United post match thought

Arsenal salvaged a point in Old Trafford despite in overall United dominated the game, especially in the first half, when the Gunners could not able to create single attempt at all. Arsenal were able to equalized, thanks to Tyler Blackett's own goal from Theo Walcott's cross. Arsenal remains on the 3rd place with 71 points from 36 games, while United stays on the 4th place with two points less but one game played more than Arsenal.

Generally, Arsenal were being second best and United controlled the possession. The introduction of Walcott and Wilshere on the mid of the second half rejuvenated the Gunners' performance. Only after this substitution - with United looked tired as the game wore on - Arsenal looked threatening.

United vs Arsenal Stats 

Source: espnfc.com

There are several take-ons from this game

1. Stagnant Line-up

Same Line-Up, yet again

Yet another unchanged line-up named by Wenger for this match: Ospina; Bellerin, Koscielny, Mertesacker, Monreal; Coquelin, Cazorla; Ramsey, Ozil, Alexis; Giroud. It has been the same for the recent weeks despite blip in Swansea. While I understand Wenger wants the first team to settle, I would say changing one or two players per game would not do harm. Not changing the line-up could potentially give the sense of safety of the starters, giving them complacency and I think this might be the reason on the decline of the performance on the last two matches. If they know their place in the starting line-up is not safe, they would fight more for it instead of feeling safe because the manager keeps playing same team. 

Rotation could help Arsenal to prevent injury as well as to help the jaded players. Cazorla could do good with having one game off as he is one of the most played midfield this season, and so could Alexis. David Ospina is a good keeper, but I feel on the last two games he could do better. Szczesny did make mistake on the earlier of the season, but I think we could give him more chance. He has a faster reflex compared to Ospina and with a taller height, he has a longer reach. I feel he could have prevented Gomis' goal last week and also Herrera's shot today.

2. Aaron Ramsey is NOT a right winger

Aaron Ramsey has been deployed in the right side of midfield for the last six games, and he already expressed that he would prefer to play centrally. This match showed clearly that he is more dangerous from the middle rather than playing from the wing. After Walcott and Wilshere coming in for Bellerin and Cazorla. Ramsey and Wilshere played in the middle and the flow of the game getting better. Last season, Ramsey was our best player and he was doing that from the middle.

After the Wilshere and Walcott coming in, Coquelin moved to right back and Ramsey partnered Wilshere in the central of the park

I would say we could afford to rotate Santi Cazorla - who looked very ineffective - in the middle of the park and give Ramsey the game from his preferred position. From that position he influenced the game more and started the equalizer from his long range pass to Walcott. He was also involved in at least three attacks on the final 15 minutes when he plays from the middle, while he was struggling to make impacts from the right flank.

3. Challenging for Title

Maybe Thierry Henry is right, this team needs few players to win the title. Olivier Giroud might be banging goals few weeks back but he looks short of ideas in the recent weeks. Now I might agree with Thierry Henry about additional striker Arsenal need before they can challenge for the highest prize. Giroud is not a bad player, but he is a very static striker. His movement is not the best, especially because his pace could not help him. 

There were some occasion where there was a lot of spaces behind United defender and David da Gea, but then we could not sent a decent through pass to Giroud because he was too slow to race with the defender. He would be useful to break the deadlock against the team defending very deep as he provides decent flick. But he could do better in his final touch as he wasted at least two golden chances today. A pacy striker who has a great touch would be useful for us in the team. He could complement Giroud, or in the other tactics, he could be upfront alone.

Another thing is consistency. He could hit the best form in five games before switched off for the next few games. That what happened this season and last season. 

5. Hector Bellerin's Inexperience

Ashley Young run rampant from the left flank, leaving Bellerin exposed due to his inexperience. He has done quite well this season, but seeing him run ragged by Young showed that his inexperience in the big match. Mathieu Debuchy has a better defending compared to the Spaniard, but Bellerin is still 20 years old and there is still more from him. He could do better in defending, especially against tricky winger like Young.

To sum up, this crucial one point through a lucky game made us could comfortably finish third, but there is room for improvement in the next game. 

PS: Sorry for not writing for a long time. Gonna try to be more consistent with writing.

Disappointment, Frustration, Anger.

How the hell is Arsenal losing the lead twice in a week? Enough with excuses of they scoring from the spot, disallowed goal, or lacking of the defender. Last time against Anderlecht, we surrendered THREE goals lead to draw 3-3. Today we surrendered one goal to lost 1-2. Something is wrong with this team, or at least how this team should defend. 

Okay, basically we are back to three years ago where we always conceded a soft goal. In my opinion, some of the goals are preventable, and happened because of our own mistakes. Sigurdsson's goal was great and there's nothing to complain about it but Gomis' goal was our own mistake. Chambers has a bad game so far, being bullied again and again by Montero, yet Wenger did not do anything with it. 

Chambers is not an explosive fullback so he is exposed easily by pacey winger like Montero. We have a quick defender in the name of Hector Bellerin on the bench, but Wenger keep playing Chambers. You can change our right back with Hector Bellerin and shifted Chambers to the middle so that we play 5-4-1 to grind to our lead. I know it is good to believe in our players to show their potential, but how much points we can afford to drop in sake of "developing players"?

Nacho Monreal might be faulted at the goal, but he ain't a central defender who is aerially strong. He is left back in the first place and never played centrally. The criticism for him is unfair when your manager played you out of position.

Wenger also looked static - as always - with his tactical plan. He never had a plan B on his mind. Look at Gary Monk today. He see Arsenal completely nullify Bony and Emnes, and he reacted to bring in Modou Barrow and Bafetimbi Gomis, who directly responsible for two of Swansea's goal. Barrow was fouled for Sigurdsson's freekick and Gomis scored the winning goal. Yes, Wenger might have it done with Anderlecht away win as Podolski scored the winner, but that was a rare example where our substition changes the game.

Wenger might have make Arsenal bigger, but he is ain't Arsenal. He might be a good motivator, but he is not a tactician. He had last year without certain restriction on budget and another good money this year. No excuses on selling our best players any more. 

Aaron Ramsey was another anomaly in this game. Looked like our Saviour last season but this season he did a Bendtner, failed to impress everytime called upon. I didn't know whether this correlates with the injury he had but he looks out-of-form, and Wenger should do something about it. The Welshman seems to be obsessed with scoring goals or making overly-complicated goals. Back to basic please, that's how the midfielder should be. Wilshere was pretty good recently before he was out of the team due to suspension and injury, and I think he should enter the pitch next match in expense of Ramsey. Still, give him like 20 minutes each game so that he can regain his form again.

Conclusion: I felt disappointed, frustrated, and angry with the results. Enough with all the excuses. Scoring from the spot? Do a better defending, try not to do a rough challenge on the box. Lack of defender? It's Wenger's fault not to bring more defender on the transfer windows. Our defensive performance has been abysmal recently. To be honest, with this kind of performance, we are going to be raped by Falcao, Di Maria, and that certain traitor. Well, I do hope Wenger could prove me wrong.

PS: I still support Arsenal, it's just I need to express my frustration and anger towards the game.

Aston Villa vs Arsenal Post-Match Analysis

Arsenal eased to a 3-0 victory in Villa Park despite a first half-hour struggle against lively Aston Villa. Mesut Ozil opened the scoreline after receiving a sublime through pass by Danny Welbeck and coolly slotted past Brad Guzan. One minute later, Ozil's cross found Danny Welbeck, who applied a simple finish and registered his first goal for the Gunners. Shortly after, Kieran Gibbs' cross forced Aly Cissokho to beat Brad Guzan and gifted Arsenal the third goal. Three goals in three minutes destroyed Aston Villa's confidence and let Arsenal to dominate completely the game.

