Go Ahead Marouane, Chamakh My Day
Sep 9th, 2010 by 'holic
The 11th September has not been a particularly lucky date down the years. Quite apart from the events in the United States in 2001 the date has also seen the final breaths of, among others, the excellent Peter Tosh, and sadly also the birth of Harry Connick Jr (only kidding, honest!).
It seems shallow for me to be bemoaning the fact that the ticket I had acquired for Saturday’s clash with Bolton Wanderers is now in the hands of another. The fact that I cannot attend is magnified by having to preview the contest on a Thursday because I will be spending what looks like being a wet day on the golf course tomorrow.
My minor woes pale into insignificance if you have followed the fortunes of Robin van Persie and Theo Walcott in recent days. When last the Gunners took to the field of play Robin was starting his first match since the World Cup Final, and Theo held his place on the back of an impressive start to the season, including a hat-trick against Blackpool. He scored again at Ewood Park that day.
Sadly when Bolton come calling, in fact when all of our opponents for the next 4-6 weeks come calling, the pair will be missing. With Nicklas Bendtner also a long-term absentee it is unfortunate, but no more than that. Our most versatile striker remains available, and as long as that remains the case I won’t be looking to throw myself off suicide bridge at Archway.
As well as two new absentees, it is also possible at the time of writing that two midfielders are fit to return. I doubt that Samir Nasri and Denilson will start, but the bench will be a strong one with them there.
With Emmanuel Eboue and Marouane Chamakh favourites to replace the injured duo the real unknown as far as team selection is concerned is whether Laurent Koscielny, Sebastien Squillaci, or also fit again Johan Djourou will get the nod to partner Thomas Vermaelen at the back. For what it is worth I suspect that Le Boss will stick with Koscielny, although I am sympathetic to the view that the experienced Squillaci could be more suited to meeting the physical challenge likely to be offered by Kevin Davies.
The awful thing about doing a Thursday preview is that Friday’s press conferences often reveal more news with regard to availability, or otherwise, of key players. That will apply to the visitors as much as us, but already the absence through suspension of the slapper, Jaaskelainen, is something of a boost.
Back-up ‘keeper Bogdan will be severely tested, I hope, so the ‘holic pound seeks a first return of the season on the back of a handsome triumph. I’m taking 3-1 to the Gunners, widely available at a very tempting 10/1. Somehow, it has to be said, that won’t be quite as satisfying against an Owen Coyle side as a Fat Sam Allardyce one.
Given the difficulty in finding media player streams that don’t get quickly shut down this season, I suspect that ‘holicdad may get his first taste of watching Arsenal via sopcast on the ten inch screen of a netbook. Wish us luck with that, as I wish that those of you going have a great day.
All the best, ‘holics.
147 Responses to “Go Ahead Marouane, Chamakh My Day”
First at the bar? Pint of Harveys, don’t mind if I do….
My wishes of quick recovery to Theo (and RvP). A sad setback for someone settling so swiftly into strength and skill for striking and scoring.
Pint of Guinness for me ‘Holic
I will bet seventeen million Italian lira on a thirteen to minus three score on Saturday. Pint of o negative please you old lush
Viva Allende!!
Strong on Chilean history, are we storefront?
Perhaps you could tell me, why did August Pinochet wait until September?
does he actually deliver us all drinks?
Virtually, of course drac.
I take it you will be popping out for a bite soon?
Joshua, apologies. I should have acknowledged you before the ones that soared high above the cuckoos nest.
Guinness. Excellent choice. It is really good tonight 🙂
Flagon of Red please
Sorry you’re going to miss the game on Sat ‘Holic.
2 more sleeps for me 🙂
Any Deuchars on tap in this hostelry?
Hello Jackster.
Do you have anything to say about Chilean history?
zico, whatever the regulars want, I have…
Oi oi Holic! How de do?
A glass of rose wine and whatever you’re drinking please(it’s been one of those weeks)!
Firstly, I won’t be attending the game on Saturday as I’m saving to move and promised the other half I would only attend fixtures I have not attended before, until we move, which will resume with West Brom on the 25th. But hopefully the Irish Bar in town will be showing the game on sat, live via Setanta Ireland, as it’s listed to be shown.
Theo and Robin? I’m gutted for Theo because he has done everything right so far this season. Also Wenger’s fear of interlull injuries has hit us again!
Although we already knew about RVP,which occured on domestic duty, the 4-6 weeks duration is a little irritating! I’ll leave it there!
Chamakh and Eboue will be good especially at home and when you add Rosicky and Nasri to the wing, things become bright again at this stage!
The bench will have a nice mixture of youth and experience and I’m sure Jack will want to show OC and his previous temporary team mates why he has chosen to stay at the home of football!
I saw highlights of Squillachi’s debut in the reserve game on Arsenal.com and must say he somehow looked as though he was going easier than he would like and although if he doesn’t play on Sat, I fully expect opposing forwards to be wary of his presence when he does eventually play!
Great post Holic and I am going for an out and out Arsenal win at 1/6 (effing great!) I’m expecting 4-0 to the Arsenal with Arshavin to score at anytime!
I’m going to go easy tonight
Good to hear that you rate Tosh……
On another note I hope we dont miss Walcott and VP too much….
A word of advice to all those who have alter egos which are used to deliver internet pastings make sure you change back once you get back around family!
