Just how much of a shock was Arsenal's 3-1 defeat at West Brom?
In some ways I was stunned by the result as I genuinely believed we could get back to winning ways in this fixture, but at the same time with the poor form we have shown in most of our March games it also wasn't that surprising that it ended in defeat.
We are only playing well in small patches and not consistently enough and, not only does that gap from leaders Chelsea continue to get bigger but we now face a very tough task to even finish in the top four.
Although fourth wouldn't really be good enough, the fact we could even miss out on even getting that is very damaging and a sign of how bad things are going for us at the moment. Apart from the FA Cup win, which without being disrespectful to the opponent was against lower league opposition, March really hasn't been good for us.
Arsene Wenger has understandably faced a lot of questions about his future following our recent poor showings, but it is hard to gauge what is going to happen. Part of me gets the vibe that he will leave in the summer, but then I also think there's a chance he could sign a one-year deal as opposed to a longer one and stay that little bit longer. Something needs to happen though as we can't go on like this! We have now lost four of our last five league games which is simply not good enough! Losing goalkeeper Petr Cech and star man Alexis Sanchez to injury completed what was a miserable afternoon for the Gunners.
Arsenal had a half chance after eight minutes when Sanchez's fine reverse pass set up Nacho Monreal, but the full-backs low ball into the box was scrambled away to safety.
West Brom took the lead soon after as Cech could only beat James McClean's strike out for a corner and from the resulting set piece Dawson rose highest to head home.
Arsenal levelled the scores within three minutes as Sanchez latched onto Granit Xhaka's pass before controlling on his chest, taking a touch a firing in from close range.
Nacer Chadli, who set up Albion's opener, was proving to be a nuisance down the right-hand side and his pass created a chance for Salomón Rondón, but the forward dragged his effort wide.
Midfielder Aaron Ramsey was next to try his luck for Arsenal and his low shot was parried by Ben Foster in the Arsenal goal before Theo Walcott saw two follow-up attempts blocked by the defence.
Foster's heroics were then matched by Cech, who did excellently to get a hand to Darren Fletcher's shot and push it behind for a corner. That was Cech's last key contribution as he was forced off injured eight minutes before the break and was replaced by David Ospina.
West Brom wasted a chance to retake the lead within five minutes of the restart as Rondón sent a header wide. But the hosts made no mistake soon after as substitute Hal Robson-Kanu scored just two minutes after coming on following a defensive mix-up by Arsenal. Ospina and Hector Bellerin got in each other's way and the ball bounced off the goalkeeper's legs to give Robson-Kanu the simplest of tasks to tap in.
Arsenal came close to equalising when Danny Welbeck's header hit the crossbar before a possible penalty shout when Shkodran Mustafi appeared to be fouled in the box. Even if the decision had gone the other way there is still no excusing the lack of times we tested Foster over the 90 minutes. 77% possession and only two shots on target is not good enough!
Ospina kept Arsenal in the game when he blocked Robson-Kanu's effort before Mustafi cleared Chadli's shot off the line. But the Gunners were undone by another set piece 15 minutes from time as Dawson headed in from McCLean's corner.
Sanchez was forced off injured soon after and the post-match comments from Wenger about this left me somewhat puzzled. It seems Sanchez was injured by a tackle in the first half and his ankle was in a bad state. Wenger said he should not have played in the second half, but the player insisted that he wanted to come out. Whilst it is admirable for the player to show such passion to want to keep on playing, if the manager thinks he should not have played in the second half then he shouldn't have played, it really is that simple! He is a great player and can change the game in the blink of an eye, but keeping him on also seemed to risk especially given how important a player he is to us.
Ramsey shot high and over the bar in stoppage time to sum up what was a frustrating day for the Gunners, especially after Manchester United's win over Middlesbrough the day after saw us drop down to 6th.
OPPOSITION VIEW
West Brom fan Rob Myatt was understandably delighted at the result from what he believes was "the most enjoyable game of the season".
"Pulis yet again proves why his style of football works," said Myatt. "Every single stat was in Albion's favour except possession, and when we have the ball playing the counter attack style of football, which we just couldn't get going at the Emirates earlier in the season, we are devastating.
"It's clear to see where Arsenal's frailties are and we clinically exploited them. Rondon coming off with an injury was a blessing in disguise as Robson-Kanu, despite not being prolific, will never give up on anything and combined with the likes of McClean, Nyom, Fletcher et al. The work rate of our players outshone the obvious individual talent of Arsenal.
"From my point of view, it was the most enjoyable game of the season and gives me hope for a few more points on our horrific run in."
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
When we are on a poor run of form seeing that we face Manchester City next doesn't fill me with too much optimism. However when things are going against you maybe it will take a massive game like this to make our players stand up to be counted.
We are a massive 19 points off leaders Chelsea and already face a harder fight than ever to even finish in the top four so this is a must win game. If we under perform we could get thumped so Wenger will have to get his tactics spot on and the players will have to step things up several gears and prove their worth.
We need to avoid our league form getting even worse. Manchester City are beatable, but only if we play to our full potential, create a lot more chances and be a lot more clinical.
It is the first of two games against City in April, with Pep Guardiola's men also being our opponents in the FA Cup semi-final later in the month. These are two huge games and, although it will be a very big ask, we need to make sure we win them both.
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
Sunday, 19 March 2017
Sunday, 12 March 2017
Gunners progress as brave Imps bow out
As a resident of the city I am very proud of Lincoln for getting as far as they did in the FA Cup as they are having one hell of a great season, but it was difficult to hide my delight as Arsenal returned to winning ways to reach the semi-final with a 5-0 win at the Emirates.
