Gunners Forced To Ab-Zorba The Pressure
Sep 28th, 2011 by 'holic
“We have not played with a proper back 4 for years now so a few centre backs light should not make the slightest bit of difference”
Steve T made the comment of the night pre-match. I felt it worthy of a wider audience. Regardless of whether or not you agree wholeheartedly with that we all knew what he meant, and the performance against Olympiacos reflected that almost perfectly.
The customary goal conceded from a set piece made the night far more nervy and complicated than it should have been after we had engineered a two goal lead. I have a confession. When I switched on the television at half past seven and caught my first glimpse of the side that was picked I immediately cast my eyes over the betting comparison site for the odds on Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain to score first. Paddy Power’s 9/1 was irresistible. I cannot claim it as the ‘holic pound, but it is good to land my first Arsenal punt of the season.
When Andre Santos notched his first goal for the club I have to say I thought Lady Luck was bestowing her favours upon us somewhat generously. Yes, we put out a much-weakened side with little experience of playing together, but we looked that split second slower, less inclined to shut down the opposition, and less precise with our passing, than the visitors. That is a confidence issue, and I have to say I never thought I would accept the word of Glen Hoddle, but afterwards as well as pointing out the obvious about us being without Fabregas, Nasri, and Wilshere, he pointed out that Arsene is still trying to work out a system with the players he does have available. It will take time and supporters expectations have been lowered as a result.
The last part was evident throughout. A big up to the crowd who audibly got behind Marouane Chamakh when it was clear he was giving everything, even though nothing is going for him at the moment. The support for the side in the last three matches has, I am sure, been a contributory factor in us building a run of consecutive victories, albeit against opposition we were expected to beat. As Manchester United discovered last night, there are no guarantees in the Champions League.
On the plus side tonight I have to acknowledge the improvement in our defensive organisation after the break. Well done Pat Rice on that score. Actually I thought Mertesacker and Song didn’t look too shabby at all, perhaps bearing out the opening quote of this piece. The goal we threw away was down more to Rosicky or Arteta for leaving Oxlade-Chamberlain in a one against two situation at the corner. At least we seemed to learn that lesson. Obviously at the other end the young winger was a huge plus, and I really would be tempted to throw him into the mix this coming Sunday.
It will be a huge ask for this side to secure the points at the Lane, and of course there will be more about that game on here in the coming days. For tonight, all we can do is acknowledge the start we have made in securing the all-important three Champions League home points. We will have to work harder, and show more commitment to repeat that achievement against the other sides in the group, but slowly we are building.
The crowd too are helping. Not so long ago there would have been many less than gruntled at that performance. The patience most are showing may be temporary, but it could be enough to see a new confidence grow, a new belief to take root. I know we all want that, really.
223 Responses to “Gunners Forced To Ab-Zorba The Pressure”
1st….!!!
Wow.
Check you and your prompt, posting 😉
Piped at the post.
Yeahhhhh.Get In! Hallo good Sir ‘holic.Howdy?First for the first time ever…Feels soo good.Now off to read the post…
Amy Lawrence just used “Ox in the box” on the Guardian site. Cheers Amy!
Got to be the best opening to a post I have ever read.
😉
“Not for nothing are the Arsenal message boards referring to him as the Ox in the box.”
Please pop in with a few thoughts of your own here, Amy, always a pleasure to read or hear what you have to say about football.
Good result obviously, the makeshift defence tightened up well after the break. I agree Song did OK at centre back but his contribution as defensive mid was missed.
Olympiakos are a pretty decent side so this wasn’t a bad performance.
Let’s hope we have some more fit troops available for the trip to the Shit Hole on Sunday…
And, oh, is this mayhap another little nod at this fine establishment?:
“The game was in its opening phase when, with a clever run to drift in between Olympiakos’s THIN BLUE LINE […]” – Amy
Not a run of the mill-expression when it comes to football!
Song & Merte were the standout performers for me tonight. They were both very calm & assured at the back.
Thot the Frimster didn’t really play that well tonight. Quite a number of misplaced passes from him often put the team under pressure. He’s gotta improve & be consistent if he wants to keep starting games. Me thinks the only thing that keeps him ahead of Coquelin presently is his strength & physique…
Alles ist Gut!
Per Mer is getting better & better. I already love the big Kraut.
And now Adebayor vs Per Mer. Oh, boy!
Let’s Rock!
Seems having Per in defence has not made much of a difference on our ability to defend set-pieces.
Different Personnel, Same problem. Coaching ”problem” perhaps?
‘holic, Great title. 😀 While watching the game in my local pub I Abzorba’d a couple of pints meself. Was very pleased to get my first chance to see several of our new players play almost an entire game, as I have had a few odd commitments recently, and also to see the Ox in the Box and Andre Santos get their goals.
I want to go on a massive rant about how we’re the only English team to win this week in the CL but it hardly gets mentioned but whatever…Three back-to-back home wins is enough satisfaction, no matter how they come.
Not Per-fect but still working on improving, can’t wait to see what will happen 🙂
A late pint of Pride for you gooners!
Holic
As with Utd last night,with our current injury list,this was a Banana skin for us,
So well played to the Troops for getting the 3 points,against what to be fair,was an enterprising performance from the opposition,who in the 2nd half,were the width of the crossbar away from pinching a point.
We did give the ball away far to often for my liking,but whether that is still the lingering lack of confidence or not,i don’t know.
People forget Frimpong and Oxo are still Babes in the Woods,and yet here they were in our starting 11.
With Johnny Giles/Billy Bremner absent till the Spring,this is their and others,opportunity to step up and show they are up to the Task..
When you have so many disruptions to your plans with injuries,and you are fielding a diff 11 each game,you cannot get that sense of continuity and fluidity,that breeds that most elusive quality of all,CONFIDENCE.
I think we will surprise a lot of people at the Lane on Sunday,the Spuds have got a very very tough game tomorrow night at home to Shamrock Rovers,so i can see them being ripe for the picking.!!!
Cheers
the sweeper
Footnote re Oxo,
He is the Youngest Englishman to score in the CL.
Thank goodness we didnt see squillaci playing tonite!! Could have been worse..!
Solid 3 pts tonight with a few relatively inexperienced faces in the 11. With Dortmund in the group mix we can’t afford any slip ups.
Good to see Santos and the Ox netting too.
Don’t care how we win at present just get the points and the confidence and momentum that it’ll bring.
Hopefully a few faces back for the LWC’s
Sagna seemed out of sorts to me, and I was wondering if the reason may have been that he wasn’t getting the defensive support he is used to getting. Oxlade-Chamberlain is a star on the offensive end but based on my inexpert observations he may be a bit behind on the defensive side?
I can’t complain at all – a good shift put in by all it seemed. I do like what Santos brings (muscle) to the left hand side and I thought Song looked natural as can be as centre-back and not for the first time.
The player I studied most was Chamakh and as you mentioned he worked his arse off and on 5 (count them) occasions hustled their defenders into giving the ball away or knocking it into touch.
We’re going through a spell of change as Arsenal fans but as many noted weeks ago when things looked so much bleaker – if the effort is there the patience from the fans will follow. A good night and a great result – especially with Marseille getting such an impressive result. If we can sneak a win down there we might yet top this group.
Come on you reds – keep the faith.
@bt8b…..Sagna looked as average as I’ve ever seen him….a bit tired and still getting back in shape from his knock I’m guessing. I thought Ox tracked back as much as (more than) Theo normally does. Can Ox play on the left??
les yungstares…
chesney
gibbs – miquel – djorhu (with rocket up jacksy) – jenkinson
coq – rambo –
future capen jack
oxo – theo – ryo
subs – frimpong, lansbury, a.n.others – but not ‘im
3 points with a make shift team, thank you i`ll take it all day long.
@DreamWright Sorry mate but this type of comment has really angered me through all of the pre-season and seems to continue.
Why is this so hard to understand?
When we defend set pieces is not down to our 2 centre backs to defend them, is down to the WHOLE team…
We could sign the two best centre backs in the world but if the rest of the squad don’t do their bit in set pieces then it doesn’t matter how good our centre backs are we will continue to let goals in from set pieces.
Yes sometimes the centre backs could be responsible but for example today it wasn’t their fault and in most cases is midfielders/wingers not doing their job.
In years to come, when people ask me what I was doing when the internationally renowned prolific Arsenal and England goal merchant known as The Ox scored his first CL goal, I shall have to say: “Actually I was having a wee.”
F*cketty b*ggery b*llocks for running late…
But at least I HEARD it even if I hadn’t quite made it to my seat when he found the net.
The back 4 did have the makeshift air of petrol station flowers and an out of date box of Quality Street, but I’ll accept that graciously on this occasion. Thank you very much Mr W. And I hope you enjoyed that dinner you had to eat in the Directors’ Box 😉
Yes there was some sloppiness and silly errors, passing not always accurate enough, poor marking, still giving the ball away way too much….but as works in progress go, not too shabby considering the number of first teamers absent tonight.
And I know we were supposed to thrash this side, but they did actually put some work in. I kept thinking they would get tired and their heads would drop, but they kept on coming.
So it wasn’t the most glorious of nights, but it was a win. I’ll take that any night of the week.
At 5.30pm I was sat at home awaiting the arrival of Mrs T so that she could look after number 1 daughter as I headed off to The Grove with number 1 son. Unfortunately my pre match build up had seen some amendments due to business problems on the septic side of the pond. However, that meant more time to browse in the club shop and to attend Fat Harry’s for that foot long special frankfurter. He may only be 7 but a pre match snack seems to be an essential.
We take our seats to a ground half full at kick off. However those who had made it on time seemed full of optimism. The little man was up for it. Capri Sun demolished his enjoyment of the programme was somewhat curtailed by the arrival of the teams. The big smile meant that further reading would have to wait for another day.
The game itself quite frankly was a strange one. So many out and others rested meant that it was a somewhat disjointed affair for me. I was looking forward to seeing AOC play. I refuse to call him The Ox. Nothing personal but that name is reserved for the best bass player that ever lived.
I was not disappointed even though some tourist sitting behind me thought it hilarious to keep calling him Theo. AOC looks good. He has a bit more beef about him and plays with his head up. He took his goal very well and was not afraid to run at players. The Santos goal put us 2 up and cruising. Chamakh should have put us 3 up and killed the game. It was a poor miss and shows how we may well struggle when RVP is injured. What I would say for Chamakh is that he continued to battle and fight. I hope he has something in him to turn it round. I would be lying if I said I was confident.