Pint of you’re finest batty juice please
Holic’ – Arsene Wenger missed a trick with both Mvila and Rami. Their prices are going to go way up before the next transfer window, I fear. Maybe no one knew they were going to be as good as they are, and Mvila is just 20, but it would be nice to bring in players right when they’re hitting peak form, as it looks like these two are, and in areas (holding midfield and central defense) where Arsenal could strengthen. Neither of Koscielny nor Squillaci is going to displace Rami in France’s defense based on merit, unless Rami has a dramatic loss of form.
Good evening Holic & Holic`s
Poor Theo, the kid grows into a man who looked set to stand up and be counted only to be shot down when we needed him most. I have already commented on the RVP situation which on reflection is what is to be expected by the one man I would pay huge amounts of money to watch in a injury free season.
Prior to the season starting Theo was talking the talk and then delivering on the field. FANTASTIC ! Then a ankle injury for 6 weeks, why ? Why do we get these injuries all the time ? That is a rhetorical question as we have all discussed in length the who`s, why`s and what ifs of are injured players.
There you have it 3 games into the season and I am dragging up the injury situation already. On a more positive note Nasri seems ready to enter the fray again. Just like Theo a man on a mission me thinks. To prove it was a mistake to leave him behind at the WC. I just hope Nasri and Theo have and will keep that fire in their belly which can only be a good thing for the Arsenal.
So here`s to a 2-0 win this weekend and no injuries.
Come on you GUNNERS
What ever you have on tap barman
Holic, pint of Carling (cup?) please.
Thegoonblog (excellent blog) wrote something about Nasri and Rosicky being too similar and playing them together wouldn’t work too good. Well, it got me thinking that he may be right but I still would like to see it, with players like those, so many unexpected things happen…
Spot on on Chamakh, like I said, it’s IMPERATIVE that he doesn’t get injured and stays healthy for the trip to Chelsea. He HAS to stay healthy as long as both NB52 and RvP are out.
Freaky stat – RvP played only 42 EPL games since 2006-2007.
Freaky stat #2 – Theo has been with us for 4 years – This is his 18th (!!!!!!!) injury since joining (credit to thegoonblog).
UP THE ARSE!
Theo and RVP broken. Why am I not surprised anymore? Very disappointed for the pair of them but sadly not shocked. Perhaps a squad of 25 really is not enough when you are The Arsenal.
That said I do not envisage too many problems at the weekend. My regular football buddie is otherwise engaged this Saturday so looking forward to giving my 6 year old boy his first outing of the season. Hoping for Davis to end up in row Z and a victory by at least 6 clear goals.
Looking for a nice drop of Pedigree tonight holic if you have some in stock?
Keep the faith.
Good post ‘Holic as usual.
It’s such a shame for Theo. I really had hopled this would be his season to shine. Hopefully he will pickup where he left when he comes back. Same for Robin one hopes.
As for Bendtner, it is really irritating. If he wasn’t fit, he shouldn’t have played at the World Cup. I know he wants to represent his national team but Arsenal pays his wages.
Fingers crossed Chamakh stays fit for the next 6 weeks at least.
Heineken for me barman
I’m hopinh Chamakh can do the biz for the next month or 2. Lot of pressure but he got the talent.
Gin & tonic pls!
‘Holic, perhaps like storefront, I am not a real historian just an aspiring or, the truth be known, disappointed revolutionary. Red wine please.
Goonerman, Ja_Gunner, welcome, and thanks for droppping by.
Goonertown, got a beef?
433, I value your expert opinion, and I’m not surprised. Let’s hope Koscielny is a work in progress about to blossom unexpectedly. That will be what the scouting reports have said, and Squillaci is there to fill the breach until that happens.
71, Theo will be back, I’m sure.
Hey Snir, for a start Nasri and Rosicky can occupy different flanks!
Steve T, perfect age. From my experience six is the age to really indoctrinate them and give them no alternative. “Do you want to go to Arsenal today or have Mum moan at you all afternoon?” 🙂
tv5, with you on Chamakh. I’m sure he’ll stay fit, unless a Taylor or a Shawc…no, don’t go there.
If Chamakh rhymes with attack but you can also say “Chamakh my day” it seems we still have to work on the correct pronunciation. All correctness aside, I’m hoping he makes my day by spearheading a rampaging attack.
There were posts going around that now Sp*rs have signed RVDV they now have a stronger squad than ours!
Well as you could imagine…
Holic, I know what you mean, but judging from Rosicky’s form as opposed to last season I prefer him in the middle – The flank experiment with him didn’t work that well. Nasri as well would be better off in the middle.
I’d prefer Eboue on the right and a midfield of Song, Cesc, Diaby.
What’d you guys say about Vela on the left for AA23? He has to get a run sometime. This is the perfect time.
Holic. Both of my have been totally taken by the whole thing so I am quiet lucky. I have been accused by some of brain washing them. Total rubbish I have said. They make their own decisions. They don’t have to support the mighty Gunners in the same way that they can seek alternative accomodation at any time they so desire???????????
Now, how is that pedigree coming along?????
I get you Goonertown. I doubt they’ll follow you here. Quite right you were to correct their misconceptions though…
bt8bbnn, I wonder how many football bloggers would have got the Chilean connection? Red wine, eh? Good choice. I have an excellent selection laid down.
Snir, you have the midfield and Eboue nailed for Saturday I think, but Arshavin will start ahead of Vela. Expect Jack as a second half substitute against the side he played for last season.