The Imps had already knocked out a Premier League side in Burnley to have got this far and, although the odds were stacked against them, they definitely did the city proud. Credit to Danny Cowley for the great job he has done at Lincoln and, although I'm glad we progressed in the cup at their expense, I hope they go on to win the league and gain promotion back to the Football League.
It was actually quite nerve-wracking knowing the score was still close going into the final moments of the first half and then Theo Walcott struck to turn the game on its head. Goals from Olivier Giroud, Alexis Sanchez and Aaron Ramsey, along with an own goal from Luke Waterfall, completed the victory for the Gunners. Some people may say this isn't much to celebrate as we should be beating lower league opposition anyway, but with the superb form Lincoln were in and how low things had got for us lately, you can only play what is in front of you and we still had to go out there and do the job.
Arsenal could have taken the lead inside the opening quarter of an hour, but Walcott's sweetly struck volley was well tipped onto a post by Paul Farman in the Lincoln goal.
The hosts lost Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain to injury before Lincoln came close to grabbing a goal at the other end. Nathan Arnold showed great trickery to get beyond Laurent Koscielny before seeing his curling effort excellently palmed away by Petr Cech.
Arsenal wasted another chance when Walcott shot straight at Farman following a fine pass by Sanchez, but the Gunners forward made no mistake as he broke the deadlock in first-half stoppage time. Walcott played a one-two with Kieran Gibbs before slotting home his fifth goal in this season's FA Cup.
We really should have doubled our advantage within four minutes of the restart, but Gibbs wasted a golden opportunity. Giroud forced Farman into a decent save before Walcott sent the ball back across for Gibbs, only for the left-back to head over.
Arsenal did manage to add a second after 53 minutes following excellent work from Hector Bellerin. The Spanish defender played a neat give and go with Sanchez before setting up Giroud to slot home from close range.
Bellerin sent an effort wide before Arsenal increased their advantage with a third goal. Sanchez passed through to Gibbs, whose low cross was put into his own net by Waterfall shortly before the hour mark.
Sanchez was next to get his name on the scoresheet as the Chilean beat two players before placing a fine shot beyond Farman from outside the box 18 minutes from time.
Four became five just minutes later as Sanchez's cross deflected into the path of Ramsey for the midfielder to walk the ball into the net for an easy goal.
Lincoln continued to battle bravely and Alan Power tried his luck on goal, but his effort was well saved by Cech.
Sanchez hit the crossbar with a late free-kick as Arsenal continued to push forward, while Ramsey's follow-up effort deflected wide.
Arsenal progress into the last four, while Lincoln's superb cup run comes to an end, but what a journey it has been for Cowley's men.
OPPOSITION VIEW
Lincoln City fan Mark Whiley was full of pride for his side despite the result.
"What a day," said Whiley. "I know the Imps lost but it was a day I'll never forget. The players and the fans did the club proud. The Imps were outstanding during the first half and really made Arsenal sweat.
"Arsenal looked nervous in the first half but once Walcott's goal went in, they looked a different side. The confidence was back.
"Must say, what a smashing club Arsenal is. We were so well looked after and the staff were very friendly. Credit to their fans too for staying behind to clap the Lincoln players off. I hope Arsenal go on and win it so we can say we lost to the winners. I have my doubts though."
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
The 5-0 win doesn't paper over the cracks from our Champions League humiliation, but I'm delighted we avoided a cup upset and were able to get back to winning ways with a big win.
Although we have failed in the Premier League and Champions League, which we really should have done a lot better in, I really do love the FA Cup and am over the moon that we are now just one game away from the final.
With Manchester City, Tottenham and one of Manchester United and Chelsea joining us in the semi-finals, winning the FA Cup is going to be harder than ever this year for whoever goes on to lift the trophy in May. We will have to be at our best whoever we get in the draw and we need to take it very seriously as not only does it present our only real chance of a trophy this season, but it really is a great competition.
We must now turn our attentions back to the league and the trip to West Brom. The title may be out of reach, but we need to restore some pride and put in strong performances from now until the end of the season. It won't really affect the end outcome as we'll have still failed to win the title, but we must make sure we get back to winning ways in the league and quickly!
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
The Imps had already knocked out a Premier League side in Burnley to have got this far and, although the odds were stacked against them, they definitely did the city proud. Credit to Danny Cowley for the great job he has done at Lincoln and, although I'm glad we progressed in the cup at their expense, I hope they go on to win the league and gain promotion back to the Football League.
It was actually quite nerve-wracking knowing the score was still close going into the final moments of the first half and then Theo Walcott struck to turn the game on its head. Goals from Olivier Giroud, Alexis Sanchez and Aaron Ramsey, along with an own goal from Luke Waterfall, completed the victory for the Gunners. Some people may say this isn't much to celebrate as we should be beating lower league opposition anyway, but with the superb form Lincoln were in and how low things had got for us lately, you can only play what is in front of you and we still had to go out there and do the job.
Arsenal could have taken the lead inside the opening quarter of an hour, but Walcott's sweetly struck volley was well tipped onto a post by Paul Farman in the Lincoln goal.
The hosts lost Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain to injury before Lincoln came close to grabbing a goal at the other end. Nathan Arnold showed great trickery to get beyond Laurent Koscielny before seeing his curling effort excellently palmed away by Petr Cech.
Arsenal wasted another chance when Walcott shot straight at Farman following a fine pass by Sanchez, but the Gunners forward made no mistake as he broke the deadlock in first-half stoppage time. Walcott played a one-two with Kieran Gibbs before slotting home his fifth goal in this season's FA Cup.
We really should have doubled our advantage within four minutes of the restart, but Gibbs wasted a golden opportunity. Giroud forced Farman into a decent save before Walcott sent the ball back across for Gibbs, only for the left-back to head over.