I agree with a lot of the posts above re the rest of the match. On a whole I did not think that the back four did that bad. Bacs played well, Santos showed that he is a player. Per has the turning circle of an oil tanker. But the heart of a lion, he reads the game as well as anyone and has an ability of knowing when the ball needs to visit row double Z. He will however be a field day for the press. He will be superb for several games and no one will say anything. He will then get beaten for pace and concede a goal and he will get slaughtered. Quite frankly, if he carries on the way he is going then that is fine by me. Song I thought played very well in an emergency role. The downside to that was that the midfield suffered. Frimpong has bundles of potential, but that is all it is. I have no doubt that in a few years time he will be the envy of many.
The goal we conceded was quite legendary. We must be the only side in the world that can have all 11 players in the box and still fail to mark properly? I will let others work out why that is. No vitriol BtM but I refer those still in doubt to my comments for the last few years re leaders and organising. What I would say is that whist we defended poorly, I do not think that our defence was poor. I may have mentioned balance of the side previously?????
So the second half was an unnecessary tentative affair. It should not of been. As the game progressed however I could not really see us conceding. A scrappy win but I would take 3 scrappy points all season long.
So the journey home starts. My little fella has enjoyed his first Champions League game and now has a 100% record. This is not lost on him. No I say, before he even gets to start the question. The one upside of a broken nose in a freak playground accident means that he does not have to get up for school in the morning. This he is more that aware off. On the tube home he announces that he is again hungry. It is a bit late I say, what do you want to eat, I ask. “Dad, can we get a drink and a kebab?” He must get it from his mother??????
3 points is 3 points. End off. We have played a lot better and lost. At the moment quite frankly I could not give a fuck. I have had fun. Now roll on the spuds. Hopefully we will have a few back and hopefully those at the shit hole will still be downing Battenburg to celebrate the 50th anniversary of last time they were Champions.
Onwards and upwards dear holics. I am just about to raid the beer fridge.
@Erik I completely accept that its not the job of the defence alone to defend set-pieces.Guess I sounded like I was blaming the defence alone.Thanks for straightening me out on that one.
But, I really thought/hoped we signing Per would improve (no matter how small) our set-piece defending.
Its fairly obvious that our tactical approach to defending set-pieces really needs to improve.
Plus, why must the WHOLE team be involved in defending corners?
If we could defend corners better, 2 or 3 players could remain upfront, giving us the chance to score from resulting counter-attacks.
Spud thrashing anybody?
Evil spuds must be destroyed, did I say that already?
Great report Steve T glad at least for a win for the young lad. Was also disappointed for frimpong as he could not get any rhythm to his game at all. A win is a win so hopefully can repeat at the lane.
Snowy bummer on missing goal but at least you can say you were there when Chamacks hair was officially declared insane
Evening/morning all,
It wasn’t a great display tonight but was v.impressed with Big Sacks and Santos – what a terrific touch that man has, a true Brazillian footballer as opposed to Wolfie who’s a true footballer with a Brazillian 🙂
Only enjoyed a swiftie in ‘The Lord Nelson’ (Horatia) pre-match and had to leave a bunch of friendly Gooners behind in Tollie post match as I’m saving myself for The Big One on Sunday and a possible sesh with TGLM once were away from the marshlands 😉
‘Holic, you’ve got a mail with a picture attached that you might find relevant for the LWCs match preview on Sunday.
Tabs – I have my bio-suit ironed and Dr.T administered the multiple innoculations on Tuesday. I’m also considering bringing a bunch of bananas and a large net should we bump into monkey boy.
Snowy let’s try to meet up once we’re inside The Sh*thole. The downstairs bar would make sense. It’ll be loud.
Looking forward to telling a certain striker that he once played for a big club 😉
All together now:
We won the league
We won the league
At Shite Hart Lane
At Shite Hart Lane…..
@ Steve T
Great report mate and yes, very good point about Entwistle (R.I.P.) too.
I’ll stick with O2TC for Alex OC.
COYRRRs.
Can we make Sunday’s game 4 wins in a row?
Steve T – excellent post.
Sounds like young Steve T junior is learning all the right habits 😉
Scene : Happy Train MkII
Broken crockery and the occasional broken glass are strewn throughout the train……
Dr Feelgood and Professor Edwin T Storey are deep in discussion.
Dr F : “So Edwin, I see that we had a lot of happy punters last night, they’ve been celebrating in true Greek fashion by smashing every plate they could find – make sure and factor the cost of the replacements into next year’s Season Ticket prices by the way.”
Edwin: “Err, well Dr F it wasn’t quite like that. The broken plates that you see were down to a number of frustrated customers who couldn’t get served at the bar last night. Seems we are a bit short , bar staff wise, and they couldn’t get their beer so it all sort of kicked off, and some of them got a bit excited and just started throwing things around”.
Dr F: “Short of bar staff? Where are the blondes? Don’t tell me they’ve all fucked off back to Sweden – is that guy Lars sick again?”
Edwin “Well no, he’s well on the mend, although it is a medical matter. All the regular girls seem to have one ailment or another, they’re just dropping like flies. Some of our more excitable customers are starting to question the credentials of our medical team. It just seems to be an endless list of calling in sick.”
Dr F: “Our medical team? You mean those two pie-eyed quacks, Trev and Dr C? They were tied together to the one stethoscope the last I saw them, and inhaling their own anaesthetic. God help us if they’ve actually been dispensing anything – we won’t see the girls till Christmas. ”
Edwin: “Which leaves us in a tricky position for Sunday’s service to the rat infested marshland. I think we may need to call on some auxiliary help.”
Dr F: “Anyone in mind?”
Edwin : “As it happens, there is an old guy who calls himself The Sweeper, who can be called upon for just this very type of emergency. His talents don’t come cheap though. He’ll expect his own dressing room, endless supplies of fresh orange juice, and a four poster for his squeeze, Celia. Oh and he wants a butler.”
Dr F: “Fucking hell. Where are we going to find someone sick enough to butler for an old prima donna like that?”
Edwin peers over Dr Feelgood’s shoulder where a man in swimming trunks and high heels is practicing his ironing…..
Steve T @ t th25 “Per has the turning circle of an oil tanker.” Sentence of the week.
And you are right that he reads the game well. His play is also based on doing uncomplicated things extremely well and swiftly. Ball won and moved 20 meters forward in two touches. He is one of those undemonstrative players who you don’t realize quite how good he is until he isn’t there.
Steve T – Loved your post but I’ve got to ask.
What is it that people (and you) expect from Frimpong or a DM in general (of the Frimpong type, truly Holding only as opposed to Song who does try to attack a bit more, whether he should or not that’s another story, I’m talking about what actually happens)?
I mean, he passes the ball quite well, I really like his forward passes, they’re crisp and accurate. His first touch isn’t perfect, but it’s improving and it is very much effected by the fact that he runs his socks off so every time he receives the ball he is always moving so it’s harder for him to plant the ball. He will get better at that.
As for defensive ability? I’m very pleased with it. His tackles and interceptions are very impressive and also number wise they’re quite a lot.
Not only does he stand his ground in front of the back four and win the ball, his presence is very intimidating to opposing players which causes the attacking team to make mistakes.
I really don’t see what more people would want from him based on this game.
I mean to ask, what was it about this game that made you say that all he has is potential? Did he not have a good game defensively?
Edwin and Dr F
Tsk Tsk,
You are forgetting the personalised Zimmer Frame and the Spa Bath.
Also i am afraid i have already had to tell Wolfie that unless he dresses appropriately he cannot do my Butlering.
The lovely C would be scarred for life if she was exposed to Wolfies complete disregard for normal dress code.
So someone else has to be provided.
I also require a full menu itinerary for Breakfast/Lunch and Dinner.
Alas you have been very tardy in sending out the Official Report from last Saturday’s Board meeting.
Please rectify asap.
Re the Plate debacle,
I have a mate named ‘ ARFUR ” who has a offsider,Terry,who has let it be known that he has a large crate of plates, that just happened to fall off the back of a lorry right near his lockup.
He is willing to do a good deal to get them off his hands.
Let me know if you are interested.
cheers
the Sweeper
Evening holics
Just in from pizza and beers w my old man an thanks to my sister for driving us home. On a personal note missed out on a job yesterday so a win was vital to my day today an the beer and pizza was an added bonus.
I’ve seen some stuff posted about OX and frimpers being younguns and what not and if may add sorry if I’ve missed it above,
OX played well for an 18 year old debuting in the CL but after the goal seemed to get happy feet an just loose possession rather easily. But to see him track back as much as he did is a welcomed sight knowing that if it were Theo and Jenks, Theo would’ve been in his ear ALL night, as we’ve seen before. Encouragement goes a long long way to a young mans development. Criticism, not so much. And as someone pointed out (holic I believe?) rosicky was at fault for the goal from
The corner, I seem to remember OX pointing that out as well before it was even taken. But he played a intracal part in us taking the points none the less so a drink to the young boy.
Now on to frimpong, he wasn’t at his best (IE Liverpool) but didn’t make any crucial mistakes and played well enough for this performance to be well, forgotten. After his previous games have proved to be a bit of a “when does he pick up a red?” I’ll take this one. Then again, he may have been instructed to play with “Le andbrake” on and just put in 90 minutes.
Also is it me or did that ref turn to shut and blow that whistle a little too much “one way” for my liking or is Arteta just doing a pirouette when he goes to ground.
@ Clive
Dr F is always interested in “hooky gear” so tell your friend Arfur to get in touch.
With regard to your other demands, needs must, and I’m sure we will get your zimmer etc sorted out.
The butler? I think you will hear from at least one job applicant later.
And as for reporting from the Board meeting – I sent out my take on the minutes whilst I was waylaid at Heathrow on Saturday. The official minute taker was Lars but he may have got distracted 😉
Anyway, according to Dr F, your free annual seson ticket for use on the Happy Train is “in the post” and who would doubt Dr Feelgood?
Happy with the three points yesterday, we slugged it out
Re Frimster: I agree with Steve T that he has a lot of potential but we cannot rely on him to cover for Song in the big games just yet. His touch was awful yesterday, even when not under pressure. He gave the ball away cheaply too on a couple of occasions. Having said that, I think he will improve
Per played really well yesterday I thought
Btw, when is TV5 coming back?