I’m sure AA will start ahead of Vela but if AW wants Vela to have a run this has to be the game to start that run.
Or maybe the next home game Vs. W.B.A – I’m really not one of Vela’s supporters as I think he concentrates more on the show of the game rather than the actual football sometimes (for instance that play against Blackpool had to be a goal) but I’d really prefer saving the first team players for tougher opposition away from home because of our horrible injury record.
Good post, but the headline just sucked mate
Evening Holic
Interesting point from the reserve fixture against Blackburn on Tuesday,
Despite the fact that Fabianski/Djourou/Squillaci and Denilson all played in that game,the side was captained by a young 18 yr old lad called Ignasi Miquel.!!
He is from the Catalan region of Spain and has played for the Spanish youth team.
But beyond that,i know nothing about him.
He must be very highly thought of by the people that count to be given that responsibility at such a young age.
I know there are a couple of visitors to this site that follow the young Guns,so maybe they can fill in some of the gaps.
I’m teetotal since ‘ THEY” let me out of the Secure Unit last month,
so a glass of Perrier Water for me please.
@Clive Waterman – I saw Ignasi Miquel play recently for an Arsenal XI vs AFC Wimbledon and he really looked the part (as did Bartley and W. Silva). Calm on the ball, athletic and looked like he could grow into a solid player.
Afterwards, Ignasi met with us fans and was the epitome of politeness and serenity. Here’s a picture of him posing with my son and godson afterwards. Lovely chap.
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=6104792&l=fbca803990&id=627219133
Perrier please. Off the sauce until tomorrow night. Thanks.
Yeah I signed in as Goonerman instead of Goonertown. Well you know the story know!
As titi would say “I love this club”
Steve T @20 – that’s why, including all our U21’s we have registered no less than 76 players. Should last us ’til Xmas.
Clive @33 – I’m sure all we will need to know about Miquel is that he has Barca DNA in his blood if he turns out to be any good.
I’m still in Catalonia ’til tomorrow – might nip down to Nou Camp in the morning and try to kill Xavi before my flight.
Goonertown – good to see you’re back in. Must have found a new supplier of high octane substances!
Mark Lawrenson and ‘holic both predicting us to be 3-1 winners this weekend. Therefore, my prediction: Arsenal 4-0.
Chamakh attack!
@ ‘Holic at #8,
Isn’t it always? 🙂
I wonder what the odds are for Rosicky to grab a goal. The way he’s been playing, he’s due one.
‘Holic, for those of us waiting with baited breath, why did Pinochet wait until September?
Sorry bt8bbnn,
I wish I knew. It wasn’t a joke. I was hoping storefront might explain the reference to Allende. Assume it was because the coup happened on 11th September.
Right. Time and the golf course wait for no man…
Hi Trev – You know there’s only one place for me! I’m forever loyal mate!Good to see you back in here too! What are you drinking mate? Holic the same again and whatever my dear friend is having please!
you still looking for a ticket for sat
Actually, the Spetember 11th date in Chile refers to 1541 and the Mapuche rebellion in Santiago against the disease-ridden murderous Europeans. This date is celebrated by the name of the Avenida 11 de Septiembre. although the disease-ridden murderous Pinochet was happy to opportunistically seek to take it as his own as the date coincided with his coup against Allende.
Thank you for yor time….
Good post Holic, Chamakh needs to stay injury free too right peeps, if he goes to the treatment table then we have big issue on our plate.
Same old story with RVP, the lad is walking injury to happen, shame as such talent as he is we never get 100% out him. Fabregas needs to step up too, I don’t care what he said about us telling him to stay bla bla bla. We pay him to kick the ball and we expect him to do it very well. Clean sheet would be welcome to, everyone needs to protect Almunia dn as for the fans let’s get behind him lads.
Feel sad for Theo he seems to have his own share of misfortunes on the pitch, no a lot you can do about that. Eboue can fill the gap and hopefully be a solid cover for now.
All in all it’s not the end of the world 🙂
Barman Wisniowka all around please, damn it’s only 10:45 oh well….you only live once…hi hi
Apologies for the spelling mistakes I haven’t had much sleep last night, bloody airports and cousins etc
Greetings ‘holic.
3-0 victory. Rosicky on the scoresheet. Yes, he is due one. As has been articulated already, shame for Walcott. RvP I’m growing a tad naffed orf with tbh.
Nevertheless I look forward to tomorrows game with me two sons. Shall be watching Cesc’s form and workrate very closely, so I can more robustly silence the doubters.
Bloody mary for me please guvnor.
Keep on believing.
hello everyone how is everybody….. who wants a laugh? http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11679_6367538,00.html
The word is TV will be out for tomorrow’s game with an Achilles injury, suspected to have been sustained during international duty.
This will mean the imminent first team Debut for Squilliaci or a return for Djourou!
That does not effect my overall prediction that we will win tomorrow, however it remains to be seen if the scoreline will contain a clean sheet.
As much as I would love it and considering we have only conceeded 2 in 3, Almunia still has a home record to maintain second game or not.
At most I will push for 4-1 to allow for any neccesary defensive adjustments tomorrow, but that is their lot!
Goonertown
Just seen that as well, I wonder who’s next…. 🙁
Still think we should win this game no doubt I also think I will join the Holic pound on this one, 3:1 seems sensible enough. The more the better but it would be nice to collect our winnings.
