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.

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.

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 - 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!

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.

Post Norwich-match analysis

Arsenal scrapped a 3-1 victory after a hard-fought battle with Norwich in a fine afternoon in Emirates Stadium. Norwich was the one first scoring the goal, with Michael Turner headed away a goal, before Mikel Arteta equalized 5 minutes before the normal time ends. Olivier Giroud scored Arsenal's second, after a nice run from subsitute Chamberlain. Lukas Podolski scored third goal to seal third point

Arsenal player celebrates the goal.

(photos from Arsenal.com)

POSITIVE NOTES

Winning is good for morale, but coming from behind is a morale boost. I didn't remember when last time Arsenal winning after conceded first. It shows Arsenal's never say die mentality. It's never easy to score two goals in 10 minutes, but Arsenal managed to score, not two, but three. I admitted that the penalty is a bit of luck because Arsenal was in deadlock against sturdy Norwich defence. That penalty is also debatable, but in my point of view, it's a legit penalty. Shirt pulling is not a good decision in defending, so the ref had done his job well. After that goal, Norwich lost their focus and Arsenal managed to grab more goals, via Olivier Giroud and finally Lukas Podolski.

 In the other hand, this victory also gave Chelsea and Tottenham a massive pressure to keep the pace. Chelsea is one point off Arsenal with less one game played, while Tottenham is also one point off, but with the same game played. It would be a huge advantage for Wenger's boy, especially because Chelsea and Tottenham need to kill each other in the league, which means definitely one of them will drop the point. Now, it's just how Arsenal keep their winning habit till the end of season.

Right back Bacary Sagna played well in the left side and few times he sent dangerous ball into the box. None of them resulting to goal though, only Giroud hit the crossbar from his cross in the first half, but nevertheless it was nice to see old Bac is back to his usual self. He has been disappointing this season, but not in this match. He made dangerous runs before being subbed out by Chamberlain, and linked up well with Santi Cazorla. I hope Wenger would still offer him another extension contract. He would be a good mentor for Carl Jenkinson.


Olivier Giroud was nearly become the villain of this match, being unable to score goals in 85 minutes and wasn't sharp upfront, and dispossessed few times upfront, and delayed Arsenal's play, but he was the one winning that penalty, and scored the second goal for the Gunners. The third goal was also part of his contribution. He challenged Fabianski's long ball to gave to Walcott, who assisted to Podolski's third goal.

Ramsey showed much improvement, again. He might be not providing creativity in this match, but he is a dependable passer. I feel like his role is a bit similar with Arteta, but Ramsey's defence is yet as good as Arteta. Ramsey is a willing runner, and closing the ball here and then. A candidate for the most improving player this season. He could partner Wilshere in the future in Arsenal midfield trio, if he continue to improve in the coming seasons.

Wenger is also deserved a credit in this match. His substitution played integral role in this match. Walcott came off the bench, and made couple of dangerous runs, Chamberlain assisted for Giroud's goal, while Podolski was the third goal scorer with his great finishing from outside the box. I was surprised Wenger kept Giroud for 90 minutes, and instead bringing off Sagna who played well for Chamberlain. But, Arsene knows, Giroud was on the spotlight today, winning penalty and scored the second. Had Wenger substituted Giroud, Arsenal might have been dropping three points. 

Lastly, the Lady Luck finally smiled to Arsenal. We've been used to see Arsenal creating chances without maximizing it, but today it's a different story. It was almost a win for Norwich before a 'luck' came in form of penalty from the assistant referee. The rest is all known, Arsenal won 3-1

NEGATIVE NOTES

Gervinho? He is way too inconsistent. Brilliant for few games then faded. Arsenal could've taken lead in first half had he made a better decision. I'm pretty sure he will back to bench after this game, especially after Podolski and Chamberlain's great game. It's unfair to criticize player on one game, but I just can hope he can rediscover his Reading match performance, if he came off the bench.

The next thing is Arsenal need a new defender. Not because Vermaelen and Koscielny is a poor defender, it's just we need a tall-strong tower who can stand against another towering target man. They are a good ball playing defender, but not the one who can be very dominant in air. Vermaelen and Koscielny was struggling against Holt, and it was from Holt Norwich goal came in. Vermaelen was also in fault for letting Turner headed the ball in, but he was quite solid in ground. Mertesacker is aerially stronger, but his speed is nowhere suitable for Arsenal's high defence line.