Tabs (Wolfie) – I expect an apology! That wasn’t paranoia 😀
He did rest some players last night! RvP being the most obvious one.
I’m not paranoid, just a bit concerned 😉
Zico
thnks for your prompt response in the affirmative re my requirements,
most commendable of you,
Too many people pussyfoot around and pass the buck,terrified of being wrong,but you have been very decisive with your prompt response.
I know some deviants at the Secure Unit,who have a soft spot for affirmitive men.!!
I look forward to my HT season pass coming in the mail,
That reminds me,i knew a Postie who used to come in the mail,
He’s now in the Secure Unit under lock and key.!!
cheers
The Sweeper
PS I await with interest details of the new job applicant for Butlering services.
*pours second cup of steaming coffee and settles down to enjoy the drinks*
Love the mornings after a win!
SteveT@25, glad to see you had a good night out with your boy. Great post!
zico@33: excellent stuff as usual!
As for the minutes from Saturday, I can confirm that discussions were had and decisions were made.
Lars
How can you confirm or remember anything from Saturday’s Board meeting,when by your own admission you were totally paralytic.!!
please explain.
cheers
The sweeper.
Why is everyone making such a big song and dance about Tevez refusing to play for Citeh on Tuesday night? Arshavin has refused to play for us for at least one season.
Surely, if Gervinho is injured, Gibbs would be a better bet playing in front of Santos.
Brief thoughts on yesterday’s game:
Chamberlain is the real deal.
Rosicky is about as welcome and necessary as nasal hair (I’ve reached that age). It’s very difficult to play a pressing defensive game with Arshavin and him in the starting XI.
BFG and Song had great games.
Frimpong has quickly learned not to dive in and give away unecessary fouls: he will come good.
Someone needs to tell Santos there are showers in the changing room. Great technique and passing, but he is not one to break into a sweat running up down the touchline.
Away fans were excellent.
Hi ho ‘holic. Sorry to outdo you but I must claim to laying my bet on the Ox for the first goal a good 24 hours before the match and got 15s in Australia. Besides, I simply had to bet on my namesake and was very proud to score my first goal at the Ems. Sort of. At least it makes buying an Arsenal shirt at the armoury very easy when I come visit!
I also must say I’m very pleased to read that the Arsenal fans really got behind Chamakh. The bloke gave everything and on another night would’ve been on the scoresheet. That will come soon enough.
It will be tough on Sunday, but being a public holiday in Australia on Monday I am up for this one like you wouldn’t believe despite the 3am kick-off. Come on you glorious gunners.
P.S. Mertesacker is world, world class. I honestly think a lot of our defensive ills will vanish in time with him in the side. What a player. And when he scores I’m claiming the pun first; it’s a Sacker punch! May he inflict one on the spuds.
Clive, it’s very easy. I just asked tabs.
Snir,
There’s a lot to admire about Frimpong and you did a pretty good job at articulating that in your post . I’d put most of his flaws down to a lack of experience but the skepticism stems from the fact that he isn’t as tactically astute as Coquelin and doesn’t perhaps have the discipline and the patience to just stay put in front of the back four and patrol that zone between the half line and our box. There is a misguided sense of zealotry to get forward during our attacks and thus, distort the shape of the team. It’s all very well to try and be the box-to-box guy so long as you have another DM alongside you. Song has certainly mastered this. Also distribution-wise and tackling Coquelin is a little more classier and refined (subjective). Frimpong’s all-action style is such that he’s more susceptible to garnering cards, particularly in non-Premier league games. I have nothing against Frimpong but I just thought a European clash was the perfect opportunity to play Coquelin ahead of Frimpong. That’s my only gripe.
Lars
Won’t wash mate.
Tabs was as legless as you were.!!
Clive, I can not comment on that as I have very sketchy recollections of the tail end of the meeting. I refer you to tabs for any further inquiries.
Clive,
D L Ltd have a very strict policy when it comes to drinking when on Company business.
We insist upon it. 8)
Indeed Dr F 😉
Ox, welcome back, and sorry you got caught in the temperamental spam filter for a while.
Brave to back the Ox 24 hours in advance when I thought him an unlikely starter, but as soon as I saw him in the side and Robin out then he just had to hit the target for us.
Keep me in the loop about your trip and we’ll sort out matchday beers!
Morning Chaps ,
Some very fine drinks up there , none of which I take issue with .
SteveT – a great account of your evening out , excellent to hear that Son No.1 is being schooled correctly , not only in the art of appreciating the boys in red , but also the oft neglected craft of kebab-munching .
Have to say I agree almost entirely with your view of the game .
” What I would say is that whilst we defended poorly, I do not think that our defence was poor.”
Comment of the evening for me . None of the back four had “poor” games – Sagna was his usual energetic self , Mertesacker was calm and authoritative , Song was outstanding esp second half , and Santos looked good esp on the front foot – so why oh why did I have palpitations every time the Greeks crossed the half-way line ?
I have to say that I felt our defensive organisation in the first half was abysmal , and not just from set-pieces . Whether it is the system we play , whether it was because the inexperienced Frimpong gave the ball away too cheaply and failed to deal with the Greeks playing between the lines , I will leave to greater experts than me to debate .
What I will say is that at HT , I was pretty down-in-the-mouth , notwithstanding the 2-1 scoreline . The gaping holes at the back will be exploited by a more clinical and pacy side , and we all know who’s coming up this Sunday .
That we did , to a large extent , sort it out after HT , is to the Teams credit , but I just don’t think we’ll get away with such a sloppy 45 mins on Sunday .
AA was a complete passenger last night , and we just can’t afford players at present , who aren’t prepared to put a shift in .
On the plus side , I thought Arteta was outstanding , and The Ox showed why he will be a huge asset in the future .
A win is a win however , and the house of Arsenal needs to be rebuilt brick by brick . Last night was another brick along the way , and let’s hope that Sunday sees a performance that can have us dreaming of windows and doors . Anyway , enough of this increasingly meaningless metaphor …
TS @30 likewise , looking forward to the trip to the Marshlands with a heady mix of trepidation and anticipation .
Dr Z @33 – Can’t work out whether you had an extraordinarily late one or whether you were up with the larks . 4.57 !!?? Either way , outstanding stuff 🙂
Snir@40 – Have to say I was very surprised VP and Ramsey were rested . I certainly got that wrong . It was a gamble that AW only just got away with , so fair play . As for Kos , Theo and Gervinho , I maintain that they were injured , and not merely rested . Had they been fit , they surely would haver been on the bench .
Clive , Lars , Dr Z @various – And so we come to the vexed question of the minutes of the DLL board meeting and more specifically the seemingly ever-increasing list of Clive’s “demands” .
I can of course confirm that I was indeed “paralytic” following the Board meeting , though perhaps not quite as banjaxed as Lars . The difference , I think , may best be summed up by the fact that one of us went in for a bit of table top dancing , whilst the other merely enjoyed the performance .
Whilst events of the day are necessarily hazy , I do remember that there was a certain anticipation that the day would take a certain course , and that therefore it was best to get the housekeeping out of the way “early doors” . Just as well , as it turned out , as ‘Holic unilaterally decided to introduce Glenfiddich into the proceedings before midday .
Clive’s requirements were first on the agenda , and I do remember the following phrases , ” I’ll leave that one to you Wolfie” (Dr Feelgood) ,” We can’t have the tail wagging the dog” ( wolfie) , ” I’m not sure I like Glenfiddich” (Lars ) , ” It’s Wolfie or nowt” (Feelgood) , “I’ve bent over as far as I can go” (Wolfie) , “I think I’ll leave my Glenfiddich” (Lars) , ” Can we talk about Linda Lusardi now ?” ( Feelgood) .
So , I hope the above is clear . If not , Wolfie himself will be along later to explain all . He’s out at the moment at the local lido . He likes nothing more , after a victory , than taking in a few lengths , and telling anyone who will listen how wonderful his Arse is .
Onwards and Upwards to The Marshlands Gooners
Good recall there hon sec.
I must remember to try Lars out on the Jameson next time and see if that suits him better.
He didn’t leave very much Glenfiddich for me to polish off though 😉
Ah Tabs … At last a partial report on the board meeting. What’s to explain Lars’ aversion to Glenfiddich? Does he prefer not to mix his whiskeys??? And where are the missing minutes of the discussion of Linda Lusardi???
Holic , heh 🙂
So Lars polished off his Glenfiddich eh ? Fair play to Lars . My recall clearly not as good as I thought 😉
tabs – re my posting at 4:57 this morning.
Have you forgotten your sage advice from yesterday, already? 😉
Dr Feelgood has approved the minutes as scribed above. We seem to be at an impasse on the Butler front then Clive? But just think of all that orange juice……
8ball – Some things best left to the imagination 😉
Dr Z , first time someone has followed my advice for over a decade 😉
All I can say is the boy done good 🙂
A very quick lunchbreak as I’m very busy.
If you haven’t noticed this gem from .con, now is the time.
http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/oxlade-chamberlain-sets-champions-league-reco
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain 18 yrs 44 days v Olympiacos 2007
Theo Walcott 18 yrs 221 days v Slavia Prague 2010
Jack Wilshere 18 yrs 291 days v Shakhtar Donetsk 2010
Yes, according to this we have travelled back in time and are now in 2007.
I’m pretty sure we didn’t play Slavia in 2010 either, I mean Theo wasn’t 18 anymore then anyway.
Ollie I hate to think what you’ll find when you’re NOT busy! 😉
tabs @59 – Roxextte suggests judgement is NOT my middle name 😀
I did indeed polish off most of my Glenfiddich, would have been rude to not at least give it a proper chance to convince me of it’s qualities!
I disagree with Roxette ! 🙂
Ollie, so now we know that not only do they not know the alphabet at Highbury House, they have no concept of time either…
tabs @ 63 – keyboard warrior!
I tried that once…..
Another excellent post ‘holic. Glad to see the holic pound bringing home some mates as well.
On the match itself, I didn’t think AOC covered that well on the right in all honesty. I recall a few occasions where he seemed to just stop running and left Bac covering 2 players. Also, Shava picked up offensively in the second half, but didn’t offer much help to Santos on the left either. Their goal came from amateurish play at the back (failing to track runners into the box yet again).
That being said, I thought we coped well in the second half and their shot which hit the bar was the only really nervous moment I can recall. But maybe that’s because I watched the game through a fog of hunger and beer after crunching numbers on a project all day.
