No Defence – Well Not Much Of One Left Now, Anyway
Jan 2nd, 2012 by 'holic
Whatever anybody attempts to write in the aftermath of a match such as the one we have just witnessed at the Cottage is going to get a mixed reaction. I already know this one will because I have seen what others are venting online right now.
The old saying, a game of two halves, was created out of a game such as this. We started with just about as strong an eleven as we can muster, given the absence of all four full-backs, Thomas Vermaelen, and Jack Wilshere. For forty-five minutes we looked lively against a Fulham side who contributed to a hugely entertaining eighty minutes. After the break we have to accept, for whatever reason, that Fulham were the better side.
Let me acknowledge at the start that Fulham deserved something from the game for their spirited performance. Let me also say that once again the course of a match was decided by some significant refereeing decisions. I’m sorry Gary Neville, but saying you sympathise with Lee Probert having seen the incident from a hundred yards away in normal speed doesn’t wash with me. Probert was on the spot and should have seen, and probably heard, the contact when the otherwise impressive Senderos clipped Gervinho. I think he was just as negligent when Robin van Persie was sandwiched in the box in the second-half. It is not sour grapes, just a matter of record that we have now had five very decent penalty claims denied in just three matches.
We were ahead when Fulham left Laurent Koscielny unmarked following a corner, and Aaron Ramsey’s pinpoint cross demanded a finish from the central defender. Throughout the half, prompted by the energetic and artful Mikel Arteta, we probed and occasionally unlocked the Fulham defence. Had the wide men brought there shooting boots with them we could arguably have put the game out of the home sides reach, but to their credit Fulham not only survived the storm brewing in front of them, but they also countered with a couple of decent efforts themselves.
What happened after the break will take some explanation. Fulham came out clearly sharper, quicker, and better organised. Twice Sidwell went close against his former side, and every attempt to relieve the pressure seemed to end with van Persie being manhandled out of the way, with no reward. All around him though the effort was sagging. In an attempt to inject some energy and enthusiasm the boss sent on Tomas Rosicky and Yossi Benayoun for Walcott and Gervinho, but the pressure remained firmly on the makeshift defence.
The match turned ten minutes from time when Johan Djourou, already booked for a rash challenge from behind, put his hand on Zamora’s shoulder. The crafty Zamora went down dramatically, and Lee Probert was left, frankly, with little option but to award a second yellow. Annoyed as I was with the official for just about everything else he did, he probably got that right. I am more annoyed at Djourou for rather foolishly weakening our extremely limited defensive resources further.
Just over five minutes remained when Arsenal finally wilted under the onslaught. Wojciech Szczesny didn’t get a strong-enough hand to a corner, and when it was returned into the box Sidwell was unmarked and headed home from point-blank range. Worse was to follow in the second of three added minutes. There is a reason Squillaci hasn’t been seen much this season. A teenage midfielder was preferred to him as a starter at full-back this evening. We saw why as he headed across his own goal to the unmarked Zamora and that, as they say, was that.
What to make of it all. Well, again I reiterate that Fulham deserved something out of the game. They did well to stay in contention when we were clearly the better side in the first-half, and dominated the second with some decent football of their own. I have no problem with them or their tactics. My views on the standard of all Premiership referees these days is well known. They turned professional in order to improve the situation, but I’m convinced it has got worse. I was once not keen on the introduction of technology, but now I think it is essential, and the sooner the better.
But what of Arsenal. There has been much criticism of individuals tonight. Some of it justified, and some of it harsh. It is easy to overlook tonight the incredible effort that got us into the top four at the turn of the year without any recognised full-backs, and without arguably our most creative midfielder. However I cannot deny we seemed to run out of fuel in the second-half tonight, and it is understandably frustrating that we have not capitalised on a wonderful set of results for us at the weekend.
We have a week to refuel the squad before taking on Leeds United in the FA Cup. Last year showed that multiple changes in the Cup ties can make us more vulnerable than we need to be. The skipper should probably get a rest, and I would suggest the second-half tonight suggests that Arteta could do with a short breather. In the coming week though we need some defensive reinforcements to arrive, be it on loan or otherwise. At the moment Squillaci is in the frame for a start. We have the resources to prevent that. Let’s use them.
432 Responses to “No Defence – Well Not Much Of One Left Now, Anyway”
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Doom!
No way!!
Bugger! Knew it was too good to be true….first slips through my fingers, well kinda slips
Very measured write-up Mr Barman.
However, I would say attaching any blame towards the ref for that result is churlish.
We paid the price in the 2nd half for missing chances to kill the game in the 1st.
End Of.
Am I the only one getting a bit annoyed by Gervinho’s play in the final third? I mean, he’s had six months learning to shoot on target in the Premier League.
This type of performance and result has been going on for too many years now, no matter what the personnel, no matter who is or isn’t injured. We dominate, we capitulate. It’s become an archetype of modern Arsenal. Of Wenger Arsenal. He quite simply isn’t addressing the issues. Whether he even recognises them or not is another issue in itself.
The full back fiasco is now affecting other areas of the team.
How much would have Le Coq’s energy have improved the midfield in the 2nd half if that had been an available option?
Jekyll, you must have missed Mr Hyde recently. Or shouldn’t it be the other way ’round.
Fair write-up ‘holic, thanks, now I can go to bed in peace, having read a decent piece.
Goodnight, ‘holics.
“This type of performance and result has been going on for too many years now, no matter what the personnel, no matter who is or isn’t injured. We dominate, we capitulate.”
Yes, but this wasn’t exactly typical. Remember we’ve been playing the same 6 midfielders/strikers for every single game in every tournament in the past months. It was hardly capitulation, more exhuastion.
llama knows, llama wise animal
“not sour grapes”, ha ha ha nice one. Same old shit from you lot on here. Ever wonder why you get only a handfull of readers. Take some advice, stop the fucking constant whining about everyone else and wise up to what a pathetic manager Wenger has become.
ps. before you ask me why I read your tripe ill tell you in advance, for a laugh mate. Im sometimes amused by the delusion of some of our fans.
Can I just give a little bit of credit to Ramsey who never stopped running,harrasing and being an example to follow .Several times he was faster to ,the ball than other Arsenal players who were closer to the ball.Theo either needs a rest or a kick up the bum.
Fine summary of this evening’s disappointing venture. Why we didn’t have the legs and desire in the 2nd half is a worry. We must have quality re-inforcements to add defensive depth and striking productivity.
A glass of energy drink please barman.
Paulie, I’m leaving that one there. People ask me sometimes, was he really that bad.
I’ll let them make their own mind up.
Gents, please don’t feed the trolls tonight.
Thanks.
Evening bath,
Energy drink? So that’s what I need.
Luckily I have a Grants sherry cask energy drink right here
it is true that we hv many injuries, but that is not the factor why we lost the game, since at the first half we played well with much frastration from referee, second half became worse more worse referee was much bias, intentionally and with malice failled to defend Arseanal players, especially Van Persie and Gervinho,……………………..am now agreeing with the dailly discussion
that most of the England referees are not compitent and corrupt……
EPL is watched by the whole world, what r this facken things this referee does ? what are we learning from English referee ? it is worse……………….see the last game with QPR Vermaleon was awarded with the yellow card for the offence he didnt commit, today referee wanted to give yelow card to Arsenal player for the offence (hand ball) by the Fulham player, the game with Man C we were denied a penalty for handball offence by Man C player…………………FA should watch this to retain the respect of Englis football……………………….GOD BLESS ARSENAL CLUB AND ITS FANS.
Gents, please, I have asked repeatedly for no abuse in these drinks. I have left the offending post for the benefit of those that are not familiar with Paulie’s work.
Garsguns, Andersen, sorry, but I can’t allow that.
Might I suggest that we don’t use post numbers tonight as I have no doubt I will have to remove more posts from post-op brain donors.
Am frastrated, am a student starting my university exams tomorrow, I dont know how it gonna be…………………………me an Arsenal fan really frastrated with the result…………………………….let me sleep, am sure I can`t sleep, I can`t read, am an arsenal addict………………………..oohhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh God Help me am dying with this bad result………….Let me say this to release my pain…EPL referee are the facken referee, Most of the same hate Arsenal, but Arsena shall 4rever be there and stand firmly……….every body will die Arsenal player will remain there ! fack u all Arsenall hatez.
Ollie, Llama, what does that say about the state of our squad? It is highly typical in that we don’t have the squad to cope with what may come and Wenger never seems prepared. He flies by the seat of his pants every season, seems astonished when key players he plays into the ground get injured and then tells us in May it was all due to bad luck with injuries and bad refs. I understand however that many are content with the status quo just so long as M. Wenger remains in charge. Also Ollie – highly unoriginal.
game to far need the ox to start playing to take over from wal on right borrow some fb start again sec half
Family crisis caused me to miss the 2nd half. What a disaster. Now playing scrabble at home and have become distracted by the appearance in my hand of the letters C-U-N-T-I-E-R and must inquire of the ‘holics exactly who this refers to, as I’m sure a medium has taken control of the game. Since ‘holic seems not to lay the blame on Lee Probert, I’m assuming the two most likely candidates at this point are Harry Redknapp and that other fat referee whose name I’ve forgotten.
I have said over and over. Wenger is the luckiest man in the world. He plays fantasy football and gets paid 7 million a year to screw up. Another abysmal and cowardly performance. The old French lover: plenty of kissing but no penetration. Wenger has to go. Whenever there is a mutiny in a club the manager has to go. I am not sure fans understand that. Thanks for the Invincibles but this team is a mid-table team. I am sick of his excuses. Vee haff belief. He was lucky with Henry, Viera, Pires etc. Now he has a team of idiots-stupid players. Walcott is a fool. Djourou and Diaby are fools. Chamakh a chicken with his head cut off. Arshavin. As Mourinho said, “Why should I get my Arse Shavin when I can buy two Brazilians?” Rosciky and Beneyoun past their use buy date. Ramsey is no play maker. Wenger the great strategist. His substitutions are always wrong. Bring back Henry. Yeah. Great move about ten years ago. What is he going to do? Win the Premier League for Arsenal? Please. More feel good froth and bubble. Where is Vela? Coquelin was exceptional and we are missing Jack that is for sure. But what a spineless team this is. While Gervinho and Walcott are dumb idiots at least they provide nuisance value. Ezpecially when the team is up 0-1 way from home and the home team chasing the game. Take VP off and leave the idiot Walcott up front for the counter attack as well as Gervinho. They persented more danger to Fulham than Benayoun and Rosciky. He just invited a siege mentality. Go for the sencond closing goal and do not invite the equaliser and therefore the winner. Just go and buy some players you idiot of a coach. I can coach Arsenal. Most fans could. Just play moving traingles on the ground in a measured way giong through the gears as necessary and swarm in attack and swarm in defence. Buy some players. Otherwise I may well have to drop my expectations that I am not watching Arsenal but Blackburn Rovers. I mean really ever since the Invincibles Wenger has revealed himself to be Clousseau and Arsenal just go from FACUP to FACUP. Name me one great day since the Invincible compared to the Clousseau screw ups we have had to endure. A glimpse here and there against Chelsea and Barcelona and for that about 6 years of terrible management, strategy, buying policy, bad and cowardly losses. Oh but at least Emirates is paid off. Wenger should be CEO and give the management to Pep or Carlo. Wenger like the team is a coward. He hides behind the financial position of the club as an excuse not to go shopping and to buy hopeless players but he still pockets 6 million a year to screw up. It is never his fault. It is the fault of the accountants who do not allow the team to be rebuilt. He is a coward. No wonder there was a mutiny in the dressing room.
Some might say don’t blame the referee, well ….
One thing I’am good at, is blaming the referee, particularly if that is the same humpbacked amoeba (linesman that game) who didn’s saw the Vidic handball last year at Emirates
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=opFbmi_We8U
The same humpbacked amoeba (linesman that game) who didn’t saw that blatant penalty foul by Bramble on Arshavin
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=97hRLInk558
There are more situations of course, but I’am so pissed now to remember.
Up the Arse!
There’s still a long way to go and I think this xmas has showed that all the teams in the league are capable of winning on their day.
I hope 2012 brings us a bit more luck with the squad and maybe those above us a bit of bad luck.
Here’s hoping TH14 takes over the 4v4 & 3v3 counter attacks in training and Austin Powers finds poor Theo’s mojo.
p.s.
I do hope the red-top rumours of him being at war with the club over 85k a week hasn’t affected his last 3 performances. To be fair Theo your lucky to be getting the 50k a week you currently receive – just saying.
Evening all yes we should have been further in front at the break and yes we didn’t play very well 2 nd half but if dj didn’t get sent off I feel we would have won with an ugly win. Yes some looked very tired but I couldn’t fault the effort still a long way to go and I’m sure if we keep the same application for the 2 nd half of the season we will be there or thereabouts. After the start we had we would have jumped at being in this position at the half way stage
Keep your chins up there are lots of twists and turns to come yet
UP THE ARSE
Can’t fault the posting.
I know we are threadbare at the back but I though Coq put in a great performance but think Le Boss was always chancing his arm playing Djourou at right back and then leaving him on affter the 1st yellow card.
No excuses though, Fulham have played as many games recently as we have and clearly wanted it much more in the 2nd half.
Hopefully we can get a couple of quality reinforcements in this month…
First timer here so please be gentle! I had a horrible feeling at half time it wouldn’t go well. Theo & Gerv couldn’t (can’t) cross the ball or hit the target so it’s all down to the main man. How did the ‘ref’ miss the pen? Why didn’t Gerv even appeal? Why didn’t we turn up 2nd half? Back on the booze already!
Drink or sleep?
*tosses coin*
Sleep it is then.
As Scarlet said, “Tomorrow IS another day.”
Nytol.
Good write up Holic.
I think some of this evening’s reaction will be tinged with regret in the next 48 hours.
I have seen far, far worse displays from this side than that served up tonight (even second half), we are coming off the back of a quite remarkable run since the Blackburn game and it’s quite clear that there were some very tired legs in the last half hour.
Several of us predicted that we would do well to take points from this fixture and, while the manner of the defeat hurts, this was never going to be a walk in the park.
As for the game’s main incidents, I felt the ref would have done well to spot the Gervinho pen but that the red was harsh – Djorou was a little naive but it looked very much six of one to me, and it felt that Djorou took a yellow because the crowd had called for one after a far worse challenge a minute or so earlier.
My real complaint with the ref was his treatment of the skipper – clearly the Warnock line was swallowed in full and his refusal to give anything to Robin robbed us of a vital out ball with ten men.
Anyway, all of that is by the by. Until Djorou went off I felt it was a good, if heavy legged, performance and we were dealing pretty well with the pressure being applied. Coquelin, in particular, was excellent. Bright future there.
I suppose my overall view is that these things happen. We were going to get beat at some stage and the online wailing and rending of garments is way out of proportion. It was a narrow away defeat with ten men. Okay, it would have been a great one to win, but we’re still within touching distance of fourth and I’d have had your arm off for that in September. These players and this manager are the ones who turned it round the last few months and that gets then some patience from me.
In terms of lessons we can learn, here are a few:
(i) we need another striker. This is glaringly obvious and if we don’t sign one this month it will take major luck for us to be playing champs league football next term;
(ii) Coquelin can fill in at left back comfortably;
(iii) Squillaci should never wear the shirt again. It’s nothing personal, but every time he sets foot on the pitch it all goes to shit for us;
(iv) I wouldn’t trade Kos, on current form, for any centre back in the country;
(v) half the first team are knackered and the seconds should really be making their presence felt on nights like this. I love Wenger but he can’t rotate a squad for shit. Chamakh should have started, if only to give Robin a rest (I know he gets next weekend off, but even so).
(vi) it may be time to take a tough decision on Diaby. We can’t afford this many players who are never fit and Arteta (who is quality) looked shot second half. Jack and Diaby both out long term has been a disaster and we need one or both back soon or a new player to take the strain off the Spaniard and give him a break.
Plenty to play for in the weeks ahead, and with a couple of smart signings (dare I suggest that if we don’t want to spent big until summer then Zamora could be a decent cheap stopgap up top?) I still fancy our chances. We may be tired but Chelsea and Liverpool have their problems too and I wouldn’t trade places with either at this stage.
You can’t ask the players to show some bollocks (which they have the last few months) and then start crying like a child when one result doesn’t go our way, so no matter how annoyed we are right now let’s try to keep it clean, keep it constructive and look forward to getting back on track next weekend, when I hope to enjoy watching an XI composed entirely of third stringers put Leeds to the sword.
Oh, and big shout to the away support again tonight – clearly audible all through the game and doing us all proud. Nice one lads.