Arsenal did manage to add a second after 53 minutes following excellent work from Hector Bellerin. The Spanish defender played a neat give and go with Sanchez before setting up Giroud to slot home from close range.
Bellerin sent an effort wide before Arsenal increased their advantage with a third goal. Sanchez passed through to Gibbs, whose low cross was put into his own net by Waterfall shortly before the hour mark.
Sanchez was next to get his name on the scoresheet as the Chilean beat two players before placing a fine shot beyond Farman from outside the box 18 minutes from time.
Four became five just minutes later as Sanchez's cross deflected into the path of Ramsey for the midfielder to walk the ball into the net for an easy goal.
Lincoln continued to battle bravely and Alan Power tried his luck on goal, but his effort was well saved by Cech.
Sanchez hit the crossbar with a late free-kick as Arsenal continued to push forward, while Ramsey's follow-up effort deflected wide.
Arsenal progress into the last four, while Lincoln's superb cup run comes to an end, but what a journey it has been for Cowley's men.
OPPOSITION VIEW
Lincoln City fan Mark Whiley was full of pride for his side despite the result.
"What a day," said Whiley. "I know the Imps lost but it was a day I'll never forget. The players and the fans did the club proud. The Imps were outstanding during the first half and really made Arsenal sweat.
"Arsenal looked nervous in the first half but once Walcott's goal went in, they looked a different side. The confidence was back.
"Must say, what a smashing club Arsenal is. We were so well looked after and the staff were very friendly. Credit to their fans too for staying behind to clap the Lincoln players off. I hope Arsenal go on and win it so we can say we lost to the winners. I have my doubts though."
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
The 5-0 win doesn't paper over the cracks from our Champions League humiliation, but I'm delighted we avoided a cup upset and were able to get back to winning ways with a big win.
Although we have failed in the Premier League and Champions League, which we really should have done a lot better in, I really do love the FA Cup and am over the moon that we are now just one game away from the final.
With Manchester City, Tottenham and one of Manchester United and Chelsea joining us in the semi-finals, winning the FA Cup is going to be harder than ever this year for whoever goes on to lift the trophy in May. We will have to be at our best whoever we get in the draw and we need to take it very seriously as not only does it present our only real chance of a trophy this season, but it really is a great competition.
We must now turn our attentions back to the league and the trip to West Brom. The title may be out of reach, but we need to restore some pride and put in strong performances from now until the end of the season. It won't really affect the end outcome as we'll have still failed to win the title, but we must make sure we get back to winning ways in the league and quickly!
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
Wednesday, 8 March 2017
IMP-ortant cup tie for Gunners
Since moving to Lincoln in 2003 I have long dreamed of the possibility of Arsenal drawing Lincoln in the cup and it has now happened, although the ideal scenario would have been an away tie at Sincil Bank.
The mighty Imps are set to travel to the Emirates for the FA Cup quarter-final, but will it be a step closer to Wembley for the Gunners or another scalp for Lincoln?
I have a real soft spot for Lincoln and I have always looked out for the results since moving here. When they were relegated in 2011 I remember writing about how painful it was watching their demise unfold. Being at Sincil Bank to see them beat Southend, and looking like they were almost safe to witnessing their capitulation against Aldershot, was hard to take. But look at them now, the Imps are flying high and it is great to see.
From play-off contenders during my university years to dropping out of the Football League was very sad to see. I also remember working in a busy newsroom when the news broke about the sad passing of Keith Alexander and helping to cover the story and the whole range of emotions of the day. It really has been a rollercoaster for Lincoln City and they remain a really important club to me, so I am understandably delighted by them being serious title contenders and still in the FA Cup this season.
But my blood is well and truly Arsenal red and on Saturday I will be supporting the Gunners...sorry Lincoln!
Some of my fellow Lincoln-based Arsenal fans want the Imps to win this one and, although I can understand their sentiment of wanting the local side to do well, I can’t bring myself to hold exactly the same feeling. Don’t get me wrong I love Lincoln and want them to succeed, but Arsenal are the football team closest to my heart and with this being our best chance at a trophy I wouldn’t want us to lose at anyone’s expense.
So how do I think the game will pan out? I genuinely believe it will hinge on the opening 15-20 minutes. If Lincoln can keep us out and maybe even nick a goal then they will have a chance and cause anxious Arsenal, who I know all too well, to make an appearance. However, should we start strongly like I know we can we could potentially blow Lincoln out the water, but I am taking nothing for granted. This game is massive. It isn’t just about Arsenal-Lincoln or the future of Arsene Wenger and the pressure on us at the moment. It is about our best chance to win a trophy this season but, almost just as importantly, about the FA Cup itself. I don’t just love the competition because we are the most successful side in the history of the FA Cup or because we have won it twice in recent years. I just simply love the tournament and watching FA Cup games no matter who is involved.
If I had to make a gut prediction at this stage it would be 4-1 Arsenal and that doesn’t mean I am not taking Lincoln seriously as I certainly haven’t written them off. Anything can happen in the FA Cup and we need to make sure we don’t get complacent. Nobody has a given right to win a cup tie and it is about who wants it more on the day. We should have too much for them, but you just never know and we need a strong start and for the manager and the players to stand up to be counted. This may make me an unpopular local during FA Cup weekend, but I will always be Arsenal til I die!
Whatever the result, Lincoln can be proud of what has been a magnificent cup run from beating Altrincham, to knocking out four higher league sides including Premier League Burnley. Danny Cowley has done a tremendous job since arriving from Braintree and undoubtedly other clubs will be sniffing around for his services, but I genuinely believe Lincoln is where he is meant to be and I hope he stays for many years to come.
