Goonerholic: Eat, Sleep, Breathe, Drink, Arsenal

Steve, Neil, Nice To See You, To See You…

May 24th, 2012 by 'holic

Hello ‘holics. Today was officially new coaching team day as the official club site hit us with a wave of pieces about the recently promoted Steve Bould and Neil Banfield. You won’t be surprised to hear I am absolutely thrilled for both, but positively delighted to see ‘he’s got no hair but we don’t care‘ in as Arsene’s new number two.

The memories of Steve shoring up that famous Arsenal defence alongside Tony Adams are many and all totally positive. You won’t meet a Gooner of my vintage who won’t wax lyrical about Arsene’s first trophy with the club being secured by the skipper after a fantastic dinked through ball from Bouldy.

There is a popular groundswell of opinion that has sought to see the big man work with the first team back four for some time. It will be interesting to see just how much we develop defensively over the coming months.

It will also be intriguing to see if the appointment of men who have been concentrating on bringing through youngsters for the club will lead to more of their charges getting opportunities at the top level. Those who seek an end to Project Youth may just have got their answer.

So What Was Your Favourite Moment Of The Season?

Since @Arseblog has just let it be known on Twitter that I have shared his generously proportioned round table with @arse2mouse and @eastlower (don’t forget to listen in on Friday when you have an hour or so to spare) I would like to give ‘holics the opportunity to join in one of the discussions you will hear.

What was your favourite moment of the season? It doesn’t have to be a goal, a match, a playing moment. You may have shaken Clive Allen’s hand at your local Lidl store, or perhaps celebrated your son earning his first football medal by donning his teams kit for the trophy presentation. Whatever, let that discussion dominate the drinks rather than the endless soul-sapping transfer speculation.

Until the weekend, take care ‘holics.

Posted in comment | 276 Drinks

276 Responses to “Steve, Neil, Nice To See You, To See You…”

on 24 May 2012 at 9:47 pm1Lars

First?
on 24 May 2012 at 9:50 pm2Goonerholic

Well in Lars
on 24 May 2012 at 9:52 pm3zicoinexile

A Dr walked into a bar.

And it felt good.

Beer please – “his” tab.
on 24 May 2012 at 9:52 pm4Oxon Gooner

Well in Lars
on 24 May 2012 at 9:54 pm5Lars

Favourite moment of the season by a country mile: seeing Henry score v Leeds and then seeing the reactions of people around me at the stadium.
on 24 May 2012 at 9:55 pm6Lars

I suspect that you all waited for me to post first as a consolation for my rockbottomness in the HT Fantasy League
on 24 May 2012 at 9:57 pm7zicoinexile

I’ve already done my favourite moments of the season in an earlier drink, but the more I think about it, TH against Dirty Leeds will probably live with me longer than all the others from this season, so I will give it my nomination now on reflection

Can I also throw in John Terry’s bovine moment at the Bus Stop?
on 24 May 2012 at 9:57 pm8Sue'em Grabbit and Run

On behalf of our client, Mr O Gooner, we wish to plead innocent to any charges of plagiarism regarding his drink @4 above, and would like to enter a plea of total lack of imagination in mitigation. Should it help, our client calls upon the Guv’nor to supply drinks to all and any offended parties

—— Ends ——
on 24 May 2012 at 9:59 pm9Trev

Bould – Adams – Goal ! Would you Adams and Eve it !

Favourite moment of a few seasons that one.
on 24 May 2012 at 10:02 pm10Goonerholic

Tsk tsk, Oxon

Evening gents.

In other news, phew, it’s a scorcher!
on 24 May 2012 at 10:04 pm11Trev

Evening Major!
on 24 May 2012 at 10:04 pm12Kevtheveg

Without question best moment was leaving the ground with a grin like the proverbial Cheshire cat after beating the LWCs – the feeling at that moment is why I’m still going week in week out over 40 years after my dad first took me – as MasterCard say , priceless!
on 24 May 2012 at 10:04 pm13Lars

zico, the bovine moment is of course not too shabby either. As we have already said many times – this has been a season of many highs to go with the lows.
on 24 May 2012 at 10:07 pm14Goonerholic

Anybody who wants to take the missus to see the West Indies, get her a second-class return to Nottingham tomorrow…

Thank you for the inspiration Trev…
on 24 May 2012 at 10:09 pm15And lester

Being right down the barrel of RVP’s volley v Everton

“was that as good as I think it was?” i said to the bloke next to me

“i think so” he goes – then we watched the replay on the big-screen and both said “YESSSS it was” – and we went went bonkas again.

Oh, and securing thired
on 24 May 2012 at 10:11 pm16NS Gooner

Henry goal at Leeds for me, followed by Tomas’ goal against Spurs. Both celebrations were terrific.
on 24 May 2012 at 10:12 pm17We'll never be beyond that stage

Best moment of the season was the end of it, what an absolutely horrible, horrible season, lets hope that the club have learnt lesson’s from last summer and don’t fcuk things up again this summer.p.s arteta goal of the season against man citeh.
on 24 May 2012 at 10:14 pm18Oxon Gooner

Sorry ‘holic

Having attended a grand total of one match, no surprise that my favourite moments also come from the NLD.

I hadn’t heard the Chel$ki result in advance and when the nevvy told me, I remember turning to him and saying “So, we need to beat this shower by three goals to hold onto fourth place.”

After the match, walking round the Ems, discussing whether feeling that happy menat we were irrideemably shallow, and Bad People, I almost knocked over someone coming out of an exit with a big, silly grin on his face. Then I realised I was wearing one too.
on 24 May 2012 at 10:15 pm19NS Gooner

Apologies for the double post gents, but I must mention Gibbs’ block. Watching the pass to Billy Jones filled me with the most terrifying feeling of dread but the block allowed to just collapse in a feeling of bliss (albeit briefly). I swear I almost had a heart attack.
on 24 May 2012 at 10:15 pm20Trev

Kevtheveg almost beat me to it.

I think my favourite moment of this season, because of the sheer elation all round the ground – well, apart from the empty ‘Away’ section – was when our fifth goal went in against the Spuds.

Having been 0-2 down with our season about to disappear down the tubes, the whole place just went mad as that fifth goal hit the back of the net.

People all around me were jumping up and down and dancing in the arms of complete strangers. Brilliant!
on 24 May 2012 at 10:15 pm21Oxon Gooner

-menat
+meant
on 24 May 2012 at 10:25 pm22And lester

And big Pats on the back to the two new Bs on the first-team bench – Bouldy and Blanfield
on 24 May 2012 at 10:26 pm23And lester

pardon – Banfield…sounds a bit ominous, mind
on 24 May 2012 at 10:26 pm24Le Bob

Evenig, ‘holc.

Fave moments: Off the top of my head, Song’s run, dribble and cross for VP’s goal against Dortmund. Ridiculous, brilliant and a bit lucky all at the same time. Then there was Arteta’s rocket free kick v. Villa, and VP’s volley v. Everton.
on 24 May 2012 at 10:31 pm25Stan Kroenke

Seeing how much my shares are worth
on 24 May 2012 at 10:33 pm26Savage

My dad recorded the 5-3 against Chelsea and I have the file sitting on my drive. I’ve watched the highlights so many times that the game almost feels like it was from a previous season.

The frustration of the inevitable opening, created by a missed transfer target, with the commentator talking about a Lampard goal “that always resonates across the capital”. Then sweet as you like, Gervinho sets up Van, only to see us concede to another set piece, as JT apparently redeems himself from his racist quandary, while the camera pans to broad blue banners embracing the disgraced captain.

Djourou to Song, who swivels and lays off in one sublime moment, and through on goal, the commentator screams “Santos!”, he does his samba dance, turning his flawed first half upside down. Minutes later, Cole remonstrates, but Theo wiggles, to the annoyance of the co-commentator (he claims to be of Arsenal, but who would believe him) … and laces through the ball in non-Henry fashion – “what kind of a goal is that?!”