Barman something to keep my eyes open for the rest of this long afternoon please….
Yeah Arthur the Gooner, 3-1 sounds like a sensible flutter!
I’m sure everybody will get behind Schillaci, who I am confident will not disappoint!
Barman I’ll have a quick Martini on the rocks please!
@ usama 50.
Adebayor…….he really is one particularly odious character isn’t he….of the highest order?
The way I read that article…..he is “very happy” to remain at Man City ‘fighting for his place’, while at the same time trying desperately to court the attentions of Maureen…..should there be opportunity to jump ship at the first opportunity, well, “until the next window” anyway.
And to think Wenger was criticised by some sections of the media about letting him go.
Shocking….truly shocking!!!!
sorry to disappoint you guys, Vermaleen is also out so tomorrow, it would be Squallaci and Koscienly at the heart of our defence. Not to worry because am quite confident that Arsenal will stroll through the match unscathed.
Oh dear, the treatment room is suddenly a looking a bit like Liverpool street station come leaving time after work. Although a good opportunity to blood in some of the newer recruits and/or Djourou.
In reality….we now have the squad to cover so I’m not gonna fret over Tommy getting a bit of well earned rehabilitation.
Anyway…..it’s been a long day for me so I’ll have a Manhattan please barman. Shaken well and with, of course, ice. Ooh….and have one yourself.
🙂
Barring new injury reports prior to kickoff, it is likely we will not have to give Squillaci his debut as striker, but only time will tell, which makes me wonder what odds on Squillaci to score on a free kick? Stranger things have happened, though it may take some time to remember them.
Love the headline but that’s just me.
Interesting evolution of the `holics’ collective state of mind, I wasn’t expecting such serenity before we meet an in-form atacking team with us topping the injury league meaning we will start with a central defence that has 2 EPL games under its belt. There are very few “easy” games in the EPL nowadays and this is definitively not one of those, especially if we gift them a 2 goals advantage again. We can expect Owen Coyle’s team to pressure our defence as much as they can since we won’t be able to count on Walcott to pin them back, a tough start for Squillaci. It will be a tricky affair. 3-2 will do.
I last posted before the Blackburn game & predicted a 2-1 Arsenal win. This one I’m not too sure about. This game will tell us a lot about Wenger’s summer transfer dealings. Are Koscielny & Squillaci able to deal with Kevin Davies? Will Almunia, Kos & Squillaci be able to deal with the aerial threat of Davies, Knight & Gary Cahill?
Owen Coyle, I believe, has done a good job at Bolton & they’re much more of an attacking threat than they were under Megson. Don’t call me a doom n gloomer for an honest opinion but I sense a score draw. Of course, I hope I’m wrong.
Is it just me or is anyone else looking forward to Squillaci giving Davies a good kick in the balls? Then we’ll see who’s whinging.
“Golf the best way to spoil a good walk” Winston Churchill
Hope you had a good round Holic
Quick thanks to all who have contributed today. I too have been lucky. Nutted the ball all day and no rain until the 17th green second time round.
I’ve come home with a bag full of booze as prizes. Good job I like a glass or two now and again 😉
@ 61 Arsenal 1971.
I think the original was penned by Mark Twain…..Winstone plagiarised him.
Actually I like this one by Jack Benny……”Give me golf clubs, fresh air and a beautiful partner, and you can keep the clubs and the fresh air. ”
😉
Speaking ’bout “a glass or two” Holic, I just got parts of a quite a huge (positive) rant read out loud on Fans’ Forum on ATVO, and I really did tell them I was just on a glass or two, but they thought that I was on “a bottle or two”.
Cest la vie. That’s what you get for suggesting to chuck Chuks Aneke into the first team if needed.
It’s only been two games since the start of the season and I already have my favorite picture of the 2010-2011 season.
http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2010/09/10/article-1310998-0AF778F1000005DC-333_468x417.jpg
BEAUTIFUL!!! Love it!
Can’t wait to get this season of stops and starts started again, and in a positive way.
@65 Snir Gueli
Awesome find man i loved it……..awesome tackle it was….samba is double his size we finally have a warrior in our team!
Toby, keep on ranting! Between Chuks Aneka and Benik Afobe we may have two gems who knows but I can say we definitely have two of the best names out there.
Anyone willing to admit to this
http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2010/sep/11/letter-to-football-supporter-mother
I’ve heard of Alcoholics anonymouse but is this ‘holics anonymous
enjoy
cognacgooner
Absolutely flippin’ fantastic! 🙂
Morning all,
‘holicdad due to arrive around kick-off time, so I doubt there will be a report before tomorrow. Have an awful feeling I will end up watching the re-run on ATVo.
What is this Tommy V nonsense. I can’t go away for a day without some other terminal injury 🙁
Morning holic and fellow holics!
Good going on the course yesterday Holic, sounds like you should have been considered for Europe.
Bernard I agree with you in the sense that Bolton are a much improved animal under OC. However SR, NW and DR previewed todays game on Arsenal live last night. It has been concluded that we have to acknowledge Boltons improvements, in particular their summer aquistions. It has also been noted that they will mix up their direct football with their play along the wing and constant bonbardment in to the box.
Granted our full backs and centre halves will need to be on their game today. If Theo and Verminator were around we would all feel alot more confident. But what we have at our disposal should not be undermined.