Lastly, Arsenal lacked of sharpness, in 80 minutes, Arsenal barely got clear cut chances. Only Giroud's heading which hit the bar, and Podolski smashed the woodwork. Norwich defended very well, but if you wanna be a champion you need to be able to break defense-minded team like this, or otherwise you can only finish fourth. I didn't see any creativity after Wilshere subbed out and before the penalty. Norwich was sturdy at the backline, but collapsed after Arteta's spot kick.

CONCLUSION

Yes, it was an ugly win, Arsenal struggled throughout the match and could've played better and sharper, but ultimately it was three points, and that what counts. Arsenal jumped to third place with 59 points above rival Chelsea and Tottenham. Next match would be a home game against Everton on midweek.

Post Chelsea-Match Analysis

Chelsea 2 Arsenal 1, and this gave Chelsea and Spurs a very very comfortable position in the Champions League zone. Arsenal is six points behind Spurs, now. 

It was unacceptable first half, as Arsenal played very poorly and made Chelsea played like Barcelona, and dominating the game comfortably. They even have already taken the lead in the first six minutes, when Juan Mata slotted home. Things going worse as Szczesny brought Ramires down in the area, and Lampard converted the penalty to double the lead. Chelsea could've finish it in the first half with few more goals, but it stand as it was, 2-0. Arsenal were outclassed, tactically, and individually, I have to admit. Too many ball lost in own area, after some of players decided to dribble past the opposition in own area - something they shouldn't do too often.

 Jack Wilshere battled with Ramires

(photos from Arsenal.com)

Second half was Arsenal's game, despite two clear cut chances from Chelsea by Torres - saved by Szczesny, and Ba - cleared off the line by Vermaelen. Arsenal pushed forward, but only managed to find one goal from Walcott after picking Cazorla's sublime pass in the 58th minutes. Arsenal was getting numbers of corners and freekicks but no real threat from set pieces.

Recently, Arsenal has been playing very poorly in the first half, and the opposition delivered heavy blow in the first half, the Gunners started playing better. Away games to Reading and Bradford in League Cup, then home game against Newcastle. The same thing happened in this game. First half was a total disaster, and no one is playing well, except Wilshere and Coquelin, who ran everywhere to chase the ball. Second half was much better, but with Chelsea already had two goals advantage, they can just sit back to defence, and wait for chance for counter attack, a tactic that nearly paid, had Vermaelen not blocked Demba Ba's shot.

Giroud was not the striker we need. Arsenal, as long as I know, is not really friendly place for a towering striker. You can argue Adebayor was Giroud-esque, but Adebayor had more pace, compared to the Frenchman. Arsenal's success striker mostly are pacey striker, Wright or Henry; or technical striker, like Bergkamp, Kanu, and the Dutch betrayer. An old fashioned striker like Giroud, is not really suitable for Arsenal's style of play, or probably - and I hope - , he is still adapting ini his first year in England. Chamakh is already off-fire, while Bendtner only playing well for his first and second season before becoming overconfident and failed to shine.

Bacary Sagna is not the player we used to know, consistent, decisive, and solid. After last season's injury, Sagna seemed declined drastically. I could say he was one of the top right back in world two seasons back. But now, he looked like decent full back. His delivery was all wrong in this match. He got lot of space down the right, but his crossing was nowhere nearing his best. The second goal was also his fault, for playing to narrow, leaving Ramires so free on Chelsea's left side. Against City, Sagna was also poor, misplaced few passes from the start of the game. Time to try Jenkinson - despite his mistake against Swansea in the League on December, I guess.

Diaby was also another disappointment in this match. On the first half, he failed to cover the pitch well, and failed to make impact from the middle, before replaced by Arshavin in the second half.

On the other hand, there's some encouraging notes from this match. Jack Wilshere, once more showed he would be the one driving Arsenal forward this season. His passing was excellent, and some of his chips were dangerous. He should be played down the middle, even if it means to sacrifice Cazorla to either flank. Francis Coquelin looks like Chamberlain last season, a good team player who rarely got chance. He was a better performer in the first half, and he was never scared to move forward, or challenge the opposition player. If he could play consistently, I can imagine Arsenal's engine consisting of Wilshere and Coquelin in cetnral for the next few seasons.