Then a rare moment when you say of the opposition, “wow, nice goal” – Mata slams it in and you can understand why the blue people like that one. But not to be, unreal as it might feel, a 4th in slow motion, RVP has time to look behind him before slotting in. And then “Arsenal have numbers here…” RVP winds up, it arcs in and the overflow lasts hours. I still see the moggy away fans in the corner, with Arteta sitting in his holding-beers pose.

My dad missed the game and is driving home. I ask on the mobile, “Did you see the game?” “No, what happened?” he replies anxiously. “We put five past Chelsea.” He replies to make sure he heard right: “We put five past Chelsea?”
on 24 May 2012 at 10:34 pm27Peter Hill-Wood

Pretending to sack Gazidis on April 1st !
on 24 May 2012 at 10:40 pm28Dr Feelgood

Finally getting away from those nutters on that bleeding train.
on 24 May 2012 at 10:47 pm29takeabowson

I think the season was full of great moments, and reckon I enjoyed this season more than any other since 07-08.

The joyous exhilaration of the NLD,JT grass-eating, late goals celebrated by a full away juicer of choice against Sunderland and Liverpool, doing the Posnan against City , TH12′s fairy-tale winner against Leeds, and the comeback v Milan.

If you pushed me however, bellowing to TH12 that he had a nice arse when he was warming up against Blackburn, and getting a grin in return is my standout moment .

And the bugger didn’t even buy me dinner !
on 24 May 2012 at 10:50 pm30garsguns

Evening holics favourite mo for me was after WBA game when we finished 3rd,walked down to my local and drank the €100 I took off the loudest mank you are likely to meet,who after our spanking at old toliet said we had no chance of a top 4..
on 24 May 2012 at 10:50 pm31GoonerTerry

Favorite moment? I have two. One complete and the other a “nearly” amazing moment:

1). Arteta nicks the ball, takes a few steps and curls a right foot shot pass Hart to beat Shitty..

2). The Ox picks up the ball in the inside right channel and darts for the area and cuts in between two Milan defenders. Penalty!

More than those individual pieces of brilliance was the team’s absolute pace, power & technique against top notch opponents. Those performances gives me hope that we will step to the next level next season..
on 24 May 2012 at 10:51 pm32Carlos Kickem'ard

Calling Gareth Le Cunt a wanker in The Tollie after Villa .
on 24 May 2012 at 10:54 pm33Wolfgang Smallballs

Winning the FFL and bringing out a new range of commemorative Speedoes to mark the event .
on 24 May 2012 at 10:55 pm34Big-eared Crisp Lover

Interviewing Wolfgang Smallballs.
on 24 May 2012 at 10:55 pm35Sybil

Marrying Andy Goram .
on 24 May 2012 at 10:57 pm36El Jefe

Leaving that bloody Mexican Gaol and working with Shaft .
on 24 May 2012 at 10:58 pm37Fly on the opposite Wall

Being sick on Darren Dein’s biscuit .
on 24 May 2012 at 10:59 pm38Lady Nina

Having a threeway with PHW and a Llama .
on 24 May 2012 at 11:00 pm39Nurse Wolfie

Attending to my Doctors needs .
on 24 May 2012 at 11:01 pm40Preacher Smallballs of the Church of Faith , Light and Speedoes

Joining Reverend AL’s church .
on 24 May 2012 at 11:02 pm41Goonerholic

TaBS

Take a bow son.

I had forgotten the Poznan. Fantastic moment. Even Block 32, Conservative Central, were at it
on 24 May 2012 at 11:03 pm42Borda Disorder

Getting out from under the table.

And discovering there was Jagermeister left.
on 24 May 2012 at 11:07 pm43A Nonny Mouse

Highlight of the season for me was Theo Walcott’s trick for his goal against Chelsea, where he pretended to fall over, left three men chin scratching, then belted it into the net
on 24 May 2012 at 11:15 pm44takeabowson

Heh Holic, that was certainly a great moment
on 24 May 2012 at 11:19 pm45And Lester nee Rev AL

Brother and sisters and all those in between my doors are always open (Oh Yeah! Hallelujah!) to all of YOUS! Up The Arse!
on 24 May 2012 at 11:19 pm46Arun - Indian Gooner

Sagna’s brilliant header against that lot when we were trailing 2-0 at home…Full back right in the thick of things,wandering in the box in open play…And the celebration with clenched fist – Season changer for me
on 24 May 2012 at 11:20 pm47Cesc Fabregas

Winning all those trophies…….
on 24 May 2012 at 11:21 pm48Holloway2Holland

Evening all.

Savage @26. Excellent drink.
===
I’m going to go a bit against the grain here as my favourite moments of the season all involved defencive players.

1) Sagna’s fuck off you LWC’s header, ball grab out of the net and run back to restart the game against the cunts.

As in your face a goal as you will ever see.
===
Woj’s unbelievable penalty stop against Udinesse at a crucial point in the game. The save that literaly guarenteed us CL footy and enabled us to make our deadline day signings.
===
Woj’s performance in the L’pool game.

Firstly for picking Kos up after his own goal and getting him to shake it off, secondly for insuring justice was done with (yet another) briliant penalty save and thirdly for making some absolutly top notch blocks to insure we (literaly) stole the points at Anfield.

For me, this was a major turning point, proving that we could also win ugly and gave the team a major boost.
on 24 May 2012 at 11:23 pm49Samir Nasri

Collecting my pay check.
on 24 May 2012 at 11:24 pm50zicoinexile

Wearing And Lester’s pint – could have been Rev AL’s first baptism
on 24 May 2012 at 11:33 pm51The BearMan

I will not over-react on these two new appointees as yet, until I see the result of their contributions.

We want to see the end of a leaky defence, plus individual personal performances improving. Where there is no improvements, players are at a stand still!
on 24 May 2012 at 11:35 pm52The BearMan

Coaches were being paid for contributing very little. I hope we see the end of that culture.
on 24 May 2012 at 11:36 pm53Samir Nasri

Aplication for the HT denied. ^^^^
on 24 May 2012 at 11:38 pm54Holloway2Holland

53 Fuck off you chinless carpet muncher this is my monniker.
on 24 May 2012 at 11:39 pm55Rev AL

Twas that Zico – a pint pot for a font at the church of the Tollie Brollie. Fanks, prayers and beers given in honour of Our Lord Dennis and mighty Arse victories.
Why – what gatherings – and as memorable for this old pastor as anythink that went on on the pitch in what was truly a most memorable season there too. Amen are always better than theirs.
on 24 May 2012 at 11:39 pm56Goonerholic

Quite right The BearMan.

Pat contributed fuck all really. Double and FA Cup as a player. All seven Wenger pots as number two. Check out who George Graham had in the dugout for all of his significant moments too.
on 24 May 2012 at 11:40 pm57takeabowson

I wonder if Bouldy will restart the original Tuesday Club ? Reckon Santos will be up for it .
on 24 May 2012 at 11:41 pm58Holloway2Holland

How dare you ‘holic sir.

Putting facts in the way of a good moan.
on 24 May 2012 at 11:48 pm59Goonerholic

Always thought the Tuesday club was a misnomer. Some of those boys could do it any night of the week…
on 24 May 2012 at 11:56 pm60takeabowson

Haha true Holic .

Always thought Bouldy played his hand really well. Always in amongst it, but never really copped any flak apart from one occasion when he was fined with,I think, Paul Merson for getting pissed at some formal do .

I think he was Allan Lamb to Tony Adams’ Ian Botham .
on 25 May 2012 at 12:00 am61snowy

Favourite moment of the season – blimey that’s a tough one…

On the pitch, Sir Chez’s immaculate double save at Klanfield.

Off the pitch, almost certainly the spontaneous Poznan against City.