There are few take outs from this game.

1. 4-2-3-1 and Ozil

Finally Arsene Wenger decided to revert to 4-2-3-1 after a bad game against Dortmund with 4-1-4-1 formation. The change of formation accommodated Ozil back to his favourite position in the number 10 role behind the striker. The German looked very comfortable playing there, linking up with Danny Welbeck very well, as both exchanges assist to one another in this game. Hope this kind of performance can give Ozil more confidence. He has been criticized very heavily in the recent times and I believe he can be great in the correct formation and position. He's definitely not a winger because it gave him more responsibility to track back and he ain't that good in defending. Should Ozil come back to his best, it would be more fascinating to see more Ozil's exquisite passes in the coming week, especially with likes of Welbeck, Chamberlain, Campbell, and Alexis on the wing or upfront.

He's a trequartista, a great no 10, not a Winger
photos from arsenal.com

2. Defence Worry

I believe a good team would start at the back, though Arsenal in 2004 didn't have that concept in mind. Last season, Arsenal were fairly solid at the back at most of the time, except when they choked in away games against big team. However, this season they looked a bit shaky in each games, especially in set pieces. This is also might be caused by injury of Giroud, who often goes back to help defending set pieces. We now only have one towering player  in the Per Mertesacker.

Disregard today's scoreline first and you can see in the first 20 minutes, Aston Villa were getting chances by chances. Ciaran Clark could've easily opened the score when Arsenal went sleeping on defending Tom Cleverley's free kick. Lucky, Wojciech Szczesny were brilliant, throwing his body to deny it. Alan Hutton got a free header on near post which was - luckily - over the bar. Laurent Koscielny was much improved from his three poor display against Leicester, City, and Dortmund respectively. The shaky defence might be also caused by the changes in the back four. For the last three games, Wenger always play different player in the back four due to various reason. After the first team back four is somewhat settled, there are possibility they would be more solid.

3. Ramsey

He hasn't been hitting his best performance this season, but today was his worst form in this season, or even for the past 2 years. I haven't seen Ramsey this frustrating for long time. He misplaced few numbers of passes, and even made a simple pass to a corner for the opposition. He gave a balance when he play deep like today, but it might be a good idea to rest him for a while in the coming weeks, especially Wilshere now is playing quite well and can fill in the gap if Ramsey is rested.

It might be a good idea to rest Ramsey for a while
(photos from dailymail.uk)

Summary: This might sounds a bit pessimistic but those are three things I would like to highlight. There were a lot of positives, mostly because the shift of formation and Ozil back to his natural position. I was hoping Wenger rested Ozil today but it seems that Arsene want the German to have more time in pitch to regain his confidence. Hope Arsenal can bring today's good performance to the next game agains Southampton in Capital One Cup and more importantly, the North London Derby against Sp*rs next week.

Post Match Thought on Everton vs Arsenal.

Arsenal grabbed a hard-earned point in the Goodison Park after they scored two late goals via Aaron Ramsey and Olivier Giroud. Everton, for most of the time, was the better of the two teams, but two decisive moments changed the game, especially after Arsene Wenger introduced Santi Cazorla and Joel Campbell in expense of Jack Wilshere and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. 

Few take outs from the game.

1. A striker is needed in the team

Olivier Giroud, we need him 

photos from theguardian.com

Like it or not, Arsenal's current system need Olivier Giroud, or at least a support striker. With Alexis playing upfront in the first half, Arsenal can't really build up the play, as no one waiting in the box to receive the ball. As Everton played tightly at the back, Alexis was forced to drop very deep, leaving empty space on the box, thus every time Arsenal got a decent position on the flanks, they have no one to aim for. It was an easy job for Everton to defend from that kind of attacks. This is however, changed with the presence of Giroud. A pivotal target man, who even like to drop deep, he tends to wait in the box. This unsettled Everton's defence, especially after the introduction of Cazorla and Joel Campbell. Two of the goals for Arsenal came from the crossing and it's no coincidence that the goals came after his introduction.

I'm not saying we don't need more striker. Giroud is a great striker at its best but he often had a day off, while Sanogo is too raw. An addition striker is welcomed but I feel like we need a quality defensive midfielder who can play as a defender more than a striker.

2. Midfield Compositon

I feel strange that Wenger keeps playing Jack Wilshere in the starting line-up despite not playing well recently. Despite playing well in the Community Shield, Jack lost his form on his last three games. Seeing how we play better with Cazorla on the hole, Wenger might want to think to sacrifice the Jack for Santi, even though he's a bit inconsistent. Though I hope Wilshere can do a Ramsey after discovering a great form through serial of criticism in the first team.

In addition, I see Ozil wasn't really comfortable playing down the left wing today. It's true that he was played on the same position in German National Team and he likes to run through flanks when he is played on the hole. However, playing on the wing gave you extra responsibility to track back the winger, and in this game Ozil lost the plot when he let Coleman took the cross that lead to the opening goal. I hope Wenger would put Ozil back to the number 10 role, and give him the freedom he would like to have. I don't want to see Ozil doing an Arshavin who was forced to played out wide and lost his confidence and touch.

3. Inconsistency

It was another inconsistency shown by the squad as they crumbled on Everton's fluid attack on the first half and could've scored more than two goals, but lucky they didn't. It was not only about the team or the strategies, but also the individuals that plays for the team. Each of them can play really well in one game but invisible for the next game. Giroud, Sanogo, Cazorla, Wilshere. These are at least four names I remember playing well in one game and disappears in the next game, or vice versa. This is a vital area Arsene Wenger must think of how to solve as this would be the most critical issues to win the League.

Post Match Analysis

So the curtain for the Premier League has raised for the new season, and Arsenal started the campaign by defeating Crystal Palace 2-1 in the Emirates Stadium. It was much harder than people would expected, especially after Palace's manager, Tony Pulis resigned just two days before the campaign. Palace even got a lead on their first corner of the game when Brede Hangeland headed the ball to the far corner, 0-1. Laurent Koscielny levelled the scoreline just before the break when he made a great header from Alexis Sanchez' freekick, 1-1. When everyone thinks the game would end in a draw, Aaron Ramsey made an important goal, as he slotted the ball from the close range after Julian Speroni parried Mathieu Debuchy's shot. The final scoreline is 2-1 for Arsenal's victory

There are few points I'd like to highlight from this game.
1. Santi Cazorla didn't have the best game today, though he is much better in the central position after the introduction fo Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. Crystal Palace marked Cazorla really tight, not giving him the space he wants, and he struggled throughout the game. He is forced to play deep or wide when he played on the wing. However, he might not playing centrally very often as Ozil is coming back next week.

2. Mathieu Debuchy and Nacho Monreal is quite impressive in this game. Both acts as auxiliary wingers on the match as Arsenal pushed for the goal. Debuchy looks an upgrade for Sagna in terms of attacking and his off-the ball movement is impressive. Nacho Monreal was solid after Kieran Gibbs limped off injury, and combined very well with Alexis and Cazorla, bombing on the left wing and sending few dangerous crosses.

3. It was a bad set piece defending on the conceded goal. No one is lurking on the far post, plus they lost Hangeland on the process. We've been doing zonal marking, but we suffered this when Per Mertesacker and Olivier Giroud not on the pitch.

4. Olivier Giroud was much improved from the pre-season defeat against Monaco. He looked sharper upfront, and held the ball well. Especially against smaller teams who sat deep to defend, I think it's better to play Giroud on the solo striker as we won't be able to see much spaces behind the defender, something that Sanogo is better than Giroud. As the opposition sat deep, Arsenal would need someone who can flick the ball and attack the cross, and in the squad, there's no one better doing that than Giroud now.

