Arsenal looked shell shocked and at that point, although I didn't want to give up, I did wonder if we would have the ability to recover or if it was going to be one of those nights.
Belief returned to me when Xhaka reduced the deficit after 20 minutes. Ozil just about kept the ball in play, although it was a very tight call, before crossing the ball into the box. Giroud failed to connect with it, but the ball then fell for Xhaka to place a fine shot beyond Borjan.
Arsenal continued to push forward with Alexis Sanchez curling a shot off target before Ozil saw a volley blocked, but the Gunners were able to level the scores four minutes before the break. The French striker was given too much space as he got up well to head in Ramsey's cross for his third goal in two games.
Ludogorets were still posing a threat on the counter attack though and piled forward soon after, only to see a shot deflect wide for a corner before half-time.
Wanderson twice came close to restoring the Bulgarian side's lead shortly after the hour mark, but on both occasions Arsenal goalkeeper David Ospina reacted well well to deny the Brazilian.
Those misses proved costly and Ludogorets' hard work was undone when Ozil produced a moment of genius to snatch all three points for Arsenal two minutes from time. Substitute Mohamed Elneny had only been on the pitch for a minute when he sent a perfectly-timed long ball over the top to Ozil. The German international then chipped the ball over the head of Borjan, bringing the ball back onto his left foot and showing great control to get the better of the defenders in his way before firing into the empty net. It was a truly great goal to watch and left me and my fellow Arsenal fans with a huge sense of relief.
GROUP A
We made very hard work of it, but the 3-2 win away to Ludogorets secured our qualification into the last 16.
Only goal difference separates the Gunners from second-placed PSG after the French giants hit a stoppage time winner at FC Basel, but I'm just glad we managed to recover from our nightmare start to cling onto top spot.
Top spot is likely to be decided by the result of our penultimate group game later this month when PSG visit the Emirates. We'll definitely have to defend much better than we did against Ludogorets and there is still plenty more work to be done. But if someone had said to me that we'd top the group after four matches I'd certainly have taken it!
CATCH-UP
There have been three games since the last blog due to me getting married and being away on honeymoon. The Gunners did fairly well in my absence with two wins and a draw.
A goalless draw at home to Middlesbrough was a tad frustrating, but at least it kept the unbeaten run going.
The EFL Cup is certainly the bottom of the priority list in terms of trophies, but silverware is silverware and I'd still love it if we were to win that competition as well, providing we also get glory in the Premier League. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain hit both goals as we dispatched of Reading and booked a quarter final tie against Southampton.
We then travelled to struggling Sunderland and I must admit that, when the hosts equalised via a Jermain Defoe penalty I did wonder whether it was just not going to be our day. Giroud stepped off the bench to turn the game back in our favour with a well-taken double before Sanchez added his second to complete a 4-1 win.
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
It may not have been pretty against Ludogorets...well apart from Ozil's winner, but at least we got the job done and won the match to secure qualification.
We will definitely have to up our game and produce performances of the highest quality as we prepare for a trio of very difficult games starting with the North London Derby against Tottenham at the Emirates. A trip to Manchester United and the visit of PSG then follow and these three games will be a true test of our credentials and help give an indication of what direction are season will go in.
Tottenham have actually yet to lose a league game so our next encounter will definitely be tough, so we need to go out there and prove that we are the best team in north London so let's hope we can do just that.
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
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