Honourable mention in despatches however for the moment after Wigan away when our Pole in the Goal shushed us travelling supporters up, and then led a quick sing song for us all…boy’s a genius

Now, since I have a day’s leave tomorrow, is it time for the Jaegerbombs yet?
on 25 May 2012 at 12:07 am62Goonerholic

Ah, wish tomorrow was a leave day, although some would argue I have the next best thing, snowy.

I am going to be a human sheepdog for the day. No, seriously…

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/jobs/9142813/Shepherd-offers-team-building.html
on 25 May 2012 at 12:17 am63snowy

Blimey ‘holic – you best have some Jaegerbombs then
on 25 May 2012 at 12:18 am64Holloway2Holland

Baa, humbug.
on 25 May 2012 at 12:18 am65Goonerholic

I don’t have to tell you what lunch is, do I?
on 25 May 2012 at 12:22 am66Trev

£400 to £2,000 !

Must have seen ewe coming.

Ewe’ve been fleeced.

Don’t be nervous in front of the sheep – you can’t do it with an attack of the collie-wobbles.

Goodnight ! Drinks are on the ………. baa!
on 25 May 2012 at 12:23 am67takeabowson

Do you get to dress up as a Sheepdog Its a Knockout stylee Holic ?
on 25 May 2012 at 12:24 am68Trev

More likely they’ll all be mutton dressed up as lamb, Tabs
on 25 May 2012 at 12:25 am69Goonerholic

I has wellies and and a teeshirt. Them sheep should be very worried tonight…
on 25 May 2012 at 12:25 am70Holloway2Holland

Don’t flock with the shepards, they’re true gooners.

They go all the way back to the days of Wool-ich Arsenal.
on 25 May 2012 at 12:29 am71takeabowson

Haha .
on 25 May 2012 at 12:31 am72Snir Geuli

RvP’s 2nd goal at Anfield.

One of the best days of my life.
on 25 May 2012 at 12:31 am73Trev

Can you make a ewe turn ‘Holic ?
on 25 May 2012 at 12:32 am74Snir Geuli

http://www.flickr.com/photos/78565425@N03/6887579138/in/photostream

http://www.flickr.com/photos/78565425@N03/6887580308/in/photostream
on 25 May 2012 at 12:34 am75Holloway2Holland

Alan Shearer won’t be there will he?
on 25 May 2012 at 12:35 am76Trev

Demba Baa might be.
on 25 May 2012 at 12:38 am77Holloway2Holland

Alan Lamb too.
on 25 May 2012 at 12:43 am78Goonerholic

Oh dear God, no …
on 25 May 2012 at 12:44 am79takeabowson

Alan Minter ?
on 25 May 2012 at 12:45 am80Les

Living in Hong Kong and only having been back for two matches this season my favourite moment is when a mate from Hong Kong took his 85 year old dad to see the Spurs match.

I was watching on TV at home and we were texting.

When we got to 4 I asked how the old boy was and the answer was

“he’s gone absolutely potty”

He wasn’t the only one
on 25 May 2012 at 12:46 am81takeabowson

Stan Collymore ?
on 25 May 2012 at 12:48 am82Holloway2Holland

Calista Flockhart.

Okay, I’ve obviously drunk too much.

Nighty night.

And no, I won’t be counting………….
on 25 May 2012 at 12:49 am83takeabowson

Me too . Night all .
on 25 May 2012 at 1:14 am84behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Best moment of the season for me. Rosicky v. Sp***

Get in!!!
on 25 May 2012 at 2:32 am85Shaft

Moment of the season for me is melting Michel Platini in Crete.
Good riddance to fat rubbish….
on 25 May 2012 at 2:37 am86Cannons of Rhetoric

My moments of the season are;

-Redknapp being taken to court for tax-evasion, having to admit he’s an idiot who can’t read, write or think, and in the process losing the England job (which was never going to him in the first place!)

-RVP’s hat-trick against the blue scum, 5-2 against the LWCs

-Seeing Everton score 4 at Old Trafford. An ABU’s dream…
on 25 May 2012 at 2:40 am87Pat Rice

Being hugged by Arsene. It were brilliant.
on 25 May 2012 at 2:42 am88Derrick

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lwx3grWK1sE&feature=youtube_gdata_player

This is my moment of the year captured immaculately well by this video. To no surprise it’s Thierry’s winner against Leeds, watched it live around 3 am in a hotel room in Singapore, a couple hours after I just arrived from a 17 hour flight from Los Angeles. His goal had me grinning non stop for the next two days, felt like I was in wonderland.

The best moment for me was during his goal celebration, certainly one of his most emotional celebration in an Arsenal shirt, when the commentator provided a fitting quote.

“He may be cast in bronze, but he still capable of producing some truly golden moments.” Splendid.

Besides this, I reckon Vermaelen’s last gasp winner against Newcastle was magical as well, especially as our performance that night was quite outstanding, and it gave RVP the chance to laugh at Krul.
on 25 May 2012 at 2:59 am89Derrick

Sorry for the double post, but I had to share this before leaving to work.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eW0fTxlT16Q&feature=youtube_gdata_player

We have a Polish wonderkid in our ranks at Arsenal. He could be the next big thing….
on 25 May 2012 at 3:04 am90Dancing Daphne

My moment of the season was vomitting under the table in the HT bar with my knickers over me head….then dancing meself sober as we beat Man City….*belch*
on 25 May 2012 at 3:59 am91Tim

Sagna’s header versus the Spuds….the moment when you realised we still had it as a club.

On a personal note…moving to our new home in San Diego at last and it coinciding with our great run from Feb onwards (due to the move of course). Impact of a full season in California has always been a trophy…mark my words.
on 25 May 2012 at 4:31 am92behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Tim. Sorry for the impertinence, but speaking of California and trophies…

http://static.skynetblogs.be/media/775/969_california-girl.2.jpg
on 25 May 2012 at 4:37 am93Tim

The impact John Terry is having….terrible innit?

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/euro2012/article-2149548/Euro-2012-Alex-Oxlade-Chamberlains-family-fear-racism.html
on 25 May 2012 at 4:38 am94Tim

bt8b –

What can I possibly add….let’s just say even going to the supermarket is worth the time around here.
on 25 May 2012 at 4:43 am95behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

I hate to point out the quality of the sources, but the Daily Star reports Vertonghen leaning to Arsenal and the Guardian reports Vertonghen leaning to Spurs.

http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/2012/may/24/tottenham-jan-vertonghen-ajax

On the other hand, the Daily Star article does have a lot of Vertonghen quotes so you can be the judge.

http://www.dailystar.co.uk/football/view/253138/Arsenal-to-swipe-Tottenham-target-Jan-Vertonghen/?
on 25 May 2012 at 5:10 am96SlaSh

My favorite moment of the season besides Sagna “I’ve had fucking enough of this shit” celebration will be the impromptu team celebration after beating chelski at shithole bridge.

It proved imo opinion that genuine camaraderie and team spirit is being fostered with this new bunch, which is essential. This team spirit held us in good stead throughout the season. I think the willingness of players to play for each other was the main reason we can back from the dead more than 1 time this season, Wenger too attested to this in an end of season interview.
on 25 May 2012 at 5:41 am97Shaft

@92: Them be some fine bitches….they still need to eat a little more though! One in red could maybe pass my exacting standards of girth…
on 25 May 2012 at 5:51 am98behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Shaft. Here’s the deal. You get the one in red for half price and the other four for free. On Lars’ tab, of course.
on 25 May 2012 at 6:00 am99Shaft

8ball, this could be the beginning of a beautiful friendship.
Let me get my BearGrease…
on 25 May 2012 at 6:01 am100Dancing Daphne

Can I watch????
on 25 May 2012 at 6:02 am101GoonerTerry

Yellow card!!
on 25 May 2012 at 6:21 am102Esso

Favourite moment of the season; the last 60 minutes of the LWC’s game and what followed. And all thanks to your good self ‘holic. Cheers mate!
on 25 May 2012 at 6:44 am103Cannons of Rhetoric

Well in Daphne, you luscious lush you!