There are some idiots supporting Arsenal and sadly I met some at the Cottage tonight.The referee gave us no help whatsoever and we tired second half but Fulham deserve credit for taking control.Our injury situation is ridiculous and Djourou who is not a full back and was by no means our worst player was a bit unlucky to be sent off.
The biggest problem we have is that we haven’t got enough game changers in our squad.Our only one -AOC who I am convinced is already better than Walcott was left out and clearly Park is not considered good enough.Chamakh was acquired because he was free. We do need some reinforcements ,obviously in attack but we could also get a much better back-up keeper than Fabianski,we need a proper,fit left-back with some experience (although young Coquelin was excellent tonight) and we lack anyone to play in the hole,other than a 34 year old returning hero.
Wholesale sales won’t happen because Wenger doesn’t do them.We have far too much deadwood and not all of it was shipped out in the summer.Just look at how badly Bendtner has fared at Sunderland and Denilson at Sao Paolo.They were regulars in our squad and team when we knew they were inadequate.
Wenger has to buy quality to improve the depth of the squad and to convince Van Persie we are serious about contending for top honours.But 15 years of Wenger watching suggest there is no likelihood of him doing anything other than loan signings.
The knee-jerk criticism after a defeat is over the top but we are unlikely to make the Champions League with this squad.
@ jack23,
so Arsene has had his pay reduced by 1mill per year (to screw up) just from the beginning of your rant to the bottom. Keep writing, maybe you could get him down to 500k by the end of the night.
Mate, seriously put the sherry down.
Lurky Oliva,
More of the same please. The only way we can be rid of shit officials and partial, talentless pundits is by using the evidence of tv to show how they are massively inconsistent (the former) and constantly look to bend the facts to meet the story they wish to portray (the latter).
A side benefit might be the exposing of the cant and idiocy of people like Warnock who through his television interview describing RVP as a cheat has managed to affect the hard of thinking referee today into ensuring he received no protection at all.
I think there is something in the water in Melbourne tonight NB1
I’m leaving the best ones up tonight I think so these people can revel in what they have written later on.
Unbelievable over-reaction by the few again.
Full Backless Outfit Stirs The Blood – Then Teases and Frustrates
Games come thicker than Wayne Rooney and faster than Theo Walcott at this time of the year. It seems only moments since Saturday’s one nil over QPR. Maybe that’s because the memory of the intervening 48 hours has been dimmed by as fine a Hogmanay Hootenanny as I can’t ever remember.
A visit to the Cottage is never easy. The Craven occupants rarely pick roses and produce from their vegetable patch for a welcoming, warming cup of tea and a hearty New Year first foot. Mussel pie, sour dough, bitter pills and tough chuck will more likely make the menu, as Arsenal strive to move Fulham’s cheese.
An Auld Year’s Nicht soiled by Willie Wanker Warnock and Jail Bird Joey Barton is followed by the entry of two more Auld Year Oddfellaes at Gooner stage left. King Harrod, aka Modest Mohamed Al Fayed of the self-proclaimed “Glorious Tenure” of England’s oldest club and Jollie Martin Jolly, formely of Bottenham Cocks.
For visiting Gooners, this game looked eminently winnable, even with five fullbacks and two of the best midfielders on the planet in the body shop undergoing repair to their handbrakes. A win would confirm the Gunners in fourth, marking a spectacular ascension from 18th and “club in crisis” cries from the BBB and mediaeejits.
And we were off. Arsenal looked bright and sharp, no sign of a handbrake anywhere. Gervinho had four great chances inside the first ten, including a “nearly” penalty. IF (big if) he can sharpen his striking, he’ll go on to greatness. An Arne Riise cross caused a stir, but with Ramsey and Song running the midfield it was only a matter of time.
Fittingly it was Francesc Ramsey who looked up, chipped a beauty onto the head of the best centre-back in the game and off-Kos it sailed in for one-nil to the Arsenal.
Moments later, a ping-pong-ping move pinged first by Rambo, ponged by Song then pinged again by Gervinho should have made it two and given us a cushion. Le Coq au Vin was cooking perfectly a LB. What a prospect Coquelin is. Stuart Robson was snarling every time Theo touched the ball. Had he had a sharp knife, Walcott would have been testes deprived at one stage.
Then it was off for the oranges. It should, by now, be game over. At least 3-0. But this is Arsenal we’re typing about and we’ve been one up many times before, tiddly-um-pum-pum.
The writer from on high changed the script for the second half.
Fulham came out full of vim, vigour and resolve. No matter how hard Arsenal tried, we couldn’t get out of our own half and the Fulham keeper got his deck-chair out and watched the entertainment from afar.
Fulham had many, many chances, all from crosses into the box. Le coup was delayed until Djourou was shown red. Le coup was inspired by the arrival of the Albatross for Ramsey. (Why is Squillacci still on our books?)
A corner, an uncharacteristic slip from Scezzers, and old boy Sid Sidwell showed his former employers no favours. Le coup de gras was delivered shortly thereafter, a Squillacci header across the box to Zamora. 2-1.
This game was lost, as the Wolves game was drawn, by an inability to kill-off opponents when Arsenal are in supreme command. That, and that alone, was the only difference between this result and the 5-0 inflicted by Manure at Fulham.
The positives?
The first-half performance, really good stuff from a team that might have been expected to be close to running on empty; Coquelin at LB – a superb performance from the youngster.
The negatives?
The second half. Theo’s confidence drought. We can have no real complaints about Djourou’s dismissal, although I thought the first yellow was harsh.
Something to numb these feelings of frustration, barman. Please!
Oh, and a Happy New year to everyone. Bah, humbug, jolly my Arsenal.
My wife bought me a kindle for xmas so i downloaded ‘So Paddy Got up’. Great read & excellent chapter from Mr Goonerholic. Buy it if you haven’t already.
About tonight, well it wouldn’t be Arsenal if they didn’t tear your heart out when you thought (just for one crazy moment) the title was back on.
Bring on Swansea!
Evening ‘holic and ‘holics – and a belated happy new year to one and all.
Nice measured write up ‘holic – balanced and fair. Shame the result is going to bring out the ‘only loyal when we’re winning’ brigade. They are usually few in number among the travelling faithful, but I certainly detected a few more grumbles than usual on my away trip today.
Clearly it’s a game that even the relentlessly cheery will struggle to find positives in, but Coquelin provided some brightness in what was looking like a very flat and tired squad this evening. He showed a few glimpses of real class in his cameo at Wigan, and impressed today, despite playing out of position and against a pretty determined Fulham.
Like a lot of us I’m still pretty hacked off at the wasted chances of the first half, and the shambolic defending late in the second. But let’s just move on, hope the squad gets a good old rest before Leeds, and that we find some reinforcements in this next few weeks. Knee-jerk over-reacting is most certainly not the answer.
arrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrgh. pulled out half my hair in the second half. you know when goals aren’t produced when they should it will come back to bite you 9 out of 10 times. then the squid comes on and you know it’s game over. come on guys…. chelsea lose and we’ve got a great opportunity to move 3 points higher and put more pressure on s***s and…. we lose. is it september again guys? second half almost looked like it.
so maddening as it seemed things were really turning to the up and up. i feel this one could really be costly. st. totteringhams day seems a bit more out of reach but i won’t give up hope just yet.
Aaaaaah, there you are Jerkyll. Where have you been hiding when the results were going our way?
Nice to see you back for a good piss in the whisky at the first sign of a disappointing reverse.
Any sign of Ben or I Don’t Know Anything or are they waiting for another reverse before they come back and tell us how great Manure’s squad is?
i know chelsea won today… sorry. but could have stayed above them and in the top 4. post match delirium i guess.
Excellent post, barman! Definitely your best of the year so far.
I’m only saying.
Sorry holic for my reaction there won’t happen again.
“He’s a boy, old Jerkyll, ain’t he” as Derek Trotter might once have quipped:
“It is highly typical in that we don’t have the squad to cope with what may come and Wenger never seems prepared.”
Ah, so we should have expected FIVE fullbacks to go missing by the mid-point? Of-course we should. And so, fortunately, Arsene had the foresight to bring Coquelin back and equip the squad with CBs (Koscielny, Djourou and Vermaelen who can play at FB. (Thinks of adding Slur Alex comparison, but gets bored).
“He flies by the seat of his pants every season”
So THAT’s the secret of 15 straight top four finishes, two doubles, an ECL final and a new stadium! Jerkyl knows obviously.
“He seems astonished when key players he plays into the ground get injured.”
Who got injured by playing into the ground? Thinks carefully. Concludes NO ONE.
“He tells us in May it was all due to bad luck with injuries and bad refs.”
At best, a rather narrow-minded excerpt of anything that the boss has said in the summer.
“I understand however that many are content with the status quo just so long as M. Wenger remains in charge.”
If the status quo means playing in Europe every year, winning frequent doubles, watching the best young squad in England – include me IN.
After a very bad start to the season after two of our best left, the boys and the reinforcements pull themselves up by the laces, go on a pretty inspirational run and, during their fourth game in ten days, tire and lose at the death. And the muppets who call themselves fans and who probably didn’t raise themselves from a sofa except to grab another drink or relieve themselves over the same period think it’s OK to bash OUR players and OUR manager? Shame on you. Spurs are doing well for a change – take a taxi over there and sign up.
We’re fifth, equal on points with Chelski and there’s what, 15 games left in the season, still in the CL and still in the FA Cup?
Thankfully, some of OUR FANS look more like surrender monkeys than the French contingent in our playing and managerial ranks do.
Shame on you. Shame, shame, shame!
That said, the sooner Henry gets the shirt and boots on at the same time, the better …
no dily daly and no fuss. AW shud buy hi profile defenders or else the carmeleon wk wil cont.
Hello everyone.
From 17th place to 4th before the end of the year is some achievement really. We have to continue and support the team we currently have. IMO our offense is letting us down. We have Gervs who will run at defenders at will and is great at it, but when it’s time to get those balls in back of the net he is just not focused enough. Hopefully, he’ll get that sorted out soon. Theo, great first half of the season and all of a sudden not sure what is going on in his mind. I hope he is not going to pull a, Na$ri on us (one good half season and went shit the rest). Keeping my fingers crossed he picks himself up again.
It’s our defense that has improved much considering how much we shuffle players at the back every damn week. Frustrating but we def have improved back there. Arsene, is going to have his hands full when players like, Sagna, Jenks, Gibbs and Santos start to recover.
My only concern is how, Arsene will handle the transfer window. A solid striker has to be acquired! RVP, I fear will get exhausted soon. I am all for TH14 coming back but that’s only a short term solution. A striker like, Podolski will do just fine thank you very much!
Come on Arsene you can do it!
Finally, we would not be anywhere close to where we are today on the table had we sacked the Boss. Some still continue to sing the same tune. All praise and love when we win, all doom and gloom when we lose. It’s pathetic really. Mancini’s side just lost 4pts in the last 2 games. Yes, the team who have spent over 500bil on players. AVB’s side is shit, Man U were embarrassed by Blackburn. Get a grip people, please.
Come on Arsenal!
BTM
Happy Hogmany to you my friend,
Re your posts above,
I fear you are wasting your breath with the venal creatures,
To them, success is only measured in bright shiny Silver Baubles.
Cheeers
Mick Jagger’s Younger Brother.
Where were all the these “tools” when we had the unbeaten streak, seriously? I don’t recall any of the names of these complainers posting when we win.
I thought when we took off Gerv and Walcott they were able to push up the pitch more given the the replacements don’t have the same pace up the flanks.
Yes, we had our chances but they could have scored at least three more goals. Simply put, they were up for it more than we were. Where was this kind of performance when they were white-washed by Manu?
We have to find a way around these injuries b/c were not deep enough to get by week after week playing players out of position (who is?)….although this is not a slam on Coq as I thought he had a great game.
While no loss like this is welcome, it may have come at the right time as the transfer window is now open and I’m sure LeProf knows he has to make some moves.
BTM – all you demonstrate is how very differently it is possible to spin the same record. We could start with ‘frequent doubles’, of which there has been two, the last of which was 10 years ago, but let’s not bother. Perhaps you should reserve your ire for the more mindless posters rather than those who simply dare to question – and definitely leave out the personal insults, they do your case no favours and are neither funny nor clever. I wish you didn’t name yourself after my favourite player or I’d have a go back. Your tone reeks of a horrible, complacent arrogance.
Sweeper! Our man at the back but always in the front of the queue at the bar.
And the very best to you, Sir. Keep that lum o’ yours reekin’ and these Stones songs singing from your gramophone. Very good for the longevity, I’m told – well, you would know with a bigger brother like Mick and his sidekick Keith.
Your posts over the past year have reached an even higher level of entertainment. Whether Nurse Wolfie’s medications and careful ministrations have had any influence on that, I would opt not to comment.
Ah, Jerkyll, you’re back. Did we loose again while I was typing?
I hope the record you were spinning was one of the Stones very best.
BERGKAMP is indeed the man, very glad you’re a fan, but I suspect that you also complained about him when Arsenal didn’t win?
Arrogantly, complacently and horribly yours.
Fuck this shit.
So many fickle people it’s amazing.
To oeople who post here only after losses and who are nowhere to be seen I’ve got one thing to say:
Fuck off you useless bunch of cunts.
AW is our manager and that’s it. He’s the best we’ve ever had and best we’ll ever have so shut the fuck up and live with it that he’s our manager!
Up at halftime with a clean sheet in the making when I have to leave to attend to a family matter. Deja vu. Last season against Newcastle it was the same scenario for me. This year it was Fulham away. Must the pattern keep on repeating?
Put me squarely in the “don’t panic” crowd here. 2nd half was not easy on the eyes, not by a long shot, but its not a sign of a deeply flawed side, its a sign that the side is tired out (insufficient rotation, and why did Wenger withdraw Gervinho after resting him on Saturday?) and got some awful luck with the refs. Well, such things happen in the Premier League. I recall Stoke beating Sp*rs a couple weeks ago in extremely fishy circumstances just for one example, you all know there are plenty of others.
Lets not forget that our competition for that 4th place spot, namely Chelski and Liverpool, are both deeply flawed teams. The Chavs are aging all over the pitch and have a roster that is not well aligned with what the manager is trying to achieve. They were very lucky to beat Wolves today, whereas we were unlucky to draw them. As for Liverpool, the ugly truth is despite spending all that money the team simply isn’t that good. They’ll be better with Gerrard but then they’ll be sans Suarez for 2 months. 6th place for Liverpool, mark it down.
As for this window, lets get a left back on loan or on the cheap, please please please. The only qualification for the job is “be better than Armand Traore”. And don’t cost so much money that it gets in the way of doing a real move in the midfield/attack next year, a Gotze or what have you.
I cannot believe I am about to say this but I actually agree with the twatty Alan’s on MOTD tonight.
Shearer: The return of Henry is a good move- true
Hanson: That is a game that Arsenal should have won – you don’t say!
Now like Holic said, lets turn our attention to the FA Cup because unlike the other three at the top, we do not have the pressure of challenging for the title at present, so we can continue to fight in our games, collect our points and wait for the others to mess up again, which recent evidence shows, that will continue to happen in abundance!
I just hope that on our way to the top (ahem) we do not have anymore losses where we should have won and that the mental strenz of ze team, does not get the better of them when Henry graces the stage once again!
The Joneses are watching lads, so lets get back on with our business as before and now the job of making our way back into the ‘top four’ has been done (yeah I know we are fifth, but it flows better), lets continue applying hard work and consistency and who knows?
Drinks all round to dowse those red and white sorrows!
Many thnks BTM
Just keep on sending in your immaculate musings on all things Arse
and along with Holic’s great posts and the Gang of Loonies on here, [You know who you are !! ],we will see off the Non believers,or drive them mad in the process.!!
I’m as disappointed as anyone with the loss, but let’s keep it in perspective and not get carried away with the doom and gloom.
It was one *away* loss after two great months. It’s going to happen. That’s futball.
BTM
I see you have your own personal ‘ Fan’
I had one the other day,you probably noticed,
Yours is quite polite compared to mine.
I think ” Sad,Senile,Bitter old Git,” was my highlight,
How does it feel to be famous.??
I think once Theo and Gervs came off Fulham started to put more pressure on us. They didn’t have to worry about Gervs penetrating runs and Theo’s pace. And with only 10men it didn’t help much.
AW’s mad at himself for buying Metz instead of Samba. The bile directed at the ref is merely displaced anger.
Mets, is quality! One of the reasons we are better at defending. We are shuffling our back line every week. Sure, that doesn’t help out at all.
*Merts
Loft, natty is just inciting a riot, pay no attention. Totally agree with Theo and Gerv as I mentioned @49.
