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
Sunday, 6 November 2016
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
Wednesday, 19 October 2016
Treble for magnificent Mesut
Mesut Ozil is such a difficult player to stop when he is in good form and Ludogorets found this out as the German hit a hat-trick in Arsenal's 6-0 win.
Alexis Sanchez produced an excellent performance, including the opening goal of the game, while in-form forward Theo Walcott and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain also added their names to the scoresheet.
In attack the Gunners were excellent and, although many will argue that they were playing a much weaker opponent, the hosts still impressed against the Bulgarian champions.
With the group stages now at its halfway stage, the Gunners top Group A and look likely to qualify and after a seventh successive victory in competitions things are looking up for Arsene Wenger's men.
I refuse to get carried away with our impressive form as I know all too well how quickly things can change, but I certainly can't complain with how things are at the moment and we really do look good.
It took Arsenal 13 minutes to break the deadlock at the Emirates as Sanchez raced into the box and lobbed the ball over Vladislav Stoyanov for a great goal.
Although Arsenal controlled much of the game, it could have been a very different story had goalkeeper David Ospina not come to the host's rescue after the opening goal. The Colombian shot-stopper twice reacted quickly to deny Jonathan Cafu and preserve Arsenal's slender one-goal lead. Those saves proved crucial as Arsenal doubled their advantage four minutes before the break. Walcott, who was previously denied by a decent save from Stoyanov, latched onto a pass from Kieran Gibbs and curled a great strike beyond the goalkeeper.
Arsenal put the result beyond doubt within two minutes of the restart, with Gibbs once again the provider as his low ball was fired home by Oxlade-Chamberlain from close range.
The hosts added a fourth just 10 minutes later as Santi Cazorla's ball over the top set up Ozil, who took the ball away from his man with a great first touch before slotting the ball under Stoyanov for his first goal of the evening.
Arsenal continued to push forward with Oxlade-Chamberlain forcing a fine save out of Stoyanov before Arsenal added a fifth goal seven minutes from time. Substitute Lucas Perez, who came off the bench shortly after the hour mark, crossed for Ozil to confidently slot home.
Ozil completed his hat-trick just four minutes later with Perez again the provider. The summer signing sent in a cross, which Ozil met with a sweetly-struck volley into the bottom corner.
Six well-struck goals and a great three points for Arsenal and we'll be looking for more of the same when we travel to Bulgaria next month.
GROUP A
A top two finish looks very likely for Arsenal, but the race for top spot is still very tight.
Arsenal's 6-0 demolition of Ludogorets puts them top on goal difference, but PSG's 3-0 win over FC Basel keeps them level on points with us. The group could be decided by the home clash against PSG next month, but we need to make sure we stay consistent until then and are ready to take advantage of any slip ups by the French giants.
There is still plenty to play for in Group A, especially in the race for top spot, and we can't take anything for granted. But things are looking good so far, so let's hope we can keep it up.
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
It was a very encouraging performance albeit against a weaker side, but you can only beat what is put in front of you and we certainly did that in style.
Many people seem to expect us to do our usual and not last the pace, with it supposedly only being a matter of time before we slip up. So we need to make sure we prove our doubters wrong and show that we can in fact mount a serious title challenge in the Premier League and progress much further in the Champions League compared to previous seasons.
Focus now returns to the Premier League and the visit of Middlesbrough and this will certainly not be as easy as some fans may think. We cannot take the newly-promoted side lightly and must make sure we are at the top of our game in order to get three points.
I will not be able to blog for a few weeks due to my pending wedding and honeymoon, but I'll still be keeping a very close eye on the Gunners' upcoming matches and lets hope we can continue our rich vein of form.
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
Alexis Sanchez produced an excellent performance, including the opening goal of the game, while in-form forward Theo Walcott and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain also added their names to the scoresheet.
In attack the Gunners were excellent and, although many will argue that they were playing a much weaker opponent, the hosts still impressed against the Bulgarian champions.
With the group stages now at its halfway stage, the Gunners top Group A and look likely to qualify and after a seventh successive victory in competitions things are looking up for Arsene Wenger's men.
I refuse to get carried away with our impressive form as I know all too well how quickly things can change, but I certainly can't complain with how things are at the moment and we really do look good.
It took Arsenal 13 minutes to break the deadlock at the Emirates as Sanchez raced into the box and lobbed the ball over Vladislav Stoyanov for a great goal.
Although Arsenal controlled much of the game, it could have been a very different story had goalkeeper David Ospina not come to the host's rescue after the opening goal. The Colombian shot-stopper twice reacted quickly to deny Jonathan Cafu and preserve Arsenal's slender one-goal lead. Those saves proved crucial as Arsenal doubled their advantage four minutes before the break. Walcott, who was previously denied by a decent save from Stoyanov, latched onto a pass from Kieran Gibbs and curled a great strike beyond the goalkeeper.