Chamakh continues to work hard and according to UEFA, he covered 8.9km last night against a team average of 7.5km. He should have buried the chance he had, but if we’re willing to give RvP time to recover his form after injury lay-offs, we should be willing to allow Marouane the run of games he needs to rediscover his best form.
3 lovely and very welcome points, and a trip to the Stade Velodrome up next in Europe for what is certain to be a fascinating contest with Marseille.
On a side note, did anyone else see Rio get away with hauling down a Basel player on Tuesday night when he was certainly the last man and had been beaten by a bit of skill? One wonders what a ManUre player has to do to get a red card at Old Toilet. It’s getting to the point where if Rooney pulled out an uzi and mowed down half the opposition, the ref would only give him a stern warning.
On to Shite Hart Lane on Sunday. It’s my mum’s birthday as well but she’s a Manc so hopefully we can spoil it for her! 😀
Afternoon all.
Acouple of big posts up there which I could only scan read but they looked brilliant, cheers fellas! 🙂
tabs – I will send you something of interest later today…..
zico – Are you in a different timezone? If so did you use the HT Mk II or atleast the CMC to ‘travel’ there 😉
Edwin’s been a bit insufferable this morning crowing about smooth rides and perfect bogies. He’s predicting another uninterrupted, albeit short, journey on Sunday. I’ve suggested he focuses more on security measures and get CK what he needs to deal with marsh creatures.
I think an extraordinay DLL board meeting is required to discuss a range of anti-LWC measures for the weekend. CK should join the meeting. Is Lars available for minute taking?
Two suggestions from me to kick things off:
1) Steel bars on the windows of the HT to protect the passengers and driver.
2) Issue CK and his team with Sweeper Steel-Capped Boots so that Kickemard can kick ’em ‘ard.
Cheers all, a round on the bar from me for all who want to imbibe.
TS – I am not in another time zone, boyzone or the Phantom Zone (although the last is arguable).
Suffice to say, one should take two spoonfuls of caution when being given advice by a lawyer 😉
Zico – Ahhhh! Another late night board meeting? Or was it a Management meeting? 😉
Edwin’s always here for a chat if required….
FYI, I’m off the The ‘Dam next week so we could add CMC/GT supplies to any extra-ordinary board meeting that might be called, with all due respect to Harsha, PiK (MIA again???) and Lonestar 🙂
TS – see yet more sage advice @ # 58
Dr Feelgood agrees wholeheartedly with supply plan from Old Amsterdam. If you get in tow with H2H, don’t mix DLL stock with Bloody Marys……
except in the correct proportions as prescribed by the Quack R Jack twins, they know who they are
Understood zico and heh re: “Quack R Jack twins”.
Chin-up fella 😀
Toby@5: ‘Ox in the box’
I do believe I have a claim and witnesses to that phrase
Seconded Geoff 😉
Caught laughing out loud again to myself – strange looks on Scotrail’s finest……
I wouldn’t let Gazidis paint my fence!
Keith Dover legend
😀
Thank you TS
TS – Cheers for the mail and have responded .
Security measures for the weekend will largely depend on the result so Carlos Kickemhard’s first requirement is a win , any kind of win .
He is not considering any kind of other outcome at this stage . 🙂
Afternoon all – a rare but welcome early pop-in.
No time to read the drinks yet but one carry-over from the previous set to BtM –
I hate to say it, and Snir will be appalled – no change there then 😉 –
but you made exactly the point I found myself thinking at the game last night, namely “even Denilson would not give the ball away like this “.
I also thought – dammit – that “a sprint race between Denilson and Frimpong would be a close run thing”.
What has happened to Pingpong – is it lack of confidence to do his stuff in front of top flight referees ? Stretching the imagination there a bit in respect of last night’s comedian.
Generally, One Song looked good at CB with BigSacks, and the very premature detractors of Santos might like to revise their opinions ??
Also, the defensive coach that we don’t need, might like to ask himself why practically every team manages to double up markers on our wingers, while we often struggle to get one man near enough to theirs.
Right, back to work. Apologies for any duplication, will catch up on drinks later.
Btw, 9 injuries last night, 3 more players rested, Champions League game won 2 – 1. ARSENAL CRISIS 😉
Hey Tabs, what’ll you have ?
TS, zico, Lars, Geoff – please join Tabs, all on Lars of course.
work 🙁
And – with all the fouling and diving last night, I thought the Greeks were revolting.
‘Holic,
excellent post and quality drinks from champion drinkers all over the bar.
Arteta’s display, it seems, has not been adequately lauded or is it that he is now expected to give such high tempo performance (which is a good sign, mind you).
On to Sunday.
My only regret being that some “arsenal” bloggers have declared the spuds as light years ahead of us this season. So you might as well save ur ‘holic pound or break your custom of not punting agaist The Arse.
Trev @ #79, don’t mind if I do, cheers! The force was strong in me last night and I sensed that I was sitting near to you. I did have a good look around but the force failed me that time. It was a nervy evening, wasn’t it? Although we came out with a decent result which is all that really matters in the end 😉
Tabs @ #76, got it and thanks. Lookforward to talking when you get connected again. Totally agree with Carlos. We’ve got to beat those w*nkers this time 🙂
Now…. where’s that daft pet of ours? It’s bowl is full but I can’t see it and there’s no lingering odour so it’s obviously lurking back near The Sh*thole no doubt thinking it’ll be able to come in here on Sunday evening with a silly smile on it’s puss and a large amount of drool dripping from it’s chops.
Trev, the 5 ‘S’s in defence is a decent (if make-shift) unit:
Szcz, Sagna, Sacks, Song, Santos.
Afternoon gents.
Very good posts from our reporters on the spot, Steve T and Snowy, and some excellent posts from the usual HT patrons, who, when I think about it are actually the only ones to be found in the bar over the last few days. All this winning of games malarky seemed to have frightened all the BBB’s away.
Sad to me, that so many choose to define their “happiness” in misery, but hey, if that’s your bag, then knock yourselves out……..
You miserable gits. 😉
Last nights team selection, had many surprised, me not so, as I believe that the PL must take priority, the CL is just gravy and Mr Wenger no doubt feels the same.
I thought Oxo did well, nicely taken goal and looked adventurous, however the impetuances of youth shone through a number of times. Let’s not heap the burden of too much expectation on his young shoulders, he’ll most probably come good, but needs time to aclimitise to the top levels of the game.
The same must be said about young Frimpong, already a favourite of many. I love the guys commitment and he gave it his all, but he was way out of his depth yesterday, made way to many mistakes and in the position where he plays, those mistakes will inevitably be extreamly costly. But again, give him time and he’ll come good too.
I liked the look of two saints, big sturdy lad. Per showed many, what I already knew to be true, that he is a good solid defender with enough experience to know where to be to get the job done with the minimal of fuss. Song slotted in nicely beside him and looked very comfortable in that unfamiliar role, whereas Sagna, who wasn’t at his best, still looked solid enough.
Arteta once again put in a good shift, that save on the line was amazing. AA was in and out of the game and Rosicky had an outing that I’m sure he will want to improve on. The will was there, but his exacution too often then not, let him down. Woj was Woj, steady and reliable, pissed at conceding the goal and vocal to his defenders when he thought they weren’t doing their job properly.
That just leaves Chamakh. I thought he put in a good shift. He hassled the defenders and madehis pressence known in and around the box. I know he missed one in the first half, but I feel he got himself into some really good positions, but alas, was not found by his team mates. Keep it up Maurone and I’m sure you’ll return to the form that you had when you first donned the cannoned shirt.
I’ll summarise by saying that I thought it was a pretty disjointed performance, however, that is not really that surprising considering the team dynamics. Sometimes it was difficult to watch and I’d be lying if I said I had spotless underwear on at the end of the ninety minutes. BUT, the commitment was definetly there (from most) and we’ve played much better then that and come away with nothing so I’ll take that kind of win any day of the week. Plus it can only be a good thing going into this weekends derby at the rioters playground with the added confidence a win like that brings.
A BM for me please squire and voddie shots all round.
Cheers.
PS: I’m now a big fan of Santos, see my post-match post @ #30, with all due respect to Wolfie who may neither be a footballer or sport a Brazillian 😉
Wolfie ain’t due no respect 😉 Heh.
H2H you hit the nail on the head about les Miserables. I could name them but they will show up soon enough, if we haven’t won the World Cup by November (to paraphrase the great Dr C).
Personally I would have bit your hand off before the match last night for a win, with the numbers out injured/rested and young and new players learning to play for Arsenal. Yes there was much to improve on, but as stated by someone above, we are rebuilding, brick by brick.
Not that I am thinking along such lines just yet, but normally a loss at the swamp would result in mass suicide (or at least a Class One event) – but from where we are starting from this season, I personally don’t believe that to be the case.
Its going to be a season of transition whatever happens – I personally take heart from the Carling Cup tie against the cocks last season, in as much as many people were concerned that Arsene would under-estimate the importance of a game against THEM. What we got was an “up for it” show from both players and Manager and I expect the same on Sunday.
I have a feeling the doom-mongers will be absent on Sunday night as well. But if they’re not, then I will be for taking them on, head on – its just the way I am.
Up the Arse! 8)
Hello Trev , sorry I missed you , an early evening lager will do just the trick , thanks .
H2H – nice summary and cheers for the voddie shot .
Wolfie still away so he can speak for himself when he’s satisfied that he’s had enough lengths for the day , but I suspect that he will say that he is both a footballer and that he’s “had” a Brazilian , so to speak . Aids the aerodynamics , apparently , just ask Anders Limpar , who apparently had the full body treatment , much to the amusement of his Gunner teammates .
Dr Z , I hear ya , and I also will be manning the barricades with Carlos , should the unthinkable occur .
H2H @84. Hear hear re the BBBs. I would edit your post only in one respect;
“Sad to me, that so many choose to define their “happiness” in misery, but hey, if that’s your bag, then knock yourselves out……..PLEASE!!!!
You miserable gits.” 🙂
Zico above. “the great Dr C”??.
Steady lad, he’s just a trumped up old quack. Don’t let him get above his station.
Brilliant Tuesday Club this week.
Zico – The reference to Keith Dover’s “goblet of filfth” i.e. a cup of tea served in an LWCs mug had me in stitches.
Right, well it’s obvious wear we’re goin rong, innit?