Gedo, great observation. I just went to read your post. Overlooked it. In full agreement.
Yeah, I won’t get hoovered into the riot. heh.
You lot have no reason to bitch.
Roxette’s mother isn’t coming to stay with YOU for three days!
Oh, I feel quite unwell.
PS Happy Birthday, True Storey.
PPS Young Coquelin shows great promise. Up the Arse.
*just a little back drink*
Just for the record my point regarding Warnocks comments stem from a debate which was brought up on Gillette Soccer Special a few hours before the game where it was suggested that RVP’s contact with other players could now be placed under the microscope. Coupled with Porberts partially shitty performance during the game, I concluded that these comments will have been taken into consideration whether directly or indirectly.
Granted there wasn’t many obvious injustices against RVP during ‘that’ game but we had a few good decisions against us overall which could have been interpreted as ‘clever, fouling and movement’ which a struggling team like ours does not need at the moment.
I do not think anyone in the bar suggested Warnocks comments were the reason why we lost against Fulham, but it remains to be seen how much a consequence these comments will be. Hopefully not, as who the hell takes Warnock seriously anyway?
Thanks Jersey.
Good man Snowy.
BtM, quality as ever.
Clive, Happy New Year.
Snir, mind the insults mate please.
Jekkyl, I think people are growing weary of the vociferous few who ‘dare to question’ but don’t have any answers. Easy to be negative. The job description I have is supporter, i.e. one who supports.
zico, take care of the wonderful Roxette’s mother.
I’ll let you work out which the adjective applies to
‘Holic -
I will happily trust what seems another very decent balanced write up as I’m still in deepest Devon and didn’t manage to see any of the game, other than the usually all too brief bits on MotD.
From the failing snatches of commentary I heard on a temperamental Arsenal Player, feelings are contradictory –
sympathy for a tired, injury hit squad who have fought tremendously hard since ManUre away;
frustration with some under-performing squad members who are not helping enough;
frustration at more points lost late in a game, depriving us of the chance to really capitalize on a chance to challenge at the top;
anger at the stupidity – sadly not the first time – of Djourou, and the complete incompetence of Squillaci;
anger at a string of terrible refereeing decisions that seem to continually plague this club;
optimism that a couple of shrewd, timely buys and smooth returns to fitness for our injured players, will see this team home into third place, ready for a proper tilt at the title next season.
BtM – liked the ‘comparison’ / ‘spin’ piece @44 (approx – allowing for deletions)
Someone up there mentioned full-backs, and we have had 4 full timers plus two part timers out for weeks / months.
This is a massive loss to any modern team as these players provide the width to stretch teams, and the attacking impetus of the side. To have climbed the side as we have with such a huge disadvantage is a credit to everyone involved.
NO credit at all is due to the brain-dead revellers in defeat who show up here at the first signs of a dropped point.
You do not tempt me to read which ever nastly little blogs you usually inhabit – please return to your idiot-starved villages immediately.
Heh Holic – adjectives – can think of a few
Clive, The Sweeper –
I’m still glad you’re behind me, (I think),
The Right Back
climbed the side = climbed the table (ffs)
Holic, I’m sorry but I can’t take it anymore. Every time we lose I hear the same things and they never come here after we win. Never have anything good to say about Arsenal.
For me, they’re as bad as Cusop and I don’t want him here either.
‘Holic –
hope your (and Mrs ‘H) series of testing days is providing some positive outcomes.
All the best.
N7 @30: I think you’ve got it about right.
Mice all in the traps, zico ?
And Trev @70: I think you’ve got it about right too. We have our new management team in the offing.
I understand the tiredness of our players is a problem but that was fulhams 35 game of the season, they started back in July. It just looked as if they wanted it more than us. Our 2nd half performance was nothing on our first and I can’t help thinking that a tactical change in the dressing at half time was spoken about. I can think of no other reason as to why we played so much deeper, we spent most of it with 2 banks of 4 in our own half. I agree that the referee make mistakes, but even with his poor performance we should have put this game to bed. Anyone who denies that is not being honest with themselves. This game showed us again that we are crying out for another goal scorer, if we don’t we are almost certain to finish outside the top four.
This was a painful one. We definitely have an expectation that we won’t be outplayed by Fulham, so it was hard to watch.
Bit difficult to moan about a penalty not given when the bloke fouled didn’t even ask politely if we might have a penalty please, Mr Referee.
Can’t really complain about Djourou either, as he should have had his second yellow before he got it.
It would be nice to be able to hide behind the ref or injustices, but the simple fact is that if Gervinho could finish we would have won that game by half time. Not that I’m blaming individuals though, as there were not many who could come away from the game tonight and feel as though they did well.
Coquelin can, but he’s about the only one.
Holic, check your inbox.
There is talk about players coming to the club during the next month. Whoever it is, if there is, will need to be a big personality who can deal with the pressures of playing for such a special and intricate club. Otherwise if they start to quiver after 6 months to a year, that’ll be money wasted, which we quite clearly cannot afford!
Thought I would wait a while before posting. Let the knee jerk reaction cool dwon a bit and let the normal ranters have their spout and then depart.
First things first. Referees. I am somewhat shocked at some of the comments I have read over a number of months concerning referees. I am going to be a complere Maverick here and defend them.
Like everyone else that takes the pitch, the ref is a human being. Find me a player that has played a full 90 minutes and has not got something wrong? The game is analysed by thousands of armchair officials using thousands of camera angles; and they still can’t agree on many aspects. You then have to factor in that there is not ine player who takes the field that is not prepared to cheat in some way or another,. Whether this is just pinchinga fe wyards at a throw in, claiming a corner when you know it is a goal kick or feigning injury to get another player booked to falling victim to the stadium sniper that seems to be present at every ground in the country. Players do very little to make the job of the officials easy so we should not be surprised if some are a tad scepticle, I onec heard and ex pro comeent on a player tumbling to the ground after he had been sneezed on. “There was contact, he is entitled to go down.” Entitled to go down??????? Are you serious???? When players and managers suddenly take an honsety and integrity pill and the authorities decide to finally introduce technollogy, we might actually see an improvement in the officiating. Until then we deal with it.
I fully accept we have not had the rub of the green recently. I also accept that in recent home games the standatds of refereeing has been poor. But until we are prepared to give every assistance it is put up or shut up.
The Gervinhio pen was a pen. But in real time I did not think so. Perhaps if he has not lost control of the ball he may have had more chance of getting the decision?????????
On to the game. yet again we are the masters of our own destinies. Loads of chances, not enouigh converted. When RVP struggles to score, we struggle to score. I refer those to the debate that took place last night. Need I provide any further evidence?????
Yet aagin we have thrown away a lead. Yet again we have gifted a weaker team two goals and yet again we have conceeded from a set piece. Shezza will have to hold his hands up for the first. Great assist by Squidgy for the second but for how well he played you have to ask, where was Le Coq? If he had been in position rather that standing on the edge of the box then Zamora dose not get the shot off?????
We have been massively hampered by the lack of full backs. That is a massive hurdle. RVP looks shattered. I am not surprised. he has carried our attack all season. The distonct lack of strikers is the reason for that and it is an absolute must that this is addressed now. TH will be a welcome addition but is a band aid over one massive leak. It will only paper over the cracks.
I think there are more than a few contributing factors to why we win or lose games. Defending as well as finishing. But I guess if we win as a team, we also lose as a team,so…who should we bring in during the window to solve all of our imperfections?
Ricey – I agree about Coquelin, he’s looked great (at least relative to my modest expectations).
Thought I would wait a while before posting. Let the knee jerk reaction cool down a bit and let the normal ranters have their spout and then depart.
First things first. Referees. I am somewhat shocked at some of the comments I have read over a number of months concerning referees. I am going to be a complete Maverick here and defend them.
Like everyone else that takes the pitch, the ref is a human being. Find me a player that has played a full 90 minutes and has not got something wrong? The game is analysed by thousands of armchair officials using thousands of camera angles; and they still can’t agree on many aspects. You then have to factor in that there is not one player who takes the field that is not prepared to cheat in some way or another,. Whether this is just pinching a few yards at a throw in, claiming a corner when you know it is a goal kick or feigning injury to get another player booked to falling victim to the stadium sniper that seems to be present at every ground in the country. Players do very little to make the job of the officials easy so we should not be surprised if some are a tad sceptical, I once heard and ex pro comment on a player tumbling to the ground after he had been sneezed on. “There was contact, he is entitled to go down.” Entitled to go down??????? Are you serious???? When players and managers suddenly take an honesty and integrity pill and the authorities decide to finally introduce technology, we might actually see an improvement in the officiating. Until then we deal with it.
I fully accept we have not had the rub of the green recently. I also accept that in recent home games the standards of refereeing has been poor. But until we are prepared to give every assistance it is put up or shut up.
The Gervinhio pen was a pen. But in real time I did not think so. Perhaps if he has not lost control of the ball he may have had more chance of getting the decision?????????
On to the game. yet again we are the masters of our own destinies. Loads of chances, not enough converted. When RVP struggles to score, we struggle to score. I refer those to the debate that took place last night. Need I provide any further evidence????? Our inside forwards have not produced enough.
Yet again we have thrown away a lead. Yet again we have gifted a weaker team two goals and yet again we have conceded from a set piece. Shezza will have to hold his hands up for the first. Great assist by Squidgy for the second but for how well he played you have to ask, where was Le Coq? If he had been in position rather that standing on the edge of the box then Zamora dose not get the shot off?????
We have been massively hampered by the lack of full backs. That is a massive hurdle. RVP looks shattered. I am not surprised. he has carried our attack all season. The distinct lack of strikers is the reason for that and it is an absolute must that this is addressed now. TH will be a welcome addition but is a band aid over one massive leak. It will only paper over the cracks.
There were some positives. Rambo I thought was our best player by far. I was surprised when he came off. Kos grows game by game. Le Coq surely has earned the right for a run in the middle?
These are games that if we need to win if we want to be taken seriously. 1 up with 5 minutes to go at Fulham is not a situation where we should come away with nothing. We lack quality. We know we lack quality. You only had to look at the bench to see we lack quality. We have some great young talent, some real class and some great squad players. But we need 3/4 quality additions to give the squad a real lift and to take us to the next level. The money is there, please make good use of it and please so not leave it to the last minute. Let’s get in, get the deals done and get the players in. Then we can put this to bed and move on the Leeds.
Onwards and upwards holics.
Holic. Not sure what I have managed to do but please delete mine at 84 and then this. Cheers.
‘holic, I support the institution, not the current incumbent as manager or board, or players. I imagine if they were all changed tomorrow it would be the same for everyone else here. Not able to provide any answers in a brief comment but I’d have thought a little venting was allowed without insults (does the rule not apply to BtM?)
It strikes me this comments section is a little like the side of a bar that a few old boys have decided is ‘theirs’. They pass each day slapping each other on the back and reinforcing each others’ worldviews Occasionally youngsters (i.e. anyone under 45) or out of towners wander over and voice a different perspective – some loudly and mindlessly, some more considerately – but all are met with the same mingling of fear and outrage. The barkeep indulges them because he needs their reliable business. But good luck with it in the future – it is, after all, your bar.
Steve T it’s good to see you have calmed down!
To all who have rightfully complimented LeCoq tonight, I am one of his biggest fans, but while he covered left back well, some of his passes were wayward, he was not very good in the air and some of his positioning and duelling was well contested by some of the more experienced members of the Fulham outfit. Despite that Coq remains a class act, who plays better in his preferred position.
The red card was the turning point and I felt that Rosicky and Benny were not as attack minded as their predecessors. But overall it was a typical Arsenal loss. A game we should have won, but not one we have seen too much of since the transfer window closed, so credit to the lads, from the starting XI to the reserves.
We are again injury ridden , this time at full back, but to their credit our stand-ins have all impressed.
What we cannot afford to do like before is to lose sight of the positive turn around since September!
Who knows there could be ‘one or two’ more by the time the fixtures again become congested!
Extremely dissapointing, during the 2nd half the players just didnt seem to have the determination to hold on to the ball and attack. There were hardly anychances created during the latter stages.
Awful play in terms of wanting possession, it is so frustrating to see Chesney kick it long during the goal kicks as the back line moves up, and time and time we loose possession in the air. Next thing theres a series of fulham attacks followed by more attacks as we lose the ball in goal kicks. It simply doesnt work and for a possession team like Arsenal who isnt great in the air, its a low percentage play. Tactics to suit our strengths have to be employed especially when u want to close out a game with 2-3 goal lead.
Djorou doesnt seem to be comfortable in RB and its obvious we need to bring in some full backs on loan or bought. Had a feeling he would give away a 2nd yellow after his first one, and wanted Wenger to sub him off. Unfortunately my prediction turned out true. Coqelin was pretty good as the left back for a player who is usually a defensive mid.
RVp seemed very tired and prob shudnt have started, we risk losing him to injury if he is put like this. I dont know why park, oxlade, and Miyachi havent gotten a chance during the last few games where player rotation should kick in. Its so frustrating to see only Rosiky, Chamak and Yossi consistently being the subs used.
Ox especially shows plenty of promise, and a player who is creative and is confident on the ball is just what we need on the pitch and Wenger has held off not playing him for a bit too long imo.
Wenger and co please give the young stars (and park) a chance to prove themselves, as opposed to giving underperformers like Chamak chances time and time again.
Hope to see us back at winning ways again soon though!
About Ramsey, and again it’s all about expectations, but in his position, behind the striker, I’d like to see more goal creation.
Jekyll -
I don’t believe anyone here is scared or outraged by disagreement. I’ve just re-read your posts to check the content and some of the views have some truth behind them, and I don’t think you have been personally abusive to anybody.
What is a pity is that you have to cticise Wenger – which plenty here have done at different times – for “flying by the seat of his pants” and “never being prepared”.
If you were the manager at the start of the season, how many squad places would you occupy with top rate full backs, given the current restrictions on squad numbers ?
Would you honestly have expected the RB and his reserve, and the LB and his reserve, and three of the stand-ins who have played there to all be injured at the same time ?
And rather than injuring players ny running them into the ground, AW tends to frustrate by resting players because they are in the dreaded “red zone”, just as they get into a run of form.
What seems to be increasingly common to me is not that folk can tolerate a difference of opinion, evaluate it and move on, but that whenever a difference of opinion occurs, no protagonist can rest until every other view has been converted to their own.
Such is the way of religion, it seems to me, and look how dangerous that is.
Just my opinion, of course.
GT, I was always calm. I just struggle sometimes when we are always looking for someone else to blame, rather than accepting out own short comings. Sometimes we just need to open our eyes and see what is actually in front of us. I am all for optimism. I am a massive optimist, but one who has a bit of reality attached. Without the reality the real issues do not go unchecked.
Steve T –
I was having a light hearted poke (about being calm). I appreciate that you’ve taken the time out to respond positively.
I know you are realist and also optimistic when you believe it to be necessary and everyone’s differences of opinion reflect the different perspectives of our fan-base.
I just think our shared passion for the club no matter how young or old we are in the bar can sometimes be misinterpreted through communication.
I just think that what causes some of the misunderstandings particularly in the bar is the differing of views in the same place at the same time. They are sometimes difficult to digest and that’s why sometimes I prefer to stand back before responding due to past experiences.
But as you say, your ‘realistic’ stance is interesting and is appreciated by those who know better. My stance though is to try and keep the club morale up through good and bad and as united as I possibly can when I’m around, especially when the Joneses are watching!
Great article. See some people happy and some mad. I for one am….sad.
I was told once:; aim higher than what you wish, because the odds might play against you. Guess whoever is making the calls, be Wenger, Stan or Gazidis, was not told this.
Yeah, the race is far from over, but we seem to be furhter and further every year, further from the 1 spot that is.
If we cant kill a game after a 1-0 IMO we have a striking issue before a defensive issue: it is psychological: when ou score the other team loses around 15 mins of focus. If one team scores, the defence rests a little, in those 15 mins.
I read every day this site, and others, my heart is with the Gunners, but tonight…I feel I lost something…
Who is playing our next game at right back, with Djourou suspended?
Snir
if you are still around,having been told off by the Head Teacher,
can you tell me the last time we lost 6 PL games by the turn of the New year,and also how many points we had as well,
and then how many pts we ended up with at the end of that particular season,and how many games we lost in the 2nd half of that season.
I can think of a couple of seasons where we might have lost 5,but cannot remember losing 6.??
Let me know.
cheers
Clive
BT8
I AM.!!
Cheers
The Sweeper.
Get in FFS
Clive, I’ll tend to that later. I’m in the middle of a poker session.