Not only did we perform the double over Bolton last season, but I also understand that their No.1 stopper has been suspended. Not to mention we played them without RVP and Theo (who came on as a sub in the last 5 minutes when we were 4-2 up)or any recognised striker last season for that matter and scored 6 in 2 games.
What last season also showed is that as long as we create chances we are more than capable of getting goals from different members of the squad.
It is clear that Djourou is still fighting for fitness but Squillaci as I understand took part in full pre-season training with Sevilla and was due to take part in Sevillas Champion league qualifyer so he should be ready to lead an all french speaking back four. It therefore transpires that Wenger has got his transfers right this season, which was not only reflected in our games so far but will again be illustrated today!
I’m also confident that Almuina will maintain his focus against a side who, he conceeded only 2 goals against last season one of which was a penalty.
We only had one score draw at home last season and that was during a snow blizard against Everton. Our pitch should be nicely defrosted today for us to pass, move and score against a team who as much as they are in more form now compared to when we played them last season, I’m confident that their good start to the season will come to an abrupted end today!
Also please note that despite our current injuries every position is more than covered for today’s game, with a squad that contains all of Wengers shrewd aquisitions!
A light beer for me please Holic and whatever you’re having!
Enjoy golfing ‘Holic, as for me, am off to see Chamakh.
Have a great day ette.
Nice work, goonertown.
Have a great day ette
You know me Holic!
Afternoon Holics,
Everton just went one up against Man U, Damn they just levelled…
Hholic any decent streams around for this afternoon?
Barman I’ll have a pint of the black stuff please 🙂
Afternoon everyone –
Of all the changes for today’s game, I am excited about Gibbs starting. Hope he does well and makes the left back position his own for the season.
4-1 to the Gunners!
A strong coffee for me barman.
Pint of Cider please sir.
Come on you rip roaring reds!!!!!!!!!!
Everton just the kind of Manchester United game I can get my teeth into. C’mon Arsenal!
Cognacgooner, thanks for the article. It sounds like quite a family!
That was some horrible defending….wtf was that!
so many chances for AA – can he find a left foot somewhere his right is letting him down
then we give away a howler of a header
get better 2nd half (and get Davies sent off for summat – if play had stopped after his first foul he would have got a yellow then his second pdq)
Come on Chamakh
That red card was generated solely by the gooners. Never a red card if the crowd hadn’t been on Attwell’s soul.
Come on you GOONERS!
WHAT a goal by Song!
Even our holding midfielder has more skill and talent than this whole league.
Snir
That was a beauty goal by Song….and a very good game TOO!
We looked a bit out of pace in th seond half to start with, thet Ref made some terrible mistakes it was awful to watch sometimes.
I hope Dibay is ok that looked like a RED card to me. Fabregas look more like himself today, he was very critical of himself when he messed up.
Arsenal, Arsenal, Arsenal…
I think Diaby’s shinpad will have a lot to say if he plays next week or not.
The 4th goal was a statement to Cesc, Fuck Barca, look what you have here… I was praying in my heart that a goal would come out of that attack and all the OLEs from the crowd will be justified.
That goal was one of my happiest moments as an Arsenal fan, and no, I’m not exaggerating.
Squillaci looked decent, all things considering. We could and should have had a penalty in this game.
Did I say 4-1 to the Arsenal with Arshavin to score at any time? I meant 4-1 to the Arsenal with Koschielny to score at any time!
What do you call a man with a licence plate stuck to his head?
Chamakh – Amazing
Wilshire – Amazing
Arshavin – in his own words “no spark but effective”
Fabregas – finding form. His passes would have made Xavi drool.
Song – Amazing
Rosicky – Man of the Match
Gibbs – Good game
Eboue – good game
Koschielny – Didn’t lose a one on one – scored one let one in with his poor back pass which lead to the Bolton goal. Overall good game.
Squillaci – Very clean very effective made some important blocks
Almunia – Made important saves. The goal was due to confusion regarding position of the opposition and a little panic. Typical goal keeping mistake across the board, did not do very much wrong!
Vela – looked good scored an important goal to put the game beyond Bolton
Diaby – looked good shame about the injury. Hope it is not long term
Denilson – seemed like he was “treating bolton like chelsea”. Still needs more games
By the way a man with a licence plate stuck to his head is called Reg!
A glass of bubbly please Holic!
Chamakh with his head is something we haven’t had for a very long time…
All the Cesc doubters…get stuffed
Cesc with 3 assists out of the 4 goals we scored. Amazing passing.
Professional win, job done, great all round, and Man Utd’s fuck up along with Spurs and Man City slipping up was nice to watch too. Shame Chelsea have another three points in the bag next week at home to Blackpool (who gave them these opening fixtures?!). Hopefully we can play a lot better at Sunderland than we have done the last two seasons.
*goes back to laughing at Man Utd*
Tim Merrick @91,
Chamakh is known for scoring more with his head than his foot. Both his goal in the league are headers and he would have had a third if the header at Pool had gone in…
Charlie @ 93,
Add Barcaloanus losing 2-0 at home to Hercules..
Some one tell Chamakh he’s awesome,……. and to think he’s just getting used to the PL.
I have to admit to mixed feelings as Vela put the 4th away, remembering that your pound was on 3 – 1, Holic.
Never mind; would it help if I offered you a snifter?