Arsenal put the result beyond doubt within two minutes of the restart, with Gibbs once again the provider as his low ball was fired home by Oxlade-Chamberlain from close range.
The hosts added a fourth just 10 minutes later as Santi Cazorla's ball over the top set up Ozil, who took the ball away from his man with a great first touch before slotting the ball under Stoyanov for his first goal of the evening.
Arsenal continued to push forward with Oxlade-Chamberlain forcing a fine save out of Stoyanov before Arsenal added a fifth goal seven minutes from time. Substitute Lucas Perez, who came off the bench shortly after the hour mark, crossed for Ozil to confidently slot home.
Ozil completed his hat-trick just four minutes later with Perez again the provider. The summer signing sent in a cross, which Ozil met with a sweetly-struck volley into the bottom corner.
Six well-struck goals and a great three points for Arsenal and we'll be looking for more of the same when we travel to Bulgaria next month.
GROUP A
A top two finish looks very likely for Arsenal, but the race for top spot is still very tight.
Arsenal's 6-0 demolition of Ludogorets puts them top on goal difference, but PSG's 3-0 win over FC Basel keeps them level on points with us. The group could be decided by the home clash against PSG next month, but we need to make sure we stay consistent until then and are ready to take advantage of any slip ups by the French giants.
There is still plenty to play for in Group A, especially in the race for top spot, and we can't take anything for granted. But things are looking good so far, so let's hope we can keep it up.
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
It was a very encouraging performance albeit against a weaker side, but you can only beat what is put in front of you and we certainly did that in style.
Many people seem to expect us to do our usual and not last the pace, with it supposedly only being a matter of time before we slip up. So we need to make sure we prove our doubters wrong and show that we can in fact mount a serious title challenge in the Premier League and progress much further in the Champions League compared to previous seasons.
Focus now returns to the Premier League and the visit of Middlesbrough and this will certainly not be as easy as some fans may think. We cannot take the newly-promoted side lightly and must make sure we are at the top of our game in order to get three points.
I will not be able to blog for a few weeks due to my pending wedding and honeymoon, but I'll still be keeping a very close eye on the Gunners' upcoming matches and lets hope we can continue our rich vein of form.
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
Sunday, 16 October 2016
Walcott at the double for Gunners
Facing a side in their first match under a new manager is never easy and it can sometimes bring renewed belief to a team.
Swansea are always a tough team to face anyway and, with Bob Bradley taking charge for the first time, it had the potential to be a very tricky encounter and so it proved with us edging it 3-2 despite having 10 men.
Theo Walcott struck twice to take his tally for the season to seven in all competitions, but it was birthday boy Mesut Ozil who netted the decisive goal with a delightful volley.
Granit Xhaka's straight red card meant playing the final 20 minutes with 10 men and we could have fallen apart at this point, but we managed to hold on to the victory when in a previous season we might have lost it.
It is still far too early to really tell which direction our season is heading, but results are encouraging and as things stand we are second and only behind leaders Manchester City on goal difference so let's hope we can keep up the good work.
Arsenal started brightly and came close to opening the scoring after 12 minutes when Shkodran Mustafi's header hit the crossbar while, at the other end, Leroy Fer failed to take advantage of the space he was given and blazed his effort over.
The Gunners broke the deadlock after 26 minutes and, although Walcott took his goal well, Swansea will have been really disappointed with their defending. Walcott passed to Sanchez, who then lofted the ball over to Hector Bellerin and the Spanish full-back headed back across goal. Jordi Amat controlled it poorly and failed to clear the danger, allowing Walcott to nip in and score from close range.
Sanchez saw his lob sail just off target before Bellerin's shot was well blocked behind for a corner by former Gunner Lukasz Fabianksi. But it wasn't too long before Walcott was adding his second goal. The Swansea defence again failed to clear the danger properly and Walcott controlled the loose ball before turning and sending a shot beyond Fabianski from close range.
Swansea reduced the deficit seven minutes before the break as Gylfi Sigurdsson dispossessed Xhaka and curled a shot beyond Petr Cech in the Arsenal goal.
The visitors then wasted the chance to level matters before the break as Amat sent his header straight into the grateful hands of Cech.
It was hard to know which way this game was going to swing as Fabianski kept out Walcott's first-time strike to keep the Swans in the game. But birthday boy Ozil gave Arsenal some breathing space after 57 minutes. Sanchez sent a deep cross into the box and Ozil met it with a finely struck volley into the top corner.