The only way to feel better after a bad loss.
Greetings ‘holics and various invertabrates that have chosen to “grace” this fine establishment with your presence.
I just finished up behind my bar and rushed upstairs to visit my favourite site. After reading the first twenty or so drinks, I’m feeling kinda sick.
“holic, nice write up, although I’m not in complete agreement. Personally I thought that the ref had a decent game, he generaly let the game flow and never tried to be the centre of attention. The Gerviniho ” penalty” incident wouldn’t have been given by 95% of referees today, he may of been clipped, but the ball was long gone and IMO he made a meal out of falling. If we had a penalty given against us in the same situation then I would of been more then pissed. RvP was tired, it may of looked like he was fouled, but if he was firing on all cylinders then he wouldn’t of been pushed off the ball so easily.
To read some of the first posts really leaves a sickly taste in my mouth. “Wenger out”, “I could manage Arsenal”, Walcott is shit” etc etc……………….. Really???????
We had an off day today, nothing more, nothing less. Fair play to Fulham who came out in the second half all guns blazing, they won fair and square, let’s please not blame the ref of whatever, surely we are better then that?
Tomorrow I’ll catch up on the other 80 or so previous drinks, for now I’ll put todays result as down to one of those things and hope that we can rest some of those who are undoubtedly in the red zone and come back next time fighting fit.
Still offer a round to all the regs,
Cheers.
Well done Snir…is that a first goal? Anyhow I don’t know if this has already been said in the previous drinks but do we realize that every time JD has to come off early – for whatever reason – something unexpected and bad happens? Bummer!
Holic Says: The job description I have is supporter, i.e. one who supports…Me too says GoonerTerry
I suspect AW was attempting to shore up the defence with us down to 10 men and defending ever more perilously a 1-0 lead when he brought on Rosicky and then Benayoun, but I wonder if leaving on one of Gervinho or Walcott rather than withdrawing both wouldn’t have been a smarter move to give us some pace on the break once we got the ball out of defence. As it was an already knackered RvP had to chase down everything but he was always playing with his back to the Fulham back four.
Ha. Mammu’s post @ 19 was funny though he sounded exasperated.
Coquelin’s performance was very encouraging. Thought he got forward a lot more than TV did, during his tenure at left back. Also noticed that it took a while for some of the other midfielders to trust Coq. Round the first 20-30 minutes of the game, he had made himself available plenty of times, but Arteta, Gervinho and the like were reluctant to pass to him.
There are still 18 games to go, I don’t know why people are jumping the gun. Mid- December Wenger hd stated that he would be rotating the squad during the festive season. Not much of that happened. The consequences were there to see, particularly in the second half. Much of our lethargic second half performance was down to Arteta’s fatigue. He’s the one who recycles the ball. Until he joined Arsenal he was notorious for his injury record and I’m not looking to jinx it, but it’s quite appalling that he continues to be played for 90 minutes every 3 days. The same goes for Van Persie. We are treading a very thin line there, with those two. The big downer is despite extracting 90 minutes from those two, we didn’t gain anything by way of points.
Chamberlain’s no-show was quite the anti-climax. Wenger playing the role of protective manager? Stymying the justified hype, the eagerness.
On another note, Almunia in goal for the Leeds game? I’m getting nervous.
Jekyll 89
Very valid observations. It’s the institution stupid. Famous club with great history representing the working class intellectuals of North London for whom the team created much treasured relief and fond memories starting from the depressed 30′s and ever since. We tried to copy them on the hallowed fields of Hackney Marshes but lacked the pace from over indulgence in Worthington E and two packs of Woodbines the night before. Highbury showed us how the professionals did it. That sparked heated discussion among the crew during training and riding the #30 up to Hackney for the next Sunday game. There seems to be a Brian Glanville lite or over fastidiousness about the game from the regulars in the snug. I recognise they are supporters first but so are Jock straps.
@ bt8bbgfg 97
Ideally, we should appeal the red card but as we are playing the cup this weekend AW would have gone ahead with major changes.
we are lucky that Djourou misses a cup game and not a PL one.
btm@44 (your response to jekyll), count me in. excellent post.
zico, maybe roxette’s mother will occupy her attention enough that slipping out for a drink won’t require a four hour planning session…:)
48 hours is not enough time to recover.
The boss took a gamble by playing the same players from Saturday and it did pay off, only until the end of first half
Arteta, RVP, Walcott(who was very poor I have to admit), Gervinho were all so visibly knackered
We need a striker/attacking player though, and Henry is not enough. But somehow I have a feeling we won’t sign anyone
Very impressed by Coq’s performance. Can he do a job for us until Gibbs returns? Nah, I think we need a left back
Even though Fulham deserved something from this game, I feel we should also have come away with a point. Gutted
Harsha
You’re a Stats man,
read my questions at 98.
please advise
Snir’s far more interested in playing Poker than to attend to all important Arse matters,
I will point out the error of his ways upon his return.
Cheers
The sweeper
Question: how important is the FA Cup? Is it now our best chance this season to break the silverware drought?
@ NBN
methinks that finishing 4th or higher in the League has to be priority right now.
Consider this scenario: We win the Cup but finish 5th and miss CL. With the backlash that the manager and team are at the end of after yesterday’s game…you can well imagine the scenario then.
Clive, I’m here mate, just not in the mood for extensive research.
Not in the mood for jokes since we lost, I got pissed off at the comments and them pissed off even more when I saw we get reproached by people who only bother commenting when The Arsenal lose.
Sometimes I feel they want us to lose so they can complain. Otherwise why are they never here when we win? Don’t they have anything to say??!!
The loss of recognised full backs was exposed in this match more than others, but the writing has been on the wall since we were first without them. Without knocking any of the stand-ins, they lack the skill to be adequate cover. And we all know this and it contributed to our defeat.
The other contributions were Theo playing really badly, a midfield that went AWOL in the second half and the fact most of the team were knackered.
I am always a glass half full person and don’t see this as the end of the world, but our players do need a rest and we do need to strengthen the squad.
Snir, les miserables.
Ignore them. Paulie Numbnuts, Jekyll-normally-in-hiding. All that was missing was the expected appearance of Danish.
We will prevail.
Ned @ 113 – yes. It is.
Don’t think it will be AW’s priority though.
And we have an even more important priority – some help for Robin.
CW@98:
Results before turn of year/after turn of year
Points
Half way point (after 19 games): Position/Points
2005-06
W10 D3 L6/ W10 D4 L5
33/34
6th/33
2006-07
W10 D6 L5/ W9 D5 L3
36/32
4th/33
2007-08
W14 D5 L1/W10 D6 L2
47/36
2nd/44
2008-09
W10 D5 L5/ W10 D7 L1
35/37
5th/32
2009-10
W13 D2 L4/ W10 D4 L5
41/34
3rd/41
2010-11
W11 D3 L5/ W8 D8 L3
36/32
3rd/36
2011-12 (to date)
W11 D3 L5/ W0 D0 L1
36/???
4th/36
Can’t be arsed back drinking.
zico’s 117th will do.
Also Chelsea, Man City, Spurs NEVER concede late goals, especially not costing points.
FACT (wildly ignoring the previous weekend….oh).
(and of course Man U when they get themselves back into a game, never let it go either….)
I agree with Steve T with all that he said (wrote). We lost the game because we defended too deep when legs got a bit tired. Wojtek made a mistake for the firstl. second was rather a gift I will say no more what I really think of Squillaci!
A lot of moaners here since yesterday, yes we lost and we have ourselves to blame but come on it’s NOT the end of the world!
Man U lost 2:3 to B’Burn at home and there were other shocking results on the weekend. Shame we couldn’t use this to our own advantage!
morning all. No time to back drink, but I suspect it’s not the happiest bar this morning.
I’ve been saving this anecdote for such an occasion;
Christmas in the Catalan household. All 22 of immediate Spanish family are there. My 4 year old has got one on those etch-a-sketch type of things where they can draw with a stylus and then wipe it off.
He’s very excited and keen to show off his new writing skills.
Proudly he presents his first word to the Catalan grandparents. From where I sit across the room their reaction seems a little muted.
I wander over to see what he has written….
“PUTA”.
I really must have a word with his teacher…..
Fucking heh Dr C!
(and indeed Arthur, it’s not like we’ve dropped back into the relegation zone, is it?)
Clive, NBN has answered your question @119
Hello everyone,
A nice round of single malt for the ‘holic, N7 gooner and Bergkamp’s the Man for the solid, balanced, posts. Good to know the voices of sanity are not in the minority. I haven’t followed the last few games as I was travelling but managed to read the posts (an extra round for you ‘holic for super fast posts). Aside: read about Theo’s friendly banter on not giving up his 14 jersey. I’ve always felt he got it too soon, and that probably put him under pressure. There’s only one 14 and it’s not Walcot who has a long way to go. Raise my glass to better results this year and some decent signings. Cheers.
I think shirt numbers really don’t matter.
Senderos 6, Fabregas 4, Walcott 14 don’t affect their performances, don’t think anyone thinks about the number on their back once they’re on the pitch and playing.
Except for David Bentley perhaps.
Here’s one for the stats fans amongst our midst.
RVP has not scored in 12 games this season. Out of those games we have won 2 of them.
http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/man-of-the-match-against-fulham-koscielny
Johan Djourou is Andy Goram.
Alright Fellas long time no speak hope all is well, Quick summary weve done well to get were we are and yesterdays result was no real surprise looking at the team at the mo and the amount of unavailable players for such a busy period –
Just looking at the rest of the results over the period tells you its not just us, But we do have some glaring problems –
I mentioned at the close of the window we looked far to short up front for my liking and that still stands we need an injection of quality to push us into the top four and then to re asses in the summer what is needed to push us forward on the trophy front,
There are some good signs emergency but we are still a little short. Cannot see the point in getting to worked up we were never going to challenge for the Title and making the Top Four will be an achievement after the farce that was the summer so all we can do for the time being is get behind what we have and hope its enough,
On another note spent New Year in Prague what a city if you haven’t been give it a go it was Carnage
, Went once before and didn’t like it but thankfully I took the opportunity to re visit !
NBN @ 119
many thnks my friend.
Very interesting stats.
Morning Steve T @ 128
Re RVP,
Our problems wrapped up in 2 sentences.
The number of times AW left his seat seething with the incompetence of Gervy and Walcott last night,
I reckon if he had had a Gun he would have executed the pair of them.!!
Zico- I know mate but it’s easier said than done..
I just snapped. The loss had something to do with that.
If Arsène had a gun, it would be carnage
You are probably right Ollie.
If Arsene had a gun, he would have rested RVP last night
Morning Clive. I agree with you and Chippy. We know we are short. Now games come thick and fast the lack of depth and quality in the squad shows. Why did we not rest a clearly knackered RVP? Because there ain’t anyone else. If I am honest I am amazed he has lasted this long.
Snir
i see you were so cranky last night,you didn’t even thank me for the assist.!!
Miserable bugger
If AW had a gun do you think he would pass it to someone else rather than have a shot???
“About Ramsey, and again it’s all about expectations, but in his position, behind the striker, I’d like to see more goal creation.”
Agreed. He seems to be allergic to the quick forward pass. We had a period recently where we’d got some of the pace back into our play, but Ramsey seems to need two or three touches to make his mind up. Then he usually goes square. More Ray Wilkins than Dennis Bergkamp…
Arteta is doing a sterling job as the second holding player but I’d like to try a switch with him and Ramsey for a bit. Push Arteta up, drop Ramsey deeper and see is that helps.
Clive – belated thanks!
Steve T 139: haha
Hello Ricey, cheers and HNY, good point about Ramsey.
Steve
Did you notice the young Swiss player Jol sent on late in the 2nd half,
Showed no fear,ran at our defenders,took them on and gave them an extra spark when they needed it most.
I don’t know how many times i’ve said it,but if you are good enough you are old enough
Why not the Ox,not even on the bench last night.
Why would you send on a player whose last sight of competitive football was in May for fucks sake!!
Had a quick look in the bar last night, but seemed like a lot of the lights were out, so departed quickly. Have posted in the previous after getting back.
Whilst I like BtM’s dissection of Jekyl’s posts, I feel that there is a point in there amongst it. Of course you can’t reckon on all the FB’s being crocked at the same time. Bit like last year when you couldn’t reckon on all the CB’s being crocked at the same time. But the ongoing injury situation doesn’t raise many eyebrows… we’ve seen it all before. Have all 25 squad places been allocated? Do we have room for more players? Hmmm.
More later been called away now
I know hes getting some stick but personally id defo Persevere with Gervinho theres a top player waiting to break out but the problem weve got is you cannot afford to play him and Walcott in the same side.
If you play this system both widemen need to chip in far more regulary on the scoring front – you could probably get away with playing one if goals are also coming from the other side but both is far to much of a burden on VP.
Snir
Better late than never.
Steve,
on reflection,if AW had aimed a shot at the 2 miscreants,he would probably have hit the corner flag.!!
I did Clive. Frei I believe his name was. I saw him on motd over the weekend and he looked lively then.
I don’t know why AOC has not been used more. I also don’t know why we did not move Song to centre half, push Kos to right back and play Rambo deeper rather than bring squidgy on. I honestly don’t know why we need to debate the same issues that have been our weakness for the last 3 year. But then, who am I?
Morning Holics
I do wish Arsene hadn’t gone over OTT on the Lee Probert’s performance. His latest rant will hardly give us credit with the Ref’s Union. We need all the help we can get !
R5L Sport have made the rant their headline news all morning, not good from our point of view.
As always COYRs
I didn’t know who was on the bench yesterday, just someone had told me the Ox wasn’t. So I knew by my own calculations that there was a ‘surprise’ player. Then I saw him as he was about to come on and was quite shocked.
I did realise (much later) that it is a sub that made a lot of sense on accounts of ‘experience’, and experience was needed. However, experience is wildly offset when you haven’t played in a while.
But then, hindsight, etc….
I think it was a lot of frustration boiling over, Deliah.
There has been at least 4 or 5 non-given CLEAR penalties over the last 3 games (or one more over another game if you count City).
It cost us 2 points against Wolves already, but Arsène refrained then, I was in fact surprised; it didn’t cost us against QPR, but Fulham was just a drop too far I guess.
Ï’ll keep saying it, yes we should still put these teams to the sword, and there are many other factors, but there is just no sense in us not being allowed to play by the rules of football.
It’s not even like they were debatable calls for penalties.
And yes, shit decisions happen to other teams (see Lampard should have been sent off yesterday, shouldn’t he?), but still and again, the accumulation of these decisions against us over the last few games is more than annoying. Technology would be good indeed.
Sorry about the extra ‘h’ in your name, Delia, where did that come from?
:$
And yes, of course the media select the excerpts they want, but it’s hard for your frustration not to boil over from time to time when the first thing after the game is you get shoved a microphone in your face.
Still, Arsène should know better than that, I agree.
Holic @ 68
Apologies,
Remiss of me not to return your happy New Year wishes.
I’m afraid,as with Christmas, the New Year is a double edged sword for me.
I lost my dear old Dad in the early hrs of Christmas Day 1998,and i lost a lifelong friend in the early hrs of New Years day 2009.
Both to the Big C.
So i am twixt and between,Celebrations on the one hand,and a sad rememberance of loved ones lost on the other.
I always ring my mate’s widow on New Years eve,and it doesn’t take long for the tears to flow,for me it was like having an extra brother and sister,but i have to move on because i have my own family responsibilities.
Karen has nothing but her Pain and her memories,all i can do is listen to her sadness.
Such is Life.
Morning All!
Plenty of spleen venting and hand-wringing post match I see. To be expected I suppose but much of it (not all) is probably best ignored, IMO.
For the saner posts:
‘Holic – As always, measured, balanced honest and a good read.
Trev @ #93 – Spot on!
Steve T @ #84/87 – Similar to ‘Holic with your own unique perspective on matters.
BtM @ #36 and others – Thanks for the entertainment!
snowy @ #38 – The travelling faithful were heard loud and proud, as usual, on Arse Player. Very sensible comments too.
Dr.C @ #123 – Hilarious story, loved it!
NBN @#119 – Now that’s what I call a set of statistics. Top work fella.
Delia @ #149 – That was the most angry that I have seen AW in a post match presser for ages. I think he also has the right to ‘lose it’ from time-to-time. He was as bitterly disappointed, if not more so, than any of us post match. To me, that clearly demonstrates his love and passion for our club and his desire to succeed.
Chippy @ #130 – Great to see you back, don’t be a stranger!
Ollie – Hope you’re feeling better.