That fakking Wengre, he needs to buy experienced internashnals, and ones that have played in the Premiership before. Don’t he?
Oh.
Well, he needs to buy some really good young kids for loads of money like that United lot have done, don’t he? He’s so stingy he’s scared to spend money on talent.
Oh.
And, yeah, we should be able to cope with injuries and stuff. Like United – they have loads of injuries. I reckon they could have nearly a hole team out and still manage to win.
Oh.
Wengre OUT! We ned someone who knows what he’s doing.
Post when we’re losing… I only post when we’re losing….
Catalan @ 89 – yeah, Feelgood put me right on that one too. 😉
Heh, nice one C*NT. 🙂
@91 😆
TS @30 – “Santos – what touch that man has”
As I have discovered, old chap, you simply cannot beat the touch of a good Brazilian.
Thank heaven he plays on the left, for if the good Brazilian ever came into contact with the big German sausage, we may never see either of them again.
zico @33 – “pie-eyed quack”. A rare compliment indeed. Thank-you. 😉
Can’t Under . . . . . BtM in here ?
Trev, BtM, Steve T – I have something important to say about our little Frimpong debate.
I’ll comment after Maccaib’s game…
@98 – Snir waiting to comment ? Nah, must be an imposter 😉
Races onto his own through ball and . . . .
Tabs – look and learn ! 😉
Snir doesn’t comment, he proclaims 😀
@ Dr T – it was an early morning weak moment 😉
zico – you must know all about The Proclaimers 😉
Do you know the name of the website that has all the ‘grin / blush’ etc syntax on it, by any chance. I’m bored with my only two working options.
Heh Trev,
try here:
http://codex.wordpress.org/Using_Smilies
Thanks
😆 😳 🙄
Good man Dr Z . . .
Evening Trev, thanks for the drink, I’m in my local curry house and raising a Cobra to you
Geoff
You are becoming quite the regular. And most welcome too.
Now, about those cobras…
Dr Z @33.
Can’t fault your observational skills.
Don’t worry, plenty more anaesthetic to go around.
Carry on….
Evening all, and apologies. I was going to do the first of a two-part NLD preview tonight, but after a couple of hours in the evening sun in the garden with some Guinness and Chilean Merlot I came in to find I needed to pen some words for elsewhere, which will hopefully become clear tomorrow.
I will try and produce a bumper preview tomorrow night, although I can see I am not really needed. As usual the drinks have taken a life of their own. You lot are bleeding wonderful.
Thank you.
Patient Holic
Take one bottle and lie down.
Jolly good.
Thanks Catalan gunner, I’ve ordered an extra Cobra for you, phew, I’m stuffed, bloated, fuller than a fat ladies bra…..another Cobra? Oh alright then!
Oh ‘holic, red wine and hot sun, a wicked combination….panadol extra anyone?
Anyone see the goal the pikey Brummies conceded in the UEFA Also-Rans cup?
Absolutely priceless sloppy backpass that made me feel all warm inside.
Bottle of Crabbie’s for whoever fancies one.
Get in there!!!!!!!!
Come on you Shamrock Rovers!!!
Chase down the Crabbie’s with these shots…
CG
Haven’t had the pleasure yet, but look forward to it. Hopefully it was Ferguson. Is he still with them?
Shamrock 0 – Sp*rs 0 at Half Time.
As it stands, Sp*rs lie 3rd in their table behind Rubin Kazan and PAOK Salonika.
Arsenal Crisis, scream the headlines….
…..the Arsenal crisis deepens….
I had no idea that Matthew Upson was playing for the Munsters now. Life after Arsenal, eh??
CG
Dunno but if he is I hope he’s rotting in the reserves or relegated to cone-collecting after the 9-year-olds or polishing the tea-lady’s dentures, the cunt.
CG. Just the two of us here, it seems.
Unless there are any lurkers?
Let me buy you a drink, and a Rennies for Geoff (cheers for the cobra).
Cheers CG.
Egad! I’m besieged by enormous, hideous cunts! Every time I turn over the channel I see giant arseholes staring back at me.
Spurs on one.
Birmingham another.
Then Stoke! It’s not good for a man to behold cuntishness of such biblical proportions in such a short space of time.
Stoney has just done his bit at the comedy show that I mentioned yesterday, I did manage to get an “UNLUCKY THEO!!!” in – he shot me down with “I get that a lot, I told you to wait in the car” which I have to admit to not really understanding what he meant by. We’re now at the interval and the DJ (who is English) immediately put on “Move on up” which I assume was a reference to Ian being a Gooner. Good fun it was anyway, but I kept waiting for Davies, Tayo and Keith to interrupt him all the time 🙂
Don’t worry, Lars. It doesn’t make much sense to me either.
I think he was suggesting he brought you with him from England, Lars. He didn’t expect the locals to pick up on that. Excellent stuff.
I hope the rest of his show was as good as it usually is?
OK here it is.
Trev, Steve T, BtM – I think Song spoiled you and the Arsenal fans.
I think that Song is not a DM, he is an upgraded version of a DM, and is the best in Europe in his position by a country mile.
The fact of the matter is that Song has technical ability that is suitable for a creative midfielder and so by being so technically adept he spoiled Arsenal fans.
When I think of the classic DM, the first attributes that come to mind are tackling ability, recovery ability, interceptions (i.e reading of the game), strength (the ability not to get knocked off the ball easily) and positioning. Only after those attributes do I think about forward passes, passes into space, one on one technical ability etc.
I know Song has all of that in one, but Frimpong is not Song and not every DM can do all those things at one. I for one, won’t mind it if my DM would focus on his defensive duties and pass it sideways to Arteta or Ramsey.
His tackling ability is top class, both on the slide and standing up, his recovery ability is very good as well as he covers a large amount of space on the field due to our formation, his reading of the game is excellent as he gets multiple interceptions every game, his strength is his strongest attributes as it’s virtually impossible to knock him off the ball and he holds on to the ball great when under pressure, and his positioning is good but can be better, although he does recover for it with his recovery ability.
As for his offensive attributes, his forward passes are both crisp and usually accurate, his passes into space as well, his first touch is lacking true, but that’s because he’s always moving, when you’re moving it’s harder to plant the ball.
I just think that you are expecting too much of a holding DM. We have cried for someone like Frimpong for years, someone who doesn’t take prisoners, who doesn’t mess around and we finally got it.
For me, he is excellent the way he is right now and if he does need to improve, its his offensive skills which I don’t think it’s THAT urgent for him to improve on an immediate basis.
I’m very pleased with him, even at the moment.
Cheers guys,
Now, let’s get ready for Sunday 😀
Grandad reminiscing about the old days.
‘ when i was young, mum used to give me a Pound to go shopping,
and i’d come back with 5 bags of potatoes,2 loaves of bread,
3 bottles of milk,a hunk of cheese,a box of tea and 6 eggs,
You can’t do that now,
Too many fucking security cameras.!!
Cheers
The sweeper
PS My 1950’s steel capped soccer boots,are on the back porch,
polished and gleaming in the cool glow of the evening.
I hear them whispering to me,
‘ Bring on Sunday,Bring on Sunday,THERE WILL BE BLOOD.’ !!!
CWGS54: Grandad sounds like a live one. 😀 😀 😀
Re: Trev @106: Now don’t go getting all emotional on us now … 😉
Haha Clive.
Reminds me of a Friday when I came up a day early for an away game, helped a now deceased mate on his bread round of the London rail stations. Every basket of bread we took in we came out with a tray of pies, or cakes 🙂
Top man he was. RIP fella. No names, no pack drill…
Holic
Those were the Day’s mate.
Dad had a pal with a bread run,
He used to wheel in to the unnamed Supermarkets, about 10 trays all stacked on top of each other,
The 2 trays in the middle of the stack,had loaves packed around the edges but nothing in the centre,the checkers were always too lazy to lift off each tray to count individually,so signed off for the load,never
realising they were about 20 loaves short.!!
As Dad’s mate always stacked the bread on the shelves for them,they never tumbled to the ruse.
Got away with it for years.
cheers
clive
Evening all. thank you for the kind words. The little fella is still buzzing. We watched the highlights twice this morning.
A few points arising from the drinks. I agree with those who mentioned Arteta. Being honest I do not think he has the class of a Nasri or Fabregas. But what he does have is a great desire and a great attitude. He is the sort of player we should have bought 2 years ago. His goal line clearance epitomised that for me. That alone can lift the crowd and the team.
Re Frimpong and Song. Snir, you make an interesting and learned point, only what I would expect from you. I will deal with both matters. Our opinions of Song differ. I think he is a good player but not in the class you mention. I think he makes a big difference to us. However he can lack discipline at times. He is prone to switch off and go walkabout. When he uses his brain and stays in position he is a fine player. But for me he needs to conquer the indiscipline to make the move to the next level.
Frimpong I think is a great prospect with great potential. At the moment that is all it is. Let’s not forget he can’t have more than 10 first class games under his belt. He is still very much a kid in both age and experience. I will come back to that point. I watched several of the all conquering Under 18 side of a few years ago. I was really looking forward to seeing more of Jack and JET. I also wanted to see what else we had coming through. The player that for me stood head and shoulders above the rest was not Jack or JET as expected, but Frimpong. He was in those games different class. I had massive hopes for him. Sadly that injury has put him back a year. Ihaveno doubt he will develop into one hell of a player. I think he could almost get as good as Essien was in his prime. Time will tell.
One of the biggest problems I have had in recent years has been the lack of experience in the squad. I will never ever understand why we let genuine Arsenal men leave and never return. My point is that would the likes of Frimpong and others benefit if the likes of Gilberto, Vieira etc were still at the club in some way, shape or form? My opinion is a resounding yes. At the moment Frimpong has lots to work on. His sending off earlier on in the season was down to making poor decisions. He already seems to have learned from that. He needs to work on his all round game. His touch can be poor and his distribution on Wednesday night was not that great. But he is another one with a massive heart. I have moaned on here for years about lack of leaders. I do feel that all three of Ramsey, Wilshere and Frimpong have good leadership potential. It just needs time to develop.
Just my humble opinion of course.
Clive at 127. Awesome……
Holic@125: ah, that’s what he meant of course! It was good, he was on for about 25 minutes and although the crowd was a bit stiff he got a few good laughs. There was a bunch of really drunk chaps that paid no attention to what was going on on the stage, so Ian stopped and gave them a right bollocking which shut them up well and good. Going to watch him perform was time and money well spent!