As for his opposite number at Arsenal, Wenger, opinion remains divided on whether or not he should stay. It is really hard not to let emotion get in the way of my feelings on this one. Some people say no league titles in 13 years means it is time to move on, whilst others want to stick by him no matter what. I agree that the length of time without a trophy is unacceptable and he has made some mistakes during his reign. The recent 10-2 aggregate defeat to Bayern Munich that ended our Champions League dream for yet another season showed maybe it is time for a change this summer. But whenever he goes I hope he is remembered for the good times and that the anti-Wenger fans don’t let their emotions over spill. Yes, it could be time for a change, but the grass isn’t always greener!
I will never forget what he has done for the club and whether he leaves in the summer or over the next few seasons we can’t ignore the past. I agree with some of the criticism that has come his way and I too get baffled by him sometimes, and I must admit the second 10 years have been nowhere near as good as the first. I have no idea who is the best candidate to succeed him and if it does happen in the summer or later I will understand and back the new man 100%. But when it is time for him to end his reign at Arsenal I’ll think of his overall reign with a smile.
Another FA Cup would be nice, so let’s make sure we are not on the wrong end of a cup upset!
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
*This blog entry can also be found on the Lincolnshire Echo's website - http://www.lincolnshirelive.co.uk/how-does-an-arsenal-fan-living-in-lincoln-feel-about-facing-lincoln-city-in-the-fa-cup/story-30190100-detail/story.html
The mighty Imps are set to travel to the Emirates for the FA Cup quarter-final, but will it be a step closer to Wembley for the Gunners or another scalp for Lincoln?
I have a real soft spot for Lincoln and I have always looked out for the results since moving here. When they were relegated in 2011 I remember writing about how painful it was watching their demise unfold. Being at Sincil Bank to see them beat Southend, and looking like they were almost safe to witnessing their capitulation against Aldershot, was hard to take. But look at them now, the Imps are flying high and it is great to see.
From play-off contenders during my university years to dropping out of the Football League was very sad to see. I also remember working in a busy newsroom when the news broke about the sad passing of Keith Alexander and helping to cover the story and the whole range of emotions of the day. It really has been a rollercoaster for Lincoln City and they remain a really important club to me, so I am understandably delighted by them being serious title contenders and still in the FA Cup this season.
But my blood is well and truly Arsenal red and on Saturday I will be supporting the Gunners...sorry Lincoln!
Some of my fellow Lincoln-based Arsenal fans want the Imps to win this one and, although I can understand their sentiment of wanting the local side to do well, I can’t bring myself to hold exactly the same feeling. Don’t get me wrong I love Lincoln and want them to succeed, but Arsenal are the football team closest to my heart and with this being our best chance at a trophy I wouldn’t want us to lose at anyone’s expense.
So how do I think the game will pan out? I genuinely believe it will hinge on the opening 15-20 minutes. If Lincoln can keep us out and maybe even nick a goal then they will have a chance and cause anxious Arsenal, who I know all too well, to make an appearance. However, should we start strongly like I know we can we could potentially blow Lincoln out the water, but I am taking nothing for granted. This game is massive. It isn’t just about Arsenal-Lincoln or the future of Arsene Wenger and the pressure on us at the moment. It is about our best chance to win a trophy this season but, almost just as importantly, about the FA Cup itself. I don’t just love the competition because we are the most successful side in the history of the FA Cup or because we have won it twice in recent years. I just simply love the tournament and watching FA Cup games no matter who is involved.
If I had to make a gut prediction at this stage it would be 4-1 Arsenal and that doesn’t mean I am not taking Lincoln seriously as I certainly haven’t written them off. Anything can happen in the FA Cup and we need to make sure we don’t get complacent. Nobody has a given right to win a cup tie and it is about who wants it more on the day. We should have too much for them, but you just never know and we need a strong start and for the manager and the players to stand up to be counted. This may make me an unpopular local during FA Cup weekend, but I will always be Arsenal til I die!
Whatever the result, Lincoln can be proud of what has been a magnificent cup run from beating Altrincham, to knocking out four higher league sides including Premier League Burnley. Danny Cowley has done a tremendous job since arriving from Braintree and undoubtedly other clubs will be sniffing around for his services, but I genuinely believe Lincoln is where he is meant to be and I hope he stays for many years to come.
As for his opposite number at Arsenal, Wenger, opinion remains divided on whether or not he should stay. It is really hard not to let emotion get in the way of my feelings on this one. Some people say no league titles in 13 years means it is time to move on, whilst others want to stick by him no matter what. I agree that the length of time without a trophy is unacceptable and he has made some mistakes during his reign. The recent 10-2 aggregate defeat to Bayern Munich that ended our Champions League dream for yet another season showed maybe it is time for a change this summer. But whenever he goes I hope he is remembered for the good times and that the anti-Wenger fans don’t let their emotions over spill. Yes, it could be time for a change, but the grass isn’t always greener!
I will never forget what he has done for the club and whether he leaves in the summer or over the next few seasons we can’t ignore the past. I agree with some of the criticism that has come his way and I too get baffled by him sometimes, and I must admit the second 10 years have been nowhere near as good as the first. I have no idea who is the best candidate to succeed him and if it does happen in the summer or later I will understand and back the new man 100%. But when it is time for him to end his reign at Arsenal I’ll think of his overall reign with a smile.
Another FA Cup would be nice, so let’s make sure we are not on the wrong end of a cup upset!
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
*This blog entry can also be found on the Lincolnshire Echo's website - http://www.lincolnshirelive.co.uk/how-does-an-arsenal-fan-living-in-lincoln-feel-about-facing-lincoln-city-in-the-fa-cup/story-30190100-detail/story.html
Tuesday, 7 March 2017
Same old story as Gunners exit
Yet another round of 16 Champions League exit for Arsenal following a humiliating 10-2 aggregate defeat against Bayern Munich.