Clive – Good to see you posting like a regular again
zico @ #117 – Heh!
snir – Poker more important than football/research???? Wow, is that part of a new year’s resolution to help you chill from time-to-time? Very impressed if so
Anyways, as you can see, I’m trying to lift the spirits a bit in here partly because today is my 47th birthday.
So, the drinks are on me (I have access to the Lars wallet). Edwin, very kindly, is extending a further open day on the CMC to mark the occasion. I think it might be his birthday too today but he hasn’t said anything yet
Set them up please barman and have a large one for yourself.
UTA!
PS: zico @ #66, thanks mate! Missed that one. Impressed that you remebered
TS
Merry birthday or something! Pints and pipes all round. Crank up the music …..
TS Happy Birthay young man!
Cheers Dr.C! Pints are chilled, pipes are stuffed and music is cranked!
Any suggestions for tuuuuunes?
Happy Birthday True Storey
ATG, very kind!
Barman? Finest Polish vodka please.
Goodness me, thank you Wind. I hope you get to make it to my age young man! Is it legal for me to buy you a drink?
Happy Birthday, TS!!! Arsenal are going to win one next time so you can celebrate after the fact.
Cheers TS.
Slowly fighting my way back to health, a bit better every day, should be fine by the end of the week at the latest.
Oh, and Happy Birthday to you!
Cheers Ollie and good to hear. A medicinal brandy old bean?
TS @ 155,
Not sure for how long mind so will make the most of it 
Good to see you to – Havent been about for no other reason than its been manic the last few months hardly get a chance to pop in anymore let alone pull up a stool and have a beer ! but it seems the xmas break has slowed things down a tad
TS
Hang on, as I have 3 years (less) on you, I’m trying to think of an ageist tune to insult you with!
Struggling for inspiration right now….
Three and a half actually!
Heh 8ball and many thanks! I’m hoping the kids will do us proud next Monday in the FA Cup.
One thing is I’m really glad now we lost that League Cup game to City, last thing we needed this month was two more games to play!
The Scene : a very subdued Executive Carriage on the HTMKII, Dr Feelgood is looking decidedly glum. Beside him Dr Spin scribbles feverishly in shorthand on a spiral notebook. Wolfgang Smallballs is pouting and filing his nails. Dr Disorder is in the corner, decidedly uncomfortable and doing his best to ignore another monumental hangover. Professor Storey is nowhere to be seen.
Feelgood : “Well, that could have gone better. I never liked that Craven Cottage, it reminds me of the Grim fairy tales old mother Feelgood used to tell me,to put the shits up me when I was a nipper….”
Dr Spin : “You mean Brothers Grimm?”
Feelgood : ”The Nevilles? No, Hansen and Gretna, that type of thing…..”
Dr Spin (rolls his eyes) : “You need to let me concentrate. I’m working on my new campaign slogans…..”
Feelgood : “That should be easy. Here’s one. Fuck off you faint hearted, fair weather Fandangos – Feelgood Foundation don’t need ya!”
Dr Spin : “I was thinking about something a bit more constructive. Something that addresses the bigger picture and the genuine concerns some of our patrons are expressing. We don’t all have to agree – We are, after all, a very broad church.”
Feelgood (fearful) : “Church?”
Wolfgang: “How long has the transfer window been open? Where are all these mental patients we was promised? It’s now 3rd January and I have not clamped anyone yet?”
The door suddenly opens and Professor Storey walks in.
Edwin (singing) : “Happy Birthday to me, Happy Birthday to me……..all right suckers? Why the long faces? We have a fully replenished CMC – GT full of stuff from PiK, new water supply for DLL, LISB and its a HBD to me!”
Feelgood : “You talk so much sense Edwin.”
Dr Disorder (bewildered) : “Eh?”
Edwin : “It’s my BD. A joyous occasion. I may splash out and spell words in their entirety.”
Feelgood : “See? He can spell. And good spells too. Not like the witch….”
Edwin : “Ah Dr F, how are things with Roxette’s mother…..”
Feelgood rushes for the door and is heard retching outside……
To be continued
TS – congrats on the birthday that caught me unawares !
About to leave Devon amidst downpours and gales – motorways should be great !
Bar getting back to normal this morning – laters ‘holics.
Haha TS @ 162, I’m a reasonable young head but I’m 6 months off legal, I’m sure the barman would look the other way, but for now I’ll take a lemonade courtesy of the Lars Wallet
zico @172 –
although (w)retching is misspelled !!
Wind – there’s no courtesy about Lars’ wallet – we just take it !
Nice one Zico
I haven’t really got much to say about the match, as I never got to watch it on TV (No Sky Sports), or on the Internet(Lack of AOL Broadband), or the highlights on MotD(2nd TV was taken over hostile-style to watch bleedin’ EastEnders, and that was the time MotD decide to show Arsenal on 1st.
But from the general consensus over 2 bars is that we ran out of steam after the 1st half, Ramsey is showing moments of Cesc-level talent at times, Djourjou was rightfully sent off, didn’t look comfortable at RB, Coquelin played an excellent game at LB and Squillaci should never pull on the shirt again.
I think that covers it, I’ll take a look at the game on Arsenal Player when my broadband gets restored.
Trev @ 176, will keep in mind for future reference
How is young Miss T faring by the way, any better?
Wind and Clive I think you need to consult on non-alcoholic beverage, being under and over drinking age.
I realise I shamelessly advertised my own birthday fellas but I am positively overwhelmed nevertheless. Thanks again one and all.
zico – Brilliant @ #172! It’s one thing to have an alter ego. When someone else ‘takes it over’ and makes if funnier it feels like an out-of-body experience. Keep it going, love it.
Trev @ #174 – Many thanks and safe journey home. You’ll be pleased to hear the sun is now shining in this corner of Herts.
Dr.C @ #168 – Thanks younger man for trying to be the ying to your very own yang *braces himself for the insults*
Wind @ #174 – I have asked The Barman to pour you a steady supply of ‘Lemonade Plus’. That’s a reference to A Clockwork Orange BTW
Laters all…..
Happy birthday TS!
I’ll grab a pint, thanks
Happy birthday, young TS. I will raise a large sherry cask Grants to you tonight.
TS, by the way, I hope you saw my 129
CW@131: you’re more than welcome. It strikes me in the cold light of morning how vivid many of the losses were in my mind’s eye as I went through the results season by season. It also made me think that the reason there was so much agitation in the bar over yesterday’s result was that the team has been so tantalizingly close to success in all recent seasons. A handful of goals scored or not conceded each season would have stuffed the trophy cupboard with silverware. Frustrating.
Hello All ,
First things first , Happy Birthday TS , welcome to the 47 club !
Have done all the back-drinking , but it looks like the Birthday boy has already carried out an excellent summary so no point me doing the same .
A disappointing night to be sure . Much that needs to be said has already been said , but I would just add the following .
1. I think there is a danger that we lump in all those that are critical into the one boat . Whilst I will never understand those that use every Arsenal defeat as a stick to (a) goad other Arsenal supporters and (b) bash up AW ( injuries to six players that have played full-back this season could not have been foreseen) , there should be freedom to make courteous personal observations without fear of being castigated . Whilst someone like Paulie , ( What’s with the baby ie on the end ? ) , is clearly beyond the pale , others with much less objectionable tone were given the same treatment . That said , they would do well to pay a visit every now and then when things have gone well and give credit where credit is due , instead of saving up their “I told you so’s” , for when things haven’t gone to plan , if they wish their views to be treated with more credibility .
2. A game very much of two halves . I thought that at times in the first half we were excellent . Ramsay was far more incisive and influential than he had been against QPR , and whilst I think that the observation that he needs too many touches before opting for a safe pass is at times apt , I don’t think that was a criticism that could be levelled at him for his performance in the first 45 last night .
3. Walcott continues to struggle . Why on earth did AOC not figure last night ? I realise that I am on the outside looking in , and there may have been factors of which I’m not aware , but there are times when decisions really do baffle . If he can’t get a spot after a 48 hour turnaround , when will he ?
4. Whilst I agree with ‘Holic as to the general standard of refereeing in The Premiership , I think that criticism of Probert last night is a bit of a red herring . I would have been disappointed had the Gervinho “penalty” been given against us . Djourou was a little unlucky , but he gave the referee every opportunity to blow with his raised hand . There is an excellent player in there somewhere ( he showed that for 2/3 of last season) , but too often there are lapses of concentration and “caught in the headlights” moments , for someone who is now our longest serving player .
5. Coquelin was excellent , but he ain’t a left back . He was Clichyesque in the way he stood off the winger allowing the cross to come in for their first , and went walkabout for the second . A temporary solution to the left back conundrum remains critical . It will take Gibbs some time to get up to speed , even allowing for the fact that he manages to stay fit .
6. I felt that AW , even without the benefit of hindsight , massively boobed with his subs last night . Yes Walcott was having a mare , but his speed necessitates that opponents cannot push on too much . I would have left him on . Rosicky was excellent against QPR , but with him and Benny on at the same time , the team becomes too static . It was in central midfield where the game was lost in the second half , and Arteta and Ramsey should have made way . Is it me or have AW’s subs become far more negative with each passing trophyless season ? I remember the days when most substitutions were generally attacking ones , even when we were in winning positions .
7. It should be remembered that Fulham aren’t a bad side , especially at home , and that last night’s defeat was still far removed from the defensive shambles up at Blackburn . The 48 hour turnaround is inherently unfair . Either all teams should have to do it , or none at all . Those that argue that it was the same for Fulham miss the point . The lack of recovery time is a great leveller and will always penalise the better side . Is it any surprise that in front of their home crowd , it was Fulham that found the extra legs to go on and win the game ?
8. Didn’t post on NYE so missed the opportunity to call Warnock a c*nt , and a c*nt he most certainly is . Those that mistake his histrionics for nothing more than vaudevillian moustache-twirling should look no further than the Sheff Utd West Brom game 3 seasons ago , when , on having 3 players sent off for thuggish assaults , he instructed his players to feign injury and thus have the game abandoned . Football would be a better place without him .
Right , that’s it I think . I seem to have been prattling on for far too long . Drinks all round , and a song from the juke-box for the birthday boy .
Dr Z @172
Yap, u will be scriming alot, with the Arsena loss, u know where the problem is, In England there are number of gambling institution, which buys referees, Arsenal is a big Club, many people who bets focuses on Arsenal winning,by paying them (Gamblers) the institutionwill incure greater loss, for that fact then small clubs must made win…………..2 point is Sheikh mansour has invested a lot of money in Man city, buying players with big cash, paying coaches with big cash,paying players with big cash,BUYING REFEREES WITH BIG CASH, everybody is after money……………………………………like Roman Abrahamovich…….Man C is buying a number of good players, at the end of the day they (players warming bench) in order to weaken the other teams……………………………..stategies of winning is not only on the pitch, u have to go further……………………………………………………
am still holding this ARSENAL IS A GOOD CLUB, GOOD PLAYERS, GOOD MANEGER,GOOD MANAGEMENT,GOOD FANS,BUT TOTRURED BY BAD CORRUPT REFEREES FROM GAMBLING INSTITUTIONS AND THE BIG CLUBS…………………………………………………………tell SHEIKH MANSOUR TO GO AND FUND CLUBS IN SAUD ARABIA, AND TELL ROMAN TO GO TO FUND FOOTBALL IN RUSIA……………………….IN SAUDI ARABIA AND RUSIA THE ONE CAN BE HANGED FOR CORRUPTION………………………THE IMAGE OF ENGLAND FOOTBALL IS DESTROYED BY THE INTRUDERS…………………………………………………IT PAINS TO SEE THIS BUT MY HAND IS SHORT TO DO ANYTHING, I CAN ONLY SREEEMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM
Pretty good stuff, tabs!
ALL Arsenal players, we are behind you…………4rever together further we shall go………………………….
Happy birthday, TS. A glass of whatever you fancy is waiting for you on the bar.
Chippy@146: I think you have to play both Gervais and Theo, or at least two wide players. Our post Cesc/Nasri attacking style demands width and pace, as opposed to playing everything through the middle. It is back to the Ljungberg/Pires style. Problem is, as I have said before in this bar, that neither of the incumbents has the consistency of those two Invincibles, nor, at the moment, the shooting boots.
Cheers Ollie , glad to hear you are somewhat on the mend . Are you making it over for Dirty Leeds ?
Tabs@185.6: agree with you about leaving Walcott on yesterday. There was always the chance that there would be space for him to sprint into when Fulham were still chasing the game. AW’s substitutions are definitely becoming more defensive. He makes changes now when we are leading to close out the game. To be fair to him, this season, with the exception of yesterday, we have defended in the final phases of games well enough to make it a reasonable tactic.
Hello Ned ,
Yep you make a fair point . However last night , we had pretty much struggled to get out of our own half from the start of the second half . That was largely because our midfield three were being overrun . To ask Arteta to play 2 full games within 48 hours was surely too much . By making the subs he did , AW invited Fulham onto us even more . Our only outlet in the last 15 was a clearly tiring RVP .
Always felt as the second half unfolded that if Fulham got one , they would get 2 .
Afraid not, tabs. Monday night kick-offs far from ideal, especially as I’m fairly busy.
might have considered it, if only PHW had lent me his private jet.
Mancs for me next (yep it will have been nearly a month without the Arsenal!)
Monday nights ridiculous as far as I’m concerned Ollie . Will see you for The Mancs then .
A word, too, in defence of JD. He played with discipline after getting his first yellow. The second yellow didn’t come because of a rash challenge from behind or a needless tackle. He was trying to get his body between Zamora and the ball when Zamora was moving into a dangerous position. As anyone who has played knows it is difficult to keep the arms out of it in those tussles, plus these days forwards know they can go down at the merest brush in those circumstances. What would we have said if DJ had just let Zamora through unchallenged? We would see later what damage Zamora could inflict when left unchallenged by a full-back.
I think that’s one of these I’ll have to endeavour to stay sober for, sunday kick-off, serious work the following week I believe.
Bah.
Tabs, RvP looked knackered for much of the second half. Though I am pinching myself as I write, it was the sort of situation where it would have been good to have had TGSTEL to throw on.
Now you mention it, I think it would have been good to have Chamakh thrown it rather than TGSTEL in such a situation. We weren’t going to create much up front, and Chamakh works a lot harder than TGSTEL, even if he has become rather clumsy of late.
Bah. Let’s move on.
Moving on….
…and over the line. Woohoo! Nice assist, Ollie. Low key goal, but they all count.
Indeed, swiftly done but well in NBN!
CG@123: that’s hilarious, I can imagine his grandparents bribing him with sweeties to find out if he heard it from his Daddy!
Best news of the day:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-india-16390907
Well in Ned .
Maybe I’m being harsh on Djourou . The points you make are valid . I think part of my frustration with him is that he should , I feel , be a very very good player , given both his physique and his talent , and even allowing for the fact that injuries have held him back somewhat , my feeling is that he should be further forward in his development than he actually is .
Ollie , yep , sunday games means that though the pints will be flowing I might have to swerve on Holic’s liveners
Mind you , I reserve the right to change my mind if the result goes our way
heh
(to 204)
xiper
heh
If you look at the replay of the Gervinho foul, you see him land on BOTH feet after being clipped, go forward ever so slightly, and THEN go down to the ground. Yes, it was a foul in fact, but if that had happened against an Arsenal defender, there’d be all moans about why there wasn’t a yellow for simulation.
Not only can’t Gervinho hit the Irish Sea if he were facing it on a pebbled beach at Blackpool, he’ll need to work on the art of reinforcing that there was a foul committed…..
bt8b @ 179, haha, its a good idea, but he is for orange juice and I am for apple, at this stage its like oil and water
TS @ 180, thanks to this bar and its venerable wisdom, I’m making a small list of good films to watch, A Clockwork Orange joins Withnail & I
‘Holic, tabs, harsha, NBN many thanks (again!) for your kind wishes, much appreciated fellas
tabs – Super-quality post at #185.
Ollie – Heh! @ #129. Yes, I did miss it!
PHW – Can you please loan Ollie your private jet for a game or two this season?
NBN @ #196 – Good defence of a defender. I might be in a minority here but I think JD20 is regaining his form whilst not playing in his natural position. For the actual second yellow he was very unlucky, however, he had made some earlier challlenges that he got away with. However, if the ref judged that to be a foul on Zamora then he should have awarded Gerv a pen. Both were tough decisions to get right in “real time”. Anyway, it’s done and dusted now. Time to move on and claw our way back up the table and catch those LWCs.
Hey tabs, @ 195, you’re not wriggling out of next Monday night as well, now are you?
We’ve already had call offs from BtM, Holic and AL. You wouldn’t want any crazy Board decisions to be made in your absence?