5. In the past few years, we've been seeing Arsenal conceded in the final minutes, but from the last year it's more often that we found equalizer or winner on the final minutes, showing that we have that right mentality to challenge for the title. Late at the game is one of the most crucial moment that would differentiate between title challenge and title winner. Credit to Crystal Palace who was very well organized and strong in defence, only to beat by a decisive tap-in by Aaron Ramsey on the second half injury time.

In short, it was not the best performance by Arsenal, but what matters most is the three points. With the trio Germans is yet to come, expect an improvement in coming weeks, especially when Mesut Ozil comes to the team. However, I'd still hope that Wenger brings a world-class, tenacious defensive midfielder, a different type of midfielder from Mikel Arteta, to add steel to the midfield, especially against big team.

Post Community Shield Analysis

Arsenal beat Manchester City 3-0 to start off the season by winning the Community Shield. It was a nice game to watch for the neutral but it was also an encouraging performance by the Gunners. Arsenal was simply too good for City in the first half as they completely dominated the game from the beginning as City threatened mostly from Counter. Santi Cazorla broke the deadlock after a smart finish after a nice team play and a nice dummy before unleashing a fierce shot to the bottom corner of the goal. 1-0. Then, Aaron Ramsey doubled the lead to make it 2-0 after Yaya Sanogo picked a beautiful trhough pass from Alexis Sanchez and sent it to Welshman who coolly feinted one defender before beat Willy Caballero. Substitute Olivier Giroud, who was heavily criticized on Emirates Cup, added the third goal, with a fabulous long drive from outside the box. Manchester City tried to dominate the game at the later stage of the game, but the damage has been done, and Arsenal picked the first trophy this season.

Mikel Arteta lifted the Shield after demolition of City.
Photos from Premier League Official Twitter Account

It's interesting to analyze deeper to this game, as there are few notes we can take from this game.

1. Squad Depth and Competition

This year, Arsenal has a better depth squad upfront and in the middle. Aside from giving the freedom for Wenger to rotate the player, this squad depth gave the players an urgency to compete for the starting line-up. On the lone striker for example, Olivier Giroud and Yaya Sanogo are competing for one slot, and both of them must show their best to grab the position. Two players competing for one slot is ideal, though we can still consider Lukas Podolski, Alexis Sanchez, and Theo Walcott (all of them is naturally a winger) play in the middle also. Last season Sanogo were mostly injured and Giroud might be a bit complacent, remembering that his position in the first XI was safe. This season, Sanogo was given chance first to show his worth and answered it with a tremendous performance against Benfica in Emirates Cup and positive display in this Community Shield. Olivier Giroud also showed that he is not willing to be demoted to the bench by scoring the beautiful goal against City. 

A healthy competition for this position.
Photos from squawka post

We might be a bit short at the back, but maybe Wenger are not planning to buy anyone as he tried Nacho Monreal to play in the central defence. There are still few players yet to back, and looks this squad has that potential to challenge - if there's no big injury crisis. Today, we still haven't played Mertesacker, Ozil, Podolski; but Chambers, Wilshere, and Cazorla perfectly stepped up to play the integral role in this game. Interesting to see how Wenger manage the players to give playing time for everyone but balancing it to keep them fresh.


2. Defence Improvement

I realized there are few numbers of blocks done by Arsenal players, particularly on the second half. It's interesting to see City getting more and more dangerous on the later stage of the game, but despite that, Szczesny wasn't really tested from a shot. He was only forced to rush out from his area few times - and he did brilliantly. The players throwing bodies to stop the opposition to have shot on target - indirectly this will likely to less goal threat to Szczesny. We did brilliantly today in the blocking department - sadly I haven't got any data on this one, I just did a qualitative observation on the game -, while City looks fragile at the back.

We still have things to improve, as our defence still looks a bit nervous against quick attack. (thanks for Aldi Rivaldi from Arsenal Indonesia Supporter facebook group for pointing this one) City's counter attack is always dangerous but I feel there could be few improvement on defending on counter. The backline still looked confused during that situation, particularly seen when Alexander Kolarov marauding the left flank with another City winger, with only Debuchy facing them, leaving 2v1 situation.

3. Players to Step-Up

Last season was Ramsey's season as he went from zero to hero, scoring numerous of important goals. This year I expect few of the players to step up from previous standard.

Now is his time to shine?
Photos taken from Arsenal.com

The biggest expectation would be this guy, Jack Wilshere, who wear the number 10 for the club. He had been good since 2010-2011 season, but he seems stagnated on few years. His bad boy attitude also doesn't help his development. This season, Wilshere is 22, and he is entering the age where he is expected to deliver. On the Community Shield, he showed he has the potential to do that. He is fearless against much physical Yaya Toure, plus playing some improvisation and making few flashy runs to the dangerous area. He was one of the best player on the pitch, but the question now is whether he can do it on consistent basis.

Other players are Yaya Sanogo and Joel Campbell. Sanogo didn't score any single goal but looked very positive on the FA Cup Final against Wigan. On the Emirates Cup he also scored quattrick in one match. Wenger said he won't stop scoring once he score one goals and I hope that would be the case. Meanwhile, Joel Campbell stated he wants to challenge for a place here. He had a great World Cup with Costa Rica, but the problem is the intense competition on the flank. There are Alexis, Walcott, Chamberlain, Cazorla, and Podolski on the wide areas, so he might not get a good playing time, but I hope he can be a supersub like Lukas Podolski. His versatility to play on both flanks and upfront might be a good card for him also.

Conclusion: This win is an excellent start to the opening of the Premier League, though we shouldn't be that complacent for this game. City were unable to field three of their key players: Vincent Kompany, Pablo Zabaleta, and Sergio Aguero. The game might get much more intense and harder, should these key players is picked by Pellegrini. Arsenal's game is far from perfect despite good, as there is a room for improvement at the back, and I still expect one or two new singings - which means more time needed to settle for them. I do believe if they can continue playing like this game, they have the chance to mount the title Challenge

Additional Note: Sorry for not writing for a long time because of being busy in the real life. Hope I can continue writing this season.

Late Goals Seals 3 Points

Arsenal scored two late goals to seal three points in Emirates Stadium against Cardiff City. It was a rather boring first half, as both side failed to threaten, but in the second half, Arsenal created many chances - and wasted it, before Bendtner broke the deadlock as he rebounded the ball saved by David Marshall on Sagna's header, smashing the ball to the top of the goal nearing the end of the game. Walcott sealed three points in the dying minutes of the game as he scored the second goal. With Manchester City won the game 3-2 against Swansea, Arsenal must win to keep the top spot - and ultimately they did. 

Bendtner scored the first goal!
Photos from Premier League Twitter

The match looked likely that the game would end without a goal, despite Arsenal's handful of chances - wasted chances. Per Mertesacker came close twice, while Jack Wilshere's moment of magic was denied by post and Nicklas Bendtner failed to connect with Theo Walcott's cross. However, Arsenal's persistence was paid 2 minutes before the normal time. Cardiff were not expecting the goal from Bendtner, and few minutes later, Theo Walcott made it 2-0 as Cardiff came out to attack, leaving their defence a bit loose and allowing the winger to scored his fifth goal from five games, receiving a beautiful through ball from Jack Wilshere.

It was a tight game for Arsenal, as Cardiff defended very well and gave them little space to create chances. But good thing that they never stop trying to score goals, even though it was a bit frustrating at times where they decided to pass instead of shooting in the nice position. Good determination shown by the team until the final minutes, and they were rewarded by three points. Arsenal might be a bit lucky to escape conceding penalty when the scoreline is 0-0. Nacho Monreal handballed just in the line of the penalty area but the referee seemed not to see it. However, Arsenal had one strong penalty shout in the first half, when Gary Medel brought down Jack Wilshere in the box. Overall, Arsenal deserved three points, they created more chances (28 shots - and Cardiff only 8 shots) and getting more possession.