In many ways it felt like the same old story for my beloved Gunners as we always seem to give ourselves too big a task after a poor first leg, and then perform valiantly yet still exit in the second.
At 5-1 down at the halfway stage in the round of 16 tie it was always going to need some kind of miracle to turn things around.
We performed excellently in the first half of the second leg and probably should have been 2-0 up at the break, but a poor refereeing decision stopped any chance of that. We started well at the start of the second half, but then after Laurent Koscielny's bizarre red card it all went horribly wrong.
Playing with 10 men is never easy, especially against the likes of Bayern, but how we just rolled over was embarrassing! Yes, red cards can make a big difference, but how on earth did we go from a side showing so much hunger and passion in the first half to completely imploding in the final 35 minutes. It was simply not good enough and we are far too Jekyll and Hyde! Even if we had been given the penalty and gone 2-0 up and even added a third, I still think Bayern goals would have been inevitable.
To lose 5-1 at home is awful and simply embarrassing no matter who it was against and Arsene Wenger and the players need to take a long hard look at themselves. Could that have been Arsene Wenger's last Champions League match in charge of the club? Although I will never forget what he did in his earlier years with us, we just seem to be going backwards this season and maybe it's time for a change. As much as I have stuck by Wenger in the past and, when the time comes for him to go I will remember the good times, maybe this summer is the right time to pass on the reigns to the next manager.
Whether it is this summer or in a year or two that he actually goes there is no denying that there will be a hint of sadness at the end of an era, but all things eventually come to an end, so let's just focus on winning the FA Cup so he can end on a high. If he does stay I'll stick behind him or if a new man comes in I'll be 100% that guy too, but something must change and quickly.
Back to the second leg and if you look at the first half on its own we were excellent. Theo Walcott had a superb opening 45 minutes including scoring a goal to temporarily re-ignite the tie, but we just didn't take our chances well enough or respond in the right manner to going down to 10 men either. But regardless of this, when people look back at this tie in years to come not many will remember the good spells and will only really look at the result!
Arsenal had a chance to open the scoring after just 10 minutes when Walcott latched onto a superb long ball over the top. Unfortunately for the forward his first touch was slightly too heavy and allowed Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer to quickly come out and thwart him.
Chances continued to come and go for Arsenal as Olivier Giroud's header hit a post and went wide before Walcott's glancing header went out off Javi Martinez for a corner.
On another day we could have been a few up already, but we did finally get the break through after 20 minutes as Walcott thumped a powerful shot high into the net.
At the other end Robert Lewandowski was denied by David Ospina in the Arsenal goal, but it was the hosts who were creating the better chances. Arsenal were playing with a lot more hunger and urgency and maybe should have had a penalty when Walcott appeared to be fouled in the box by Xabi Alonso, but nothing was given. Had it been given and we'd scored to go 2-0 up the whole game could have been different, but we can't live for ifs and buts and that doesn't mask the fact of our poor first leg and how bad the final half an hour of the second leg was.
Walcott, who was excellent, latched onto a fine pass from Shkodran Mustafi before firing a shot into the side netting. Giroud sliced a shot wide and Alexis Sanchez's free-kick was comfortably saved by Neuer. Bayern also had decent chances in the first half, with Arjen Robben shooting straight at Ospina and Lewandowski somehow sending an effort wide of the far post when it looked easier to score.
At half-time I was delighted with the first half performance as we had shown great energy. We were playing as if we had something to prove, but unfortunately even at this point it was too little too late. We had given ourselves far too big a mountain to climb from the first leg.
The second half started brightly with Giroud heading over from Aaron Ramsey's cross, but the second leg all changed after 53 minutes. Laurent Koscielny was initially shown a yellow card following his nudge on Lewandowski in the box. I didn't have too much issue with the penalty, which Lewandowski scored, but my concern was with the unprofessional indecision of the officials. How the referee can give a yellow and then the decision change to red after consultation with other officials is ludicrous. It was all a bit of a mess and maybe if it had panned out differently we wouldn't have imploded quite as badly. Regardless of this there really can't be an excuse for what followed. We should have accepted the red card and focused on at least keeping the score down, but instead we just rolled over and got well and truly embarrassed for the final half an hour.
Ospina made a fine save to deny Lewandowski, but he could do nothing about Robben's close-range effort which put the result beyond any doubt. Lewandowski then hit a post before Douglas Costa curled in Bayern's third of the night. A cheeky finish from Arturo Vidal made it 4-1 before the Chilean tapped in his second to complete the rout.
Hector Bellerin came close to a consolation at the death, but his shot from the edge of the box and drifted just wide on what was a miserable evening for the Gunners.
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Our Champions League dream is over for yet another year and, although it is possible to find some positives, it doesn't really provide any consolation for what was a woeful exit.
Two very credible draws with PSG and finishing top of the group should have given us more confidence than it did, but it was the same old story of a poor first leg that ended our hopes in an all too familiar fashion.
There is no shame losing to Bayern Munich, who are an incredible side, if we had played for the whole two legs like we did in the first half of the second. But we didn't and overall we were simply not good enough so the exit really was shameful, especially after conceding five in our own back yard.
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
How on earth do we react to a 10-2 aggregate defeat!? The season is fizzling out yet again, but the manager and the players need to remain professional and focus on the next game.
Champions League exits and poor league title challenges hurt, but if anyone says the FA Cup doesn't matter I'll argue against that point 100%. Yes we have a so-called easier tie in the quarter-final and yes it is against the city I live in, Lincoln, but if we were to lose this one I would be equally as gutted as I feel right now.
The League and Champions League are of course top priority and it is disappointing we are not doing better, but the FA Cup still matters to me a lot and I am expecting a massive reaction from the players.