Anyone notice that the PFA want to introduce a new ruling that racist conduct gets you sacked from next season?
on 25 May 2012 at 7:20 am104Harsha

Favorite moments of the season:

1. Sagna’s header against the cunts. Right then, I knew we would win it
2. Henry’s goal against Leeds. Stuff of dreams
3. RVP’s goal against Everton

A few other enjoyable ones:

1. RVP showing the ‘wanker’ sign after a crunching tackle on Kelly(?) at Anfield
2. Henry shushing Martin O’Neil in the final minutes of Sunderland away after he had just scored the winner
on 25 May 2012 at 7:47 am105Lars

Have just back-drunk my way through some marvellous sheep-related puns, cheers for giving me a good laugh to start the day with!

Les@80: lovely little story, and also yet another testament to how football can affect us all no matter how young or old we are.

Derrick: great video, I honestly started welling up towards the end.

8ball, heed the Barman’s words: no transfer talk in this session!

Harsha: heh, I had forgotten about RvP doing the wanker sign – at the team I was scared shitless that it would get him suspended after the game but he wasn’t, thankfully.
on 25 May 2012 at 7:52 am106Stuart Robson

‘Elloarwe ta’in faverit moanments ‘eah? Wwwell mine’s moan moan moan bitch complain Ja’Wilshr, TheoWacott, Suh-chesny, moan moan defensv errah complain complain moan Aasnul moan moan poor defend’n. ‘Aveto mprove bitch moan moan no’goodnuff bitch complain moan.
on 25 May 2012 at 8:02 am107Ollie

First?

Oh.

And I got my car back at last. Got a SMS at 5.50 this morning to tell me it was ready.
Looks like they had to practically dismember it all, so it cost me an extra leg on top of the arm & leg it was meant to cost.
Seems to work and go through the gears now(including reverse), although it does make a rather nasty and scary ‘clang’ when moving down to 2nd from 3rd.
on 25 May 2012 at 8:07 am108Ollie

Favourite moment of the season?

So many. Tomas Rosicky’s goal against Spurs maybe.
But there were many many favourite moments that day.
(I’d go as far as to say that Bacary picking up the ball after his goal was the DEFINING moment of the season, the pivotal instant, the…. [I'll let tabs wax lyrical if he wants])

MIND. THE. GAP.
on 25 May 2012 at 9:42 am109takeabowson

Ollie HEH! Taking the piss me ole mucker ?

Derrick , would like to echo Lars’ words . What a link ! Thank you for posting.

What a lovely day – perfect for a bit of sheep-worrying !

Right I’m off to get me some rays .
on 25 May 2012 at 9:46 am110Wolfgang Smallballs

Anyone not wearing Speedoes today, offset with an Arsenal Parasol and a pair of slingbacks , is quite frankly mad .

Laters fashionistas .
on 25 May 2012 at 9:46 am111Ollie

No pisstake in fact, tabs. I was just thinking of launching a succession of superlatives, but figured I didn’t feel inspired this morning, whereas I was sure YOU’d pull it off in style if need be.
on 25 May 2012 at 9:47 am112Andy Goram

Split personalities = twice the sunshine, hooray!

And heh Wolfie
on 25 May 2012 at 9:55 am113Lars

Wish I could go out and spend some time in the sunny weather too, but have to work
on 25 May 2012 at 10:04 am114Ollie

Same here, Lars, same here.
on 25 May 2012 at 10:13 am115Uplympian

Back drinking from last night…..a big heh to all the sheep puns. I guess the event is being held at Shepherds Bush.
Best moment of the season….Bacary Sagna’s header against the LWC and picking the ball out of the net with a “take that you c@nts & there’s more to follow ” look.
on 25 May 2012 at 10:48 am116Ollie

Wool in my eyes, I seem to have missed the sheep puns.
on 25 May 2012 at 11:28 am117Holloway2Holland

Dip back into the drinks Ollie and ewe can’t miss them. They started off subtle but later we were just Raming them home.

Morning all, well the sun’s still shining here, I think I’ll have to consult Guiness as I’m sure that this is some kind of record.
on 25 May 2012 at 11:50 am118Lars

It could be argued that this drinking session has turned into a discussion about Premiersheep highlights.
on 25 May 2012 at 11:53 am119Oxon Gooner

Hmm, tempted to lambast those going in for sheep puns, only to find I was on of the flock.
on 25 May 2012 at 11:54 am120Holloway2Holland

Heh Lars, you bleat me to it.
on 25 May 2012 at 12:13 pm121Lars

What do you call an emotionally unstable sheep dog?

A Borderline Collie.
on 25 May 2012 at 12:16 pm122Ollie

What can you say about these puns?

Shear quality.

*I’ll get me goat*
on 25 May 2012 at 12:20 pm123Ollie

http://www.football365.com/f365-features/7777323/here

Check the ‘answer’ to question 2. The folks at F365 have had too much to drink already.

*Disclaimer: maybe they’ll edit it before you click.
on 25 May 2012 at 12:47 pm124Catalan Gunner

TaBS @60

Heh! There are some classic stories about those two…. I´ll have a search and see if I can find the one I´m thinking of…. it involves the CMC!
on 25 May 2012 at 1:26 pm125Camberwell Gooner

You lot talk about knocking the sheep puns on the head, but I know what you’re like. You won’t pull the wool over my eyes. No sir.
on 25 May 2012 at 1:31 pm126North Bank Ned

Sagna’s FU header.

Well in to all milking the sheep jokes. A piping hot bowl of lambswool is on the bar for you.
on 25 May 2012 at 1:40 pm127Uplympian

I think a pint of Ramrod is in order for all the sheep pun-ters. It seems Lars tab appears the norm in these situations but if I’m out of order the pleasure’s all mine.
on 25 May 2012 at 1:43 pm128Robin's Chocolate leg

My favourite moment of the season came early on during that dire opening month. Walking to the ground past the Tolly, as we came to the railway arches there was some excited commotion, which turned out to be focussed on “Super Bob” who was strolling down to the game (against Udinese) with the Hoi Polloi and apparently enjoying every moment of it. Many chants of “Sign him up, sign him up, sign him up!” Good on yer, Bobby.
on 25 May 2012 at 2:30 pm129behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Re: Lars @105. Apologies old boy, I must be going soft in the head. Stuff some more lamb’s wool in my mouth. Please.
on 25 May 2012 at 2:37 pm130behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

And whoever it was who picked the last 60 minutes against Spurs as the best moment got it about right. Why split hairs when it was all great.
on 25 May 2012 at 2:44 pm131Ollie

bt8 : Esso (102) is always spot on.
on 25 May 2012 at 2:48 pm132iCoR

I popped into the bar to see what’s happening and now I feel a bit sheepish…
on 25 May 2012 at 3:21 pm133arsabeatbarca

FANtastic post, Holic! Without a doubt, my favorite moment, was the whole season (minus the injuries). The anticipation leading up to every match, the gathering of the faithful at the bar on game day…how I enjoyed the holics company. The away fans, listening to them sing their hearts out. And did you notice how when one player had lost his mojo, another would rise to the task at hand. When life dealt us lemons in our personal life, the Mighty Arsenal always came through.
on 25 May 2012 at 4:20 pm134Ollie

People seem to arrive a touch later and leave much earlier in this team.
I may adopt the ‘In Rome do as the Romans do’ approach while I’m not being stretched….
on 25 May 2012 at 4:24 pm135Catalan Gunner

1. RVP´s rounding of the Cech as JT ate grass – the first time that Boy Catalan could see a goal coming. Jumping up and down shouting “yes, yes!” for three seconds before it went in
2. Mikel´s goal against City (jumping around the room with Boy Catalan)
3. TV´s goal against Newcastle (jumping around room with Dad Catalan!)

4. Sagna´s “fuck this” moment. Celebration (just a clenched fist) as important as the goal.
5. Henry´s fairy tale goal against Leeds

Number 4 most important for the team, 1-3 most important for me!