(A large Glenmorangie for me please barman – I have some CELEBRATING to do)
…another glass of your finest please holic…
…did someone say our boys have grown up?…
…Bolton looked like a bunch of fouling thugs, with a red card to show for it…
…damn Diaby’s ankle, wenger says it doesn’t look good…
What a glorious day !! Arsenal get the 3 points, United give away a two goal lead for the first time in 10 years and good old burnley score 3 goals in the last 5 mins to beat Preston 4-3 bringing home a 6 team acca for young chippy !!! Barman the next rounds on me
Up The Arse,
@98 – I still can’t believe that challenge was overlooked by the Referee.
I can understand Attwell not seeing it cause from his angle I thought Robinson touched the ball too, but from the linesman’s angle it’s so obvious that he only got Diaby’s leg, and smashed it into pieces most likely.
I think it’s another 4-8 weeks for Diaby.
Could be worse.
Good thing we have Denilson back and Wilshere as a first teamer.
@Snir Geuli I know…how’s it going by the way? Good to see you join in the festivities!
…a Bolton player nearly got a wallop for it too! Just ask Ben Arfa what Diaby is like when he’s prevoked. I’m glad he didn’t take it too far thoughfestivities
! Good on him
I’m now thinking Cesc with 3 out of 4 assists could just edge the MOM today actually. The quiet assassin today!
Wenger on Diaby “It is ankle or shin – he cannot move his leg at the moment so we will see.”
Still can’t believe no card was given for that.
I’m great, couldn’t have been better (sports wise cause it sill is 9/11 today) 🙂
I think our luck is starting to change.
United conceding 2 (!) in “added until United score time”, Spurs draw with W.B.A and City can shove all their money up their arse!
But most importantly (apart from the beautiful display at the Emirates) was Pique getting injured badly in his head and Barca losing 2-0.
What a great day!
That 4th goal was absolutely the best goal we’re gonna score this season without a doubt. 24 passes and a killer pass to set Vela free, boy, we missed those kind of passes in our match at Anfield!
102- No red card? We’re getting too greedy aren’t we? A foul wasn’t even given!
That should of been a RED card, as you all could see Diaby didn’t like that challange one bit, as for me this was a leg braking challange.
It has to be said the Ref had a terrible game, the red was never a red. It bouls my blood to see that the challange on Diaby did not get anything.
Snir, I know!! That’s why I can’t believe it.
100% a foul, 98% a yellow, 80% a red.
I know people like to talk about how injury prone our team is (and I agree), but when your players get tackled like that, what do you expect.
Arthur, I was kidding in 104, I thought it should have been a red too, it had to be a red as a matter of fact.
Especially if it’s on one of my favorite players Diaby who is most likely gonna miss a large portion of this season due to that tackle, I’m quite sure he’ll be out for a couple of months at least.
Stuart Attwell had a HORRIBLE game.
Just got loads of decisions wrong (for the record I think Cahill’s challenge wasn’t a red card but a yellow), especially obvious tackles like Muamba’s on Eboue and then gave a goal kick (wtf???) or Robinson on Diaby’s or Gibbs on Davies (but that’s very welcomed 🙂 ) etc’.
Well what do you expect from a ref that allows a ghost goal?
I just hope it’s not a fracture
Snir good point made, how the fuck do FA put a Ghost Goal ref in a Priemier league game, the bloke was never in controll and made terrible mistakes.
Some real standout performances today – chamakh, rosicky, song andkoschielny (cocked up on the goal but had Davies in his pocket). But my lasting impression was that I have not seen the team work so hard in ages – much welcome upgrade in intensity. Also think they are starting to stand up for themselves. As my son would say – all good!
Squillaci no mistakes all day. Bring back Vermaelen and let’s see what Vermaelen and Squillaci can do together. I’m sure Wenger will stay with Koscielny for now, but is he really one of our two best?
Hi ‘holic. Peter Tosh ~ word has it he was the real proper wailer. He left this mortal coil way too early.
Anyway…..fantastic team display today. My shouts go to Squillaci, Kos, Rosicky &, of course, Cesc who was [almost] back to his imperious best. At times we were so good even Bolton had to sit back and admire us going about our job in such style. A very beautifully crafted 3 points.
NB. Get better soon Diaby my son!
Keep on believing 🙂
Ooh….make mine a fruit juice please barman. I’ve had way too much sauce already today in celebrating the win. Can’t handle my ale like I once did.
Anyway…have a great weekend my fellow Gooners.
Great result although I felt that for the first 60 mins we were decidedly average. Too many missed passes and too many missed chances. With only a few exceptions I thought we looked laboured. Then we stepped it up and it was crusie time.
Ref has a shocker all over the park. Possibly the worst I have seen at the Grove.
3 points is 3 points. We say thanks but we also know we need big improvements.
We are still not clicking 100% – all the better then that we have got 10 out of 12 points after four games with 13 goals scored and only three conceded. In the second half today things started to look better and we completely dominated Bolton even before the red card and should already have been out of sight by then.
And the ref was AWFUL, as others have already pointed out. Jesus H Christ on a popsicle stick, I haven’t seen such poor reffing since I don’t know when. I understand the Bolton rage over the red card, but then again Robinson should have walked for his lunge at Diaby.
Three assists from Cesc, and he also set up at least two one-on-ones that didn’t result in goals. And did you see how he tracked back to win the ball back at 4-1 with just a few minutes to play? Anyone who still thinks Cesc will sulk his way through the season is proven more and more wrong for each game Cesc plays.