For Wenger, he'd better another striker, to make it more competitive, as there's no central striker anymore in Arsenal beside misfiring Giroud, after Chamakh is loanned out. Buying Adrian Lopez would make sense, but we need someone who can change the game. I haven't seen Adrian a lot, so I'm still unsure of this man. Fernando Llorente is another target but it is another old fashioned target man, like Giroud. Cavani would be a coup, but Wenger said he doesn't want to splash on cash on Cavani. Demba Ba is already taken by Chelsea. So we can just wait and see who Wenger buy this transfer windows. I wish Wenger would make a big transfer for Arsenal - even if it means he is cuptied in Champions League - at least he could save us in the Premier League.

Another defensive midfielder would be a great additon. It is true that we have Coquelin and Arteta, plus Diaby - if you insist that he is a defensive midfielder. Diame from Wigan would be an excellent transfer, as he is already used to Premier League, and not Cuptied for the Champions League. He could sit deep, and giving Cazorla and Wilshere the freedom to move forward. He is a strong defensive midfielder we've been waiting for. Fellaini would be an expensive alternative, but recently he was playing as attacking midfielder, so buying him would not resolve Arsenal's problem.

There is still time for Wenger to buy players. 9 days is short, but anything still could happen in the short time, IF Wenger really wants to make a move in this winter trasnfer windows.

Well, Wenger is Wenger after all, and I'm not hoping too much for him. Few years he hasn't buy anyone in this period, except Arshavin, who helped Arsenal to climb to fourth place four years back. Let's just hope Wenger could find another Arshavin, or Arsenal could play like second half in Stamford Bridge, consistently. Otherwise, we might not seen Arsenal in Champions League - or even Europa League - next season.

Crazy Game!!

Arsenal closed 2012 by beating Newcastle 7-3 in a very entertaining, thrilling match in Emirates Stadium. Leading three times through Walcott, Chamberlain, and Podolski; Arsenal let Newcastle equalized three times via Arsenal-linked Demba Ba - twice, and Sylvain Marveaux. However, Newcastle had no way back after Theo Walcott made it 4-3, with a cool finishing receiving Kieran Gibbs cross, which was initially meant for Lukas Podolski. Olivier Giroud made a diving header to score the fifth for Arsenal - from Walcott's cross, and added the sixth, with a great footwork followed by powerful finishing to the bottom corner. Theo Walcott finished his perfect night today, by making wonderful goal, completing his hattrick, dribbling through four players - and also falling down - before chipping the ball pass Tim Krul. Olivier Giroud almost followed Theo's heroism, but his shot receiving Ramsey's cross denied by the crossbar.

 

Theo Walcott celebrated his goal.

(photo from arsenal.com)

Theo Walcott once again started upfront, and despite scoring a goal in the first half, he was anonymous in the first 45, before going crazy on the second half. He showed real confidence after scoring his second goal of tonight, but he was also guilty wasting some good opportunities, with misplaced pass to Cazorla on the counter attack, giving Newcastle's defender time to recover; or his decision to shot when it was 3 against 2, with Podolski and Cazorla unmarked. However, generally, it was a stunning performance by the Englishman, who is yet to put his sign on the contract. 

On the other hand, Olivier Giroud showed Walcott that he is not the only one deserved to play in the central forward position. He scored two goals in just twenty minutes, showing his predatory instinct. Yes, Newcastle was exhausted and desperate already when he is coming on, but scoring two goals in twenty minutes in Premier League deserved a credit. His first goal showed why Arsenal bought him - to maximize crossing from both flanks, while his second goal showed his striker instinct. 

It is good to have healthy competition in the team, rising the level of both players. In addition of competing for one place upfront, today we see that Walcott and Giroud is also compatible to each other. If Giroud plays, he brings different dimensions, while Walcott can start on the right flanks, and it is also good tactical alternative for Arsenal, not only depending on Walcott's pace, but also Giroud's aerial ability. It would be interesting to see Arsenal's line up next match, whether Wenger stick to Walcott upfront, or trying to play Giroud and Walcott together.