Oh look, Beer o´clock!
on 25 May 2012 at 4:44 pm136zicoinexile

Oh, go then Dr C.
on 25 May 2012 at 5:07 pm137Bearded Gooner

Footballing wise definitely agree with Catalan’s #1 @135. However, I know the thrashing at Old Toilet early in the season was painful, but I had goose bumps when the incredible away support was belting out “We love you Arsenal we do” even when it was 8-2. Most fans would have been catatonic at that point, but even that score could not dampen the love for this club.
on 25 May 2012 at 5:36 pm138Goonerholic

6X for lunch with a whole spit roast lamb was yummy, but Guinness and cricket in the battle is wonderful.
on 25 May 2012 at 5:51 pm139Uplympian

Glad u weren’t baarred then ‘Holic. Wadsworth’s 6xxx good stuff -normally sorts out the men from the boys..in my humble opinion that is.
on 25 May 2012 at 6:19 pm140arsabeatbarca

Well I guess that is one less sheep to count tonite as you try to fall asleep, Holic (sighs). Now what of our lad, Santos, holics? Can Steve and Neil (I believe they can) fine tune this player into the something special we all know he can be?! And what is this nonsense Seth Blatter(can’t be arsed to correct the spelling)is spewing about doing away with PK’s in the CL final, has he finally gone round the bend!
on 25 May 2012 at 6:46 pm141behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Abb, No matter how I feel about Blatter on any other issues, if he can do away from penalty kicks deciding major championships then all I can say is more power to him.

‘holic, Whole spit roast lamb I’ll take your word for it on the cricket. BTW, Is that a subtle attempt to end the lamb puns to start a string of cricket ones? If so, it’s cricket with me.
on 25 May 2012 at 6:52 pm142arsabeatbarca

Hey 8ball, Why? Oh the glory it is, the excitement and the chance to see your goalie score!!!
on 25 May 2012 at 7:12 pm143Silly Second Yella

Aaron’s goal in Marseille, first half at Ashburton against Milan, RVP’s triple at the Bridge and beating the Shrews 3 – 1.
on 25 May 2012 at 8:43 pm144behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Abb, It basically comes down to I’m all for playing another game next week to decide things. If that means the underdogs win less often, so be it.
on 25 May 2012 at 9:20 pm145behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

That is, I can enjoy the spectacle of penalty kicks as much as the next fan. The drama of our away victory in Rome a few years ago, for instance, was as exciting as it gets. But it really is the fairness issue that for me makes the argument so strong against penalty kicks in a major final. Scheduling a replay shouldn’t be that difficult for all concerned. Let them name any more important things they have on their schedule the following week than playing a replay for the European Cup. And let me have a share of the ticket proceeds for the replay. My two cents, anyway.
on 25 May 2012 at 9:33 pm146arsabeatbarca

Hi again 8ball…this season Barca, RM and BM turned the futbol world upside down and inside out with their poor showings in the latter stages of the CL. To deprive fans the ultimate spectacle in showmanship that is penalty kicks and all the drama that goes with it, would be some what lacking (at least for me and all those great goalies out there!).
on 25 May 2012 at 11:25 pm147behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Abb, Penalty kicks being such an important part of the game, maybe we should have kept Almunia who was one of the greatest shot stoppers we have had in (at least my) living memory. Just substitute him in with one second left in extra time and penalty kicks are half won right there!

(Aside: Descanse en paz don Miguelito.)
on 26 May 2012 at 12:05 am148takeabowson

Today I’ve mostly been gardening .
on 26 May 2012 at 12:06 am149Wolfgang Smallballs

Today I’ve mostly been uphill gardening
on 26 May 2012 at 12:08 am150Snir Geuli

Esso has a birthday! Happy birthday mate!

Top Gooner!
on 26 May 2012 at 12:42 am151behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Re: Tabs and Wolfie. Say hello to the worms for me, those cute little buggers.
on 26 May 2012 at 12:43 am152behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Top man Esso, Happy Birthday. And Happy Motoring!!
on 26 May 2012 at 12:53 am153behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Uh. Wolfie, Care to explain 149 in more detail for those not educated in the arts of uphill gardening, perchance?
on 26 May 2012 at 1:00 am154Trev

abb -

“PK’s in the CL final” – “Barca, RM and BM”

Do you guys refer to everything by it’s initials in the U.S of A ?
on 26 May 2012 at 1:01 am155Trev

H B Esso or should I say S O ?
on 26 May 2012 at 1:11 am156Wolfgang Smallballs

8ball – Pop round my little lovely . I shall show you the ways of uphill gardening .
on 26 May 2012 at 1:12 am157Goonerholic

Esso, top man. Been through it of late. You deserve better geezer.

Love you to bits.

Many happy ones.
on 26 May 2012 at 2:06 am158behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Uh. Not if it has anything to do with turnips, Wolfie. Or parsnips for that matter. Come to think of it, any root vegetable is quite out of the question.
on 26 May 2012 at 2:27 am159arsabeatbarca

Happy Birthday Esso…you and I have never had the opportunity to ‘talk’ but I look forward to the day we do.
on 26 May 2012 at 2:28 am160Wolfgang Smallballs

Small steps 8Ball

Find your Speedo Aura and then all shall be revealed .
on 26 May 2012 at 2:55 am161takeabowson

Happy Birthday Esso , proper Gooner !

All the Best. Will look forward to the next pint at The Tollie .
on 26 May 2012 at 4:19 am162behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Wolfie, Small steps, you say? If Elmo can do it…

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wDdviI0NmG0

Then who’s to say we’re not all capable?
on 26 May 2012 at 4:36 am163behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

More feelgood music, guaranteed ….

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=klObyJY1W_I
on 26 May 2012 at 4:57 am164behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

… and I can’t forget this one

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GUcXI2BIUOQ
on 26 May 2012 at 6:45 am165Shaft

Guinness for breakfast?
Don’t mind if I do.

How are you soldiers? Feeling good I hope?
on 26 May 2012 at 7:27 am166Esso

Cheers people. Off to drop the youngest down with his Grandma at Worthing. Then I just might be tempted to have a drink this aftie! Happy St Michaels Day to all!
on 26 May 2012 at 9:50 am167Ollie

Enjoy the Happy St Michael’s Birthday, Esso!
on 26 May 2012 at 10:07 am168Charlie

Ah May 26th, also known as the anniversary of the game that still knocks spots off Man City v QPR, no matter what anyone in the press may say.

23 years ago today!
on 26 May 2012 at 12:10 pm169Holloway2Holland

23 years ago today eh?

Wow, I remember it like it was yesterday.

Yesterday however…………!??!

Damn delicious beer in warm weather.
==

Many Happy Returns Esso.
on 26 May 2012 at 1:53 pm170arsabeatbarca

Cheers Esso! Here’s another reason to celebrate, today is ‘Blueberry Cheesecake Day’ and ‘Cherry Dessert Day’! Here’s some more trivia. Did you know there is no record of a St Trev (Trevor)…perhaps he did indeed exist but failed to mind the gap. However, I’m pleased to announce there are three bonified saints who use my real name. Just thought you all should know. Have a wonderful day holics!
on 26 May 2012 at 1:56 pm171iH2H

St Arsabeatbarca?
on 26 May 2012 at 1:59 pm172arsabeatbarca

Hey there! There’s a patron saint for barkeeps as well! Cheers!
on 26 May 2012 at 2:00 pm173iH2H

And Wolfie gardening?

Manscaping?
on 26 May 2012 at 2:02 pm174arsabeatbarca

And Pope John Paul the 2nd is Patron Saint of goalies, he played that position as young lad growing up in his native land of Poland.
on 26 May 2012 at 2:29 pm175Peter Hill-Wood Jr.