A good win after a rather good game, and to make things even better I’ll just, if I may, repeat the line “WBA-Spurs 1-1, City-Blackburn 1-1, Everton-ManU 1-1” – and then, to cap it all off:
Barceloana NIL
Hercules TWO
A bit tired now so just a large cup of tea with a shade of milk, please.
It should of course have been “Everton-ManU 3-3”, but I guess you figured that for yourselves.
Good man Lars
I’m sure people can figure that one out he he:)
You are correct about Cesc he was 110% Arsenal today, did you see how he critisized himself when he messed up an opportuniy?
Still feel for Diaby though that was a fucking nasty tackle just like that phantom goal, what a prick! Excuse my French…
Anyway…I was over the moon when got the third then I knew there was no way back. Holic pund lamost got me winnings but hey 3 points is more than my winnings are worth.
Come on Arsenal!
A pint of Tyskie for everyone in da House …..aaauuuuuuu
Just watched the first half on Football First and got to say that the interplay between Cesc, Rosicky and AA23 was incredible. I know that AA should have finished at least one of them off, but the movement and understanding between them to get there in the first place was superb.
Steve T @115, with all respect, if that was “laboured” then I can’t wait until we are running freely!
Cesc – the attitude has never been a doubt.
A pint for everyone, especially those on the spirits.
Arthur, I did notice that and I was very happy to see it.
‘Holic pound close but no cigar. Have the world cup winnings run out yet?
Just back from the game (well the ground is 440 miles from my house!) – a strange day.
At times we were incredibly lethargic – at others very sweet with great first time passing and thought Chamakh in particular showed that he is going to be a very important player for us.
A bit of work needed at the back, but probably to be expected with the new guys playing together for the first time.
Thought the referee was absolutely honking today – their red card was of course, harsh, but what pissed me off about the incident was that we had a clear advantage that he stopped so he could brandish the card. What a stroker.
Oh, and the love in with Owen Coyle that has been permeating some Arsenal blogs has got to stop – I didn’t see any evidence today that they are any different to the team that the Fat Walrus used to put out.
Finally, whoever is responsible for the baggaqe system at Gatwick going down resulting in my flight being delayed by 2 hours – and thus missing the kick off – I hope your next shit is a hedgehog!
zico, if he decides it is a red card he has no other choice than to blow the whistle. Them’s the Laws of the Game.
Great result today after the international break. Overall Squillaci and Koscielny did well together and Gibbs was just impressive. Cesc was at his best again. Koscielny has been lucky his two errors so far have not been costly enough to change the resulting points.
I really feel this is our season. Sooner or later Chesea will blink and it will be too much for their aging stars to catch up. As for the other teams, they are already stuttering.
A Bud Light for me barman.
Just watched our bit on MOTD silly Dixon only reported on the red card for Bolton the fact that Diaby nearly got his shin with his ankle taken off was ok.
I feel sick now………….
Lars, I didn’t know that – I’m sure there have been times when reds have been awarded after the ball has gone dead following an advantage – maybe I dreamt it!
The ref was still honking though and now having watched it on TV again, Coyle was right, they should have had a foul outside our box just seconds before.
I’ll take that gift for all the decisions that he didn’t give for the persistent fouling by the cro-magnon Davies.
Guiness please barman 🙂
Very odd refereeing. The red card should not have been but the accumulation of missed fouls that should have been given against Bolton throughout the afternoon was astounding. I also thought we were lethargic and would have fallen behind against a better team so despite feeling good about the win I think we need to be guarded about assessing our progress. Squillaci’s performance was the brightest part of today for me.
Another positive to take from today: Arshavin isn’t going to keep missing all those great chances all the time.
On the other hand, the number of times Arshavin was caught off-side reached near Adebayoresque proportions, which greatly contributed to the disjointed and lethargic feel of much of Arsenal’s performance.
@119 Catalan. I have not had the chance to watch extended highlights yet but from inside the ground at times we were laboured. If the tele shows you something different then you will just have to trust me. At times we were full of lethargy and it did not look good. Arshavin has to be the most frustrating player at the club. His lack of effort at times is quite remarkable. In the 2nd half there were at least 5 separate occasions when he just ambled back from a move that had broken down leaving himself yards offside. We then won the ball back and guess what????????????????????
I have been fortunate enough to have missed only a handful of home games over the last 15 years and today we have not played that great. If the tele tells you otherwise then you will just have to take my word for it.
That said there were several positives. Rosicky was outstanding. Cesc displayed moments of brilliance although it is not the Cesc of old. He is clearly not happy and needs to start playing with a smile on his face very soon. Jack looks better the more he plays and I thought that Denilson did well when he came on. He gave the side a lot more balance.
As I said above, 3 points is 3 points. I really do not want to be too harsh having scored 4 goals and sitting 2nd. But if we play like that against a decent side then we will be punished.
And the ref was shite. He made numerous errors throughout the entire match. Just not good enough.
Steve my man, I think you’re being a bit too critical on the team.
Guys, Diaby drove home after the game, suggest it’s not a break/serious ligament damage (via twitter.com/thegoonblog).
Really encouraged by that.
Steve, I agree that Cesc isn’t quite back to the Cesc of old, although he’s getting there. But to think that a performance like today’s (3 assists) was not his best is quite amazing.
Steve T… of course being in the ground will give you a truer picture than those of us stranded abroad. Your word is taken. Still, not bad if we have room for improvement though!