Swansea refused to give up and cut the gap to just one goal after 66 minutes. Barrow had been giving Nacho Monreal a torrid afternoon and he once again got the better of the Spanish defender before sending in a low cross for Borja to slot home.
The visitors' hopes of a comeback were further boosted when Arsenal midfielder Xhaka was sent off with 20 minutes still left to play. The Switzerland international saw red for a clumsy trip from behind on Barrow.
Swansea had chances to make the extra man count, but were unable to make the most of them. Wayne Routledge crossed for Barrow in plenty of space, but the 24-year-old didn't get enough on his header and it was comfortably saved by Cech. Barrow continued to cause a threat though and got the better of Monreal once again before crossing into the box for Sigurdsson, but the midfielder fired over.
At the other end Walcott then missed the opportunity to complete his hat-trick when his shot hit the inside of a post.
Swansea wasted two late chances to snatch a point as Fer headed straight at Cech, who also produced a diving save to keep out Federico Fernandez.
Arsenal finished the game on top and created a few chances in injury time as Fabianski kept out Bellerin before Walcott somehow skied over from Oxlade-Chamberlain's perfectly-timed pass, but it didn't stop the hosts from holding on for the win.
OPPOSITION VIEW
Swansea fan Lisa Phillips saw enough positives from the game to not be too disheartened by the result.
"I thought we played well even though we didn't have many chances," said Phillips. "Arsenal probably deserved the win, but it was nice for the Swans to have an exciting game for once."
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
I am refusing to get carried away with our start to the season but, at this stage, I'll take being second and behind only on goal difference.
We need to be consistent to give ourselves any chance of a serious title challenge, but some of the early signs are encouraging so let's wait and see what happens.
Focus now switches to the Champions League and the visit of Ludogorets. We will definitely go into that one as firm favourites, but we must make sure we don't underestimate any of our opponents this season. Let's keep plugging away and keep on winning!
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
Swansea are always a tough team to face anyway and, with Bob Bradley taking charge for the first time, it had the potential to be a very tricky encounter and so it proved with us edging it 3-2 despite having 10 men.
Theo Walcott struck twice to take his tally for the season to seven in all competitions, but it was birthday boy Mesut Ozil who netted the decisive goal with a delightful volley.
Granit Xhaka's straight red card meant playing the final 20 minutes with 10 men and we could have fallen apart at this point, but we managed to hold on to the victory when in a previous season we might have lost it.
It is still far too early to really tell which direction our season is heading, but results are encouraging and as things stand we are second and only behind leaders Manchester City on goal difference so let's hope we can keep up the good work.
Arsenal started brightly and came close to opening the scoring after 12 minutes when Shkodran Mustafi's header hit the crossbar while, at the other end, Leroy Fer failed to take advantage of the space he was given and blazed his effort over.
The Gunners broke the deadlock after 26 minutes and, although Walcott took his goal well, Swansea will have been really disappointed with their defending. Walcott passed to Sanchez, who then lofted the ball over to Hector Bellerin and the Spanish full-back headed back across goal. Jordi Amat controlled it poorly and failed to clear the danger, allowing Walcott to nip in and score from close range.
Sanchez saw his lob sail just off target before Bellerin's shot was well blocked behind for a corner by former Gunner Lukasz Fabianksi. But it wasn't too long before Walcott was adding his second goal. The Swansea defence again failed to clear the danger properly and Walcott controlled the loose ball before turning and sending a shot beyond Fabianski from close range.
Swansea reduced the deficit seven minutes before the break as Gylfi Sigurdsson dispossessed Xhaka and curled a shot beyond Petr Cech in the Arsenal goal.
The visitors then wasted the chance to level matters before the break as Amat sent his header straight into the grateful hands of Cech.
It was hard to know which way this game was going to swing as Fabianski kept out Walcott's first-time strike to keep the Swans in the game. But birthday boy Ozil gave Arsenal some breathing space after 57 minutes. Sanchez sent a deep cross into the box and Ozil met it with a finely struck volley into the top corner.
Swansea refused to give up and cut the gap to just one goal after 66 minutes. Barrow had been giving Nacho Monreal a torrid afternoon and he once again got the better of the Spanish defender before sending in a low cross for Borja to slot home.
The visitors' hopes of a comeback were further boosted when Arsenal midfielder Xhaka was sent off with 20 minutes still left to play. The Switzerland international saw red for a clumsy trip from behind on Barrow.
Swansea had chances to make the extra man count, but were unable to make the most of them. Wayne Routledge crossed for Barrow in plenty of space, but the 24-year-old didn't get enough on his header and it was comfortably saved by Cech. Barrow continued to cause a threat though and got the better of Monreal once again before crossing into the box for Sigurdsson, but the midfielder fired over.