Who are we playing today?
on 26 May 2012 at 2:32 pm176Trev

H2H @169 – heh

St Wolfgang is in Austria – FACT!! ‘cos I’ve been there.
on 26 May 2012 at 2:32 pm177behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Re: Nurse abb. I believe your theory about St. Trev having failed to mind the gap is unquestionably correct.
on 26 May 2012 at 2:33 pm178Trev

Someone is impersonating me impersonating PHW – now then
on 26 May 2012 at 2:35 pm179Trev

Are nasturtiums being cast in my direction here ? Which gap have I failed to mind, exactly ?
on 26 May 2012 at 2:37 pm180Trev

Badly missing the football season here, as up and down as it was.
How long ’til we kick off again?
on 26 May 2012 at 2:38 pm181Peter Hill-Wood Jr.

Just tell me who we are playing dad, please! We have to close the gap on those two clubs above us and we only have a few games left. Lovely day for football, I must say.
on 26 May 2012 at 2:43 pm182Toby

Arsenal vs Newcastle 2-1 ( Thomas Vermaelen goal vs Newcastle 90+5′)

For all the laughing at Spurs, for all the joy I felt after the 5-2, and for that matter the 5-3 against one half of the El Cashico, or the 1-0 against the other team that does contest the The English Money Derby, I just cannot see past a last second winner. It’s one of the best feelings in the world, and the goal coming from the vice-capt, a centre back, sprinting the length of the pitch, and just getting the ball over the line against a team that has played football pretty much at the same level as we have all season, was one of those moments that just sticks.

Nah, who am I kidding. That’s moment nr 2.

Nr 1 is Henry vs Leeds. That man. With THAT finish. Oh, how we celebrated.
on 26 May 2012 at 3:15 pm183North Bank Ned

Lots of patron saints of brewers: http://brookstonbeerbulletin.com/beer-saints/

The list probably gets longer the more you drink.

A pint of Abbot, if you would, ‘Holic…
on 26 May 2012 at 3:22 pm184Toby

If Newcastle was a beach security guard, and Vermaelen a pro frisbee thrower, this is pretty much how his goal against Newcastle would have looked.

http://youtu.be/Zxgxa1GJlnI

Also, notice the celebratory fist pump.
on 26 May 2012 at 3:51 pm185behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Re: NBN @183. Interesting stuff, and quite useful that St. Adrian of Nicomedia has three different feast days. Considerable drinking advantages there, I should say.
on 26 May 2012 at 3:53 pm186behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

… That’s not to mention that St. Adrian’s wife Natalia is quite the looker.
on 26 May 2012 at 4:01 pm187behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Also comforting to know there are patrons saints of hop pickers and hop growers, as well as innkeepers, publicans and bartenders. And mead drinkers, most particularly. All in all it makes an already crowded drinking calendar that much more so. Positive news, indeed. I’ll lift one to that!
on 26 May 2012 at 4:22 pm188arsabeatbarca

Oh when the saints, come marching in, oh when the saints come marching in, I want to be there in that number (thats right Trev, whistle along lad)…just rememeber folks, ‘Tonite we are young, We’re gonna set the world on fire…ok, when’s the next game, please.
on 26 May 2012 at 4:31 pm189Peter Hill-Wood

Now listen here PHW Jr., I have no idea of whose loins you are the fruit, but I am pretty damned certain they are not mine.

I had never experienced the female charms until last summer’s dalliance with the ever delightful Lady Nina. As you appear to be able to write already, I am assuming that you are a little over two months old. I could barely grip a tit at that age, let alone operate a computer keyboard.

If you are after my money, I have none, as you will note from my rather paltry shareholding. I am maintained in my position here purely at the generous whim of Mr Kroenke. I always liked his sort.

If you are after my Monet, I have sold that too.

There, I have nothing to offer you. Now be a dear and fuck off!
on 26 May 2012 at 4:34 pm190Peter Hill-Wood

Why is that confounded nurse singing Southampton songs now ?

Haven’t we got Doctors round here – could one of them please see to her.
on 26 May 2012 at 4:56 pm191North Bank Ned

Bt8b: indeed. We are all celebrants.
on 26 May 2012 at 5:05 pm192North Bank Ned

Some pretty impressive miracles by beer saints that would make them welcome in this bar. St Brigid turned bath water into beer by blessing it.

http://www.beerhistory.com/library/holdings/patron_saints.shtml
on 26 May 2012 at 5:08 pm193North Bank Ned

PHW, in the sense you see to Lady Nina?
on 26 May 2012 at 5:10 pm194iH2H

Ned that’s nothing.

I can turn bathwater into a decent 9% proof by pissing in it.
on 26 May 2012 at 5:14 pm195arsabeatbarca

‘When the Saints go Malting in’, cheers NBN! 8ball, can we make NBN and company, honorary Yanks for the day? You guys rock.
on 26 May 2012 at 6:04 pm196North Bank Ned

iH2H@194: too much information.
on 26 May 2012 at 6:06 pm197North Bank Ned

ABB@195: would that mean having to drink Buds all day? That wouldn’t do much for H2H’s bathwater.
on 26 May 2012 at 6:19 pm198Ollie

That 200th looks like it might wait a bit.

*does best Dixon ’89 impression’*
on 26 May 2012 at 6:29 pm199Holloway2Holland

It’s up for grabs now…………..
on 26 May 2012 at 6:33 pm200North Bank Ned

In?
on 26 May 2012 at 6:34 pm201North Bank Ned

Celebrates to deafening silence.

Nice assist from your bath, H2H.
on 26 May 2012 at 6:34 pm202arsabeatbarca

Spain up 2 now. to win euros on what else, pk’s!
on 26 May 2012 at 6:39 pm203arsabeatbarca

As in in the inmortal words of Oxon Gooner, “well in” NBN.
on 26 May 2012 at 6:43 pm204Ollie

Well in NBN.

Switzerland 5, Germany 3 currently. Very clever free-kick from the Swiss for the 5th.
on 26 May 2012 at 6:49 pm205Ollie

Djourou on to play injury time (well, some of it…)
on 26 May 2012 at 6:49 pm206Holloway2Holland

Well min Ned, shades of Mickey Thomas that one, the ball didn’t seem to want to come down.
on 26 May 2012 at 6:50 pm207arsabeatbarca

Wish I could see that one, Ollie. Sounds much better. Really can’t wait to see Brazil play.
on 26 May 2012 at 6:50 pm208Ollie

Brazil game was played a lot earlier today though.
on 26 May 2012 at 6:55 pm209Holloway2Holland

Later on here I got Nederland against the oldest Womble dude, (Uncle) Bulgaria.
on 26 May 2012 at 7:01 pm210Holloway2Holland

Van Persie starting on the right wing, wearing shirt No 7.
on 26 May 2012 at 7:13 pm211Ollie

They’re only showing England vs Norway here.
Not sure I’ll be bothered.
Someone txt me when the Ox comes on please
on 26 May 2012 at 7:29 pm212arsabeatbarca

Will do Ollie; H2H, cell, please.
on 26 May 2012 at 7:33 pm213arsabeatbarca

Actually looking forward to this game. Can’t you guys pretend we’re playing and provide some play by play action. Can’t affort to loose these skills. Sod it, why can’t I live in England!
on 26 May 2012 at 7:35 pm214arsabeatbarca

‘lose’ not ‘loose’…cept maybe a screw or two.
on 26 May 2012 at 7:48 pm215Holloway2Holland

He scorse when he wants.

Sneijder dinking a Song-esque pass over the defence and RvP volleying it home.

Deja vu all over again.
on 26 May 2012 at 7:51 pm216Holloway2Holland

scorse?

Dear o dear, add that to my well min from earlier and you can all see how productive my day in the beer garden was.
on 26 May 2012 at 7:57 pm217arsabeatbarca

ashley young scores!
on 26 May 2012 at 8:09 pm218Ollie

You mean ‘some diving cunt’, abb
on 26 May 2012 at 8:28 pm219arsabeatbarca

Yeah, I know Ollie. This game pretty lame so far…bring on Nemar! Just some humor…hope H2H is fairing better.
on 26 May 2012 at 8:41 pm220Holloway2Holland

Not really abb, the Dutch game is pretty crap too. 1-1 at the mo.

