The Goals, And Eduardo, And Arsenal, Are Back
Feb 16th, 2009 by 'holic
Well, in all competitions Arsenal are now unbeaten in twelve. In the previous eleven however there has been considerable doubt about just how well they have been playing. Tonight we welcomed back the Arsenal that a dearth of confidence had taken from us.
‘Ah ‘holic’ I hear you say, ‘it was only Cardiff’ Well you can only beat what is put in front of you and ‘only Cardiff’ caused us plenty of problems at Ninian Park. For the first time since the visit of our neighbours from N17 in October we scored four goals. The events in injury time that night caused the doubts that have festered ever since.
There is little doubt that Arsene Wenger produced a masterstroke by giving Eduardo his first start since that tackle threatened his career almost a year ago. I was surprised he did, but that selection, and the inclusion of the nimble Vela, made all the difference.
Most of you will have watched the contest and will be familiar with the script. We could have been four up in six minutes, but it took twenty before the Croatian headed home from the Mexican’s cross. Cue a little dampness in the corner of the eyes, but only because I had not taken Arseblog‘s advice to back him to score!
Just after the half hour I did make a few bob when Bendtner finally converted one of the seventy-six clear chances he had on the night, so all was not lost. In the second half Eduardo climbed off the floor to convert the penalty he himself had earned, before Robin van Persie replaced him and slotted home the fourth from a clever Bendtner through-ball.
This was not a night for mechanics, however. It was a night for a gifted group of youngsters to once again weave pretty patterns across the Grove’s lush surface. Only the coming weeks will tell if that performance will raise spirits for the challenges to come.
I’ll accept that the most influential figures tonight may struggle to get a starting berth in a few short weeks. As well as the introduction of Arshavin there are potential returns for the likes of Clichy, Walcott, Fabregas, Rosicky, and Adebayor. Diaby and Djourou will be staking a claim as well.
The trick for Arsene will be to find the right blend. You cannot help but be excited by the attacking potential of the side, but this must not come at the expense of a much improved defensive performance in recent weeks, and whisper it softly, Denilson and Song were largely responsible for that security against the Championship side.
So now home Premiership games with Sunderland and Fulham sandwich the vital Champions League home leg with Roma. Is that game coming a week or two early for us? Let’s worry about that when it arrives and for the moment savour the football that returned against Cardiff.
I’ve missed my Arsenal!
27 Responses to “The Goals, And Eduardo, And Arsenal, Are Back”
I’ll have a pint of beer holic.
It was great seeing that great attacking Arsenal again. And although Cardiff didn’t create much (read any) chances, but our defense was also good. As it has been in recent games. And I have to say, Gallas has been playing very good. I use to hate him, but I think his our best defender now.
So glad for Eduardo, it’s good to see him and the old Arsenal back. Also thought Dudu going to the medical staff after the second goal was a touch of class. Regardless of the opposition, every fan can deservedly enjoy that performance, it was a long time coming..
I’ll have a dash of rum please ‘holic. Let’s hope we’ve just been late starters.
delighted for dudu tonight. wished i had backed him as well. and to be honest with you as well im glad bendtner had a good game. at least when he shoots his mouth off he does convert one of the myriad of chances that comes his way. he looked interested and up for it which is more than you can say for the newly crowned african footballer of the year who has not looked up for it since the autumn when no doubt he received his first month of wages which included his pay rise.
Some people are saying that it was only Cardiff, but let’s not forget that they were also a side brimming in the confidence that their own unbeaten run in all competitions since November ’08 had given them.
Here’s a raised glass to our new signing, the Crozilian.
I’ll join you in that toast, thank you Snail.
Let’s hope
PiersBtM can join us to celebrate.Eduardo adds a special something to the side, it was great to have him back on the pitch. Let’s celebrate his return, but also realize that Eduardo has a lot to add the rest of this season.
You can’t help but feel optimistic at the moment. Looking at the upcoming fixtures and the players we have coming back into the squad, you can only hope the best is to come for this team.
Bring on Sunderland!
Thought Gibbs looked great. Feel like we have backup for Clichy for the first time, so am happy about that. Ed is fox in the box and we need that. Super happy Vela started. More Vela please. Even without Cesc, Walcott, or Rosicky we have a formidable lineup.