At the other end Walcott then missed the opportunity to complete his hat-trick when his shot hit the inside of a post.
Swansea wasted two late chances to snatch a point as Fer headed straight at Cech, who also produced a diving save to keep out Federico Fernandez.
Arsenal finished the game on top and created a few chances in injury time as Fabianski kept out Bellerin before Walcott somehow skied over from Oxlade-Chamberlain's perfectly-timed pass, but it didn't stop the hosts from holding on for the win.
OPPOSITION VIEW
Swansea fan Lisa Phillips saw enough positives from the game to not be too disheartened by the result.
"I thought we played well even though we didn't have many chances," said Phillips. "Arsenal probably deserved the win, but it was nice for the Swans to have an exciting game for once."
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
I am refusing to get carried away with our start to the season but, at this stage, I'll take being second and behind only on goal difference.
We need to be consistent to give ourselves any chance of a serious title challenge, but some of the early signs are encouraging so let's wait and see what happens.
Focus now switches to the Champions League and the visit of Ludogorets. We will definitely go into that one as firm favourites, but we must make sure we don't underestimate any of our opponents this season. Let's keep plugging away and keep on winning!
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
Sunday, 2 October 2016
Kos controversy as Gunners win
Arsenal certainly left it late and made hard work of it, but it's the result that counts and Laurent Koscielny's late goal gave us what feels like a massive 1-0 win at Burnley.
We didn't play with the same attacking style as we had shown in the recent victories over Chelsea and FC Basel, but you can't always win pretty and at least we ensured we came away from Turf Moor with all three points as Arsene Wenger celebrated 20 years in charge of the Gunners.
We had a large amount of possession, but credit to Burnley who did well shutting us out for most of the game until Koscielny's late intervention. The goal itself caused some controversy with sections of the crowd, especially the home supporters, believing it should have been ruled out for handball and offside. At first glance, it did look as though it had hit the defender's arm but that also he couldn't really have done much to prevent it. After seeing the replays, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain's shot does deflect off Koscielny's arm, but it was purely accidental. It is cruel on Burnley, who had battled valiantly, and whilst the goal is up for debate I certainly won't be complaining at the result. Big relief at us getting this win; luck appeared to be on our side and for that I am grateful.
The first half wasn't very easy on the eye and neither side did much to excite the supporters. Theo Walcott saw two early efforts go wide while, at the other end, Sam Vokes somehow headed off target when left unmarked in the box.
Arsenal improved slightly after the break with Alexis Sanchez forcing a save from Tom Heaton in the Burnley goal, but it was the hosts who had the better chances to take the lead before the goal. Petr Cech was at full stretch as he kept out Johann Berg Gudmundsson's effort before Michael Keane saw his header hit the crossbar.
Walcott sent another shot wide as it looked increasingly like it was going to end in frustration for Arsenal, but deep into stoppage time the Gunners finally scored the decisive goal. Substitute Oxlade-Chamberlain's effort was touched into the net by Koscielny and I'm sure we haven't heard the last of the debate about this goal, but it won't change the result.
Just how significant could this result be? It is only one game and it won't make or break our season, but often when seasons go right or wrong certain games are looked back on. For us it was one where fortune favoured us on the day, but for Burnley it will be remembered as the point that got away.
OPPOSITION VIEW
Burnley fan Martyn Biddulph was full of praise for his side and felt they deserved more out of the game.
"We set out on Monday to get in Watford's faces and dominate the midfield. It worked on Monday but obviously Arsenal was always going to be a different ball game.
"Every single player in Claret and blue worked their socks off from start to finish today and were tremendous minimising the threat of Ozil and Sanchez.
"Obviously conceding that late on was an absolute sickener and felt undeserved after an outstanding defensive performance. If teams want to see how to play 4-5-1 against a big team show them that Burnley performance.
"Impossible to pick a fault out there unless you look at the referee and the less said about the goal the better. Hopefully we will meet again in the league next season and keep battling on."
Fellow Clarets' supporter Chris Horner was disappointed by the referee's decision to allow Arsenal's winner, but he still remained upbeat despite the result.
"I thought Arsenal controlled large amounts of the game and possession, but Burnley defended well and ultimately deserved a point," added Chris Horner. "The decision by the officials not to disallow the goal was incorrect in my opinion and cost Burnley a point that could make a major difference at the end of the season.
"It was a bit gutting with the timing of the goal coming as it did, but we can hold our heads high as we played well enough to keep Arsenal at bay for 92 minutes."
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
We now head into an international break having stretched our unbeaten league run to six games and, although the Burnley victory could be seen as fortunate, this is still good form and we need to keep picking up positive results.