Playing a lower league side can often be a potential banana skin, but without disrespecting our next opponents, who have a special place in my heart, there is absolutely no excuse for us not to produce a huge reaction and to win big at our own ground. Wenger and the players make sure you get us through to the semi-finals! No excuses!
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
In many ways it felt like the same old story for my beloved Gunners as we always seem to give ourselves too big a task after a poor first leg, and then perform valiantly yet still exit in the second.
At 5-1 down at the halfway stage in the round of 16 tie it was always going to need some kind of miracle to turn things around.
We performed excellently in the first half of the second leg and probably should have been 2-0 up at the break, but a poor refereeing decision stopped any chance of that. We started well at the start of the second half, but then after Laurent Koscielny's bizarre red card it all went horribly wrong.
Playing with 10 men is never easy, especially against the likes of Bayern, but how we just rolled over was embarrassing! Yes, red cards can make a big difference, but how on earth did we go from a side showing so much hunger and passion in the first half to completely imploding in the final 35 minutes. It was simply not good enough and we are far too Jekyll and Hyde! Even if we had been given the penalty and gone 2-0 up and even added a third, I still think Bayern goals would have been inevitable.
To lose 5-1 at home is awful and simply embarrassing no matter who it was against and Arsene Wenger and the players need to take a long hard look at themselves. Could that have been Arsene Wenger's last Champions League match in charge of the club? Although I will never forget what he did in his earlier years with us, we just seem to be going backwards this season and maybe it's time for a change. As much as I have stuck by Wenger in the past and, when the time comes for him to go I will remember the good times, maybe this summer is the right time to pass on the reigns to the next manager.
Whether it is this summer or in a year or two that he actually goes there is no denying that there will be a hint of sadness at the end of an era, but all things eventually come to an end, so let's just focus on winning the FA Cup so he can end on a high. If he does stay I'll stick behind him or if a new man comes in I'll be 100% that guy too, but something must change and quickly.
Back to the second leg and if you look at the first half on its own we were excellent. Theo Walcott had a superb opening 45 minutes including scoring a goal to temporarily re-ignite the tie, but we just didn't take our chances well enough or respond in the right manner to going down to 10 men either. But regardless of this, when people look back at this tie in years to come not many will remember the good spells and will only really look at the result!
Arsenal had a chance to open the scoring after just 10 minutes when Walcott latched onto a superb long ball over the top. Unfortunately for the forward his first touch was slightly too heavy and allowed Bayern goalkeeper Manuel Neuer to quickly come out and thwart him.
Chances continued to come and go for Arsenal as Olivier Giroud's header hit a post and went wide before Walcott's glancing header went out off Javi Martinez for a corner.
On another day we could have been a few up already, but we did finally get the break through after 20 minutes as Walcott thumped a powerful shot high into the net.
At the other end Robert Lewandowski was denied by David Ospina in the Arsenal goal, but it was the hosts who were creating the better chances. Arsenal were playing with a lot more hunger and urgency and maybe should have had a penalty when Walcott appeared to be fouled in the box by Xabi Alonso, but nothing was given. Had it been given and we'd scored to go 2-0 up the whole game could have been different, but we can't live for ifs and buts and that doesn't mask the fact of our poor first leg and how bad the final half an hour of the second leg was.
Walcott, who was excellent, latched onto a fine pass from Shkodran Mustafi before firing a shot into the side netting. Giroud sliced a shot wide and Alexis Sanchez's free-kick was comfortably saved by Neuer. Bayern also had decent chances in the first half, with Arjen Robben shooting straight at Ospina and Lewandowski somehow sending an effort wide of the far post when it looked easier to score.
At half-time I was delighted with the first half performance as we had shown great energy. We were playing as if we had something to prove, but unfortunately even at this point it was too little too late. We had given ourselves far too big a mountain to climb from the first leg.
The second half started brightly with Giroud heading over from Aaron Ramsey's cross, but the second leg all changed after 53 minutes. Laurent Koscielny was initially shown a yellow card following his nudge on Lewandowski in the box. I didn't have too much issue with the penalty, which Lewandowski scored, but my concern was with the unprofessional indecision of the officials. How the referee can give a yellow and then the decision change to red after consultation with other officials is ludicrous. It was all a bit of a mess and maybe if it had panned out differently we wouldn't have imploded quite as badly. Regardless of this there really can't be an excuse for what followed. We should have accepted the red card and focused on at least keeping the score down, but instead we just rolled over and got well and truly embarrassed for the final half an hour.
Ospina made a fine save to deny Lewandowski, but he could do nothing about Robben's close-range effort which put the result beyond any doubt. Lewandowski then hit a post before Douglas Costa curled in Bayern's third of the night. A cheeky finish from Arturo Vidal made it 4-1 before the Chilean tapped in his second to complete the rout.
Hector Bellerin came close to a consolation at the death, but his shot from the edge of the box and drifted just wide on what was a miserable evening for the Gunners.
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
Our Champions League dream is over for yet another year and, although it is possible to find some positives, it doesn't really provide any consolation for what was a woeful exit.
Two very credible draws with PSG and finishing top of the group should have given us more confidence than it did, but it was the same old story of a poor first leg that ended our hopes in an all too familiar fashion.
There is no shame losing to Bayern Munich, who are an incredible side, if we had played for the whole two legs like we did in the first half of the second. But we didn't and overall we were simply not good enough so the exit really was shameful, especially after conceding five in our own back yard.
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
How on earth do we react to a 10-2 aggregate defeat!? The season is fizzling out yet again, but the manager and the players need to remain professional and focus on the next game.
Champions League exits and poor league title challenges hurt, but if anyone says the FA Cup doesn't matter I'll argue against that point 100%. Yes we have a so-called easier tie in the quarter-final and yes it is against the city I live in, Lincoln, but if we were to lose this one I would be equally as gutted as I feel right now.