Impactful Substitution, that's what changed the game for today. Wenger subbed out two of the most uninfluential players today, Flamini and Podolski, replacing him with Rosicky and Nicklas Bendtner. Tomas Rosicky added fluidity to the team, giving them more dynamic movement on attacking phase. Arsenal created more chances after the introduction of the Czech. Nicklas Bendtner showed that he still have something to offer. Wenger might have been wrong not to play him upfront from the start, but ultimately he came in and scored the goal. Good reaction by the striker to take the ball, after he saw Sagna's header was saved - and spilled - by David Marshall. He injured himself on the process, though, and Arsenal now looked short of striker - Giroud was injured too.

Lukas Podolski was not striker, at least he is no a lone striker. He looked very uncomfortable upfront, and looked like he would play much better in the wing. He dropped very deep, leaving Arsenal without target in the penalty box and disrupting the attacking movement of the team. With Bendtner and Giroud out injured, Wenger have few option upfront. Walcott might played upfront also but I think he was much better on the flanks where he gets a lot of space and can cut inside during the game. It is unlikely option, but Chuba Akpom might be given chance in the first team as  he can play in central striker also.

We ended 2013 strongly and started 2014 well. Next game: FA Cup tie against Tottenham Hotsp*rs!  Time to kick them out of the cup and continue the good run! COYG!

Top of the Table for New Year

It was another ugly win but ultimately this win brings Arsenal to the top of the table. Both Newcastle and Arsenal were not bright in the first half, failed to threaten other goals except for the last moment for Newcastle when they hit the bar from the corner. Arsenal was the more effective side, scoring goal from their first clear cut chance. Theo Walcott chipped the freekick and Giroud found the room between Mike Williamson and Fabricio Coloccini and headed it. It was his first goal for the last few games, and surely it would gave him boost of confidence to find the net. Newcastle was pushing hard for equalizer in the closing stage of the game, but Arsenal defended well and ensured 3 points, as well the top spot of Premier League till New Year, regardless of Chelsea vs Liverpool result.

It was a really tough test for Arsenal. We came to top six team's home without two of our best player, Aaron Ramsey and Mesut Ozil, and our captain who are usually ready on the bench was out because of illness. Newcastle was unbeaten for the last 6 matches and they had beaten Manchester United in Old Trafford, where we lost 0-1. In addition, Olivier Giroud wasn't particularly sharp in front of goal lately, and Gooner has been wanting him to be dropped from the team, but Wenger didn't do so, a decision that later gave Arsenal three points as Giroud scored the winning goal. From the brighter side, Koscielny was back from injury and partnered Mertesacker in the defence.

Giroud celebrates his goal.
Photos from Arsenal facebook page by Stuart MacFarlane of Arsenal FC

The first half was one of our worst attacking performance, but our defence was solid as usual, the passes were not linked well, and most of our chance are from long, weak shot. Walcott nearly find a good space on one occasion but the pass from Rosicky was too far from him. But generally it was a boring first half. Newcastle on the other hand was not bright either but did came close to scoring twice at the injury time of the first half. Second half was almost the same and Arsenal were not sharp in the final third of the Newcastle penalty area, but Walcott was able to send a simple - yet terrific - freekick to find Giroud and the Frenchman made a touch to beat Tim Krul.

Giroud found goal, finally, and this goal hopefully will boost his confidence and silence some critics. He did look a bit short of confidence after miskicked an easy chance after the goal. The backfour is once again solid, particularly Sagna and Mertesacker who are faultless today. Mertesacker did few crucial interception and clearances as we registered a clean sheet (finally). Koscielny might have given away a ball away led to dangerous chance for Newcastle, but otherwise he was solid. Gibbs was uncomfortable down the right as most of Newcastle attack was from that side, but still delivered a decent performance. Szczesny funny moment almost cost us 3 points when he kicked the ball straight to Loic Remy but luckily the ball out of the play from deflection. It's not the first time he did that (remember that kick to Sturridge in our 2-0 victory against Liverpool).  He must be more careful next matches not to do the same, next mistake might lead to a goal (well like Schalke's goalkeeper against Chelsea).

Another ugly win, and we have faced all of the Premier League teams and stayed on top. Next few games are a winnable games if our feet can be kept on the ground and play our normal game. Can we say that we can challenge for title? Yes we have half of the season again till the finish line, but as Wenger said, "If you don't believe yourself, you can't go anywhere". I think Arsenal have potential to win something at the end of the season, if we can maintain the winning habit. One or two purchase at January might help us to keep the top spot. 

Well, at least, all Gooners celebrating New Year while their team on the top. COYG!

West Ham - Arsenal Post Match Thought

Arsenal grabbed a nervy win at Upton Park as they came from behind 3-1 against West Ham squad who last week knocked out Sp*rs from League Cup. Arsenal dominated first half but failed to score any, but West Ham opened the score just after the break after Charlton Cole capitalized Wojciech Szczesny's mistake. The polish keeper spilled Kevin Nolan's shot and gave West Ham lead. Arsenal struggled to find equalizer as West Ham as the home team defended well, and even they nearly scored twice which went wide from the target. However, Podolski introduction changed the game, as Theo Walcott equalized few minutes after that, as West Ham keeper Adrian failed to make a routine save on Walcott's tame shot. Podolski made a wonderful cross headed by Theo Walcott to make it 2-1 for Arsenal. Podolski impact was not only there, he sealed three points from a stunning finish on the 79th minutes, a lay off from Olivier Giroud.

West Ham - Arsenal stats
photos from Worldwide Arsenal Fans

It was a really nervy game for Arsenal. We might have dominated the game, but West Ham got some great chances as our defending was not as tight as usual. Arsenal really suffered defensively especially after West Ham opened the scoreline. Lucky they were not clinical in front of goal and we were able to find the equalizer before they scored another one.That equalizer was the turning point of the game. Arsenal dominated the possession and chances more and West Ham looked losing confidence. Only three minutes between Walcott first and second goal showed the impact of that equalizer, and after that West Ham lost the plot. It was a nice mentality test to see whether Arsenal can challenge for title or not. Coming from behind is a definite trait a champion must have and it's good to see Arsenal showed it today.

There are few players I would like to talk about on this game.

1. Santi Cazorla

Santi Cazorla enjoyed a fairly good game, and he looked much more sharper in the middle. He started on the left side but shifted after Podolski replaced injured Ramsey. Cazorla was playing in the Ramsey role for few minutes before Flamini's entrance, but he looked much more comfortable there instead of playing wide. He was not bad in the wing but in his natural position in the center he can stamp his authority on the game, getting space between midfield and defend and spraying the passes. If he continues playing like this, Wenger might be forced to play Ozil on the wing and Cazorla played centrally. 

2. Lukas Podolski

What an impact for a player who has been away from the team for few months, one goal and one assist. He offered more direct play and width compared to Cazorla and Wilshere, who are naturally a central attacking midfielder. He can play centrally as a striker, if Wenger decided to bench Giroud. In addition, Podolski is a more clinical finisher compared to Giroud, although he can't offer aerial strength like the Frenchman. His return can give more depth for Arsenal to challenge for the title, and give Wenger some option to rotate the starting line-up.

3. Olivier Giroud

Olivier Giroud badly need rest. He had failed to score in recent weeks, and what worse is how clinical he is in front of goal. I don't mind if you don't score because the keeper is somehow playing very well and denying all your chances, but Giroud missed the chances because he miskicked or were unable to react quickly for the ball. Yes he deserved some credit for working hard but he looked short of sharpness in front of goal and, Bendtner or Podolski deserved to start upfront. Who knows with benching him, he can get back his sharpness? Remember Szczesny last season benched against Bayern and got a good form after that.