It is a few weeks before we return to action again and the visit of Swansea will certainly be a tough test, so we need to make sure we produce a performance more like we did against Chelsea and try not leave it quite as late as we did at Turf Moor.
That result saw us close the gap on leaders Manchester City to four points, but we need to produce more consistent performances if we are to give ourselves any hope of keeping up the pace. Whatever happens I'll be backing the lads the whole way!
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
We didn't play with the same attacking style as we had shown in the recent victories over Chelsea and FC Basel, but you can't always win pretty and at least we ensured we came away from Turf Moor with all three points as Arsene Wenger celebrated 20 years in charge of the Gunners.
We had a large amount of possession, but credit to Burnley who did well shutting us out for most of the game until Koscielny's late intervention. The goal itself caused some controversy with sections of the crowd, especially the home supporters, believing it should have been ruled out for handball and offside. At first glance, it did look as though it had hit the defender's arm but that also he couldn't really have done much to prevent it. After seeing the replays, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain's shot does deflect off Koscielny's arm, but it was purely accidental. It is cruel on Burnley, who had battled valiantly, and whilst the goal is up for debate I certainly won't be complaining at the result. Big relief at us getting this win; luck appeared to be on our side and for that I am grateful.
The first half wasn't very easy on the eye and neither side did much to excite the supporters. Theo Walcott saw two early efforts go wide while, at the other end, Sam Vokes somehow headed off target when left unmarked in the box.
Arsenal improved slightly after the break with Alexis Sanchez forcing a save from Tom Heaton in the Burnley goal, but it was the hosts who had the better chances to take the lead before the goal. Petr Cech was at full stretch as he kept out Johann Berg Gudmundsson's effort before Michael Keane saw his header hit the crossbar.
Walcott sent another shot wide as it looked increasingly like it was going to end in frustration for Arsenal, but deep into stoppage time the Gunners finally scored the decisive goal. Substitute Oxlade-Chamberlain's effort was touched into the net by Koscielny and I'm sure we haven't heard the last of the debate about this goal, but it won't change the result.
Just how significant could this result be? It is only one game and it won't make or break our season, but often when seasons go right or wrong certain games are looked back on. For us it was one where fortune favoured us on the day, but for Burnley it will be remembered as the point that got away.
OPPOSITION VIEW
Burnley fan Martyn Biddulph was full of praise for his side and felt they deserved more out of the game.
"We set out on Monday to get in Watford's faces and dominate the midfield. It worked on Monday but obviously Arsenal was always going to be a different ball game.
"Every single player in Claret and blue worked their socks off from start to finish today and were tremendous minimising the threat of Ozil and Sanchez.
"Obviously conceding that late on was an absolute sickener and felt undeserved after an outstanding defensive performance. If teams want to see how to play 4-5-1 against a big team show them that Burnley performance.
"Impossible to pick a fault out there unless you look at the referee and the less said about the goal the better. Hopefully we will meet again in the league next season and keep battling on."
Fellow Clarets' supporter Chris Horner was disappointed by the referee's decision to allow Arsenal's winner, but he still remained upbeat despite the result.
"I thought Arsenal controlled large amounts of the game and possession, but Burnley defended well and ultimately deserved a point," added Chris Horner. "The decision by the officials not to disallow the goal was incorrect in my opinion and cost Burnley a point that could make a major difference at the end of the season.
"It was a bit gutting with the timing of the goal coming as it did, but we can hold our heads high as we played well enough to keep Arsenal at bay for 92 minutes."
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
We now head into an international break having stretched our unbeaten league run to six games and, although the Burnley victory could be seen as fortunate, this is still good form and we need to keep picking up positive results.
It is a few weeks before we return to action again and the visit of Swansea will certainly be a tough test, so we need to make sure we produce a performance more like we did against Chelsea and try not leave it quite as late as we did at Turf Moor.
That result saw us close the gap on leaders Manchester City to four points, but we need to produce more consistent performances if we are to give ourselves any hope of keeping up the pace. Whatever happens I'll be backing the lads the whole way!
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
Wednesday, 28 September 2016
Walcott double devastates Basel
Theo Walcott is a player really growing in confidence at the moment and his double in Arsenal's 2-0 win over FC Basel will have done him the world of good.
When he was selected to start against Chelsea last time out, I questioned his selection, but his performances in that game and the Champions League class with FC Basel have been superb.
If Walcott and his team-mates can maintain this level of performance consistently in the coming months it could be a very exciting season, but it is still very early days yet.
Although the tempo of the game dipped a bit after the break, the first-half performance by the Gunners was of the highest quality. We may not have been playing the toughest of opponents but, I have to give credit where credits due, it was still a great display.