Watching the England game on the laptop at the same time, so I’ve got the worst of both worlds.

Those ITV commentaters are fucking dire.
on 26 May 2012 at 8:46 pm221arsabeatbarca

hey H2H, just saw both goals. Here’s to a better half, cheers!
on 26 May 2012 at 8:54 pm222Holloway2Holland

The Dutch game is now almost done.

Ooops, the Womble’s just scored in the last minute of ET, v Maarwijk going mental.

Well be some media fallout here tomorrow.

Back to the England game.
on 26 May 2012 at 8:58 pm223Holloway2Holland

Now that I think of it, it serves Holland right for making that stupid Birdie song comercial (I’m not going to link to it, cos it’s horrid).
on 26 May 2012 at 9:01 pm224arsabeatbarca

Theo Alert, he’s coming on! Go Theo!
on 26 May 2012 at 9:01 pm225Holloway2Holland

OLLIE.

FEEO’s coming on.
on 26 May 2012 at 9:02 pm226Goonerholic

Evening all,

Sorry not been around more. Bloody interweb is playing silly beggars, or rather my ISP is
on 26 May 2012 at 9:04 pm227arsabeatbarca

Norway having the Viking share of the ball so far…come on lads!
on 26 May 2012 at 9:07 pm228Holloway2Holland

Heh, very good abb.

Evening ‘holic sir. One on the bar for your good self.
on 26 May 2012 at 9:07 pm229arsabeatbarca

Some great stuff from Norway just now…whew.
on 26 May 2012 at 9:08 pm230arsabeatbarca

Hey Holic!
on 26 May 2012 at 9:16 pm231Ollie

Thanks H2H, is it worth tuning back in then?

Game must be nearly over now.
on 26 May 2012 at 9:18 pm232arsabeatbarca

Ollie, The Ox!!! …Young goes off.
on 26 May 2012 at 9:18 pm233Holloway2Holland

Ollie, Ollie, Ox is free.
on 26 May 2012 at 9:19 pm234Holloway2Holland

Worth it just to see the Ox.

England are pretty crap for the rest though
on 26 May 2012 at 9:41 pm235Holloway2Holland

Well, congratulations to young Alex, but that did not make for enjoyable viewing.
on 26 May 2012 at 9:42 pm236Goonerholic

Thanks H2H, just what the Doctor ordered. Well, one of them anyway…

Evening nurse…

Hellollie
on 26 May 2012 at 9:49 pm237arsabeatbarca

Oh well, the company was way cool. Ox should have started the game (broken record here).I’ve earned a nap.
on 27 May 2012 at 12:20 am238behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Nurse. While the cat naps the mice will …

Drink their nitecaps?
on 27 May 2012 at 1:13 am239Trev

abb @227 – “Norway having the Viking share of the ball”

Oh dear, oh dear, American Geography – must be an oxymoron – strikes again !

I think you’ll find the Vikings were from Denmark. That’s just next to Switzerland if you want to look it up……..
on 27 May 2012 at 1:17 am240Trev

Offering profuse apologies – thought I’d better look it up, and i learned something.

I’d only ever heard of Vikings from Denmark but it seems they were from Norway too.

Doubles, by way of apology, are on the bar
on 27 May 2012 at 1:51 am241Wind

Ok.
Great post Holic, great idea also

I’m going to do it as favourite moment on the pitch & off the pitch, makes it easier for me as a fan & a person.

So my favourite moment on the pitch 100% bet your life on it was Thierry’s goal against Dirty Leeds. Euphoria flowed in my arteries & veins for hours after that, and a facebook post about the great man himself received more positive plaudits from non-Arsenal fans than Arsenal Fans I think, maybe a 45-55 split.
That was the kind of goal that temporarily disintegrates the borders of club football & brings together fans of the beautiful game :’)
A close 2nd was being at the Emirates to witness Robin van Persie’s 99th & 100th goals for the club against Bolton in the League, only my 3rd ever time seeing my beloved Arsenal play live, I high-fived and hugged a complete stranger that day in the West Stand, ooh to be a Gooner indeed, the Emirates came together that day from all 4 sections, from Lower to Upper to celebrate that milestone achievement.

My favourite moment off the pitch was me meeting the Arsenal Invincible Sol Campbell The memory of it still comes to me, still can’t believe I got to meet him & take a picture + get a handshake in addition to that. Felt like I was on Cloud 9 for a week after, a true delight for every Gooner at my Sixth Form College
on 27 May 2012 at 2:56 am242arsabeatbarca

8ball Whose the cat? Drink up lad. Now Trev…fraid I’m the one who should say oops! But you see, you have a high teaseability rating (not a real word, I suspect). I once had this professor in college who was just too intelligent (and he knew it too), spent all semester trying to outsmart him. Never succeeded, but it sure was fun trying!
on 27 May 2012 at 3:46 am243behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Abb, If I understand your sentence construction correctly, mine the cat.

‘holic, The temptation to engage in transfer speculation is getting stronger by the minute, despite the tediousness of delving into so much rumor and falsehood. But seriously, what came of the rumor about Tabs being sold to the King’s Head??
on 27 May 2012 at 5:57 am244North Bank Ned

Bt8b: what are you hoping to extract from the cat by mining it? Or is that mining the cat in the sense of attaching ordinance?
on 27 May 2012 at 8:42 am245behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

As it happens, NBN, my cat just extracted me from bed at 3am to let him into the house, I guess because I made it mine a couple of years ago.
on 27 May 2012 at 9:22 am246Ollie

Bloody Scandinavians, Trev, all of them.*

*I possibly descend from the Denmark branch
on 27 May 2012 at 9:35 am247zicoinexile

Beautiful barmais though
on 27 May 2012 at 9:35 am248zicoinexile

Barmaids even
on 27 May 2012 at 9:48 am249iH2H

8ball.

Seeing that it was me who completly fabricated that rumour I can also tell you that I think its almost 100% true maybe.

I can also reveal my sauce is from Heinz.

Morning all, from le jardin de biere.
on 27 May 2012 at 9:52 am250Ollie

Morning zico and saucy H2H.
on 27 May 2012 at 10:12 am251zicoinexile

Morning guys,

Blue sky and big yellow disc here.

Some kind of confidence trick, I’m sure…..
on 27 May 2012 at 10:22 am252Goonerholic

Morning all,

scorchio again.

Will try and put some words together about something this evening. It’s definitely a disadvantage being a blogger who detests pointless transfer speculation in summer.

I hope something Arsenal related happens over lunch today…

“Dennis cursed as waitress spills gravy”
on 27 May 2012 at 11:27 am253Ollie

It’s sunny and warm, but I’ve just added a layer as I now definitely have fever on top of the sore throat.
Bah.
on 27 May 2012 at 11:33 am254Goonerholic

Manflu by the sound of it, Ollie.

Would you like flowers, or donations to a charity?
on 27 May 2012 at 11:44 am255Ollie

heh, ‘holic.

Aspirin please.
on 27 May 2012 at 11:45 am256iH2H

A glass of Auntie Beechams and Irish it up for Ollie.

Should have him up and running in no time.
on 27 May 2012 at 11:47 am257Goonerholic

Good plan.

You sure you are not a Doctor, H2H?
on 27 May 2012 at 12:34 pm258Ollie

Cheers H2H.
Think it will be doctor time this week though, when your body gives in after a week of struggling, you know you’ve been an idiot.
on 27 May 2012 at 12:46 pm259Ollie

F1 commentators very patronising towards a legendary Belgian.
Talking to Jacky Ickxx : ‘what do you think of our French pilot? I know you’re Belgian, but surely you’re French at heart?’.