The League and Champions League are of course top priority and it is disappointing we are not doing better, but the FA Cup still matters to me a lot and I am expecting a massive reaction from the players.
Playing a lower league side can often be a potential banana skin, but without disrespecting our next opponents, who have a special place in my heart, there is absolutely no excuse for us not to produce a huge reaction and to win big at our own ground. Wenger and the players make sure you get us through to the semi-finals! No excuses!
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
Sunday, 5 March 2017
Gunners falter at Anfield
Slipping out of the top four following a 3-1 defeat at Liverpool was bad enough, but some of the defending at Anfield was simply woeful.
Liverpool took their goals well, but for Mane's for example there were several outfield players in the box and not one of them closed him down. At times we seemed to have lots of defenders packed in the area, but very few were doing their job to the standard required. There was some really amateur defending on show and, whilst I don't want to take anything away from Liverpool who deserved their win, we really didn't help ourselves and were our own undoing.
The players need to take a long hard look at themselves and manager Arsene Wenger is also accountable and questions should be asked as to why the defending was so poor. Also I know Wenger had his reasons for not starting Alexis Sanchez, but for me it is absolutely absurd to have him on the bench especially in a game we knew could be one of our hardest away games. When he came on at half-time he was already making his presence felt within a few minutes and he also had a big hand in our goal. I'm all for trying different tactics and experimenting, but not starting one of your best players in such a big game is absolute madness in my opinion.
We improved in the second half, helped by the added energy of Sanchez, but it just wasn't enough to help us get anything out of the game. It is always a tough place to go and, although the defeat hurts, it is the manner of the defeat that was most disappointing. Had we put in a strong performance for 90 minutes and been unlucky it would have been easier to take, but the performance was simply not good enough.
Liverpool opened the scoring after just nine minutes when Sadio Mane sent in a cross, which Philippe Coutinho missed, but Roberto Firmino was on hand to take a touch a lift the ball into the roof of the net. It was a good finish to be fair to Firmino, but the defending was all over the place.
Arsenal tried to hit back with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain producing a good cross to trouble Simon Mignolet in the Liverpool goal, but Olivier Giroud couldn't quite get on the end of it.
Liverpool were enjoying the better of the chances in the first half and only a fine save from Petr Cech stopped Coutinho from adding their lead. The Gunners number one produced a great fingertip save to tip the Brazilian's effort over the bar.
The hosts doubled their advantage five minutes before the break. James Milner picked out Firmino, who in turn set up Mane on the right side of the box for the striker to beat Cech with a powerful drilled effort. If you pause the action just before Mane hits his shot you can see seven, yes seven, outfield players in the box yet he still seemed to have all the time in the world to take his shot. Very poor defending and inexcusable!
It could have been worse for Arsenal at half-time had Coutinho not shot straight at Cech when well placed in the box.
Sanchez's introduction injected some much-needed energy into Arsenal and they very nearly pulled a goal back within two minutes of the restart, but Giroud's header was superbly tipped onto the crossbar by Mignolet.
Arsenal did finally reduce the deficit after 57 minutes through Danny Welbeck's first Premier League goal of the season. Arsenal produced a great counter attack and Oxlade-Chamberlain picked out Sanchez, who timed his through-ball to perfection for Welbeck to clip a shot over Mignolet and into the net.
With the Gunners improving a comeback seemed possible, but in truth we still didn't trouble Liverpool enough after our goal and it was the hosts who looked more like scoring.
Coutinho shot over before sending in a cross for Joel Matip, but the defender's header was comfortably saved by Cech.
Shkodran Mustafi sent his header over the bar in a rare chance for Arsenal, who only had three shots on target.
Liverpool very nearly made it three when substitute Divock Origi got on the end of Milner's free-kick, but the Belgian's effort bounced back off a post.
There was still time for Arsenal to find an equaliser, but we didn't look like a team desperate to get a second goal. A comeback was doable, but we weren't creating enough and our defence was being opened up far too easily.
Arsenal did have a chance to snatch a point in stoppage time, but instead the chance ended up leading to Liverpool's third goal. Sanchez's fine ball picked out Hector Bellerin and his low pass was collected by Alex Iwobi. Iwobi then teed up Sanchez, who's shot was well blocked by Matip before Liverpool hit Arsenal on the break to score. Adam Lallana did really well to pick out Origi and he set up Georginio Wijnaldum to fire home and seal the points for Liverpool.
OPPOSITION VIEW
Liverpool fan Darren Warburton was happy to see his side get back on track with three points at Anfield.
"Both teams and managers were coming into the game with something to prove after recent criticisms," said Warburton. "It was Liverpool who responded best and in the first half were the better team, bossing all stats.
"It was a great opening goal from Firmino, a lovely move and finish from the Brazilian. A number of chances were missed before Mane capped off another fine bit of play with a composed finish past Cech.
"In the second half Arsenal came back into it with Sanchez giving Arsenal more of an attacking threat, and had a good 10 minute spell, which resulted in a cool Danny Welbeck finish to make it 2-1.
"The game was very open and nervy and Liverpool sealed the victory in the last minute with a quick counter attack and a lovely finish by Gini.
"Liverpool back on track and Arsenal fans will be questioning Wenger again - especially leaving Sanchez out."
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
Very poor defending let us down and not only is the title way beyond reach, but finishing in the top four is now under threat. I think we may still be able to sneak into the top four, but it will be difficult and ultimately fourth still isn't good enough.
If we defend like that in our next game against Bayern Munich the aggregate score could get embarrassing.
At 5-1 down from the first leg, the tie is virtually over barring a Champions League miracle, but the way we are playing that seems almost impossible.