Arsenal opened the scoring after just eight minutes through Walcott's thumping header. Alexis Sanchez raced onto a great ball from Santi Cazorla before sending a first-time cross into the box. Walcott sprinted into the box to meet the Chilean's cross with a fine powerful header to give Basel goalkeeper Tomas Vaclik no chance.
Arsene Wenger's men were in total control and putting together some excellent passing moves, with the same confidence as which they had dispatched of Chelsea in their last game. It was a joy to watch and it was hardly surprising when the Gunners added a second after 26 minutes and again Walcott was at the heart of it. The forward passed to Sanchez before running into space and receiving the ball back from the Chilean in time to fire a shot in off the far post.
The score could have got worse for FC Basel had Vaclik not put in a great performance, with the goalkeeper doing well to deny Nacho Monreal, Sanchez, and Hector Bellerin before the break.
The second-half wasn't quite at the same tempo, but Arsenal still looked in control for large spells. Alex Iwobi, who again looked lively, saw his shot go just wide.
Chances were few and far between for FC Basel, but they did come close to reducing the deficit through Birkir Bjarnason, but the Icelandic midfielder saw his effort excellently tipped over the bar by David Ospina in the Arsenal goal.
Arsenal were unable to add to the scoreline as Sanchez sent a shot wide, but the hosts still got the job done by getting all three points and now sit joint top in Group A following PSG's 3-1 win at Ludogorets.
GROUP A
There is still plenty to play for in Group A, but Arsenal can be pleased with their start of four points from a possible six.
With a double header against Ludogorets coming up next in their Champions League campaign two more wins look likely, although we must make sure not to get complacent and to not underestimate our Bulgarian opponents.
Unless some shock results happen, it does seem likely that our home clash with PSG in the fifth round of fixtures will be the game that decides who finishes top and second in the group.
But we mustn't rest on our laurels and we need to make sure we get the job done without any silly mistakes but, all in all, I am happy with the start we have made to this season's Champions League.
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
Recent performances are certainly very encouraging for Arsenal and if we can keep up the same high level of tempo, intensity, skill, hunger and determination, then things will continue to look up for us this season.
But we need to just take each game one at a time and not get carried away. A trip to Turf Moor to face Burnley awaits in our next Premier League game and, although we cannot underestimate the Clarets, I am quietly confident about this one, especially with the form Walcott, Sanchez and Ozil are in at the moment.
My only minor negative from the recent matches is that we haven't seen new signing Lucas Perez get more of a run out but, when the starting players are all playing so well, it is hard to make a case to drop anyone at the moment. The competition for places is intense, but that is a good thing surely.
Let's make sure we do to Burnley what we did to Chelsea and FC Basel, dominate, play well and, above all, win!
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
When he was selected to start against Chelsea last time out, I questioned his selection, but his performances in that game and the Champions League class with FC Basel have been superb.
If Walcott and his team-mates can maintain this level of performance consistently in the coming months it could be a very exciting season, but it is still very early days yet.
Although the tempo of the game dipped a bit after the break, the first-half performance by the Gunners was of the highest quality. We may not have been playing the toughest of opponents but, I have to give credit where credits due, it was still a great display.
Arsenal opened the scoring after just eight minutes through Walcott's thumping header. Alexis Sanchez raced onto a great ball from Santi Cazorla before sending a first-time cross into the box. Walcott sprinted into the box to meet the Chilean's cross with a fine powerful header to give Basel goalkeeper Tomas Vaclik no chance.
Arsene Wenger's men were in total control and putting together some excellent passing moves, with the same confidence as which they had dispatched of Chelsea in their last game. It was a joy to watch and it was hardly surprising when the Gunners added a second after 26 minutes and again Walcott was at the heart of it. The forward passed to Sanchez before running into space and receiving the ball back from the Chilean in time to fire a shot in off the far post.
The score could have got worse for FC Basel had Vaclik not put in a great performance, with the goalkeeper doing well to deny Nacho Monreal, Sanchez, and Hector Bellerin before the break.
The second-half wasn't quite at the same tempo, but Arsenal still looked in control for large spells. Alex Iwobi, who again looked lively, saw his shot go just wide.
Chances were few and far between for FC Basel, but they did come close to reducing the deficit through Birkir Bjarnason, but the Icelandic midfielder saw his effort excellently tipped over the bar by David Ospina in the Arsenal goal.
Arsenal were unable to add to the scoreline as Sanchez sent a shot wide, but the hosts still got the job done by getting all three points and now sit joint top in Group A following PSG's 3-1 win at Ludogorets.
GROUP A
There is still plenty to play for in Group A, but Arsenal can be pleased with their start of four points from a possible six.