I agree with all, however, Monday night is ridiculous.
My pleasure TS .
Dr Z , the only wiggling I will be doing at Leeds will be atop a table
That’s if I can avoid the steely glare of the bouncer who looks like something out of ZZ Top . Wouldn’t want to annoy him again .
My only regret is that we’re not kicking off on the drinks front until 5.30 !!
french rumour factory – Arsenal looking at Aly Cissoko of Lyon as alternative to Vain Bridge
Ollie – are you going to Milan by any chance?
Was looking at flights from BOD which seem reasonable but 2 nights stay
Mind you then need ticket as well!
Hi Cognac, not made any plans to go to Milan. Previous Italian experience for football (Roma when we qualified after penalties) make me think the post-game is too much of a pain, despite all the great fun to be had with Gooners.
The only way if I would reconsider is if I get to work in Vimercate around these dates. Although to be fair, I’d only have to ask for it to happen, but when boss suggested, yes this way you can go to the game and go to work the next day, I said ‘well one of the points would be to not go to work the next day’
)
I’ll save myself for the next round
And at 214 I smell a rat if they said ‘as alternative to Bridge’. I don’t think we’ve considered Bridge or are even considering considering him: we need someone that would be operational right now, which Monsieur Pont, whether utter shit or not, isn’t, due to not having played in a long long time.
Lazy journalism is all there is to this ‘rumour’ IMHO.
OK Ollie was just a thought
Re: Tabs: Djourou our longest serving player? It seems he has spent half that time on the training table, but that’s better than Diaby’s three-fourths.
Dr. Z @172: heheheheheh
Afternoon all.
Glad to see things have calmed down a bit. I honestly couldn’t get past the first 25 posts or so last night, caught up with them all now though.
Many Happy Returns Mr T Storey.
Steve T and tabs (at various) I agree with most of what you’ve posted.
Dr Z Heh.
tabs @ 213 – Oh go on then, 5:25.
Great post at 185 btw, although I’m less bullish regarding DJ than you. I feel long-term we need better in whatever position he finds himself in. Just my humble opinion.
Dr C, loved the PUTA story.
Yes, I meant to also commend you Catalan on your tale of the 4 year old, who already is clearly more articulate in two languages than Cuntstop is in one.
First things first: happy birthday, TS!
I said last night that the doomers would be out in full force and oh my Dennis was I right. Some really have no sense of perspective at all.
Earlier posts have covered pretty much everything, but tabs said something very important:
“The lack of recovery time is a great leveller and will always penalise the better side”
This is very, very true.
We’ve come a long way since early September. We said “ok, if were there or thereabouts in relation to fourth spot after Xmas, then we are in with a shot” and now we are thereabouts. No reason to panic, is the way I see it.
Happy birthday TS!!! Enjoy it mate….
Holic, please have a look at the email I sent you.
Heh@204
Lars, I like your positive outlook on life, but come on, as I said earlier (or was it elsewhere), we’ve just dropped back to the relegation zone.
No? Oh.
gloom doom relegation threats
what joy would that crowd know without them?
So many drinks, so little time.
‘Guv, I tip me hat to you for your housecleaning…it seems the kids ran rampant lastnight and left their droppings all over the bar.
Delia, I agree with you that Arsene doesn’t help his cause much with the boys in blue (blue being the new black and all) or the supporters. He needs to go on a kindness offensive with the referees (my mother always told me you catch more flies with honey than vinegar) and a spending spree this week.
We need reinforcements. Call the cavalry. Call the Marines. Call somebody, Arsene – please.
Llama, llama – such a wise animal indeed. I miss my llamas.
BMBD.
For you, Lonestar:
http://omnilogie.fr/images/O/9ceca40abd400f0dcbe015e0a576d228.jpg
Ollie – HEH!
Double heh!
BMBD.
Ollie – how did good ol’ ‘Arry get that close to the llama anyway?
BMBD.
Never had ‘Arry as a diminutive for Archibald, but that might work.
Courtesy Gingers4Limpar on twitter, this is worth a read:
http://elcentrocampista.com/2012/01/thierry-henry-back-at-arsenal/
H2H, Lars & Snir – Thank you very much fellas.
Lars, agreed. Absolutley no reason to panic. We should be proud just how far we’ve come this season given we effectively have a new first team and still sans Jack & Bac with Santos returning in March (hopefully).
The right reinforcements now should make an enormous difference to the remainder of our campaign. I’ve said before we need them to push on but I’m not expecting anyone in beyond a two month cameo role from the The King. I hope I’m going to be proved wrong on that one but the consistent rhetoric from Le Boss about the TW does not encourage me.
Cheers all and another round on me courtesy of the ol’ LW.
The Theo Walcott? :s
Thanks all. Thought it would tickle you!
Zico@224 – maybe he is even more articulate than we thought and was expressing his views of Cuntstop?
Geoff…. I am sure that they have their suspicions! Not my fault it’s such a good language to swear in!
Tabs, Zico: I think DJ’s optimal position maybe DM, but he’d be behind Song and possibly Frimpong at this point. No doubt he has talent, but agree it isn’t fully realized. Injuries haven’t helped.
Ollie@235: interesting link. Tks for posting. If Thierry can do for Gervais, Theo and Aaron what That piece says he did for Messi, it will be a goal-rich two months, especially if RvP keeps on scoring when he wants.
8 ball@ 96 it’ll probably be Kos
Evening all. Nice to see that sanity has returned to the e-waves. Some excellent and balanced posts in the last several hours. Too many to mention, but thanks for cheering up this tired old Gooner.
Off the sauce for January now so fruit smoothies all round.
Nice link Ollie re TH14 . Shame he wasn’t available last night !
Dr Z , cheers for the kind words . 5.25 it is then
As regards Djourou , I don’t think we’re disagreeing over much . I see both sides , on the one hand a talented player , but on the other , a player who always looks capable of a Grade A f*ck-up .
Ned , I think he would be behind Coquelin as well for any place in midfield . I personally do not see him in midfield . He needs too long on the ball , and is weak when facing his own goal . A shielder of the ball he is not – imho of course .
Lars – agree with your last paragraph . Unfortunately , I think that any inconsistencies of the two Manc clubs will be matched by our own , but given where we have come from , even the fact that we are in a position to make those comparisons should be be looked upon as a plus.
Chelsea and Liverpool don’t look any better than us , and the race for 4th is still very much on , though I think it will go to the wire , as I’m not convinced either by the argument that we are much better than them .
Further , I still haven’t given up on St Totteringham’s day , largely because I don’t think Sp*rs are at the level required to make 3rd their own . Granted , they can look good going forward , but defensively they will always leak goals , especially when King isn’t available . Stoke made them look very ordinary for 45 mins , and there was a sense , both at West Brom and at Fulham , that they “got away with it ” a bit .
Don’t hold out out too much hope that they will drop points tonight , but you never know .
Come on the Baggies .
Tabs, I should clarify that “in with a shot” refers to our chances of getting at least fourth. Winning the league hasn’t been on my mind all season, I think it will probably be a struggle between us, Chelsea and Liverpool for fourth. Tottenham seem to be in league with the devil himself cause they (apart from King, but not even Lucifer can keep him fit) never seems to suffer any injuries to key players, and if they keep staying fit I think they will finish third or higher, unfortunately.
And no, Spurs will not drop points tonight, WBA have had one day less to rest and are have injuries to key players. Jonas Olsson is out and they also lost Shane Long in the last game.
I also think Liverpool will beat Man City. Not only have they had twice the rest, Man City have not been playing well at all for a bit now. That would put us in sixth place, and I then forecast heavy showers of doom an gloom around the interweb.
Lars – not with keeping like that!
Oh my oh my, Reina just gifted City the lead with a very soft goal. Stuart Downing has also found the time to waste a one-on-one with Joe Hart by shooting straight at him.
Heh, definitely not zico!
The head coach of a Swedish team once supposedly said, in a half-time talk: “come on guys, their keeper is just as bad as ours!”
Bet you that keeper was very motivated to play the second half…
“that” shoud have been “his own” for clarity…
SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENT FROM DLL:
_______________________________
To avoid further speculation and for the purposes of clarification The HT MkII stops at St.Totteringham’s Terminus in May of this year.
This later than usual event is due to the delayed maiden voyage of the HT MKII and the subsequent and necessary de-bugging of the complex on-board navigation, suspension and security systems.
Passengers should note that there may be further required systems tweaks between now and May and that the ride may become uncharacteristically choppy from time-to-time but at no point should you leave the train until its final destination has been reached.
The staff of DLL would like to wish all passengers and customers happy and safe travels and to apologise for what became an unavoidable delay in the timetable.
Please also note that next season St.Totteringham’s Station will be demoted to its normal status as a regular stop. The Terminus in 2013 will be Championship Central.
Tsk…. that Prof bloke’s a bit sure of himself, isn’t he?
Never in doubt.
Prof TES, we thank you for the information and may I just add that leaving the train has never crossed my mind. I’ll be on this train until it goes no further!
Oh, how Man City is going to miss Yaya Toure during the ACN. He never impressed me when he was at Barca, but he’s been really, really good at City.
Let me try to get these likely switches for Leeds straight [/\]
Koscielny at right back
Song at center back
Miquel at left back
Coquelin at defensive mid
Everything cleared up, unless somebody begs to differ.
DLL – Further Service Announcement:
Should you decide to disembark, there will be no refunds.
Just sayin’.
Lars @244 , understood what you meant Sir , and agree . Think you’re over-rating The Spuds though . They aren’t all that . Just watched their first half – very ordinary and 0-0 at HT . Baggies pretty comfortable . That said , West Brom have offered nothing going forward so if Sp*rs do nick one , can’t see there being any way back .
Hope City beat Liverpool .
Prof TES @249 That’s the spirit
We will catch Spurs. Last night’s unfortunate result hasn’t changed my mind on that matters.
It’s quite incredible that pundits seem to assume that they’ll be at worst 3rd.
Sucking the devil’s cock is what they’re doing.
‘Catch Spurs’ sounds like catching a very very bad disease.
But you know what I mean.
8ball: I don’t think any of the usual suspects will be playing in defense v Leeds. It will probably be Squillaci/Miquel in central defense, and Yennaris on right-back with A. N. Other on the left. Midfield will be Coquelin, Benni and Rosicky, front three AOC, Chamakh (if he gets permission to leave a bit late for the ACN) and probably Arshavin. I think Arsene will want to rest as many as possible and if we crash out, we crash out. We have to rest players like Kos, BFG, RvP, Arteta, Ramsey, Song and Szczesny.
Oh and Adebayor was complete pants
tabs@256: I sure hope you are right about me overrating them
Probably right, Lars. What wouldn’t I have given for the Fulham and Leeds games to be swapped!
Lars @ #259: If Chammy gets permission to stay for Filfthy Leeds then I respectfully suggest Gerv will too and also get a start. What odds on them flanking Titi in the middle???? Think your defensive & midfield options are spot on but AW likes to put an experienced guy in the defence too these days (Squilly does not count!) so my guess is the BFG. O2TC and the mythical Park on the bench??? Does that mean Almunia/De Gea gets to go in goal? Heh! Should be a right larf
Ollie @ #258 – That’s a mental image that’s going to take a while to eradicate, thanks!
Lars…you don’t think TH12 will feature against Leeds?? Surely he can manage them….
“You are all wrong and Evra is lying and Suarez has been the victim of a scandalous outrage!!!!!!”
(but we will not appeal because we haven’t got a leg to stand on but please don’t tell anyone)
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2012/jan/03/liverpool-luis-suarez-statement
Catalan: I sure hope he’ll feature (especially since I’ll be there to watch it), but would be quite surprised to see him start.
Lars above
It is utterly pitiful. No dignity or credibility left.
“I kicked you because you’re black” “I don’t speak to blacks”.
No nothing racist there at all. Clearly an FA set up. True pool fans must be embarrassed.
TS@263: yeah, you are probably right about Gervinho assuming he too gets permisson to leave a day later.
HEALTH WARNING FROM DLL:
________________________
DLL regrets to announce that a mild outbreak of The Sp*rs Virus (TSV) has been isolated in the east wing of The Quackery. Fortunately, only the resident pet and a few rodents have been diagnosed.
Until the victims have been vaccinated and disposed of, please do not enter the perimeter of The Quackery.
An update will follow when further information has been supplied by Messrs. T. & C.
if you think you have contracted TSV please report to The Quackery immediately and get your f’in ar*e out of the HT MkII.
Early symptoms are paranoid delusions, vile body odour, disfunction of most cranial activity other than motor reflexes and a belief that your football team will win the Premiere league with a chimpanzee as its main player and a tax evader as a manager.
FOYS!
Jaysus Ollie you were right! Sounds like a very bad disease indeed
Catalan@267: I haven’t read the full FA report but the excerpts I have read are pretty convincing. There is little doubt in my mind that Suarez did say something really stupid.
Any regular folk thinking of departing the HT Mk II before the St. Totteringham station should know, and I have it on good account, that the train will not slow down as you jump ship.
You should, therefore, be prepared to tuck and roll as you hit the gorund.
As for my faithful bretheren and fellow supporters – see you on the high ground.
BMBD!
The Jesus Baby Doll sits in a seat in the First Class Compartment,waiting for departure.
JBD looks very fetching in an off the shoulder,plum colored dress with matching undergarments.
The outfit is complimented by a pair of very small black pair of Jimmy Choo’s and a matching handbag.
On the platform there is a destination board which reads next train departing is the all stops to the Pearly Gates.
Also on the platform stands a forlorn looking young male.
He gazes fondly through the train window at the BJD sitting proud and erect inside.
He thinks back to the last conversation they had in his bedroom in the
family house in the village.
Young Man” But Baby Jesus Doll,why do you want to go back to heaven to see your Father,?? I thought you were happy here with me.”
BJD ” It’s unfinished business i’m afraid young man,I still haven’t gotten over being left behind that fateful Easter when the Non Believers staged a coup here on Earth and i ended up very cross on the Cross.!!
In the very limited communications between my Father and i since that day,he has always maintained that he thought i was in the advanced party that fled the day before.
My mother pretends she cannot remember,and Moses goes all shifty eyed when i raise the subject.
I have always wondered whether father was aware of my fondness for female garments,and left me behind on purpose to punish me.
So i am going home to have it out with him once and for all.”
Young Man,” But couldn’t you just ask him via email or phone him.?”
BJD “I’m afraid i cannot take his word for it anymore,he has been very Liberal with the truth over the years,indeed i remember he always denied taking the very long odds posted by the Pearly Gates Betting Office on me managing to feed the five thousand with a few Loaves and Fishes,he also denied taking the equally generous odds posted about Moses parting the Red Sea.
But the Angel Gabriel,who is not averse to a punt himself,told me in confidence that he had seen my Heavenly Father dressed incognito,down at the Bookmakers on both days in question,so i hardly think it is a coincidence.
Indeed Gabriel also told me that the HF had been seen in the betting shop placing a substantial bet at very juicy odds on Trevor Brooking scoring with his head in the Cup Final against Arsenal.!!
So young man,his word is not sufficent anymore,i have to confront him face to face and find out once and for all about the surreal events surrounding that Easter Parade from all those centuries ago.
There was i thinking i was going to see the Easter Bunny and go on a Easter Egg treasure hunt,and instead i end up nailed to the cross.!!”
Young Man,” I will really miss you baby Jesus Doll,who will i have to talk to on all these cold lonely nights,who can i show off my new female outfits to after you are gone.?”
The young unknown Male is shaken back to the present as the whistle blows to signal the Trains departure,he blows the BJD a forlorn kiss as the train slowly departs.
wouldn’t it be refreshing if, just for once, a footballer owned up and took responsibility?
ie Suarez – I’m a racist cannibal. Sorry about that.
Barton – I’m a hypocritical cunt. Soz.
Terry…. I’m an adulterous… etc etc etc….
Rooney: i Am sorey, my gRanie sez i kArnT plaY twodei….
@ 273, that clears up… quite a lot methinks.
Catalan: it would certainly be refreshing. But I’m not holding my breath for it to happen.
Although The Walcott did actually admit to (and apologized for) having dived to try and win a penalty after last season’s Leeds game at home.
Thanks for the link Lars.
I now have a reasonably justifiable motive to dislike Liverpool (Hell, I might have to pull their lone representative off my fantasy squad).
How very dare them, in their dissembling attempt at explanation, seek to through America under the bus. “Dear football supporters, we think the FA to be wrong, but we will be better than America – whose bigotry …yada, yada… and so we will not appeal.”
WTF?
