Honestly, The Media These Days. It’s All Six, Six, Six
Sep 26th, 2012 by 'holic
A bloggers nightmare. No ticket, no stream. Unexpectedly a mixture of Arsenal Player, Twitter, and live text commentary on the BBC provides an amusing impression, accurate or otherwise. So, chronologically, the ‘virtual’ highlights for me included the following.
I should also point out that for the first half an hour I was completing a very tasty dish of paella in a country pub and then returning home, so there is an element of catch-up involved. It seems I missed some early problems as Arsenal Player struggled to keep up with demand as they commented on some microphones snapped up at an Aldi excess stock clearance. To be fair the broadcast was perfect by the time I joined it, with the one exception of trying to work out if Stephen Hughes was talking about Giroud or Djourou. At least his old mate Carzola wasn’t playing.
The Beeb’s approach to live text seems to be less is more. From them I would assume that Coventry had the first attempt on goal in the ninth minute, and the second thirteen minutes later. That would tie in with some of the tweets I saw as I joined the action ‘live’, as it were. Indeed the official Arsenal Twitter account confirmed that despite controlling the game the home side had failed to create a single chance in the opening twenty minutes. Clearly at this point a war of attrition was developing. How frustrating!
The stalemate finally ends at precisely 38 BBC minutes and 39 BBC seconds, and joy of joys, it’s Olivier Giroud. The Frenchman puts the finishing touch to a wonderful pass from, well, depending on who you choose to believe, either Francis Coquelin, or Andrey Arshavin. (Watching the highlights on BBC it is clearer now that both had a hand, or rather a foot, in laying the chance on for the big man to chip home.) Now perhaps we can move on from the nonsense that has been spouted about him in the opening weeks of the season.
Four paragraphs, one goal. Pay attention now, because lots are about to happen in the second half. The second goal for big Olivier looks a formality when Arshavin is upended in the box. A definite penalty is the opinion of Hughsie, and that is good enough for me. Two village idiots invade the pitch, holding up the spot-kick. Giroud, mindful of not using up his goals ration for the week, sees his effort saved by Murphy. Good lad, we will need your second goal, and maybe more, against the bus stop in Fulham on Saturday.
Thirty four minutes are all that remains when Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain “finds the back of the net with a goal from outside the penalty area high into the middle of the goal” (BBC). The floodgates are well and truly open. Six minutes later Arshavin turns scorer rather than provider and both my options for the ‘holic pound are on the mark, sadly after the first goal has been scored. It is at this point that I am temporarily distracted by a Thompson Twins punfest on Twitter. That man from @EastLower is a bad influence. Apologies.
The game is freshened when the substitutes are introduced, Gnabry, Frimpong and Chamakh come on for Oxlade-Chamberlain, Coquelin and Giroud (72). Within two minutes Theo picks up the ball from Nico Yennaris, raids down the right, cuts in and scores. Cue lots of ‘is he/he is a striker’ comments. Then a bit of a shock. I am indebted to @Arseblog, the birthday boy, for letting me know that Cannonball has scored for the visitors. So no clean sheet for Damian Martinez. Shame that.
Ignasi Miquel takes the affront personally. Seemingly a man of the match contender he ventures upfield when the exciting Serge Gnabry wins a corner. Arshavin picks out the young Spaniard and it is 5-1. Keith the Gooner, frantically trying to sketch the goals for all on Twitter to enjoy, pleads with the players to stop scoring so fast, or words to that effect. He gets ten minutes to catch up before Theo gets his second, this time from the left, and completes a second consecutive 6-1 home win.
That, boys and girls, is a lesson in how to generate a comprehensive report of a game you haven’t seen, although since typing it I have now had the benefit of seeing the goals, and of reading Arsene’s post-match interview.
“In the first half we were tested…In the second half our offensive potential made the difference when they tired a little bit…The difference of quality made a big impact on the result in the end”
So the draw has given us a trip down the M4 to Reading in the fourth round at the end of October. That should be another enjoyable evening. For now though let’s start to focus on Saturday. The meeting of arguably the two form sides in the Premiership is a mouthwatering prospect, but watching (or rather hearing) the youngsters and squad players maintain the positive mood has been fun, for tonight.
290 Responses to “Honestly, The Media These Days. It’s All Six, Six, Six”
Arsenal News 24/7
First (for Giroud)!
2nd! Got lost in the title again…now to read and enjoy! Well in Snir
i just want your six, baby…
Keith the Gooner is a schoolboy, no?