4. Aaron Ramsey

The only bad thing after the match is that Ramsey was brought off because of injury. Yes he hadn't been playing that well in recent games, but he is our best player in 2013 and we still need it for the next few games. 

This result brought Arsenal to the top, at least for few hours, but they might stay longer should Liverpool failed to beat Manchester City away (I hope so). That would be a perfect Christmas present for all the Gooners: Top of the Table one more time! 

Arsenal - Everton 1-1: Two points dropped

Arsenal were unable to extend the lead following the 1-1 draw against Everton. Arsenal opened the scoreline via Mesut Ozil but Everton managed to equalize via Gerard Deulofeu few minutes later. This result, however, still made Arsenal sit on the top off the table, 5 points from Liverpool and Chelsea on the second and third place.

How EPL stands as Gameweek 15.
 Photos from Arsenal - Transfers & Analysis 

Arsenal were not having their best performance in the first half, as Everton pressed hard and dominated the game. They got more possession, especially in the early 20 minutes. Arsenal only started to get the feet on the game after 30 minutes, and they managed to create two 1-on-1 chances, but Tim Howard was brilliant to deny Giroud and Ramsey. Kieran Gibbs could've scored had he react quicker to Santi Cazorla's cross. Everton, despite their dominance, didn't have clear cut chances in front of goal in the first half.

On the second half, Arsenal played better stuff, and slowly pressing Everton. They wasted few chances  to open the scoreline. Koscielny mistimed a volley kick via freekick from Cazorla and Giroud was unable to shoot it either on one occasion. Finally Mesut Ozil finally finds the net on 81st minute and everyone thought it's Arsenal victory.  However, after that goal, they switched off and let Everton to find their game and Arsenal were punsihed, and concede that goal. I have to say the Everton's goal was pure class, it's just flair of Gerard Deulofeu. No chance for Szczesny to save that, but I think Arsenal should not let Everton re-take the control of the game. 

I was really disappointed with this result, and consider this "2 points dropped", but fair play to Everton. They played good football and deserved points also from this match. They created more shot than Arsenal, and had more possession. They proved that the win in Old Trafford is no fluke and they have quality to mount for Champions League spot. I expect them to be better than Sp*rs this season, looking on how they play here.

Maybe Arsenal was a bit jaded? With just few days after the Hull game and with almost no change to the line up, and the fatigue might have crept in. Arsenal didn't look sharp in this match, and misplaced some passes and didn't find the decisive pass, especially in the first half. Ramsey and Wilshere seems to pick up a knock but I hope they would be okay for this month. We need some depth to tank this festive period.

On the Good Side? Rosicky proved he has that pass, and we can rely on him should we need to rest Wilshere or Ramsey. In addition, Arsenal still hold the top of the table, albeit not save for next few weeks, considering Arsenal next two match would be away game to Manchester City and home game against Arsenal. And before that, an away game to Naples. What a tough month for Arsenal. We have survived November, I hope we can survive December too.

Cardiff - Arsenal post match thought

3 goals for 3 points. That's what Arsenal did in the match against Cardiff City. I thought the scoreline did not reflect the match as Cardiff was pushing very hard in the second half to find the equalizer before being undone by Mathieu Flamini's goal. Cardiff nearly equalized when the scoreline is still 1-0, only denied by Wojciech Szczesny superb save on Fraizer's Campbell towering header. Aaron Ramsey found the net twice and was awarded with Man-of-the-Match Award. The Welshman is leading goalscorer for Arsenal now, with 8 goals in the Premier League, 1 goal ahead of Olivier Giroud. 

Ramsey scored his first goal in this match. (Photo from Arsenal.com)

It was an easy first half for Arsenal as Cardiff misplaced numbers of passes. Arsenal dominated the game completely, and they should have scored more than one goal. However, the second half was totally different. It was a very intense and tough second half. Cardiff were a different side after the break, they were not scared to go out and attack Arsenal. Their long ball and crosses was threatening, but Arsenal stand still to it. Arsenal looked quite jaded physically in the second half, but credit to Cardiff for their pressing game in the second half. Had they been more clinical in front of goal, the result might have been different.

Cardiff has few chances to shoot from outside the box, but all their shots was comfortably dealt by Szczesny. The Poland keeper did not spill any long shot today, as he caught all the ball safely. He has been in good form recently, and looks like a different keeper we saw last year. Last year he was error prone, but this year we saw him like a very experienced keeper who continuously made a terrific save. A factor that Arsenal haven't experienced since long time ago. The good keeper made the defender confident dealing with crosses and through balls. Good defence enable the team to slowly build the game from the back. So I would say Szczesny has some contribution on Arsenal's recent form, aside from his saves.

On the other end, Mesut Ozil provided two assists for Aaron Ramsey's first goal and Mathieu Flamini's decisive goal. Actually, Ozil was fading in the second half. His passes were not at that standard, and his first touch was somewhat loose. I was wondering why Wenger subbed off Wilshere instead of Ozil, but it proved to be a good decision. However, he made that defence-splitting pass to Flamini, which led to the second goal. This is what Arsenal has been missing for long time, a World Class player. He might be struggling for most of the match, but when the thing matters, he can made one genius moment to turn the game. His first assist was also a  pure brilliance also. A chip to Ramsey and the Welshman made a glancing header, leaving the keeper with no chance to save it.

7 points off Chelsea and Liverpool when this article was being written. Players are coming back from injuries. Looks like good sign for Arsenal? Well, everything might be look good at the moment but we still need to guard against complacency. As Wenger said, it's too early to talk about title in November. Furthermore, Arsenal still need to face Everton, City, and Chelsea before the New Year. City's game would be the toughest test so far as it is an away game to a fortress, where beat Tottenham was destroyed with six goals. But I'm fairly confident that Arsenal have the ability to beat them, if they can perform at their best. Time will tell if Arsenal can win the title this year.

Arsenal vs Dortmund Post Match Thought.

It was one of those famous away win for Arsenal as they won against last year finalist Borussia Dortmund 1-0. Last year we won against Bayern and everyone saying it was a fluke because they are complacent with two goals advantage with three goals. But this time, we beat Dortmund, who are still in need of 3 points, knowing that Napoli were likely to win against Marseille. Dortmund is no joke and they are arguably one of the top 4 teams in Champions League, but we became the first team stopping them from scoring in their home for the first time since 61 games, back then in January 2011. Lightning does not struck twice, does it?

Ramsey celebrated the goal with Ozil as Arsenal win against Dortmund

Credit to Dortmund who played well, except that they were not clinical in front of goal. They were having some amount of possession - and chances, before Arsenal took the lead on 62' minutes. After that, Arsenal became more dangerous and Dortmund slowly losing their teeth on the game. No clear cut chances was created by Dortmund after that goal.  It was exactly the reverse of the previous game where Arsenal dominated the game on 1-1 scoreline before conceding a late goal by Lewandowski. In big games like this, it's not the matter of who has more possession, but it's the matter of  who takes the chances well. It was true what Wenger said, "This game is determined by small details". A lapse of concentration cost a goal for Neven Subotic, who failed to mark Aaron Ramsey during the goal.

Well, Arsenal performed very well in every department, but especially defending. Yes, we were a bit exposed early of the second half, but we were otherwise very solid. The defending was getting better and more confident especially after scoring that goal. Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker were bossing at the backline, making numerous vital interceptions and winning most of the aerial battle. Robert Lewandowski was kept quiet most of the time by this pair, and he failed to score goal today. Another good game showing Koscielny and Mertesacker understand and complement each other. Koscielny played the stopper role, as he is a more aggresive defender, and quicker of the pair; while Mertesacker usally sits deeper and rely on his excellent, unflappable game reading and composure. Looking at their form, it would be hard for Vermaelen to reclaim the spot in near time, even though rotation is required, especially on December festive period. You can't win anything with just two fit, recognized centre back.