Clive@127: massively brilliant 😀
Thnks Steve
I thoroughly enjoy your reports and insights.
To prove my point,another one at 132,which i cannot fault the thoughts and logic of.
I did mention the inexperience of the young guns myself,earlier @ 15 in this Drinks session.
By the By,
Your young fella doesn’t yet realise how lucky he is.!!
But as he grows up,believe me,he will.
cheers
Clive
Lars @ 135
thnks mate,
although it did take me a while to scrub the blood flecks off my boots from their last outing.!!
Guardian reporting City want RVP in January to replace Tevez and that they believe the player is open to a move. How is this not tapping up?
Oh, and in case anyone missed it (the entire UK press appear to have) Roberto Mancini was sacked by Inter a few years back after falling out with half the squad. Shortly before his contract was terminated one of his players refused to sub on in a Champs League game.
Who was this rebel? Only Luis Figo.
Seems to be a persistent problem for the finger pointing dickhead. Still, nice and convenient for when you need to distract attention from your latest clueless Euro-shambles.
Steve T – thanks for the reply mate.
I’ll reply once I’ll be next to a computer and not a phone (here I go proclaiming again 🙂 )
N7@138-interesting stuff. Money and egos, a highly volatile combination…
Clive @127 – 😆
@131 – that’s called ‘using your loaf’ mate 😉
Holic @130, and the Tollie – more of an old rogue than I realised 😉
Forgot to mention this.
The song doing the rounds after AOC had scored was “feed the Ox, feed the Ox, feed the Ox and he will score.”
One for all you Ox in the box fans.
Snir – re Frimpong,
I don’t think I am expecting too much of him at all. I am merely opining that, compared to his first home performance against Liverpool, he appears to have had the stuffing somewhat knocked out of him.
He grew in energy and stature very quickly during that game, in spite of the harsh early yellow card.
Since then, he appears to have lost the drive which characterised that performance and many others I saw from him in the U18’s.
I know it is a huge transition to the Premier League and all that, and I realise how good Alex Song is.
My comment was merely that he lost verve as quickly as he gained it, and was it down to lack of confidence following some of the decisions which have gone against him.
In the short term, it is a pity because he does look exactly like the ‘something’ we have been missing.
Right, it’s G’night all, from me.
@Snir
I’m a little slow on the blogs draw but that was a totally awsome statement on Alex Song. I always thought he would prove to be a valuable midfield player (but then I wrongly thought the same about Denilson) but he is now exceeding my expectations and I’m quite bouyed to see someone who knows the Arsenal in and out express the same sentiments so redoubtably.
Steve – Cheers mate for the compliments, you know you are one of the guys I like debating with the most even though we differ quite a lot.
I’ll leave it at a difference of opinion on Song as the debate is about Frimpong but I genuinely think he doesn’t stay in his position due to a request from AW. He brings something to the team that other teams don’t have and parked buses do not expect (a technically adept holding DM), giving him space on the ball and slacking off in marking him. I am absolutely positive his roaming is a AW’s request. As for his positioning in defense, you gotta cut him some slack, our formation leaves him to cover virtually the entire middle third on his own when Jack isn’t playing (no one can equal Jack’s work rate).
Now for Frimpong. The reason I addressed you with this debate is because you said that at the moment all he is, is potential. I disagree. I think that as a holding DM he is more than capable of playing at this stage of his career and that’s what I mean when I say that Song spoiled Arsenal fans. I’ll explain.
The fact that he doesn’t have enough games is true but he’s a natural, someone who isn’t fazed by anything, he’s like Jack, someone who fits right into a starting lineup (unfortunately for him, he’s got Song in his team and you know what I think about him).
I agree about the sending off but like you said, you could see that he learned from it and doesn’t jump into the tackle anymore. When you say he needs to work on his all around game is where I mean Song spoiled you, because a holding DM, should first and foremost have the attributes I mentioned earlier and only then should he have all those attributes that you mention (touch, distribution etc.). He has defensive attributes in abundance and for a holding DM that’s enough to start with, the rest will come, but that doesn’t mean he shouldn’t be in the starting 11 until he improves that as it isn’t essential (like I said, he can win the ball and pass it sideways to Ramsey or Arteta, and of course, this is all on the basis that Song is unavailable/playing CB).
Trev – True, he does appear that way, but isn’t that what we asked for? Didn’t we ask for him not to be rash and think a moment or two before jumping in on a tackle?
I have no problem at all at him losing a bit of verve because it calms him down but he still plays with the same energy, just not careless.
If you watch the replay of the game, you’ll notice that the amount of interceptions and tackles he made and won the ball exceed ten. That’s the first thing that I noticed when I saw the game again. He wins a great amount of balls in the middle third and has also improved his sliding tackle which once was a 50% foul every time.
As for his distribution, I think you guys are harsh on him. I think that simply he knows his place and is intelligent, he knows that both Ramsey and Arteta are better passers of the ball than him so he plays it short, although he’s got plenty of technical ability in his distribution as well (take a look at his pass against Swansea to Arshavin who then passed it to Theo who had the ball cleared away from the line when Williams slammed into the post).
lcgooner – cheers mate 😀
On the Song/Frimpong discussion @ various above: Frimpong looks to be way ahead of where Song was when he was Frimpong’s age, and Song has turned out to be top class, not what everyone, myself included, I should confess, thought he would become. Kudos to AW and the coaching staff for knowing what they had, and sticking with turning Song’s potential into real ability. AW seems to blood midfielders by playing them defensively and then move them into increasingly attacking roles. That’s what he did with Jack. Song has the potential to be a box-to-box Vieira type, and my guess would be that is what AW is shaping him into. Frimpong is putting in his time as a DM. What he is then turned into will depend on how he does in that role. Clearly he has great potential. The fact that he is unquestionably a first team squad player even after so few first team games – not something that was true for Song at a comparable stage – speaks to that. Most importantly, he seems to be a fast learner, giving away fewer cheap free kicks in dangerous positions and avoiding cards. There is not much to dislike here.
North Bank @146, I agree 100% with you that Frimpong at this age is way ahead of what Song was at a similar age. I also agree with most of Snir’s analysis of Frimpong’s attributes. I agree with most of Steve T’s post @132 but disagree somewhat with the statement that Frimpong is merely a great prospect with great potential. I think Frimpong is more than that to this team. He lacks experience but based on his talent I think he’s ready and doesn’t seem out of his depth as some would have us believe. I agree that his first touch and distribution were off against Olympiakos but it is obvious that he’s a very technical player who has the ability to do these things efficiently. His tackling was exceptional and he covered a lot of ground in the game and made several interceptions. Of course, like all players, he still needs to work on improving various aspects of his game but I think Frimpong is the real deal and isn’t merely a great prospect. I would go even further to acknowledge that one of the weakest part of our team for the past 3 or more years (the holding midfied position) is now arguably the most improved area with Frimpong and the emergence of Coquelin, who looks like the real deal as well.
By the way, I really like the Frimpong debate so I don’t want this to cause the subject to change but had to link it…
Apparently Stan Kroenke knows how to talk…
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2011/sep/30/arsenal-stan-kroenke-arsene-wenger
Interesting article on the Silent One but didn’t really say much that we didn’t already know, eh?
With regards to Frimpong, his attitude is good and while he’s a little rough around the edges he’s more than suitable back-up for Song. I think Coquelin edges him in speed and ball-control however, but not physicality. I see a bright future for the Frimpster…
Sorry holics, my @148 was just a small part of it.
This is the real deal. What a great interview. It’s so refreshing seeing AW get the respect he deserves.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/teams/arsenal/8797931/Arsenal-owner-Stan-Kroenke-Arsene-Wenger-is-one-of-the-greats-he-will-be-in-charge-for-as-long-as-he-wants.html
Now, back to the Frimpong debate 😀
Great debate guys – all good points, especially NEd’s comparison of where he is in comparison to Song at the same age.
And then we have Coquelin coming through, whom I’d like to see more of….
To continue…. isn’t Arsene on record as saying that Song’s best position was CB? So, with the emergence of FrimCoq…… not saying it’s what I’d personally like, but…
Personally, I think the idea of Song developing more into a powerful box to box player (imagine the hysteria if Ramsey or Theo had scored that goal against Bolton) with one of FrimCoq behind him is a pretty appealing one…..
Finally, remember it was only 3 years ago that most of us (including famously Arseblogger) were pretty positive he’d never make it at Arsenal. He was 20 then. FrimCoq are 18…..
Dr C. I don’t like the amalgamation of the two names as FrimCoq. I much prefer CoqPong.
Steve T
Heh…. FrimCoq does sound like something Wolfie would get up to..
However CoqPong would probably be the result.
Comedy opportunites everywhere….
With a name of Emmanuel the possibilities are endless. Good old Sylvia Kristal.
Didnt Roy Chubby Brown do the coqpongsong?
Morning ‘holics. Some lovely posts above from Clive and the Guvnor, and well played Lars for your contribution to Ian Stone’s gig 🙂
And a very interesting debate on Song, Frimpong and Coquelin. Can’t contribute at the moment because I’m feeling a bit queasy at comments from 153 onwards….
😕
CG @ 152: Our judgement of Song three years ago just proves why none of us are Premiership managers though we all think we could do the job…
Ned…. trust me, I have been taught a valuable lesson by the performance of The GT Rollers in the fantasy league!
Snir Geuli @150: The most revealing part of an otherwise not terribly informative interview with Kroenke was, to my mind, his view of the Glazers, seeing them not as rapacious, over-endebted chancers but as investors who had seen potential in an under-marketed business, and had unlocked unrealized value. It is the same attribute that he clearly prizes in AW. It is also clear, as it has been all summer, that increasing the club’s commercial and sponsorship revenue is the primary business focus.
CG @ 159: 🙂
Morning ‘holics,
Loving the debate about Song & Frimpong, & really enjoying reading all the drinks from everyone.
As my own humble contribution to the drinks, here’s a great read about Song, Ramsey & Arteta but mostly about Song.
aculturedleftfoot.wordpress.com/2011/09/30/one-of-us-speaks-bridging-the-fabre-chasm
I find it kind of a pleasant surprise when I realize how far Song has come, even when many thought he’d never come good.
My point is, even though some on here criticise Frimpong & with genuine reason too (like I did @10 above) we’d do well to have it at the back of our minds that:
(1) There’s a reason Le Boss keeps starting him ahead of Le Coq.