If I were truly Belgian, I’d be angry.
on 27 May 2012 at 2:47 pm260Wind

Poor Arshavin (Arsecast Voice)

http://en.rian.ru/sports/20120526/173687502.html
on 27 May 2012 at 2:48 pm261arsabeatbarca

Sure blame it on the waitress! Ollie, no aspirin with alcohol, please. Good day all. Saw Huddersfield take on Sheffield United, very entertaining. Why?! Cause it went down to PK’s, that’s why. Towards the end, it was the goalies turn…one sweet finale. Judging from the expressions on the players, managers and fans, one nail biting euphoric affair.
on 27 May 2012 at 3:02 pm262arsabeatbarca

Hey Wind! Kindness, terrific sense of humor, and brains go a long way in my book. Just the kind I like to ‘read’.
on 27 May 2012 at 3:18 pm263behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Re: Wind @260: If Arshavin is “gruesome” I’d love to hear what she has to say about Elokobi. Just saying (for all you Elokobi fans out there).

I guess this is a slow news day, although I’m not completely sure about that. Anyway, here’s something on the theme.

http://www.cartoonstock.com/newscartoons/cartoonists/rma/lowres/rman517l.jpg
on 27 May 2012 at 5:24 pm264Gedo

What am I going to do without Arsenal until August? Sure the Euros are on but it’s just not the same emotional roller-coaster. After the West Brom game I was relieved the season was over b/c we barely got through to the CL. But after last weekend without proper football I’m pacing.

It seems every year the off-season is termed the most important in the club’s history….I really hope we learned our lesson last year of not waiting until the last minute….but then again we kind of got away with it by qualifying again although we didn’t win any trophies. Please Arsene, not again.

Last night I watched most of the 2-2 Barca draw from a couple of years ago….we lined-up Eboue at right-back, Song at center-back, Denilson in the midfield at Bendtner up top……yikes. Do miss those runs up the field by Eboue, though…..although not much ever came of it.

Only Arsenal related news is that the Djourou’s national team coach said he should leave us if he wants to play on the national team……yawn.
on 27 May 2012 at 6:41 pm265Trev

Danish, Ollie?

I would have said you were from the Norwegian side, descended from Ollie Gunnar Solskjaer. Oops, sorry Ollie, what a wally *said in a sing songy Swedish accent*

*waits for grief fron Lars*
on 27 May 2012 at 6:46 pm266Lars

*throws a bucket of grief in the general direction of Trev*
on 27 May 2012 at 6:58 pm267Lars

Almost three months until the proper football returns¨.

What a depressing thought
on 27 May 2012 at 7:24 pm268Charlie

Good, I need three months to get over the horrors of last weekend. I’m looking forward to the European Championships, the last couple have been great. Er…which probably means we’re overdue a poor one admittedly.
on 27 May 2012 at 7:36 pm269behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Euro 2008 was brilliant, especially the Russians, Spaniards and Dutch, so I’ll be happy if this year’s event can even come close to matching it. Just four years ago but how much has changed. Arshavin was the star but I doubt too many people expect that much from him this time.

I recently read that Iniesta and Xavi are both only 5 feet 5 inches tall. Of course they were also great stars of Euro 2008 but I would have thought they each might have grown some in stature in the last four years. Unless they actually have, and they were 5’4″ back then.

Personally in that time I have moved from the east coast to the west coast to near the middle coast of North America, but have been following Arsenal closely the whole time. I have two best memories of Arshavin at Arsenal and they both came the first year after we got him of course. One is the same as everybody’s, the four goals at Anfield. The other one is his cheeky goal at Blackburn when he went to the by-line to the left of goal before lifting it over the shocked keeper’s shoulder.
All watched in Baker Street, my favorite local bar at the time in the Upper East Side of New York City.

Which reminds me of two other great New York City bars where I watched some of the other games of Euro 2008 since they both bars deserve a shout and a return visit: Nevada Smith’s and Doc Watson’s.
I’m not sure yet which team I will end up supporting at Euro 2012, but it will be the one that shows a special mix of spirit, desire, teamwork and skill. And I put my blind trust in Polish and Ukrainian fans to defy their reputations and abstain from all racist incidents.
on 27 May 2012 at 7:47 pm270can't be arsed

cheers ‘hol

plannin on comin over for a game next season

tis over twenty years since i roared at them

and i’ll hold you to the jar and the half

and i’ll make myself known

*’holic hides*

can you take devastating good looks on the flight as carry on ?
on 27 May 2012 at 7:48 pm271behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

One more memory of Euro 2008: The Swiss consulate sponsored an outdoor TV showing of the opening game of the tournament between Switzerland and (?) in Central Park which had a great turnout and, as all events in Central Park have, a tremendously friendly and international atmosphere, kind of like this in a way:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tqCuw3wMZ-8
on 27 May 2012 at 7:50 pm272Doctor Faustus

Nice discussions…a very welcome departure from the relentless rumor mongering and transfer speculations in so many other places.

I am a little late to catch up on all of these excellent ‘favorite moments’ reminiscences. Given that living on the other side of the pond I had watched all the matches on TV/internet I have obviously and evidently missed out on many of the moments that can only be experienced being in the stadium. My favorite moments, in no particular order

a. Szczesny’s penalty save against Di Natale away at Udinese. A pivotal moment for the season as we were very close to losing out on CL. I remember the tension in myself watching the penalty and I remember the palpable tension in the players’ body language. A very well taken penalty and then the incredible save and the moment of pure exhilaration.

b. TV5′s goal and the post-goal celebration against Newcastle at home. A fractious match with RVP losing his cool against his compatriot. Mentally preparing to get away from the living room at the end of the game with the sad feeling of dropping points at home when we were so much the better team … and then came the counter-attack at physics-defying speed and even before I could consciously formulate some hope in my mind Vermaelen is there to score and then comes the extraordinary celebration of the players.

c. Rosicky’s goal at the 5-2 NLD win and his celebration with the fans, it gave me goosebumps even watching on TV. The goal was excellent, and the way we had started in the second half very much deserved, and none better than Rosicky to have deserved it. One of my favorite modern Arsenal players, it was so great to see him playing back close to his real potential and abilities. An excellent finish…and I knew we will score at least one more.

d. Henry’s last minute winner away at Sunderland. Surely not as romantic as that goal against Leeds. But I will remember it probably as long as his first goal in return. We were losing, Ramsey came and equalized. Arshavin and Henry were introduced. Arshavin had one of his rare excellent cameos. The cross was quite extraordinary in quality — showcased the little Russian and what he could really do, what a pity he couldn’t motivate himself to play that way in all of his cameo appearances — and Henry’s finish, following which he takes a run towards the away supporters, RVP joins in, Henry turns back and makes a gesture of appreciation towards Arshavin and then joins the fans in celebration…classy.

e. RVP’s first goal against Dortmund at home. A very tight game against an excellent opposition — this Dortmund is really such a good football team, if they don’t lose too many of their key players I believe we will see them going to the deep end of CL next season — in a very tight group. Almost a must-win game for us. And the goal comes from nowhere with Song showing lovely skills and tenacity to dribble through and then deliver that perfect cross to RVP to head home. For all his gorgeous through-balls to RVP this season and the consequent sublime finishes, this Song assist was so unique in its sheer unanticipated nature …truly memorable.
on 27 May 2012 at 8:07 pm273behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

Great memories, Doctor Faustus.
on 27 May 2012 at 8:12 pm274behind the 8 ball but gunning for glory

As I seem to be wallowing in New York nostalgia, here’s one more for good measure.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DK81edShkXI
on 27 May 2012 at 9:14 pm275Lars

Faustus, I had almost forgotten that penalty save v Udinese. Very, very important for the rest of the season.

Tommy V v Newcastle also a great one along with Ramsey winning it in that otherwise incredibly dull Marseille away game. There is something special about last-minute winners, and we had a few of those this season.
on 27 May 2012 at 9:20 pm276Goonerholic

It will be a pleasure to buy you a pint, cba.

Now >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Goonerholic

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