With a double header against Ludogorets coming up next in their Champions League campaign two more wins look likely, although we must make sure not to get complacent and to not underestimate our Bulgarian opponents.
Unless some shock results happen, it does seem likely that our home clash with PSG in the fifth round of fixtures will be the game that decides who finishes top and second in the group.
But we mustn't rest on our laurels and we need to make sure we get the job done without any silly mistakes but, all in all, I am happy with the start we have made to this season's Champions League.
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
Recent performances are certainly very encouraging for Arsenal and if we can keep up the same high level of tempo, intensity, skill, hunger and determination, then things will continue to look up for us this season.
But we need to just take each game one at a time and not get carried away. A trip to Turf Moor to face Burnley awaits in our next Premier League game and, although we cannot underestimate the Clarets, I am quietly confident about this one, especially with the form Walcott, Sanchez and Ozil are in at the moment.
My only minor negative from the recent matches is that we haven't seen new signing Lucas Perez get more of a run out but, when the starting players are all playing so well, it is hard to make a case to drop anyone at the moment. The competition for places is intense, but that is a good thing surely.
Let's make sure we do to Burnley what we did to Chelsea and FC Basel, dominate, play well and, above all, win!
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
Sunday, 25 September 2016
Classy Gunners thrash Chelsea
Absolutely bossed it! Superb performance! Not the analysis I was expecting to give after a match against Chelsea, but the 3-0 victory over our London rivals really was of the highest quality.
Three well-taken goals by Alexis Sanchez, Theo Walcott and Mesut Ozil got us all three points, with the latter being picked out as man of the match by BBC Sport. Fellow attacking player Alex Iwobi was given man of the match by BT Sport, but what impressed me the most was the defence. The centre-back pairing of Laurent Koscielny and Shkodran Mustafi kept the Chelsea attack of Eden Hazard and Diego Costa very quiet. In fact, the whole back four were solid for the most part and we played with a lot of fluidity in attack. I should take this moment to praise the performance of Theo Walcott. Before the match I was questioning his selection and said to a friend how I wouldn't have started him, but he certainly silenced by criticism with an excellent display. In truth, our attack maybe should've scored more, but it was still an excellent result.
Chelsea only had two shots on target in the entire match and each time I kept thinking, 'I bet Chelsea nick a goal out of nowhere to scupper us', we had other ideas and continued to pressure our opponents.
I don't want to get carried away as it is only one game and there is still a long way to go this season but if, and it's a big if, we can produce performances like that on a regular basis this could yet be an exciting season. Whatever happens, that is a performance we can really enjoy! Especially when you consider this was our first league win over Chelsea since 2011, it made it all the sweeter! It came at a cost with Francis Coquelin being forced off injured with a knee problem. I would've also liked to have seen summer signing Lucas Perez given a run out, but I'm sure his time will come, and beating Chelsea was the main thing!
Arsenal started brightly with Santi Cazorla forcing Thibaut Courtois into a save, while Sanchez shot deflected over the bar. The Chilean had better luck next time as he opened the scoring after 11 minutes. Sanchez pressured Gary Cahill and forced the England defender into an error before racing clear on goal and chipping the ball over Courtois.
It got even better just three minutes later as Walcott finished off a great team move. Alex Iwobi released Hector Bellerin with a perfectly-timed pass before the Spanish defender sent in a first-time cross for Walcott to slot home.
Even at 2-0, I knew Chelsea weren't out of it yet and the visitors came close to reducing the deficit when Willian shot just wide.
The Gunners then completed a fine first half with a third goal five minutes before the break. Ozil intercepted the ball in his own half before running at the opposition and passing to Sanchez, who returned the ball back to him in plenty of space with an excellent cross for the German to volley home.
What an excellent first half it was and some were comparing it to last season's victory over Manchester United, but I think this one was even better! I half thought the second half would peter out but, even though we didn't add to the score, we continued to attack and look in total control of the game for large periods. Walcott came close to adding his second goal of the afternoon, but Courtois did well to block his effort.
At the other end, Chelsea did try to mount attacks, but our defence held firm with some great challenges. We really looked up for the game and determined to get a result.
Just as Pedro looked like he might be about to burst through, Bellerin raced back superbly to deny him with an excellently-timed tackle. The closest Chelsea came to a goal was when Michy Batshuayi raced towards goal, but Petr Cech was on hand to block the substitute's effort.
What a performance and what a day to remember! But we need to make sure we make this count and reproduce this again next week and the weeks that follow!
OPPOSITION VIEW
Chelsea fan Paul Boulter admitted his side had been second best at the Emirates.
"Fair play to Arsenal, they absolutely put Chelsea to the sword," said Boulter. "I don't think I have seen the Blues dominated so much during the Abramovich era.