Sagna Gallas Toure Clichy
Arshavin Denilson/Song Nasri Vela
Ed RVP/Bendtner
Gallas and Toure seem to be playing better together.
Work got in the way of watching the match live, and don’t you hate it when that happens, so it was on tape for me. None the worse for that. I enjoyed every single minute and was choked when Dudu scored the first. What a gutsy guy! Did you see some of his challenges? More importantly, his quick feet and composure in the box are something we’ve missed SO much.
Good performance all round, I thought. Echo the comments on Vela and Gibbs. It’s fantastic to have a pipeline full of superb young talent coming along behind the regulars. Two things puzzled me though:
– Why did AW bring on RvP? The game was won, he knows how Robin and Bendy play together, Robin looked sharp – we all know he is. I would have liked to see Neutron Jack get 30 minutes OR see Robin and Eduardo on together. That was rare last season (did it even happen?).
– Did no one else spot Bischoff’s 15 minutes of excellence? His positional sense, passing and desire looked really promising. First time I’ve seen him. I’m sure it won’t be the last.
And finally, in an attempt to curry favour and fend off a potential red with a sweet word in the ref’s ear; Holic, Snail, the bottle of blue label has waited 20 years. It’s open now. Pop round to Gray Street and help me raise a big one to Eduardo, Arsenal’s number nine and new signing from Croazilia.
After 353 days, the tide’s turned, boys. No more whispering, Holic, it’s time shout it. It’s time to proclaim it. It’s gonna be one hell of a run through to May. Did you see Cesc in the squad seats tonight. We’ve got Cesc Fabregas AND he’s coming back!
Oh God, im so happy for him. This is for those who never gave up on him.
We love you , Dudu..
And yes, my eyes were moist.
I told you I was on your side. Are you ready for the ride?
Too many pints of San Miguel went down [whilst at my local watching the game] last night so I’ll have a strong coffee please ‘holic. I can only echo many of the comments that have already been made in reference to what was a superb TEAM performance last night.
The re-introduction of Dudu to the hallowed turf of the Grove was just what the doctor – or rather team of doctors – ordered, with the added benefit that it will surely give Ade something to think about regarding his as yet lowly contribution to the team so far this season.
I agree with BTM that it would have been great to see ickle Neutron Jack given a run out, therefore to see Bentdner subbed (as well as Dudu).
Gibbs contribution was fantastic (almost a carbon copy of Clichy) as was Gallas who has steadily been getting his head down and recently putting in some sterling performances – although his rendition of the ‘dying swan’ made my laugh!!!
So a great night all round. We still have plenty of ‘proving’ to do and there is, off course, that all important 4th or even 3rd spot to fight for but maybe, just maybe, we have hit this crucial point in the season to find our rightful form?! A little bit late but never late than never – I certainly wouldn’t bet against it!!!!!
How good was it to see free-flowing footy again? Every time Cardiff cleared it, we just brought it straight back to them. Wonderful!
Hooray! And just a coffee for me please.
An accomplished performance all round. Great to see Eduardo back again. His presence will be a huge boost to moral in general, not just because we have missed his footballing skills. The fact he is back playing and scoring can give everyone a massive lift.
Some good performances all over the park. Vela looked exciting. I agree with Bob re Gallas and Toure. For the first time they actually look like they can play together. Gallas has been outstanding in recent weeks. I have also been impressed with Denilson. He has been slated by some as not being good enough. He has had little experience along side him to guide him in the first team. For me he continues to improve and continues to look good. I am expecting big things from him in the years to come.
Also agree with BTM re Bischoff. First time I have seen him play and thought he looked excellent. Played with vision and hunger.
Some massive games on the horizon. Play like that and get a convincing win on Saturday and we will be off and running again. What price the Russian to score on his debut??????
Keep the faith.
just a coffee today mr hols’
can i just add that arsene knew what he was doing playing rvp for the last 20, he sat out most of the west ham game and although he had a hard job at that place along the seven sisters road, the last 20 minutes last night will get his body back in to rotation of playing saturday, midweek, weekend again.
come on weekend, i want to see arshavin score on his debut, put money on it mr hols, it’s gonna happen.