A credit must also given to Mikel Arteta who shielded the backfour well. Gooners was worried of lack of protection to back four when Flamini is injured, but Arteta stepped up well on this occasion. He was brilliant in keeping possession, as he did against Liverpool, as well as being the first man closing down Dortmund players when Arsenal was being counter-attacked. I was worried when he was booked early on, but he kept his temper and was able to finish 90 minutes without sent off. This victory highlighted the importance of the deep midfielder. This Arsenal team would need someone to sit back protecting the backfour and link defender to midfielder, to allow Ozil and co to have freedom in attacking. It's either Arteta or Flamini (or maybe both, remember the 2-0 victory against Napoli). If they both not playing,  Arsenal will suffer, like when they lost against Chelsea in the Carling Cup.

Another impressive player tonight is no other than our current hottest player, Aaron Ramsey. He scored the only goal tonight, with a cool header after receiving Olivier Giroud's flick. Today He was not as lively as usual standard recently, as Dortmund's players were closing down quickly, but nevertheless he made a decisive run into the box and ensure Arsenal grabbed three points from Signal Iduna Park. His workrate is unquestionable, as usual. Ozil was mostly anonymous earlier but he made that beautiful chip to Giroud that lead to the goal. That what a genius player can do, one moment of magic even when you're not at your best form.

Rosicky played well too. He tirelessly pressed the oppostion, as well as made few great tackles. It's amazing remembering he is 33 this year.  Szczesny also made two smart save from Reus and Kuba to keep the scoreless game before Ramsey scored.

Actually everyone in the team today deserved a worthy mention, but I just want to emphasize the excellent team defending tonight. Few years back, Arsenal defence was one of the worst among Champions League participant and top four in Premier League, but this year it look difference. We defend as a unit, and generally look solid under enormous amount of pressure from the opposition. There are no silly individual mistakes done again like in previous years. We are able to keep clean sheet in a game when a goal is hard to come by and we start to be able to win ugly, keeping 1 goal lead till death. It's one of the quality the Arsenal must have if they want to win something this year. 

This away win against Dortmund definitely brings confidence and momentum ahead of United game, away again, this weekend. Keep the feet on the ground, keep aware, but play our usual ame and we can win this one. COYG! VCC!

Arsenal - Liverpool post match analysis.

Arsenal keep the top spot after beating Liverpool 2-0 in the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners opened the score via Santi Cazorla's smart finishing after a great team play. Arteta picked Sagna's run down the right, and the Frenchmen sent a beautiful cross to Cazorla who headed the ball to the post, but reacted quickly to rebound the ball, smashed the ball past Mignolet. Liverpool could've equalized had the referee not stopped the play when Sagna fouled Suarez. Arsenal sealed the game when Aaron Ramsey scored a fabulous volley kick, after receiving a nice pass from Mesut Ozil. Liverpool pushed hard to find a goal, and Arsenal were nervous on the later stage of the game. However, Liverpool failed to capitalize Arsenal's few mistake at the back, and Arsenal hang to the result and grabbed an important, deserved 3 points. This result, coupled with Chelsea's unexpected defeat at Newcastle, leaving Arsenal 5 points clear from the second place, unless Tottenham grabs a win later on.

There are few interesting points we can learn from Arsenal - Liverpool game. 

1. This team is able to bounce back.

Arsenal were heavily criticized after losing against Dortmund and Chelsea at home. They were saying it is the old same Arsenal, where once they lost a game they will lost the following game. It is never easy to win a game after you lost, especially against your rival. However, Arsenal played well today against Liverpool and showed their quality. Well, it is a bit early to talk about title in these times, while next few games will be tough, but if Arsenal can overcome it, they can prove that they are title challenger.  

2. Arteta is as important as Giroud.

Arteta played a very important role today as he kept the ball flowing from the back to the front, and he become the-always-available-to-pass option, as well as taking Liverpool's clearance and kept Arsenal playing the ball. This is one of the reason why Arsenal dominated the game on the first half. Arsenal lost to Chelsea because no one played Arteta role. Ramsey was put there but he was simply not a player to fill this role. He is a box-to-box midfield, and should not be wasted to play in Arteta/Flamini role. 

Another thing is the importance of Giroud. Yes, he might be guilty for wasting that chances after he robbed the ball from Kolo Toure, but only chipped it to the post. However, it's not his finishing which is his prime quality, it is his ability to hold up the ball, and link up with the midfield. He plays important role in Wenger's strategy now. A long ball will directed to Giroud and he will be the one challenging for aerial battle. This is complemented with his neat first touch, leaving Giroud as a good supporting central forward instead of being a killer central forward. It would be good, though, if Giroud can sharpen his finishing.

3. Bigger teams can punish Arsenal.

Clean sheet. Looks good? Yes it is, but the fact that Liverpool could easily scored three goals against us, might be worrying. Liverpool even have one goal incorrectly disallowed. Sagna lost possession and Suarez dashed to Arsenal's area before he was brought down by Sagna. The referee might have continued the game, giving Liverpool  a huge advantage as it was 3v2 in Liverpool's favor. Lucky, the referee booked Sagna and stopped the play.

This worry might sound so pessimistic because we just won the game, but a bigger, more clinical team, will punish us if we don't minimize the mistake at defending. Szczesny almost gave the ball cheaply to Sturridge but the ball bounced back. The moment later, the defence fell asleep, leaving Suarez a great chance to score one. Fortunately, his luck was not on his side today, as he struck the ball wide. The game against Dortmund two weeks ago showed how Arsenal beaten by a more clinical team. One lack of concentration during counter attack and your team is punished. One lost possession and your team is punished. With all respect to Liverpool, they were not clinical today and Arsenal were able to kept a clean sheet. Had they been more clinical, two goals could've ended in Szczesny's goal.

Well, to end, it's a big week ahead for Arsenal, and hopefully we can go through this one! COYG! VCC!

Lesson from Swansea Game

It was a nice weekend for the Gunners. Tottenham drew Chelsea 1-1 on White Hart Lane. On the other hand, Manchester City was beaten away by Aston Villa 2-3, and Manchester United surrendered against West Bromwich Albion 1-2. Liverpool is yet to play their game.

"Yeah, we're on the top of the league" (photos from arsenal.com)

Well, Arsenal won 2-1 against Swansea in Liberty Stadium, making them stays top of the table. The results brought them two points ahead second placed Tottenham Hotspurs and four points ahead third placed Chelsea. It wasn't an easy game, as seen on the tight scoreline. Swansea dominated the game, especially on the first half, while they enjoyed more possession on the both halves, with 58% possession. But ultimately, it's a vital three points for Arsenal.

There are few things I would like to point from Swansea game, from Arsenal point of view.

1. Patience Paid Off

Aaron Ramsey, he is the hottest player in Arsenal. Yes, Ozil might have provided the much need creativity for Arsenal, but Aaron Ramsey has been our best player so far. Wenger said he 'transformed this season' and I have no choice but to agree that he has been a different player from last season. Now he can pass, dribble, tackle, intercept, and score (which he can't stop doing it now). He scored 16 goals for Arsenal, 8 of them came this season. He has changed into a complete midfielder, shortly said.

The incredible Welshman (photos from arsenal.com)

He was criticized heavily last season and the season before by Gooners, as he failed to repay the faith of Wenger, who played him often. Wenger was also blamed for keep playing a player who failed to reproduce a good form when chosen in the starting XI. I also criticized him for his form, even though I know he always gave 100% to the team. You would never see Ramsey not determined in the field.