I actually thought (from TV) that we looked more fluid in the first half. Of course once we had 3 then it became all very easy.
Steve T, Cesc was not at his absolute best but come on… three assists, kept tracking back to win the ball back even though we were 4-1 up against ten men with only minutes to play, set up Chamakh and Arsjavin for one v ones etc etc. And quite frankly you can’t do all that if you’re just going through the motions. Also, trying to tell wether a person is happy or not just from looking at him from a distance is in most cases extremely difficult, because you inevitably read your own preconceptions into expressions and actions. Just look at Thierry Henry for example, after more or less every goal he ever scored for us he looked as if he was so pissed off he was just looking for someone to punch in the face.
And, lest we forget, Cesc has never been a player who runs around smiling all that much on the pitch. To use a famous line: “He is not that kind of player” 🙂
Excellent result for us and job well done. I had average expectations for this game considering the totally new back line, many players with very little game time so far if any and the effects of the international break. I expected us to play with the handbrake so I was impressed by the promises of the defense (with everyone putting a good shift) and ended up overjoyed by the quality of our game in the last half-hour or so. Another positive is that everyone played well including the subs, Vela has a valid claim for more time on the pitch and the pair of Denilson and Song gives us the best mix of steel and fluidity in midfield. Last but not least the home crowd was heartwarming, the effects of the 12th man on our lads was perceptible and it worked well to get that poor ref to go for the straight red.
We’re looking good after 4 games, at least as good as any team below us and despite our usual high injury rate we still have quality in depth.
@Steve: Cesc may not be very effusive yet but he is still enjoying his football, I may be cynical but I think Spain’s humiliation in Argentina is helping him put things in perspective. We all know he has it in him to raise his game even further again this season and this game was certainly a step in the right direction.
@Snir: that’s great news but then it could take some time to get him from driving to playing football, I remain cautious. It’s Diaby we’re talking about after all 😉
I’m very interested in the analysis of Arshavin’s influence on the game. I clearly must be on my own in thinking he had one of his better games. Sure, he missed a couple of one-on-ones (one which was an excellent save and another which was defended very well) but was instrumental throughout ~ in fact was a major influence on the 2nd and 3rd goal.
Away from that, I agree with the general consensus about the sending-off-which-wasn’t. The referee got that decision, amongst others, completely wrong.
A healthy Orange and Pineapple juice for me please barman…..
Guys, I am not for one second saying that Cesc had a bad game. He did not. You point to 3 assists. Well it should have been more had his team mates had their shooting boots on. But he is clearly not happy. I sit near one of the corners. Cesc will nornally take the corners. At 4 -1 up he trots over as normal. The whole area stands and sings his name, as is normal. Last season there would be head up, a big smile and various waves to the crowd in acknowledgement. Yesterday it was head down and the slightest of arm movements to be polite. This was not the only time either. Watch at the end of the game. His name rings out and he just jogs down the tunnel.
His performance yesterday was very good and he is getting back to his best. But he needs to snap out of this mood. He is the captain and he is playing for The Arsenal for at least this season. There was a time in the game yesterday when we needed leaders and sadly he was not the Cesc of last season in that department.
As I have said before, I do not want to be critical after a 4 – 1 victory, and I do not want to be critical of individulals. But if we play like that against the Chavs of the Mancs then we will have massive problems.
Chamakh for free!? Who gets such quality for free? Oh i know, that shrewd businessman in the form of Arsene W.
About the sending off, after having watched MOTD this morning I can understand how the ref saw that as a red card. Not that I neccesarily agree with him, but Cahill was rather late and did not go for the ball at all by the looks of it. And a rather interesting fact is that not one Bolton player (not even Cahill) seem to object to the sending off, they are pointing to where Lee could and perhaps should have had a free-kick at the other end. Not really sure that means anything, but quite interesting anyhow.
Steve:
“Cesc will nornally take the corners. At 4 -1 up he trots over as normal. The whole area stands and sings his name, as is normal. Last season there would be head up, a big smile and various waves to the crowd in acknowledgement. Yesterday it was head down and the slightest of arm movements to be polite.”
This is exactly what I mean about reading your own preconceptions into actions. It could mean that he is unhappy, but it could also mean that he is far too intelligent to start kissing the badge a la Adepaymemore and behaving like nothing has happened – a show of respect for us fans and an understanding that he has to prove himself. And quite frankly, it is also entirely possible that he just feels embarrassed or even unworthy of such praise.
Trust me, evaluating someone’s state of mind from only seeing him during a short period of time (and from a distance at that) without talking to him/her or knowing the person it is most often virtually impossible to tell if he/she is happy or sad. Emotions can manifest themselves in the most mysterious ways.
Lars. I have had the same seat at the grove since it opened. I have watched cesc take hundreds of corners. He is not someone that kisses the badge. But he plays with his head up. You will just have to trust me that his reaction was not his normal reaction. You can come up with your own reasons as to why. I am just telling you what happened. Draw your own conclusions.
Maybe its not Cesc being unhappy but a bit bashful? Seeing as we all now know he wanted to leave but is tied to the club by contract he is honourable enough to abide by. Then hearing fans chant his name he might feel a bit like ‘do i deserve this, how do i react?’
Just a thought.
But by crikey he didnt half give his all for the entire 90, tracking back in the later stages when we are coasting shows the mans professionalism
Behave yourselves, ‘holics. No personal abuse, remember.
Thanks.
Here here!