(2) Arsene Knows Best!…
For those who cannot wait for my several-pints preview tonight check out my early thoughts here…
http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/talking-heads-arsenal-v-tottenham-hotspur
No Kos on Sunday 🙁
http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/39729/don-t-miss-our-press-conference-digest
Noticed I didn’t post the link in my previous drink correctly.Here it is again
http://aculturedleftfoot.wordpress.com/2011/09/30/one-of-us-speaks-bridging-the-fabre-chasm/
Oh no @ 163 – is this the end?
First Ian Stone, and now Goonerholic, turning into “company men” 😉
@ Steve T
This jumped out at me in your post:
“One of the biggest problems I have had in recent years has been the lack of experience in the squad. I will never ever understand why we let genuine Arsenal men leave and never return.”
I’m sure you do understand why really, Steve. We could not afford to keep them on the terms they wanted, as high-earning players on long contracts, particularly bearing in mind factors like their injury records and whether they were still first choice. It was a case of offering an older player a long contract OR buying/keeping a younger player on lower wages, with sell-on value. And we did re-sign Campbell, remember!
Ideally, Gilberto would have stayed to bring on players like Song, Denilson, and maybe Frimpong and Coquelin. But apart from the money aspect, he wanted to be first choice. We couldn’t guarantee that.
As I understand it, we have to balance what a player brings to the team with how much it costs us to keep him. It’s easy to say that it would have been worth it if it accelerated the younger player’s development, but usually the choice hasn’t been between keeping the older player and *not keeping* the older player. It’s between keeping the older player and keeping the *younger* player.
But you must be pleased with the experience we now have throughout the squad?
@ 138 N7 Gooner
Interesting info about Mancini – perhaps the wrong man has been painted as the villain in all this?
@ Snir Geuli
I read the full interview with SK as well.
It does indeed confirm a lot of what we knew, as some others have commented, but since much of that information has been questioned or denied in some quarters, having both SK’s thoughts on Arsenal and the situation regarding responsibility for AFC all on record in one place is good. And there is some stuff in there that is new to me – eg that he’d been following AFC for over a decade, how he financed his recent share purchases etc.
It is a bit odd that he hasn’t given an interview like that to arsenal.com, though. Or maybe he has and I just haven’t seen it?
Afternoon all.
Subject: Health Issues arising from trip to White Hart Lane.
It has come to my attention that several ‘Holics are planning to travel to the above mentioned ruins this weekend.
Assuming all necessary vaccinations have been administered in preparation for the trip, there are still a few other measures that should be considered:
– smoking is not advised, at any time during the trip, due to the danger of igniting and exploding marsh gases.
– over-exertion is to be avoided, as this could lead to deep inhalation of the terribly polluted atmosphere. Other noxious gases frequently emitted by marsh dwellers are also best avoided.
– avoid telling jokes requiring the use of an Irish accent, most specifically from the Shamrock area. If heard, this is likely to induce mass hysteria and panic which, considering the already unstable nature of the local population, could end very badly indeed.
– naturally, PARS suits are to be worn at all times.
Enjoy the trip!
Hello ‘holic, love what you had to say over on arsenal.com, can’t wait to read your preview.
Hi all,
I’m back for my random monthly thoughts. For today, a collection of “related information” found at the bottom of a Guardian article about Arsenal.
24 Jun 2011: Cesc Fábregas is free to leave Arsenal but only if Samir Nasri stays
11 Jul 2011: Arsène Wenger: Cesc Fábregas and Samir Nasri staying at Arsenal
12 Jul 2011: Big clubs don’t sell their stars, claims Arsène Wenger
11 Aug 2011: Arsène Wenger: Cesc Fábregas future set to be resolved ‘very quickly’
11 Aug 2011: Arsenal admit defeat in battle to keep Cesc Fábregas and Samir Nasri
12 Aug 2011: Cesc Fábregas and Samir Nasri out of Arsenal squad for Newcastle match
Sorry, I don’t mean to reignite old debates, Forward™ and all as they say, but I couldn’t help and giggle at this.
Now common Arsenal, all we need is a “top top” game at WHL…
Till next month, have a good one holics’.
Heh Dr T, nice one.
Hello ‘holic, love what you had to say over on arsenal.com, can’t wait to read your preview.
@FunGunner 167, according to Arseblogger (& I concur), having an interview like that, with ”No Longer” Silent Stan being so positive & upbeat & all, on arsenal.com would most probably lead to the interview being dismissed as club propaganda.
Having the interview carried by an independent news source with no links to the club, gives the interview more credibility.
Dr T – 🙂
FunGunner – Concur with DreamWright and Blogs. Much better for it to appear in a 3rd party vehicle – good PR being what other people say about you – what you say about yourself is advertising. Or propaganda even…
I’ve been a bit critical of the comms team at the mothership in the past, but I do have to say that they seem to be putting a lot of effort behind reconnecting with supporters over the past few weeks. Reaching out via the blog community (hats off to our Gunvor here), the team, manager and CEO commending supporters during interviews etc. Most significantly they seem to be have been listening – and whilst they don’t need to respond to every crackpot claim, the “Silent” Stan thing has bugged people for a while.
This interview doesn’t answer everything, and is unlikely to appease those tedious keyboard warriors who won’t be appeased by anything frankly (so f*ck ’em), but it’s a start. And the start of what I would hope to be an ongoing, thoughtful and transparent dialogue between the Club, its owner and the support. Credit where credit’s due – hats off to you comms team, and more of the same please. Keep it going and let’s see an end to the inconsistencies and contradictions referred to by the guy @ 170.
Sermon over. I need a drink. Anyone for a cheeky little lunchtime mojito? It’s got green stuff and everything, so obviously the healthy choice 🙂
Heh @ zico.
Company man? I wish…
Oooh – Almunia….to West Ham on an emergency loan:
http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/almunia-joins-west-ham-united-on-loan
Think I’ll have another of those mojitos please…. 🙂
Looking forward to the preview Maestro, only problem is zico pub time starts at 3pm today!
All in the name of “team bonding” – dirty job, someone’s gotta do it, blah blah blah.
Ah, Friday evening pubage has been postponed here. Management has filled the fridge with Guinness so we can have drinkies in the garden with the neighbours.
Did the same last night, red wine and a bottle of Bushmills also got involved 😉
Afternoon all, what a glorious day.
TV out longer than expected.
Squilly back in training *swallows sick in mouth*
Kos out for Sunday with Gerv and The-o facing late fitness tests.
I have opened the CMC for those who feel the need….
Chins-up ‘Holics, we’ll still whip those LWC butts on Sunday. Wolfie and Lucy N will both be bringing all of their S&M acoutrements to ensure that it happens 🙂
Thank you Dr T for the sage quackery and for administering my innoculations earlier this week.
I’m hoping to find a stressed-out,smoking Dubliner on my way to The Sh*thole.
Did you neglect to mention the bio-suit, bunch of bananas and large net?
FOYS!
Nice column over at .con holic
Really really looking forward to the derby
Afternoon All ,
C*nt@91 – heh , great stuff 🙂
Trev @99 , 100 and 101 -” Look and Learn ?” You can’t post at 99 and then claim victory by consecutively posting at 100 , according to the rules of The International Lurking Committee 😉
Clive @127 heh , great stuff 🙂
Steve T @132 – Agree entirely with your assessment of where both Song and Frimpong presently are . Dr C also perfectly correct in stating that AW is on record as saying Song’s natural position is at centre-back . Will be interesting to see how it all pans out , especially with Coquelin thrown into the mix , given that he was generally considered the greater prospect , coming through the ranks .
Not sure what to make of the previously Silent One’s interview . On the one hand , heartened by his admiration and backing for AW , on the other , dismayed by the quiet “nothing to do with me Guv” abdication of responsibility which we have grown accustomed to when listening to IG . Time will tell , but I remain at this stage hugely sceptical that he can provide a positive input .
Dr T @168 – Thank you for the advice , which I shall follow to the letter . To all fellow travellers , I would also suggest nose-clips . I know that this has a downside in that you might appear to be paying homage to that prize twit Robbie Fowler , but you underestimate the smell of the place at your peril . It is overpowering , and gave rise to the well-known phrase , “stinks like a new-born spud ” .
39 years I’ve had to attend this pile of decay , and I still get taken by surprise by its aroma , by its capacity to lift me off my feet and knock me sideways . How best to describe it ? Start with one piece of Kentucky Fried Chicken that has been left in the sun for two days , throw in the collective and untempered sweat of the desperate , mix with the stench of the baboon house , add a little old man’s wee , and finally top off with some unwashed undercrackers from one of Rooney’s conquests , multiply it 33,000 times , and you might get just a very small idea of what its like .
Come on Arsenal !
@ dreamwright and snowy
Good point about the source being more trustworthy to some. (Not to me, obviously, seeing as how I am IG in disguise. 🙂 )
@ snowy
Perhaps the chaps/ladies in the PR department were following the debate on here the other day! I defended them (on another blog) because I felt they were battling against huge odds. But I’ve also noticed the improvements and been glad of it, especially glad to see they appear to have a rapid response team/strategy in place – immediately putting context around the turnout for Shrewsbury, for example. I think it has put the doom merchants, amongst fans at least, on the back foot. I also think the results have helped to give the positive message some traction.
Regarding the post # 170, those bullet points seem to be taken from a newspaper, not from the club directly. Important to distinguish between what AW or the club said on the one hand and the journalists’ take/spin. They have their narratives prepared and try to manipulate quotes to fit, and of course they have a vested interest in apparent “twists and turns”. Secondly, sometimes situations change – a club offers more money, a player changes his mind about some detail. It doesn’t necessarily = club being inconsistent/untruthful. Take TV – he has had a setback, doesn’t mean that the club/AW were lying or misleading us when they said he would be back after the international break. I think that because it all matters so much to us, some fans (not necessarily you, just speaking generally) put too much weight on every statement made and make no allowances for changed circumstances.
Tabs – lurking ? Do you mind ?!
Haven’t seen the Vermaelen news yet, but it would have been a surprise to go from tendon (?) surgery to Premier League fitness in a month.
New TV for Christmas, perhaps ?
Hope not. 🙁
Dr T
Wise advice my learned friend, wise words.