Holic, Cheers for putting it all together, as it was madness at times. Your mates deserve a nod as well, for their assistance. A very nice twist on match report. Now to demolish Chelsea!
Strangely enjoyed the evening.
Neighbour, unlike you to be curmudgeonly
Swindon on the League Cup show soon…
Didn’t see any streams available before going to bed so didn’t bother waking up. Found some short highlights on youtube if anyone’s interested.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=ZMYmWy-9nVE
Great to see Giroud breaking his duck!
Sounds like fun was to be had by all gunners
Hmm, just opened my snail mail. Arsenal FC are class all the way. Got a preview of this Bar’s place in the sun, at The Emirates. Thanks again to Holic, Trev and all the holics.
My impressions… Really enjoyable and relaxed atmosphere.
Very disjointed and a bit deliberate in our passing, also somewhat static first half but the goal seemed to relax everyone. Miquel my MOTM. He and Djourou were superb, no mstakes that I can remember and IM scored a revenge goal as well. I could tell giroud was going to miss the penalty as he took the runup. So pleased for him to score – he didn’t even celebrate properly, just sagged with relief into the arms of his teammates. Very well taken goal. AOC looked good – wlling to take
The streakers were pathetic – take all your clothes off and give us all a laugh or don’t bother. The funniest part was watcing the portly stewards huffing and puffing trying to catch them.
ABB,
Looking forward to seeing the stone in person. Still a great gesture for everyone that stops by this bar.
Nice report ‘holic even if you “view” was obstructed.
Sir Oliver broke the cherry.
Nice one my son.
Tutt – full match still not up on ArsenalPlayer – guess you had to be there then … noble attempt under the circs ‘h. Hey Trev – know you’re not one for match reports but your bar needs you …
Just watched the highlights on Player. Some really nice finishing in that game. AOC what a blast. Theo 2 well taken goals. Ollie G a nice touch finish. His PK was a bit telegraphed. The little Russian played some really nice balls and got a goal as well. Looks like we really took it up a notch after the break.
Let’s continue the 6-1 this weekend.
Thanks Cannons for the link, the first chance I’ve had to see the goals, and quite a few excellent ones. My favorites are Oxlade’s, Arshavin’s and Theo’s second. All outstanding quality, and Arshavin’s is from Giroud’s assist.
And ‘holic that’s an outstanding match report especially knowing you saw about what I did (i.e., nothing).
Theo on Saturday please, he has a habit of scoring against Chelsea and should be confident after those finishes. Although scoring twice probably means he won’t even make the bench…
No worries 8Ball, I got more links than a chain-link fence if ever you need
Arsenal.com now providing three minutes of free highlights including the goals in much higher quality viewing. Based on those two goals, who would ever question the importance of signing Theo Walcott? But it must be said to Theo, let’s see those great runs with great control more often.
@16: Nonny, I would also like to see Theo against Chelsea. He will rip Terry the Racist Turtle to pieces I think! Their backline is dodgy and I figure we can unlock them on Saturday.
Btw holics, I’m still wondering why they didn’t televise the match last night though. Does anyone know how they decide which matches are televised or not for the domestic cups? Is it determined by some sort of coefficient based on previous success in the cup competitions or something?
Nice one of Chelsea / Utd will be out. . I hope we can go a long way in this competiton this year.
Chuffed for everyone.
Holic,
Six,six,six
Is it the little devil in you? (hope not the little boy)
A little Iron Maiden in your past perhaps?
Or just a prediction that Armageddon is awaiting Chelski at the Emirates?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AMg2cd5iiKg&feature=youtube_gdata_player
Now that Ollie’s off the mark I just thought I’d celebrate the occassion with this adaptation of Janie’s Got a Gun by Aerosmith.
Giroud’s got a goal
Giroud’s got a goal
No more abuse from the trolls
Now that he’s scored a goal.
What did Arsene Wenger do?
Did he put speed in his stew?
They say when Giroud took the field
He was feeling a tremendous strain (whoa, whoa, whoa,whooooaa)
But man he had it coming, now that Giroud’s got a goal, he ain’t never gonna be the same!
Giroud’s got a goal
Giroud’s got a goal
His scoring days have just begun
Now everyone is on the run…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RqQn2ADZE1A
http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2012/09/26/article-2209005-1539135A000005DC-42_634x432.jpg
Arsenal v. Chelsea
6:30am Saturday, local time. I had better get some beers and be sure they’re chilled. This could be just like Mardi Gras morning.
Just finished watching the highlights, now to see the second half in its entirety.