Fair point about RvP, dino. I’ll avoid a wager on Arshavin until we know he is fit. I suspect a little cameo from the bench on Saturday provided we have a comfortable lead against the mackems.
unfortunatelly eduardos return has been ruined for me by the news that usmanov has increased his stake. what to do?
no drink for me- im saving up to buy lady ninas shares…
The Fat looming Grinch acquiring 25% will trouble me later. I’m still basking in the first enjoyable Arsenal match I have watched in a while. I’ll drink to Eduardo’s triumphant return ..and really looking forward to AA23 debut! Come on you Gunners!!
It was great to see good games from the youngsters Gibbs and Vela. Bischoff now looks to have been a shrewd signing whilst Denilson and Song ran the midfield. Gallas is playing probably the best football since joining us and he is gelling with Toure whose confidence seems to be returning. Bendtner had his best game in ages, Nasri gets better and better and RVP finally seems to have found consistency to match his talent whilst Sagna continues to be Mr Reliable. Eduardo is simply amazing. All in all a great TEAM performance showing talent, confidence, commitment and a great work ethic.
A pint of Guinness and a Powers chaser please!
Not been here for a long time.
I think I’ll have tequila, actually
Sunrise or slammer?
I’m getting a very select clientele in the drinks these days.
đ
Are you Harry Redknap in Disguise?
Iâve just had my lovely little lad Piers run home in tears, Mr GoonerHolic and itâs all because of you, horrible man!
âMummyâ, he said to me, âThere Iâve been, quite happily pouring vitriol and snail (oops, make that dung beetle and hope fervently there isnât a Dung Beetle out there) vomit on Arsenal for the last ten years and what should happen? Along comes that nasty man, Holic, all sunshine and light. Like ice wouldnât melt in his Glenlivet. And never even one really nasty comment. Not even for Eboue or Andrei Arshavinâs mum!â
âHow ghastly, Piers my lovelyâ I said to him. âAt least itâs over. You can forget it and get back to your lovely prosaic literature like what you wrote in the Gaily Mail last weekâ âNo, mummy. It gets worse!â darling, lovely, Piers told me. âNasty old, horrible old, Holic said he hoped that next time I need a poo, something crawly and sharp comes out of my botty and I fall back on it!â
âWell I never did, Mr Holic! Little Piers is all a-quiver. In a worse state than he was when he wet his pants after failing the English section of his little eleven plus (well, air isn’t an easy word to spell, is it, poor lad)â. The last time I heard such nightmarish words, they twipped fwom the lips of Fat Fwankâs dad after the Totts stole a draw against the Gunners in October.
Are you Hawwy WedKnap in disguise you nasty, nasty man?
I’m so sorry Mrs Plonkermum, but as usual your ‘boy’ is being a little, shall we say, creative with the facts?
I would actually like to see far worse happen to him. Something that would remove him from public life entirely, but since everybody’s mum is wonderful I will spare you the details.
I take it from the way you were able to string words together coherently that your little boy must take after his father? It is simply wonderful to see the way that a mothers love can gloss over all deficiencies in their young. A lesson in tolerance for us all, I’m sure.
đ
OK. Enough of all that nonsense and back to sense and sensibility. I enjoyed the smiles.
Where’s the Holic pound going on Saturday? Any tips from Arseblogger?
What a comeback for Edouardo, a natural goalscorer if ever there was one. Not so Niklaus Bendtner who should hang his head in shame. He should have had a hat-trick, and having watched the goals online, they look even worse misses than they looked live. So roll on Saturday and Sunderland, who should be easy meat except that for Arsenal there seem to be so few easy games these days. However I can`t wait for the prospect of seing Arshavin make his debut, and hoping that Edouardo`s apparent hamstring tightness doesn`t rule him out. COME ON YOU GUNNERS!!!
On Monday night I saw 11 players producing exceptional football (at last). The entire team gelled in a way that hasn’t been happening this season. In this superb collective display, there were several outstanding individuals. Bendtner was one of them.
Yes, he hit the post when he should have scored, and the keeper did well to smother the follow-up.
Biscuitbum (yes, I’m talking to you), Bendtner did put his head in his hands, but only momentarily. Then he got on with the game. He’d already scored an excellent headed goal, and he later played a perfect through ball for van Persie to complete the scoring.
Agree with GoonerGerry. Thought Bendtner and Denilson both had very good games. Lets not forget, both are only 20. I can not name any player that was the finished article at 20. Let’s get off their backs people.