"Arsenal scored three very well worked goals as it seemed Chelsea weren't at the races. Conte needs to sort out the defence and quick, but Arsenal sent out a real statement.
"Arsenal will have a good season judging by this game. It seems Wenger has his house in order."
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
After one of, if not our best league performance in recent seasons, we must now try reproduce more of the same as attention turns to the Champions League and the visit of Swiss outfit FC Basel.
If we can play like we did against Chelsea again FC Basel could be in for a hiding, but we must take each game on at a time and not get carried away or complacent.
But no matter how things pan out we can finally say that we have ended our Premier League Chelsea hoodoo and in perfect style.
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
Three well-taken goals by Alexis Sanchez, Theo Walcott and Mesut Ozil got us all three points, with the latter being picked out as man of the match by BBC Sport. Fellow attacking player Alex Iwobi was given man of the match by BT Sport, but what impressed me the most was the defence. The centre-back pairing of Laurent Koscielny and Shkodran Mustafi kept the Chelsea attack of Eden Hazard and Diego Costa very quiet. In fact, the whole back four were solid for the most part and we played with a lot of fluidity in attack. I should take this moment to praise the performance of Theo Walcott. Before the match I was questioning his selection and said to a friend how I wouldn't have started him, but he certainly silenced by criticism with an excellent display. In truth, our attack maybe should've scored more, but it was still an excellent result.
Chelsea only had two shots on target in the entire match and each time I kept thinking, 'I bet Chelsea nick a goal out of nowhere to scupper us', we had other ideas and continued to pressure our opponents.
I don't want to get carried away as it is only one game and there is still a long way to go this season but if, and it's a big if, we can produce performances like that on a regular basis this could yet be an exciting season. Whatever happens, that is a performance we can really enjoy! Especially when you consider this was our first league win over Chelsea since 2011, it made it all the sweeter! It came at a cost with Francis Coquelin being forced off injured with a knee problem. I would've also liked to have seen summer signing Lucas Perez given a run out, but I'm sure his time will come, and beating Chelsea was the main thing!
Arsenal started brightly with Santi Cazorla forcing Thibaut Courtois into a save, while Sanchez shot deflected over the bar. The Chilean had better luck next time as he opened the scoring after 11 minutes. Sanchez pressured Gary Cahill and forced the England defender into an error before racing clear on goal and chipping the ball over Courtois.
It got even better just three minutes later as Walcott finished off a great team move. Alex Iwobi released Hector Bellerin with a perfectly-timed pass before the Spanish defender sent in a first-time cross for Walcott to slot home.
Even at 2-0, I knew Chelsea weren't out of it yet and the visitors came close to reducing the deficit when Willian shot just wide.
The Gunners then completed a fine first half with a third goal five minutes before the break. Ozil intercepted the ball in his own half before running at the opposition and passing to Sanchez, who returned the ball back to him in plenty of space with an excellent cross for the German to volley home.
What an excellent first half it was and some were comparing it to last season's victory over Manchester United, but I think this one was even better! I half thought the second half would peter out but, even though we didn't add to the score, we continued to attack and look in total control of the game for large periods. Walcott came close to adding his second goal of the afternoon, but Courtois did well to block his effort.
At the other end, Chelsea did try to mount attacks, but our defence held firm with some great challenges. We really looked up for the game and determined to get a result.
Just as Pedro looked like he might be about to burst through, Bellerin raced back superbly to deny him with an excellently-timed tackle. The closest Chelsea came to a goal was when Michy Batshuayi raced towards goal, but Petr Cech was on hand to block the substitute's effort.
What a performance and what a day to remember! But we need to make sure we make this count and reproduce this again next week and the weeks that follow!
OPPOSITION VIEW
Chelsea fan Paul Boulter admitted his side had been second best at the Emirates.
"Fair play to Arsenal, they absolutely put Chelsea to the sword," said Boulter. "I don't think I have seen the Blues dominated so much during the Abramovich era.
"Arsenal scored three very well worked goals as it seemed Chelsea weren't at the races. Conte needs to sort out the defence and quick, but Arsenal sent out a real statement.
"Arsenal will have a good season judging by this game. It seems Wenger has his house in order."
MY FINAL THOUGHTS
After one of, if not our best league performance in recent seasons, we must now try reproduce more of the same as attention turns to the Champions League and the visit of Swiss outfit FC Basel.
If we can play like we did against Chelsea again FC Basel could be in for a hiding, but we must take each game on at a time and not get carried away or complacent.
But no matter how things pan out we can finally say that we have ended our Premier League Chelsea hoodoo and in perfect style.
COME ON YOU GUNNERS
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