However, despite good attacking display, Arsenal still need to improve defensively. Laurent Koscielny and Thomas Vermaelen struggled against physical Demba Ba, and Pappis Cisse. Kieran Gibbs was dangerous marauding to opposition's box, but was clueless defending in own area, as shown on the second and third Newcastle's goal. Gibbs was nowhere to mark Sylvain Marveaux, and was nowhere to stop Demba Ba on the third. Bacary Sagna was surprisingly shaky in defence. It is true that Arsene's Arsenal never known as good defensive unit, except for 2006, but often, good defence would be the difference in the big match. Arsenal looked really shaky without Per Mertesacker, who missed the game because of unwell. 

It was a great game to end 2012 for the Gooner, but remember - without disrespecting Newcastle - it was just a match against Newcastle, who was missing a lot of first team players, plus played Man. United few days back, while Arsenal having a rest after the match against West Ham was postponed. Arsenal struggled to stamp the authority, before the last 20 minutes, Newcastle run out of gas, and Arsenal strolled to scored more goal. It won't be so easy next time, but if Arsenal showed attacking fluidity like in the last 20 mintues, plus strengthening the defense, next match against Southampton should be another win.

Arsenal's Transfer Rated

It was half season already, and Arsenal - once again - underwent drastic changes. Robin van Persie, whom Wenger build the team around, went to rival, Manchester United, and Wenger was forced to rebuild his team. Alex Song, another importang player in last season, was sold to Barcelona in a cheap transfer fee, only around 15 million pounds.

Wenger had anticipated the departure of van Persie, by signing Olivier Giroud and Lukas Podolski, even before Robin van Persie declared himself that he would leave. However, for Alex Song case, Wenger didn't buy direct replacement, instead he bought Santi Cazorla, and with the return of Jack Wilshere, Mikel Arteta was pushed into a deeper role, as a deep lying playmaker, a position which Song played last season.

Permanent Transfer

IN :
Olivier Giroud (Montpellier)
Lukas Podolski (FC Koln)
Santi Cazorla (Malaga)

OUT :
Robin van Persie (Manchester United)
Alex Song Billong (Barcelona)
Carlos Vela (Real Sociedad)
Henri Lansbury (Nottingham Forest)
Manuel Almunia (Watford)
Kyle Bartley (Swansea)

 1. Olivier Giroud

He came from Montpellier with a big burden to replace the talisman Robin van Persie, and he even admitted came to Arsenal at the wrong time. He could be said disappointing, only because he was compared to brilliant van Persie. People had forgotten that he was not the same player like van Persie. He is even a different type of player from RvP. Giroud is an old-fashioned, but hardworking targetman. He might not possess the flair, but he is aerially strong and could hold the ball well, and if he is provided good support, he could be deadly, like he did in Ligue 1 last season, becoming the top scorer.

He endured torrid spells in few first games, made some awful miss against Sunderland, Chelsea, and also Manchester United. However, he did improve few games after that, and after opening his goal account against Conventry, he scored two goals against Fulham and one against Tottenham, plus setting up two goals against Montpellier, which ensures Arsenal qualify to next round.

 Olivier Giroud after his first Arsenal goal

(photos from telegraph.co.uk)

The problem now is the team selection. He is not guaranted starter, as Wenger sometimes even prefer lacksture Gervinho starts upfront instead of him. Theo Walcott, who stated that he wants to play centrally, finally started the game in central against Reading, and he did well in that game, a possibility which would restrict his first team appearance. 

Seven goals from 24 appearances in total, 4 goals in the league from 16 games, is not the best thing you can get from the striker. However, given that this is his first season, and often he held the ball well during the game to open the space for the team mates, Olivier Giroud has arguably done a decent job.

TRANSFER RATING : 7 / 10

2. Lukas Podolski

Signed from relegated FC Koln, Podolski is another player expected to replace van Persie, beside Olivier Giroud. The Gooners saw it, both of them had a wonderful left foot and capable of scoring beautiful goals, both of them is the talisman and captain of the club last season, and Podolski had more than 100 caps in his bag. He easily become one of fans favourite after a good starts, as he scored one against Liverpool and a screamer against Southampton. However, he had been inconsistent, and failed to keep his good form throughout October and November - despite scoring a wonder goal against Montpellier. 