I am thinking we should also prepare a quarantine room for any unfortunates that develop a tear in their bio suits? Or those that laugh too loudly at monkey boy being broken in half by Szczcz again….
Also of concern is the raised possibility of Rabies from intruding marsh dwellers in the days to come. Perhaps Carlos has already raised the security alert?
I am happy to administer shots to all security personnel. Mine’s a tequila.
Once more into the breech, boys….
Trev @183 , rules is rules 😉
Now what’s all this stuff re TV5 , more bad news ? 🙁
Dr C , Carlos is primed and ready with the zapper . Effectiveness might depend on the Guv’nor being at the Controls though 😉
A round of drinks for all .
Ps , if this Indian Summer continues into Sunday , Peruvian Anti Riot Suits might prove a little hot . In order to minimise any discomfort , I would suggest wearing just Speedoes underneath 😉
Heh Dr.C @ #184! Top stuff 😆
tabs @ #181, have you under-called it a wee (sic) bit. Rotting pilchards might be one of the elements overlooked? 😉
PS for tabs: Can you advise if Wolfie and Lucy be cracking their bull-whips from the away supporters end(s)?
Thanks for the tip re Speedo undergarments. Mine are laid out next to my bio-suit mate 😉
Quite correct at 186 TS .
Wolfie will be with us on sunday . Lucy Nutcrackerjee will be wreaking havoc in the shelf .
you free for a call to finalise , sometime in the next hour ?
‘Holic/’Holics,
How has everyone been? Well, I hope. Just popped in for a quick drink. Laters.
By the way, just bought a mate from your neck of the woods some comfort food to remind him of home for his birthday… those roast chicken crisps aren’t half bad 😛
Come on you Reds. Time to smash those LWCs.
BMBD
Lonestar: not so great. Possibly shitter next week.
Plane to catch on sunday evening to go to that shithole they call Madrid.
Been in a call for 1 1/2h, and this could go on a bit as it’s with US, mostly…..
And my boss is quite depressed.
A positive result on sunday would be mooooooooost welcome.
Drinks for all, please barman.
Just did a quick review of Arsenal games at SHL that I have been in attendance – 12 wins , 8 losses and 5 draws .
The omens are good , my friends .
Good to have you back Lonestar . Where you been , Llama huntin’ ?
Hi Ollie .
Afternoon all.
Good advice from all the resident doctors.
Good Frimpong debate, I personaly thought he was out of his depth Wednesday, but still thought he did well.
Good grief, I need a drink.
BM please and of course voddie shots all round.
Ollie, sorry to hear that, mate. Things have been pretty hectic for me as well. Forced me to implement more work discipline; leaving less time to fellowship with the best online clan a man could ask for.
“Gray skies are gonna clear up…” so forth and so on.
TaBS, keep that mojo going brother.
BMBD
25 times to the shitpit tabs?
You’d think you’d of worked up a level of immunity.
Still, better not take any chances, get your PARS suit, bio speedos and nose pegs ready.
tabs @ #188 – Will be free to chops any time after 6:30PM mate. Gald to heat that TGLM and its leader will be wreaking havoc in The Shelf. I rather fancy that many of those LWCs would enjoy a bit of expertly administered Hardinso 😉
Lonestar – welcome back. Pull up a chair, have a pint and your pick of the CMC. It’s been freshly stocked for all eventualities at SHL including the innoculations required for travelling Gooners.
Good afternoons to H2H and Ollie.
Drinks on the bar for all of you fine fellows.
All to hand H2H . 🙂
*Runs to the byline, floats in a cross…..
It’s up in the air…
Prediction for the Double Century .
Spuds 0 (yes nil) Arsenal 2 .
Get innnn !
I’ll take the points for the assist.
Consider your (All to) hand bitten off for that result tabs mate.
Cheers TS, I’ll have a voddie shot.
As clinical as VP on sunday . The good omens continue to gather !
Beautiful assist H2H – worthy of a very large BM from me .
TS – will give you a shout after 6 30
I’l have that one tomorrow tabs. only one BM per day for me, that tommy juice is just too damn healthy.
Something way off topic, but chucklesome;
http://www.goal.com/en/news/9/england/2011/09/30/2690028/manchester-united-goalkeeper-david-de-gea-quizzed-over
The Krispy Kreme Keeper Konvict?
Now that’s a proper 200th! Well in tabs!
(3 hours and counting on this conf call. my attention is starting to drop)
Well the weekend fast approaches and the excitement begins, Quite few of my spurs mates are quietly confident that we will dispatch you off to the lower levels on Sunday.
I enjoyed a trip down to Finsbury Park with a couple of Goons on the train from St Neots last Saturday. Very polite discussion had by all and recommended this site to them. I can tell you there was alot of apprehension before the game. This uncertainty against the likes of Bolton really is very telling. The sheen is peeling off your self lauded position. I watched a few minutes of your CL game and I have to say the opposition put up less of a fight then them fiesty buggers we played last night. But two things were apparent. Your wednesday team is pretty much what we will see on sunday. Yet only Walker is a cert from last night and Defoe may even start on the bench. BASICALLY WE ARE READY AND WAITING. Holic Pound should stay well inside the pocket.
XXX Cusop
I want to go home now
Well fuck it I’m leaving. Not really important that I stay on right now.
Hi there Iva… errr, sorry, ‘FunGunner’ @ 182 😉 Good of you to pop in on what was probably a busy day for you what with announcing the 2010-11 results and all… 😆
I do agree with you about the meeja agenda – they are of course all interested in controversy and conflict. Almost all of which is utter b*llocks of course. But it sells papers/gets viewers/encourages clicks.
Good of you to wade in on the forums on behalf of the comms team; they don’t have the most enviable of jobs. I hope they turn it around. Most of the time we don’t even win when we’re winning if you know what I mean.
But I do disagree a little bit about the bullet points on AW’s statements. I did watch (as I think we all did) and hung on the every word of those various statements during the transfer window, and there was a lot of contradiction that I could see (and I’m on the club’s side). So they do need to tidy that up. Because the meeja aren’t as generous as I am 😉
And on that matter how totally expected to see idiotic comments about the results popping up from keyboard warriors on other sites/blogs today saying IG is crap and only interested in money.
He’s the f*cking CEO for Dennis’ sake. What’s he supposed to be interested in? Particle physics? Soft furnishings? If there is ONE thing I want that man to be interested in it’s the f*ckin’ money.
I despair.
Cusop, getting the digs in early? Good for you mate. Take it you won’t have the nerve to show your face in here if you don’t win? Thought not.
guys, I am in a Guinness cordon so don’t have a lot of time other than to say Fuck Off Cusop you LWC….
One last chance – count to 50 – it’ll take a while on your three fingers but Monkeys, Shakespeare……. you get the drift….. actually you don’t.
so just sort of piss off then…
back to the beers boys……
Always do mate, Yes I will pop by come what may! Half the fun is the wind up and you boys have had the pregame edge for years. Just heard Curbishly explain what was going to happen on Sunday on SSN. I can see why he is not managing !! I reckon it will be a terrific game and it will define both of our season,s if we lose which we have not done for sometime now, then it will be devastating and I will say our push for the 4th spot will be over even this early on. If you guys lose then I think that you will all eat yourselves alive and the younger fans will have a melt down.
Draw says we both fought a hard game
patronised by a Spud…..
dear oh dear…..
Zico!! Tanks mate.. I knew you cared.. LOL!!
PGRC!!! And you epitomize your knick name
I will especially enjoy sunday night when you lose!!
Stan is sticking by Arsene before the game !! Yay hay!!
Tut tut Cusop, while you and every Sprs fan is embarrasing yourselves getting excited at the possibility of fighting for a possible 4th place finish (yawn) here’s some figures I’d like you to consider:
’71, ’89,’91,’98,’02,’04
50 years and all that…..
Right. In from the garden, a quart of Guinness and a bottle of Frogrouge to the good. Please play nicely with the pets. I’m going to try and put some words together in the next hour. My writing coach, Bushmills, is ready to assist.
What did that fucking Pope say again?
@ snowy
tee hee (in suspiciously transatlantically inflected voice)
Fair enough. Re the Cesc and Nasri saga, I do accept there were one or two (literally) apparent contradictions, shall we say, but I put that down to the fluidity of the situation and also we were negotiating at the time – got to throw the other party off balance now and again.
Cusop ,
Just to take some of your meaningless quotes in no particular order :
“you boys have had the pregame edge for years.”
Presumably by “pregame” you mean pregame , during the game , and post game , and by “years” you actually mean 125 years . If so , agreed .
“if we lose which we have not done for sometime now”
Presumably by “sometime now” you mean that the Spuds scraped a draw last time out with a big dose of help from the ref , and the time before that got hammered 4-1 . If so , agreed .
” The sheen is peeling off your self lauded position.”
Presumably by “self-lauded” you mean self-evident , given the 13 titles to your 2 (!!) , the 60,000 all seater stadium , the annual celebration of St Totteringhams Day , and the gibbering baboon-brained neanderthals who choose to support your mob . If so , I agree .
Evening Holics!
Holic, I’m sure your comrad will make even more of an interesting read in an hour or so. Just got back from Birmingham yet another office move you have to admit seeing those sad relegated faces wearing their colours made my blood boil even more when we lost that final.
Anyway not here to bring shitty times!
Cusop, clock still ticking and there is not a great deal you can do about that!
‘Hols,
I fear you ARE a company man…but, it’s an awesome company 😉
I’m not nervous at all, like Alexander (the “Great”) supposedly said before his defining battle in Asia Minor, “Why should I worry? We have already won the battle before taking the ground.”
TaBS, TS,
My work-enduced hiatus had poor timing coming on the heels of one of my more-intemperate moments. Sometimes I act more like my baby, Lady Gooner than a proper adult. Still I always popped in for silent “Stan” drinks even though I really didn’t have time to join in.
A round of whatever you like from my tab, gentlemen. Now excuse the moths as I open my coin-purse.
Come on you Reds!!
BMBD
Cusop,you and your lot seem to be,for the first time in year’s ,quite mellow about the forthcoming N.L.D.
Good, I’ve always liked MarshMellows
Heh , Lonestar , no worries , it was a bruising day .
Now what about those Llamas ? New batch being cultivated ? 🙂
washed up @220 🙂
217takeabowson
Now that was a decent come back!!
2-1 to spurs 2010 and 2-2 to SPURS!! 2011 Looking forward to sunday..
3-1 would do the trick!!