However, few noticed that he was he was played out of position, sometimes in the winger, while his best position is central midfield. He also just came back from horror injury which almost destroyed his career back in 2010. It was never easy to recover from such a bad injury, especially when you were severally injured 20 years old.

This season he proved wrong to doubters. Had Wenger never played him, he would never reach this top form. He regained his confidence by playing, and now he is ready to deliver. The only question now is whether he can keep his form for one year to help Arsenal achieve something this year.

Another player who is slowly gaining form after criticized is Kieran Gibbs. He was not stable defensively last season, but this season he was so solid on the left, forcing Nacho Monreal relegated to the bench due to his tremendous form.

2. Blessing in Disguise
Injury, injury, and Injury. It has been a familiar issue for Arsenal for having half of the first team lying on the treatment table. This year was no different. Abou Diaby, Lukas Podolski, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Theo Walcott, Santi Cazorla, Tomas Rosicky, Thomas Vermaelen, Mikel Arteta were injured, though the latter two names has returned to pitch recently.

However, with those kind of injuries, there are several players stepped in to the first team. Serge Gnabry, he has been selected in starting line up for the last three games and did not disappoint anyone with his performance. He was not due to start in Stoke game, but Walcott was injured during the warm up and he stepped up to play on the right wing. Against a physical Stoke City, he was not afraid to play his game, and even he looked physically ready to play in the premier league.

Gnabry celebrates the goal (photos from arsenal.com)

Last night he scored his first goal for Arsenal, as he coolly slotted the ball past Michel Vorm, to make it 1-0. Aside from the goal he looked bright, providing sparks that Arsenal needed. On the first half, he was arguably the better performer for Arsenal, giving lay off to Giroud who shot it wide from the target. He never scared to duel with the more senior player.

I never hoped for an injury storm, but this time, the injuries brought Gnabry to first team exposure and he looks ready for it. If there's no injury, Gnabry would only play for U21 Team and we wouldn't see his quality in the Premier League. Walcott and Chamberlain might find it quite difficult to break in to first team, should Gnabry maintain his form.

Another player benefited much from this injury is Flamini, who filled in the Arteta role, with a more aggressive mood. He was exactly what Arsenal need, a hardman in the central of the park to allow the more creative midfielder to attack. He was brought to the team (read : signed on free transfers) after Arteta is injured and the team looked vulnerable without a defensive midfielder. Arteta, who just came back from injury, might find his position is not as indispensable as usual now.

3. Win an ugly Game
It acutally started last season, but Arsenal now started to be used to win ugly game, where the opposition got more possession (not necessarily more threatening). Arsenal defensive unit looked quite solid, and they defended as team. We've never seen this from old Arsenal, who was used to play well but dropped points.

 Struggled, but Won the game (photos from arsenal.com)

Against Tottenham, Arsenal were under pressure in second half. Against Marseille, they were second best in possession, and also in Swansea game. Against Stoke, they were outplayed for the second half. But they won all of those games. This is a mentality a winner need to have, a winning mentality regardless of how you play. An ugly victories would give us 3 points, ultimately.

I would not complain if Arsenal won in ugly way, but surely I would love to see Arsenal win the Arsenal way!

4. Don't be complacent
15 points from 6 games. Top of the Table. Ramsey can't stop scoring. Defensively Stable. Here's the reason of the recent optimism felt by the Gooners. But, hey, it's just end of September. It's still a looooooooong way to go to the end of the season. It's a nice feeling to see our team in the top, but remember, we haven't faced most of our top 6 opposition. We just played Tottenham home, which we won 1-0, but we haven't played duo Manchester, Liverpool, and Chelsea. Those games are games we might dropped points, but if we stayed firm and focused, I do believe Arsenal can win those kind of games.

Another factor is that our squad is so thin, and we are forced to play youngsters (yes, they might paid off as I said in the 3rd point), but we are limited in rotating our players. Few players like Rosicky, Cazorla are nearing their comeback, and I hope there will no other players injured for long time. We might be forced to buy someone in the winter, and I know Wenger still have money on his pocket.

Don't be complacent to see our team in the top of the table. It's just beginning (even though I hope to see the same composition on the end of the season), and we need to be consistent throughout the season. A trophy on the end of the season is a possibility if we keep playing like this.

Arsenal FC Full Season Review part 1

It was another top four finish for sixteenth consecutive years and it's another Champions League Football. Well, at least, play-off for Champions League, we still need to go through 180 minutes of thrilling games next season before we enter the group Stage of Champions League.

It was another season with uncertainty. We started the season after the star player(s) left the club, again, and in addition, Pat Rice retired last season, and Arsenal had two new assistant coaches : Steve Bould and Neil Banfield. . 2012 Nasri and Cesc left. 2013 van Persie left. Arsenal started with unstability after two consecutive seasons of captain leaving the team. This season, however, Wenger already prepared van Persie's departure, with three purchase : Cazorla, Giroud, and Podolski. They were already in their prime age, and it was direct replacement considered by Wenger when he bought three of them to Emirates. However, they are not van Persie, and they still need time to settle in to the Premier League.

Arsenal Season Result
Premier League : 4th Position
Champions League : 1st Knock-out Round
FA Cup : 5th Round
Carling Cup : Quarter Final

Arsenal started the league well, where we got three clean sheets in three games - two 0-0 draw and 2-0 win at Anfield, and followed by 6-1 thrasing Southampton at home, and holding defending Champions Manchester City 1-1 at Etihad, but after that, our bad habits comes : inconsistency. Few bad defendings shown by the team, like when we are beaten 1-2 home by Chelsea and 3-3 home draw against Fulham, plus 0-2 home defeat against Swansea. We were very fragile at home - we lost against Schalke at home also. In addition of those inconsistincies, Arsenal were kicked out of the League Cup by lower division Bradford in penalty shootout, as Thomas Vermaelen missed the decisive penalty. In Champions League, we made it to next round, but we were suffering in the group, and finished below Schalke, with three victories, one draw and two loses.

Despite all the poor results on the first half of the season, we still showed some of remarkable matches. We defeated Reading 7-4 in the League Cup, after being behind 0-4 - it was the best comeback Arsenal I've ever seen since I started supported Arsenal. We also did a goalfest against Reading (5-2) and Newcastle (7-3) in the Premier League. One more thing, we thrashed Tottenham Hotspurs 5-2 - like last season, where Podolski, Giroud, and Cazorla were able to score goals!

The second half of the season were better, but we started it poorly. Arsenal suffered home lost agaisnt City and Blackburn (this one made us kicked out of the FA Cup), plus some few inconsistent results, including 1-3 home defeat against Bayern Munich and 1-2 defeat against Tottentham. We did restored our pride by winning the reverse fixture in Bayern's home, 2-0 - via Giroud and Koscielny (ultimately, this is Bayern's only defeat in Knock-Out Stage). This result, however, was not enough to save the Champions League hope, as Bayern progressed - and eventually came out as winner - to the next round. Nevertheless, this result brought the squad morale up and since that time, we never take our feet off the gas pedal. 8 wins out of 10 games plus two draws - against two tough oppositions : Everton and United.

We were poor in the earlier of the season but, ultimately, we are able to bounce back - just like last season, and fortunately, Tottenham collapsed, again, and threw 7 points lead - after Andre Villas-Boas said Arsenal had been in bad spiral. We achieved fourth placed finish again, ahead of our North London rival.