He is no natural left winger - he declared himself would prefer play in the central position , but Wenger had been using him in the left flank, and only started in the central in the first game against Sunderland. He often plays cutting inside, and is very composed in one on one with keeper, complemented with good first touch, but sometimes his shooting from left hand side is too often wide from the target. However, his crossing was quite good, especially in the last game against Reading, he did make two assist to Cazorla, after a largely average month for the German. His workrate has been a positive notes also, he wasn't afraid to challenge players in their own area.

Lukas Podolski celebrated his goal against Reading

(source : arsenal.com)

He is the second top scorer below Theo Walcott, with eight goals, three goals less than Walcott, but he is Arsenal's top scorer in Champions League - looks like he enjoys playing in the Champions League. He could be utilized more in the central striker, but as Arsene deploys 4-2-3-1, it is very hard for him to play in the central, but probably if Wenger switched to 4-4-2 Podolski could do better upfront.

TRANSFER RATING : 7 / 10  

3. Santi Cazorla

It was a coup, considering Wenger bought him only around 16 million from Malaga, for the World Cup and Euro winner in age of 28. He plays in Rosicky's position last season - forcing Rosicky out of first team -  and has largely enjoyed his role in that position. Integrated easily with Arsenal's game, he is now top scorer of Arsenal in the Premier League with seven goals after his hattrick against Reading. Capable of scoring magic goals - against West Ham and Manchester United, with great vision, plus great passing ability, that's what we can expect from Cazorla, and so far, he has been very impressive, pleasing the Gooners and not disappointing any of the expectations.

 Santi Cazorla enjoyed a good spell with Arsenal 

(photos from arsenal.com)

He had been pulling the strings in the midfield with Arteta, Ramsey and Wilshere, with his long ball. He reminds me of Cesc Fabregas, with a better shooting ability. His midfield trio with Arteta and Wilshere in the recent games has been quite well, except in the game against Aston Villa and Swansea.Wenger should be more careful of playing Cazorla continuously if he wants Cazorla to stays in his best, as he might become jaded. It is actually quite interesting to see both Rosicky and Cazorla plays together in pitch, another alternative for Wenger, should he rest Jack Wilshere in the central of the park. His corner actually has been quite disappointing for his standard. Arsenal only scored one corner goal from Cazorla's pass. However, beside that corner setup, Cazorla has arguably a perfect transfer for the Gunners.

If Arsenal flies high this season, Cazorla surely would become one of the main protagonists. Easily the best transfer for Arsenal, and one of the best transfers this season in Premier League.

TRANSFER RATING : 10 / 10

OVERALL COMING TRANSFER : 8 / 10

They bought who they need, and not buying any unusable first team player, like last year they did to Park Ju-Yong, buying him only to see he played in the League Cup few times. This time Wenger also buy someone who is already at their peak. Giroud is 26, Podolski is 27, and Cazorla is 28. Olivier Giroud and Lukas Podolski was a sensible replacement for van Persie, and despite yet to reach the same level as van Persie, Giroud and Podolski have done decent jobs so far. Santi Cazorla is a brilliant addition to the squad, adding some flair - and set piece experts - Arsenal needs. This is proabably one of the best buying policy Arsenal had in the recent years.

OVERALL TRANSFER : 6 / 10

It was a good buying policy, but it was not a good selling policy. It is never a good idea to sell your best players, especially to your rival, and now Manchester United is enjoying the coup of Robin van Persie, as Arsenal struggled from times to times when they need someone like him, who could create something out of nothing. The selling of Alex Song had little impact as Arteta fits the position very well, despite playing as a attacking midfielder in most of his career. Carlos Vela, Henri Lansbury, and Kyle Bartley were once a promising youngster but they were deemed a surplus by Wenger, and they were sold. Personally I would love to see Vela playing in Arsenal instead of being sold, but probably Wenger sees that Vela doesn't suit EPL's physical approach. Manuel Almunia was wisely released as Szczesny firmly hold the first place and he is no longer young - Almunia is 35 already.