The U.S., while still having a long way to go, has made strong efforts in increasing diversity/inclusion for players, managment, executive management, and ownership for each of our major sports. Unfortunately, governments and rule-making bodies can not legislate what lies in the hearts of men.
Scousers can just fuck off as far as I am concerned. (We’ll see about the FFL issue? – my hypocrisy knows no bounds
)
BMBD.
It seems Lucky Sp*rs won 1-0. Fuck.
Sounds like a case for the lovely Cecilia @ 273. Best bring the meds.
I think we can conclude now that Man City will beat Liverpool, 3-0 up and one minute of added time to go. We’re still in fifth, in other words, and Liverpool’s goal difference a bit dented. At least that is one good result in this set of games.
Anyway, off to bed now – see you tomorrow!
I still can’t understand why you guys care what Liverpool do. The best they can be this year is 6th. Especially with Suarez now out for 6 EPL matches (2 in the CC).
They are poor.
I know I’m writing this after we squandered a lead in the 85th minute, but still, we are miles better than Liverpool.
Hello Snir, good to see you back an on form. I agree with you about Liverpool. I find it incredible they spent £35 million on Caroll, £20m on Henderson, £20m Downing, simply defies belief.
Got called to do some work earlier this morning, – how very dare they!
Was going to add how sweet it was to see Barton get his just desserts by some ‘play acting’ and for Colin Wanker to break out into mad professor laughter over it!
Hope they go down now. This years Hull with the oxygen thief on board in my book.
Geoff @ 283
Pinch yourself mate, that could very much have been us had the boo boys had their way early season.
Clive @273
So the Son of God is a tranny ? I know someone who will be pleased 
Lars/Catalan/Lonestar – The Liverpool statement is completely shameful . It amounts to nothing more than ” We’re right , but we ain’t going to appeal because only we understand the case ” .
Utterly shameful that they can’t admit their player was caught bang to rights and must now pay the price , whilst at the same time advocating a Kick Racism out of Sport line .
Are they being deliberately obtuse ? No-one at the FA has called Suarez a racist , merely that he used racist language . Even if the word negrito has no racist undertones in Uraguay (which I doubt – where were the Black Uraguayans giving evidence to that effect if that were the case ?) , the context in which he referred to Evra’s skin colour was clearly not a friendly one . Bang to Rights .
Liverpool an absolute laughing stock . The FA should issue a line-by-line rebuttal of this nonsense and make it clear that unless Liverpool shut the f*ck up , they will face a points deduction .
Watched the whole of The Spuds game . Convinced they will be overhauled . They scored from their one decent chance in the second half and for the last 15 were hanging on against a very ordinary West Brom . Had the Baggies shown a little more attacking intent a bit earlier , it might have been different .
Willing to bet a lot of dough that their final points tally will be much much closer to 4th than 1st . Already signs that they don’t have the requisite quality when the pressure is really on .
Hi Geoff – I’m a bit calmer now, thanks
You know how football brings out the best and worst of you, and yesterday was the worst, unfortunately.
The title might be out of reach this year, but we’ll get at least 3rd (we have to, to be above Spurs, don’t we? According to all the “experts” there is no chance they’ll be out of the top 4), and with the right striking addition we can challenge for the title with this group next year.
I literally can not wait for Bac and Jack to come back. They are oh so important to this team.
Kieran Richardson?????
WTF????
282 Snir – I think I only care how Liverpool are doing because it’s funny after every man and his dog spent the summer saying how they’d finish above us.
bathgooner – I think Richardson isn’t that bad for a month or two until Santos and/or Gibbs come back.
You have to remember it’s a loan deal for a LB in January, that means he can’t be top class. Top class LBs are not available for loan in January and I’d rather have him than Bridge or whatever.
Unless AW finds a LB somewhere like he found Kos and so many others.
Charlie – Does it matter what people say? We were supposed to be out of the top 4 for the last 4 seasons.
Tabs,
Good points @ 185. Afraid Im with Zico on the DJ front – I think he boxed above his weight last season and with the emergence of Miguel, one could even argue if he’ll be the 4th choice CB next season? Don’t get me wrong, I do think he’s a talented player to have in the squad – but I just don’t think he’ll ever be good enough to displace TV, Kos or Merts. As for DCM – I agree when you discount his potential in this area and don’t really think he’s ever really featured there for us has he?
While I take the point on the Rosicky / Bennyoun combo as being somewhat static, Theo provides little more on the goalscoring front – and that really has been the bane of all our troubles – were just not efficient enough in taking our chances.
And I couldnt agree more when you say that you remain unconvinced that were much better than either Chelsea or ‘Pool. The only fear I have in relation to Spurs – is that I do think they’ll strenghten their defense during the window. I’d have more confidence in them spending that I would in Wenger. Having said that, I mentioned earlier that Brady spoke on RTE about Wenger buying a 2nd striker and I only hope TH is in addition as opposed to being instead of that person. On the rare times he ever speaks about transfers at the club he’s generally bang on the money.
TS – Happy 47th Birthday. I think it was Henry James who said “live all you can, its a mistake not to!”
Snir Geuli, I don’t think Richardson is being cited as a LB loan so much as an AW economy midfield purchase. Frankly scary at several levels.
291 Snir – when they look stupid after, yes it does!
bath – I’m pretty sure he’s being considered as a LB loan. He’s been playing LB for a couple of seasons now at Sunderland.
Get in!
BMBD.
Dammit.
BMBD.
Lobs the ball forward towards the box…
Av it……
Get in!
What a strike Snir the ball goes through the net and Refs are having a chat are they going to disallow it?
Well in Snir, showing good goalscoring form as of late, going to be giving the manager a few selection problems soon
Richardson? What about Taiwo? Does the Champs League last-16 issue crop up or something?
Evening all. Not had much time to catch up but I must say Kierran Richardson???? Please just tell me that is paper trash?
TaBS – the FA called in S American language experts who confirmed that the way in which the word was used was indeed offensive. Weirdly overlooked by LFC
Hey Wind. I know you missed the game, but you should have seen RVP’s face when Kos scored. A mixture of pure elation and relief. Like someone had taken a great weight off his shoulders.
I wish I could of seen it abb, tomorrow should give me a chance to access the internet not through my phone, I should be able to find highlights somewhere
If his face is the picture that you describe, then it only highlights the need for a proper striker partner for him other than TH12 for 2 months, whether it be Podolski or Huntelaar or whoever we’ve been linked with, the captain’s an amazing man, but a man nevertheless.
He can’t do it all, even if that is his wish.
The striking burden must be shared.
Wind, I think Robin was geniunely happy for Kos. But sadly, RVP has had to carry the team offensively way too long. Not fair for him or the team. Just don’t understand why the OX isn’t given a chance. Hopefully he starts in the Leeds fixture and convinces Arsene he is ready to play with the big boys. After all, most of us think he is. That has to count for something!
abb, I did expect The Ox to get a run-out against QPR, but it didn’t happen. When I saw that he wasn’t on the bench against Fulham, I was certain that he’d start against Leeds. You know, squad rotation, resting the 1st team, but lately I’m not so sure, when you hear talk of Squillaci ‘visibly shudders’ starting against Leeds, you wonder who will occupy the midfield, maybe Rosicky and Benayoun will be handed starting berths as well. All I’m saying is, I do hope the Ox features against Leeds, otherwise I will go to the bowling alley and bowl myself a spare.
You’re right abb, with all of this collective thinking, it has to count for something! Hopefully Wenger will see this passionate post & others and give the Ox a run-out to spare my sanity
Wind, We want you sane and not bowling, or playing golf (heaven forbid). Cheers!
Arseblog today:
“For me the anger and the accusations are too quick to resurface after what has been, for the most part, a great show of character and spirit by this Arsenal team.”
I couldn’t agree more and that’s likely the reason some of my comments last night were somewhat more acerbic than normal or reasonable.
My tendency to poke back when someone pokes the team/the club/the boss in the eye is difficult to contain. Just a little balance, some positive words when things are going splendidly, would render some credibility and give the uninspiring negativity some (very marginal) merit.
I’m only saying.
Fuck Podolski sigh Snir Gangoli Mr Wenger! He is a goal machine (0;
Scene: The end of the world as we know it has narrowly been averted. The events that suddenly set off the cataclysmic storms over West London had ended without warning just as suddenly as it had begun.
(The story so far)
Several Holics are huddled together inside the concourse of the Fulham Broadway Railway Station awaiting the Happy Train that is rumored to be on its way to rescue all Holic survivors. Those Holics able to walk has decided to set off on foot to find other modes of transportation. But others too frail to walk or perhaps with very long journeys to make decide to wait on the Happy Train. While they wait a few scabby looking characters wearing Arsenal scarves but not really looking like Arsenal supporters at all try to push their way onto the platform. A rather nasty battle ensued. The brave Holics engaged the suspicious-looking characters in unharmed combat behind the rallying cry of Snir Gangoli and BtM until they were driven back to whence they came. After an uneasy night, calm finally fell over the group and a few begin to speculate about the possible causes of the disaster:
Clive: As I have said repeatedly recently, the signs have been there for all to see..it should really have come as no surprise that we would be found wanting the moment the pressure was on us..
Lars: I feared the worse when I woke up this morning to be honest. The other night I dreamed that Stoke had somehow managed to field two teams in the Premier League and that they were due to play each other. In the dream I was some sort of Atomic Scientist and I had calculated that if both Stoke teams were allowed to play each other then that would set off a cataclysm that would destroy the entire world. I was running around trying to convince world leaders of the impending tragedy and even posted my fears on Goonerholic but no one would take me on. I awoke in a cold sweat. I have been unsettled ever since….
Steve T: But in all honesty Lars we can’t blame this on Stoke or anyone else but ourselves. If you ask me we have looked tired and berift of ideas for several weeks now. RvP simply cannot be expected to manage on his own…
Arthur: I agree, I knew that it was only a matter of time before something disastrous happened – and it did!
Catalan: Pero lo que un montón de putas que son eh?..Oh sorry, I mean what a bunch of whores they are..Fulham no?
Snir: What’s that word you used to described them?
Catalan: Putas..
Snir: Yea fucking Putas..Just like fucking Leeds. The only way to put this disaster behind us to to kill those fuckers next week..
PUTAS!! cried the assembled Holics and immediatly began to feel better. They began to smile as they contemplated stuffing the contemptible putas of Leeds next week. With that happy thought the Holics decided to relax and await the arrival of the Happy Train…….
GT @ 313
Too right! I hear that the Ox sharpens his horns as we speak…
I’ve just realised who my son’s teacher is!!
Bloody hell, I just read Suarez’s statement too and it is simply pathetic. The only way they could have made it anymore cringeworthy is if they had filmed it using a soft-focus lens and in the background put on some violin music.
Liverpool FC as a club really has come across as nothing but a bitter old has-been in this case.
BTM @ 311 I’m in agreement with you there!
Steve T @ 304 That paper is trash!
By the way I will give Arsene credit for one thing! We have asked him for a harder, bigger and more physical team with a sprinkle of experience and that’s what we have at present, so well done boss!
We are now just mainly asking him for another striker. If only Henry steps in for two months I have a hunch we will again get what we ask for by the summer!
Just hope nobody else crucial to the squad leaves.
So Arsene if you’re reading no more crucial departures this summer and good back up for RVP please!
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-16394421
No mention of the monster? :s
Morning All,
Joe @ #292 – Thanks for your kind wishes. I’m in full agreement with Mr. Henry James
It’s really sad to see a big club like Liverpool respond in the way that it has to the unquestionable and wholly unacceptable racism of Suarez. How would you feel if you were a black employee of LFC? Someone needs to pull that club through with barbed-wire. Shameful.
And the timing of LFC ‘s pathetic statement on the same day as the Steven Lawrence convictions. Squirm.
Heh, good point Dr C. Truly sad.
Sorted for Blackburn.
Spot-on Dr.C @ #322. Monumentally awful…. and we thought AFC’s ‘PR’ was poor….
Ollie – Seeking revenge for the 3-4 debacle earlier in the season? Top man!
Not posted for a while but having seen a few comments in the drinks regarding our Korean enigma, just thought I’d throw this in the mix
Manure Park vs. Our Park, Pre EPL
Club Apps Goals Year
Manure Park Kyoto 76 13 2002
PSV 64 14 2002/2005
Our Park
FC Seoul 69 23 2003/2005
Monaco 91 25 2007/2010
Obviously their EPL records do not bear comparison but having both captained their country it is baffling to say the least how our Park has not been able to make even the slightest bit of headway in the EPL. Who knows, maybe Manure Park was a total one off in terms of Asian players or maybe our Park just misses his mums kimchi too much?
Whilst we’re at it, Soju shots all round.
Apologies, Our Park was FC Seoul 2005/2008 and Monaco 2008/2011. – Strong stuff that Soju
I see Blog’s post this morning pretty much sums up where I’m coming from re: reinforcements in January.
My expectations remain low in terms of any signings outside of Henry unless we lose a player or two and I think that is unlikley too but not impossible.
Having said that, maybe a LB on loan if we can find the right player i.e. NOT Wayne Bridge.
It’s all Greek to me, Hellas.
*gets coat*
Heh! Nice post hellas, good to see you in here again
Maybe our Park will feature in the squad on Monday? If not, he could be the most productive signing made by Arsenal since Clive (ShakeMyFatHandArsene) Allen
TS: if we don’t see Park in the squad on Monday then there just has to be something fishy going on.
According to Jamie at Young Guns….
“Francis Coquelin is close to agreeing a new deal with Arsenal until 2015, as confirmed by L’Équipe. Great decision. Top prospect.”
Couldn’t agree more. ALANS???
Lars @ #331
Indeed! Raw like kimbap
Lars (again!)
According to Blogs, Park is playing in The Stiffs today. Woo hoo!
According to blogs, TS?
Or, as usual, according to :
https://twitter.com/#!/arsenallive
Ryo and Ox playing too.
http://www.lequipe.fr/Football/breves2012/20120104_101208_coquelin-jusqu-en-2015.html
According to this, Le Coq HAS signed an extension.
Either way Ollie, good news….
Extension for Le Coq, like it!!
heh (I’ll say it again, no it’s not a duplicate comment, or does the ‘duplicate comment’ mechanism work by checking the whole of the drinks for one session, rather than immediate duplication? Baffling. In that case, yes I may already have said ‘heh’ on these here drinks, fair enough).
hellas @ #339 – Uplifting even
From the usual F365 mediawatch:
Sorry: Really The Hardest Word, It Seems
November 8: After the FA announce they are to investigate what Luis Suarez said to Patrice Evra, Suarez says:
“Now we have to wait to see this issue decided and then the Manchester player and I will have to clear things up. Depending on who ends up in the wrong, one of us will have to apologise.”
January 3: After the FA panel announce their findings, which place Suarez ‘in the wrong’, Suarez says:
“I will carry out the suspension with the resignation of someone who hasn’t done anything wrong and who feels extremely upset by the events. I do feel sorry for the fans and for my team mates whom I will not be able to help during the next month. It will be a very difficult time for me.”
Silly us. When he said he would have to apologise, we rather naively assumed he meant to Evra.
Afternoon All ,
Joe @292 – Your usual good sense . I, too , would be very surprised if Djourou amounts to anything more than a squad player now . Last season could and should have been his breakthrough season – his failure to maintain his form to the end of the season (albeit after injury at OT ) , and a dodgy start to this season , has probably seen that chance go .
As for Theo , he really is the most frustrating player . I really don’t buy the jibes that he is either brainless (in football terms) , or that he flatters to deceive . There have been too many occasions when he has allied his searing pace to an end product for that accusation to hold credence . That said , his funks are often longer and more sustained than they should be . Whether this is because he needs to be in tip-top condition to produce his best , whether it is because he is at odds with the Club over a new contract , who can say ?
What is true now , and as Theo himself is keen to point out , is that he is , notwithstanding his still tender years , a senior player . It is time to produce on a consistent basis . Too often he still goes missing , whilst his confidence remains spectacularly brittle . I say all this as one of his biggest supporters , as I still see him as a potential world-beater . It is to be hoped that with the Ox breathing down his neck , Theo will be galvanised into producing the form that was evident during our unbeaten run . One can’t help feeling he is not too many more poor performances away from being dropped .
Hope you’re right and That Chippy’s prediction amounts to more than TH14 .
Mr C @305 – yes I saw that . Sorry to keep banging on about this , but I really do think that Liverpool’s stance beggars belief . Today’s papers would seem to suggest that there is universal condemnation for the way that Liverpool have behaved . That unanimity of opinion tells its own story .