We can't approach the game like that though. We have to play as if the tie is still alive. Realistically it isn't, but the manager and the players owe us a performance against a big side to be proud of.
We need to focus on defending strongly and getting an early goal and praying to the footballing gods for a miracle and what will be will be. Champions League exit at the round of 16 yet again looks likely, but I'll still be watching and cheering the players on.
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
Liverpool took their goals well, but for Mane's for example there were several outfield players in the box and not one of them closed him down. At times we seemed to have lots of defenders packed in the area, but very few were doing their job to the standard required. There was some really amateur defending on show and, whilst I don't want to take anything away from Liverpool who deserved their win, we really didn't help ourselves and were our own undoing.
The players need to take a long hard look at themselves and manager Arsene Wenger is also accountable and questions should be asked as to why the defending was so poor. Also I know Wenger had his reasons for not starting Alexis Sanchez, but for me it is absolutely absurd to have him on the bench especially in a game we knew could be one of our hardest away games. When he came on at half-time he was already making his presence felt within a few minutes and he also had a big hand in our goal. I'm all for trying different tactics and experimenting, but not starting one of your best players in such a big game is absolute madness in my opinion.
We improved in the second half, helped by the added energy of Sanchez, but it just wasn't enough to help us get anything out of the game. It is always a tough place to go and, although the defeat hurts, it is the manner of the defeat that was most disappointing. Had we put in a strong performance for 90 minutes and been unlucky it would have been easier to take, but the performance was simply not good enough.
Liverpool opened the scoring after just nine minutes when Sadio Mane sent in a cross, which Philippe Coutinho missed, but Roberto Firmino was on hand to take a touch a lift the ball into the roof of the net. It was a good finish to be fair to Firmino, but the defending was all over the place.
Arsenal tried to hit back with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain producing a good cross to trouble Simon Mignolet in the Liverpool goal, but Olivier Giroud couldn't quite get on the end of it.
Liverpool were enjoying the better of the chances in the first half and only a fine save from Petr Cech stopped Coutinho from adding their lead. The Gunners number one produced a great fingertip save to tip the Brazilian's effort over the bar.
The hosts doubled their advantage five minutes before the break. James Milner picked out Firmino, who in turn set up Mane on the right side of the box for the striker to beat Cech with a powerful drilled effort. If you pause the action just before Mane hits his shot you can see seven, yes seven, outfield players in the box yet he still seemed to have all the time in the world to take his shot. Very poor defending and inexcusable!
It could have been worse for Arsenal at half-time had Coutinho not shot straight at Cech when well placed in the box.
Sanchez's introduction injected some much-needed energy into Arsenal and they very nearly pulled a goal back within two minutes of the restart, but Giroud's header was superbly tipped onto the crossbar by Mignolet.
Arsenal did finally reduce the deficit after 57 minutes through Danny Welbeck's first Premier League goal of the season. Arsenal produced a great counter attack and Oxlade-Chamberlain picked out Sanchez, who timed his through-ball to perfection for Welbeck to clip a shot over Mignolet and into the net.
With the Gunners improving a comeback seemed possible, but in truth we still didn't trouble Liverpool enough after our goal and it was the hosts who looked more like scoring.
Coutinho shot over before sending in a cross for Joel Matip, but the defender's header was comfortably saved by Cech.
Shkodran Mustafi sent his header over the bar in a rare chance for Arsenal, who only had three shots on target.
Liverpool very nearly made it three when substitute Divock Origi got on the end of Milner's free-kick, but the Belgian's effort bounced back off a post.
There was still time for Arsenal to find an equaliser, but we didn't look like a team desperate to get a second goal. A comeback was doable, but we weren't creating enough and our defence was being opened up far too easily.
Arsenal did have a chance to snatch a point in stoppage time, but instead the chance ended up leading to Liverpool's third goal. Sanchez's fine ball picked out Hector Bellerin and his low pass was collected by Alex Iwobi. Iwobi then teed up Sanchez, who's shot was well blocked by Matip before Liverpool hit Arsenal on the break to score. Adam Lallana did really well to pick out Origi and he set up Georginio Wijnaldum to fire home and seal the points for Liverpool.
OPPOSITION VIEW
Liverpool fan Darren Warburton was happy to see his side get back on track with three points at Anfield.
"Both teams and managers were coming into the game with something to prove after recent criticisms," said Warburton. "It was Liverpool who responded best and in the first half were the better team, bossing all stats.
"It was a great opening goal from Firmino, a lovely move and finish from the Brazilian. A number of chances were missed before Mane capped off another fine bit of play with a composed finish past Cech.
"In the second half Arsenal came back into it with Sanchez giving Arsenal more of an attacking threat, and had a good 10 minute spell, which resulted in a cool Danny Welbeck finish to make it 2-1.
"The game was very open and nervy and Liverpool sealed the victory in the last minute with a quick counter attack and a lovely finish by Gini.
"Liverpool back on track and Arsenal fans will be questioning Wenger again - especially leaving Sanchez out."
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
Very poor defending let us down and not only is the title way beyond reach, but finishing in the top four is now under threat. I think we may still be able to sneak into the top four, but it will be difficult and ultimately fourth still isn't good enough.
If we defend like that in our next game against Bayern Munich the aggregate score could get embarrassing.
At 5-1 down from the first leg, the tie is virtually over barring a Champions League miracle, but the way we are playing that seems almost impossible.
We can't approach the game like that though. We have to play as if the tie is still alive. Realistically it isn't, but the manager and the players owe us a performance against a big side to be proud of.
We need to focus on defending strongly and getting an early goal and praying to the footballing gods for a miracle and what will be will be. Champions League exit at the round of 16 yet again looks likely, but I'll still be watching and cheering the players on.
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
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