In negative sides, we can't come top against three teams above us. We were beaten twice 1-2 agaisnt Chelsea, while we were defeated away by United but were able to held them 1-1 in Emirates. Against City, we were able to held them in Etihad, but toothless in Emirates, and 0-2 was in the scoreline. Secondly, there was no clinical goalscorer upfront. Giroud was a good player, and he can flick the ball well, but he is not true predator in front of goal. Time and time we saw him missed chances. Podolski and Walcott also were unconvincing while played upfront. Attacking wise, too often we can't broke the deadlock when we need to. There were no flair maker, like when the traitor can save us by scoring goal.  Well, this is partially caused by lack of predatory finish in the final third, but I feel like we can improve more in this side. We should've creating more chances - especially by delivering more accurate crossing when we have target man like Olivier Giroud.

We can't say we have been playing best football in England. I hate to admit it, but from the point of view of playing style, this is the most unattractive Arsenal I've seen. Too many times we've been playing poorly - but luckily we had a better mental strength this time and we can scrap three points despite poor game.

Another sad fact that it's another thropyless season for Wenger boys.

To conclude, it was not our best season, but there were some positives from this season. We still got European Competition, plus  we are still in above Tottenham Hotspurs. We might have finished one strip below last season where we got third place, but from another perspectives, we did improve from last season. We achieved 73 points, three points more than last season and five points more than 2010-2011. We also were able to get ugly win this season, like what we did recently, with few 1-0 victories. In addition, we are not one man team anymore. We even mostly without our number 10 Jack Wilshere and our captain Thomas Vermaelen in the winning streak in the closing stages of Premier League. And our defence improves a lot, as we conceded 12 goals less than last season. Lastly, we are now have better mentality compared to recent years, as we did few comebacks this season - most notably 7-5 away win against Reading in Carling. We were also able to avoid last minute spoilt. The 2-1 away win against West Brom is one of the best example. West Brom pushed forward but we were able hang onto result. It is a good foundation for next season - if we can keep our players next season, plus one or two world class players. We can challenge for the title next season, and also one of two domestic cups next season. Hopefully!

1-0 = Champions League - Post Match Analysis

Another 1-0 win, and it's another Champions League for us. We finished 1 point ahead Tottenham. I'd be lying to say this is a beautiful win, but ultimately, it was a very crucial three points via ugly win - I lost count how many times we did that this season.

Arsenal was poor in the first half, as they rarely create chances, and Newcastle was the better team in the first 45 minutes, although the scoreline was 0-0. Second half, Arsenal started brightly and Laurent Koscielny scored his goal - like last season - to ensure another Champions League in 16th consecutive season for Wenger. It's never easy to hang on to a slender 1-0 win and the team deserves the credit, especially the defence.

Koscielny deserved credit in this match. Undoubtedly he was man of the match for today. One acrobatic clearance, one steal in the penalty area, 90 minutes of superb defending, plus the winning - and acrobatic - goal. His partner, Per Mertesacker also deserved praise for being solid alongside Laurent. He made one crucial block inside the 6 yard box to keep the clean sheet.

Aaron Ramsey looks solid replacing Arteta in deeper role in three midfield but Alex-Oxlade Chamberlain were surprisingly playing well through the middle. I was surprised to see him playing down the middle when he came in to replace Arteta, as I expected Cazorla to play in the AMC and Chamberlain playing down the left. But he was playing quite well, and next season we might see Ramsey - Chambo - Jack in the central of the park, a very offensive midfield trio, but I would love to see Arsenal with British core next season.

Walcott was dangerous but he still lacking final product - only hitting the post today. He might have been provided the freekick causing the goal, but in open play, he still has room to improve, and I'm still hoping for more improvement from him next season, especially in the decision making.

For the negative side, I think Cazorla was not at his best today, might be because he is a bit overplayed. He was played more than any other player this season, and Wenger need to be more careful playing him next season in my opinion. Podolski, once again, was anonymous, but in the other hand, the midfield didn't supply him with good passes.

4th place means another Champions League football, and this means Arsenal would have more power to attract player - compared to non-UCL club (like Sp*rs). Arsene needs to spend this summer. I can't see this team challenging for trophy. There should be more booster this summer, and I'd expect one or two marquee signings this transfer windows.


Well, we haven't been qualified directly to the Group Stage, but we are seeded for the play-off for Champions League. We're just 180 minutes away from the Group Stage. And as we are seeded, we won't face the likes AC Milan / Olympique Lyon, should they qualify to the Champions League. Thus, Arsenal has a fairly decent chance to go to Group Stage! Or great chance if they sign one or two world class players.

PS : Happy St. Totteringham's Day!

It's Just Enough - Post Match Analysis

Arsenal just did enough to overcome Fulham in the Craven Cottage by Per Mertesacker's single goal in the first half. Fulham who played with ten men from the early of first half came close few times to equalize in the second half, and they even had one goal correctly disallowed. However, Arsenal was able to hang on until the final whistle. This win bring them up to the third place ahead of Chelsea who will play against Liverpool tomorrow in Anfield.

It was another ugly win for Arsenal. Arsenal played against 10-men since Steve Sidwell sent off in early of the first half, and this match should be a walk-in-the-park, if they could take advantage of it. Score a quick goal, force them to go out attack, and counter attack them. Could be another 7-3 scoreline. But they didn't. They didn't show too much attacking flair and beautiful through pass. Yes, they were dominating the game until one hour, but they didn't do much with the ball. What they do is just to pass the ball around, and they were lacking of penetration

In the second half, it was worse. No slight intention to built up play and try some through pass. After they reached two third of the pitch they gave it back to the defender. That's it. What kind of football is this? I was really disappointed for Wenger because of this. 

The scoreline 1-0 is one of the most dangerous scoreline. It's a lead, but not safe, and if the opposition could gain momentum, they could score one, two, or even three. Because Arsenal gave chance for Fulham to recover and regain their confidence, Fulham came out and pushed forward. Arsenal could've easily punished, had Fulham could equalize and this would cost them another two points dropped. Luckily, Fulham wasn't that clinical in this match, and Arsenal still go home with three points in the bag.

Tomas Rosicky was a standout performer today. He sent numerous of incisive passes which unfortunately wasn't capitalized by Giroud or Walcott. Looking by current form, now Rosicky is more important than Cazorla. It's seen that since the time Rosicky withdrawn, Fulham started to gain control of the game, and came close in the dying minutes to equalize. Wilshere is still yet to be in his form before he was injured, and Rosicky should start again next week against Manchester United. Jacky could come off the bench to give a difference.

Credit must also be given to Arsenal's central back duet, Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker. Koscielny was a bit shaky in early minutes but recovered well and solid afterwards. Per Mertesacker showed a great composure in the backline, and given a hard task to mark Berbatov, Per did well in this match. He even scored the winning goal in this match, receiving Laurent Koscielny's header from Theo Walcott's freekick. As Fulham threw everything forward in the final minutes, both Koscielny and Mertesacker handled the attack well, and kept another clean sheet. Well, this might be another bad sign for benched captain, Thomas Vermaelen, who seems will sit in the bench again next match.

Mertesacker scored the decisive winning goal

(pictures from Arsenal.com)

On the other hand, Giroud failed to find the net again, and he even was sent off after ferocious tackle on the second half. He was anonymous throughout the second half despite being close to score in the first half, hitting the right post of Fulham's goal. A red card means he will be suspended for next match. Wenger have three option for this : Gervinho, Podolski, and Walcott. Podolski might be given his chance as Wenger hinted earlier, Podolski could play in the middle. This might be a blessing in disguise, as Giroud was off-the-pace for last two match. Podolski might perform better than the Frenchman now.

Arsenal's next match is no easy, welcoming the Manchester side who currently on top of the table. Arsenal have potential to beat them, but not with the kind of this Fulham game. Wenger's side must improve if they want to grab another three points to secure the Champions League spot this season.