The FA have for once been completely open , transparent and accountable in detailing how they reached their decision . For that transparency to be met with King Kenny muttering darkly that he knows what was “not in the report” without elucidating what that omission is , is simply the obfuscation of the Guilty .
Putting all club bias aside , (and a visceral hatred of Liverpool) , I like Kenny Dalglish . Notwithstanding I think he is yesterday’s man as regards football management , he comes over as an innately decent man whose actions throughout the Hillsborough tragedy were laudable .
That this shameful episode has happened on his watch , and indeed has seemingly been driven by him , makes Liverpool’s position all the more baffling .
Such is the condemnation that Liverpool run the very real risk of damaging their global brand name unless there is a softening of their position and an apology .
It is a salutary lesson to those in positions of power who place the needs of team unity above the laws of the land .
BTM @311 – Wise words . Understand completely the need to defend the Club against those who only seek to attack .
GT @313 heh
Good stuff Hellas . Park remains a mystery .
TS – Good news re Coquelin .
Re: GT @313: Good stuff! Not sure how Snir Gangoli could lead the pack against the roving hordes on the platform though as I think he must have been buried in i-phone assisted statistical analysis at the back of the pack.
Personally speaking, I don’t see the need for Le Coq extension.
Heh Catalan
I see the reserves are 2-0 down at half time.
Doom spreading.
tabs: “Such is the condemnation that Liverpool run the very real risk of damaging their global brand name unless there is a softening of their position and an apology .”
Very true.
And quite frankly, Dalglish going on about “you don’t know what is not in the report” and his insinuation that the whole thing is a set-up must be bordering on illegal.
Catalan: didn’t your parents teach you that it’s rude to brag?
Ollie: and Park blasted the best chance over the bar from inside the area
To be fair, hellas, RvP has done that on a couple of occasions in recent games too :p (comparing the incomparable, I know, but FACT
)
Lars, nah, the persecution complex is integral part of the Mugsmashers global brand identity.
Ryo Miyaichi’s playing in today’s reserve game?
Thought he was injured
Good point by Blogs about Campbell arriving next year. Doubt he wants to “kill him”. So maybe less likely another striker arriving beyond Thierry……
Ollie / Cognac – any idea how he’s doing in France?
Heh Lars! They did.
They also told me that those who shouted the most normally had nothing to shout about!
Haven’t seen him play much, Dr C, but I’d say OK yet not so great.
Remember his attitude was discussed by Gourcuff Sr at some point.
Not sure he’s playing many full games, and that’s despite Aliadière having been a bit injured (quelle surprise!), think Lorient may have just signed yet another striker too, so we’ll see.
Finally on Arsenal Player, watching the 12 min highlight video of the match, a few thoughts.
Ramsey’s ball in to Kos – Exquisite, just amazing.
How a penalty for that challenge on Gervinho wasn’t given, I’m not sure, shocking.
Coquelin bombing own the left wing is a delight to see, skins left and right
Their keeper David Stockdale, don’t know how he kept us out after our bombardment of his goal, its like keeper that face us make deals with the devil for heightened keeping ability when the Arsenal roll around
Both widemen in Theo and Gervinho shouldn’t of came off, we started to get dominated on the wings, Dempsey’s effort on the goal beating out Mertesacker in the air was worrying.
And also, Mertesacker lost the ball at his feet too easily for the Djourjou sending off, very poor of him.
Wasn’t helped by the cunting referee booking him again lightly.
Finally, Squillaci stepping onto the pitch in the red and white strikes fear in my soul.
I hear he might start against Leeds, hope he’s shipped on in the transfer window.
Ollie @351 – heh
Here’s a question . Name a Scouser to have played for Arsenal . Off the top of my head I’m struggling .
Was Geoff Barnett from that neck of the woods ? I know that he played for Everton before us .
I forgot Gavin Hoyte was still at the club. Don’t even know where Justin is these days (still at ‘boro?)
Still at Boro Ollie , and playing regularly .
Ah got one – Joe Mercer . Still , we must have had a few since 1954 !
Unless , perhaps we operate an anti-scouser recruitment policy ? Fully in favour , if that is the case .
Can we get him back on loan?
I thought of Mercer too, tabs, but googled it to check whether he was actually from there, and no he isn’t exactly a Scouser.
He is from Cheshire….as is Geoff Barnett it seems!
I’m sure we must have had some proper scousers over the years though.
I stand corrected Ollie .
As you say , there must have been a few , but there are none that immediately spring to mind . No doubt , Holic and Clive may come up with a couple .
Yep, no doubt: I was going to say just that
Francis Jeffers ?
If Francis Jeffers is the only example, I vote we go back to the embargo!
Of course, tabs! How could we forget about the Fox in the Box?
Don Vito back to Hull.
http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/keeper-mannone-joins-hull-city-in-loan-deal
Wow Catalan at 322 you went there? Hoorah! And fuck those has-beens Liverpool!
TS @ 338, I consider Bridge to be well and truly inappropriate for our club!
Mr C – embargo it is then
Can’t think of any others .
Ollie @367 – It has just dawned on me that the hapless spanish waiter is more than likely to play between the sticks on monday . Heaven help us . Am I the only one who would prefer to see a stronger side than the one mooted by Lars earlier in the drinks ?
Whilst top 4 remains the top prize and of course the priority , actual Premiership silverware would appear beyond us . Whilst the Champs League is a cup competition and anything can happen , surely only the most rose-tinted think we will win it . The Cup on the other hand represents a good chance to end the trophyless years and I’ve just got a feeling in my Speedoes .
Hope we retain a strong heart . Finish ‘em off first time round , avoid needless replays , or God forbid , an ignominious exit which might have a negative affect on morale .
Sches
Yennaris Bfg Kos Miguel .
Coq Song
Rosicky
Ox Henry(!) Benny .
I’m with you on that, tabs, especially considering the decent period of rest before/after the game.
Better have a strong team play together than just the strong team back for Swans away with promises to be a tough game.
Next 2 League games could either spell A New Hope or The Phantom Menace.
It’s Miquel though
Here’s to a strong team selection against Leeds in the FA Cup. I completely agree with you Tabs in every respect save for the feeling in your Speedoes, which I cannot vouch for.
i’m with you tabs, part of me says we should make the FA cup an equal priority to finishing top 3 (note not top 4).
A lot of our fans would welcome the relief of landing a trophy post Highbury that would shut up the moronic media “haven’t won s trophy blah blah blah”, but more importantly its the hunger it instills for more that is the most critical aspect.
Arsene should realise this as much as we do – but I have found some of his team selections this season eccecntric in the extreme, so anything could happen on Monday. Almunia? *shudders*
At least the FA sent Joey Barton packing, along with his red card appeal. First steps are good, but may I suggest a second step of pulling out their red card on Phil Dowd?
Ah , glad I’m not the only one !
Agree with all of the above , especially the taste for trophies which Dr Z mentions . Just realised my line-up omits our misfiring Russian . Maybe put him in instead of Benny , with Benny to come on for Rosicky on the hour mark .
This picking a team malarkey certainly tricky !
Ollie – apologies – ahem – Miquel . *Repeats to self 100 times*
Btw , I know it’s only paper nonsense , but I don’t think Kieran Richardson is a particularly bad shout , as a short term option .
In other news , The Speedo Massive continue to plummet . Going down faster than Gillian Taylforth on the M1 . 7th !!!! An all-time low . Wolfie appears clueless as the vultures gather . Problem is , Carlos Kickemhard has been installed as 1-2 favourite to be installed as new manager . Could signal a change of direction in which all opponents are unceremoniously shot prior to the game kicking off .
WordPress, will you let me bloody post now!?!
Richardson would do me till the 60 per day (fags/pies/both) man comes back.
An upgrade on Wayne du Pont imho.
Hello all
I’m climbing up the corrupted HT table, with a fairly clean team too
Come on Fingernails!
Ahhh…. The GT Rollers climbing the HT league in tandem with ATG.
Knocked out of the FFL cup in the 3rd round by the dirtiest team imaginable! Mancs, Adebywhore, Monkey Boy and SHAWCROSS of all people…..
Quite frankly if they are letting players like that into their cup then I’d rather not be in it!
I’m just like Arsenal… 5th, and this close to the top 4.
I have been silently watching the Saurez/Evra debate on here.
So let me see if I got this right: all the indignation about the cringe-worthy attempts at damage control by Suarez and Liverpool is surely not sympathy for that wanker Evra is it? Tell me it is not so! One of my favorite persons on here even went as far as suggesting an apology was due to that bastard! Well I beg to differ. The simple fact is that none of his team mates standing nearby were willing to back up his claim. Evra even admitted to winding up the Liverpool player before the Liverpool player snapped. All Gooners know from personal experience that Evra is a contemptible (my word for 2011) fucking twat!! If it was me I would have punched him full in the face. And before anybody accuses me of racism please note that I myself am Black and I don’t think that such a charge of racism would hold up in a court of law! Of course this is only my personal opinion and not the official policy of this bar…
Our next left back, mates:)
http://www.givemefootball.com/premier-league/asian-full-back-handed-arsenal-trial
* 2011 = 2012 of course..duh
@ Olivia: the article says that he plays in the Omani Second Division…hmmm. I wonder if I should pack my bags a have a shot at it myself!
In fact I hear that the Arsenal scouts are at the game today so I hope that I can catch the eye…* as he warms up on the touchline in readiness of a call to play the final 15-minutes..*
If we had scousers in the side we would be the only team who have to take a valuables bag out.
I had just finished writing up my thoughts on the match from the highlights, they were pretty good I think but the WordPress demon has stolen my post again
GoonerTerry
I think the charge was using racially abusive language rather than racism.
If he had just callled Evra a “cunt” then there would be no problem at all! In fact he would be applauded!
Reserves in action tonight. AW wanted to give TH a run out. Unfortunately he can’t play him because we still have not sorted out the insurance??????? How can that be? AW said that the moment he saw him train was the moment he wanted to sign him again. If that’s the case why did we not sort out the paperwork out so that the minute the window opened we were in a position to fax them to the authorities????
Sometimes I really do wonder what those in power actually do???? He is here for 2 months and already missed 2 potential run outs.
Come on Arsenal. Get a grip.
GT @ 382, I’m with you firing on all cylinders mate, Evra is a cunting whore in my opinion, if he wasn’t such a doosh, maybe this racism wouldn’t of happened to him.
If I saw him on the streets of London Town, I’d be inclined to cross the road and punch him into the face for insulting the mighty Arsenal last summer during the Na$ri saga.
Not sure I believe the rumours about that guy from Oman. Well, when I say “not sure” I mean “not at all”.
GoonerTerry: Evra being a cunt aside, I am annoyed with the general stupidity and hypocrisy of Liverpool. From the start, they have behaved very childishly and keep insinuating that there is somehow a conspiracy against them and Suarez. Suarez has never been accused of being a racist (the FA report explicitly says that neither Evra nor the FA panel believes him to be racist) but he HAS been accused of and found guilty of using racist language, something which Liverpool seemingly refuses to accept and instead tries to obfuscate the whole thing by banging on about what a nice an non-racist guy he is.
Obsfuc…obsfurek….obs…?? WHAT!!??
Are you all choosing big words to confuse me???
*runs to dictionary to find out what it means*
Here’s a thought:
Maybe Liverpool Football Club are just monumentally thick???
Lars@394 – with yu all the way about Evra – who I’m sure I’ve seen winding others up before now and seems to take refuge whenever anyone replies
Eases the obfuscating ball towards CG
Back from the touchline, brings ball out of defence and passes it to the left wing.
Must ask – has CG lost dictionary?
Oops – made a right ball of that one – result!
Wind, sorry about that. You seem to have upset my mate, Akismet, somehow.
Buggered if I can see how?
Bags another assist.
Good finish, cognac, made in France. Thierry is back.
GT, you’ll find no sympathy for Evra either here, but that doesn’t mean Suarez was completely wrong there and is indefensible.
I’ll keep saying it, but he could have just called Evra a cunt and be done with it: fair and accurate.
doesn’t mean.=> wasn’t, sorry for stupid syntax messing up my mind
Thanks Ollie et +1 on c*ntish manures
Lars – correction time!
Surez was not just accused and found guilty. He admited using rascist language. He tried to say he was being friendly in Spanish! Several different Spanish experts were called in and disagreed with Surez! So he’s also a lying little toad!
Catalan@395, you brag about your big you-know-what, and I’ll use big words…
SteveT: I would assume that the insurance thing is about money. Loan deals have fallen through on such matters before. Henry is a major star in the MLS, and they will want a massive insurance packade if anything would happen to him.
I actually think this article makes a lot of sense
http://www.football365.com/f365-says/7410929/F365-Says
Big words vs Big swords?
Could do with Everton finishing above Liverpool this year. Well, every year actually.
See Howard Webb is stripped for Man Utd again tonight – Newcastle stonewall penalty denied.
BA and one nil to Barcodes! Should have had a peantly too but hey it’s Man U and Webb!
Bravo Newcastle! 1-0 now. Even Webb couldn`t stop them… so far.
Zico agree on that one Webb and Man U one big soggy love affair!
I tell you what I wouldn’t mind having that BA at Arsenal!
Zico – Webb isn’t even trying to conceal his Man U support today.
While I don’t rate Avram Grant that highly, he HAS to be praised for bringing Ba to the EPL.
Oh, what a finish by Ba! Can not believe I thought he was crap at West Ham, must have seen the wrong games. Arsene, buy him NOW
Lars. I get all of that. Just don’t understand why it was not dealt with ages ago. Surely this has not come out of the blue?
Ba finish reminiscent of Wrighty in his prime!
OK I see what’s going on…HANDBRAKE!! You lot are all deliberately slowing play down in midfield and then sprinting towards the goal like a bunch of headless chickens – Invincibles you are NOT!!
I was hoping to get on the end of a cross at the death but I had to stop to tuck in my shirt what with all the scouts looking on and all…
GT, Are you still moping about missing the goal at 400, or is it 300?
Giggs should of got a yellow for the foul on BA!
Steve, it might not be down to us. The insurance company holds all the aces, the can hold us to ransom all they want.
How on earth have Manure achieved their playing record this season?
Disjointed performance, no shape or balance, zero midfield……
And no leadership
Lazy post >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
How on earth does Rooney not get sent off for dissent more?
He has to remember he isn’t the captain and can’t say what he wants to the ref.
But then again, you don’t get punished for cursing a teammate like Webb.
Geoff
Teams who bottle Man U loose to them, you need to be in their faces all the time!
Good link Ollie – agree with the article 100% .
GoonerTerry – It goes without saying that Evra is a massive c*nt , but that fact alone should not excuse Suarez or indeed LFC from the initial language or the self-protective nonsense that has followed .
To continue to plead their player’s innocence , and at the same time advocate a zero tolerance towards racism , seems to me to be completely at odds with any kind of logical position , given that use of the word was admitted ( by both Commoli and Suarez himself ) , and that the context was clearly not friendly .
Evra should be abused for many many things . The colour of his skin should not be one of them .
So Lars I understand your argument I think but I fail to understand the distinction between someone who make a racially abusive comment and an actual racist..Hmm – Nevertheless, I am sad that toerags like Evra enjoys the full protection of the law and can go on non-racially abusing all and sundry in an attempt to unsettle them before and during games. In my day he would have just got a smack in the gob and be done with it…I wish it was another (nicer) bloke involved so I could give a shit what was said to him instead of wanting to puke every time I have to read about it..(that was unexpectedly hard to get out)
A completely hairless young man pirouettes in the centre of his bedroom,he is wearing nothing but a beautiful salmon pink nightie.
Sitting on the bed is a Steve Jobs Doll,dressed in a miniature black skivvy and jeans,and wearing tiny black sneakers on his feet.
Young man,” what do you think of the color Steve,do you like it,??
I think it suits me perfectly,i haven’t got the matching briefs and bra set yet because they were not on the washing line when i stole this Nightie,so i will have to wait till next time.
Now Steve you must promise you won’t leave me like the Baby Jesus did,i was broken hearted when in happened.
You will promise won’t you,i couldn’t bear any more heartache.
My 2 best friends in the village are getting very suspicious about the amount of time i am spending alone in my bedroom,so i don’t know how much longer we can use this room as our hideaway.
But we will cross that bridge when we come to it.
I just need you to promise that whatever happens you will stay by my side.”
In the deeper recesses of his seriously damaged mind,the young man thinks he hears the doll speak,
” Don’t worry Sonny,i’m not going anywhere,did you not know you are The Apple Of My Eye.”
The young man smiles and hums mindlessly to himself as he pirouettes round and round.
Fade to Black.
@431
Me thinks the last line gives you away!
No matter, I am scared. Very scared.