In addition to all the impressive goals and general play, liked the enthusiasm and the joy on display even from the veterans like Arshavin. Theo’s second goal is really classy, just a little reminiscent of the original #14. Giroud’s finishing was cool, but more impressive was his skillful assist to Arshavin.
If I am not mistaken, this was Iggy’s first goal for the senior team. Along with Jack and Ox, this is a player who can be the axis of the team a few years from now.
Against Chelsea Giroud and Theo should get a start. If introduction of Ox last year forced Theo to raise his game, falling behind Gerv in the pecking order may be the final push that he needed. I am sure Arsene is not going to easily give up on a 23 year old who can create an opportunity and finish like that.
8ball,
We are looking at a 4:45am kickoff here on the left coast. I think it may call for an ice cold bevie, but I’m thinking more like an iced Coffee plus/minus baileys.
I think Theo deserves a start against Chelsea ( he does always play well against, and there center backs are quite slow). That is of course if he is out of the big ego doghouse.
Arsenal v. Chelsea
8:45 pm Saturday, local time for me.
Guinness will be slaughtered by me during the proceedings!
NorCal. Coffee in the morning? You are such a traditionalist.
Theo v. Chelsea could be good if his game is on. Theo and the Ox seem to push each other forward so maybe both of them? Even more daring: Theo, the Ox and Gervinho all together??
Faustus. I’m in your camp about Miquel. I was a huge admirer of his in the handful of games I saw him.
Re: Mine @27. I don’t want to push Podolski out of the lineup, just daydreaming about how much speed we could possibly put up front …
8ball, NorCal, Irish coffee is the beverage of choice at the scruz household for games that early. a nice tension between the caffeine buzz and the Irish mellow, perfect for setting aside all worries yet being sharply involved in what plays out onscreen…
8ball, how about poldi/gervs/theo, with arteta, Ox, and santi in the midfield?
My prediction of Giroud starting and scoring was on the money indeed.
Just saw the goals. Wow, those were some classy finishes. Loving this squad. Let’s go Gunners!!
Anybody here in San Jose/San Francisco?
I’m gonna be there for the Chelsea match.
8 ball @ 28 — Yes, Rolls Royce of a player. I remember his introduction to PL in last year’s home game against Liverpool, there was a moment of brilliance: effortless first touch and then a visionary and accurate long-distance cross-field diagonal to instantly switch defense into attack. To have the abilities and more importantly the confidence and the courage to do that on your PL debut in a makeshift defense with so much pressure on the team indicates a very rare talent.
He makes the odd defensive mistakes (in those reserve games when he captains the team) , but the way he recovers his poise when he does is quite impressive as well.
Scruz @ 31 — Theo and Gerv would run into each other if they are played side by side with one of them through center. Both on the flanks with someone else down the middle would work but Poldi’s best position seems to be on the left now.
Playing Giroud down the middle has distinct advantage against Chelsea. He would drag the Chelsea defense around with his intelligent and effective off-the-ball movements to open up holes in the defense that Poldi and Theo/Gerv can exploit. We would also need someone to push home the advantages of the many corners that Chelsea would concede, in addition to the center backs. Finally, neither Theo nor Gerv can really press and hassle the opposition defense off the ball which Giroud would do relentlessly. Given the Tuesday away CL match, Chelsea would most likely play conservatively and we would not get too many counter-attacking chances. Rather forcing mistakes out of the deep lying defenders and then creating spaces by movements off the ball would be a better bet.
snir, if you want to make an early run over the hill to felton from san jose (about a half hour, depending), you are welcome to watch it chez scruz, on the 42″ flatscreen with Irish coffee, to boot…the only caveat being mrs. scruz and the lad will be asleep, so only silent screaming is encouraged.
otherwise, there’s maggie mcgarry’s if you are closer to the city and want to watch with the bay area gooners: http://www.maggiemcgarrys.com/?page_id=24 check out the first epl listing. if you go there i won’t take offense…much
ok, dr. faustus, you have me convinced. nice analysis!
Just seen the highlights for the first time. A batch of nice goals there, coventry’s goal included.
For me the pick of them is Theo’s second. I usually say I enjoy a nice team goal better than individual shows, and in many ways I do. But what a goal by Theo. What a goal. And of course, as some already have pointed out, that kind of goal does bring back some memories.
Hey night owls. Just finished watching the entire game. Miquel is something else (we all knew that). He amazes me with his accuracy of his long balls. Quite good at finishing, as well. #1 goal for me was Arshavins due to the technical difficulty of execution. Theo’s 2nd goal was his own from start to finish. AOC’s was sheer power. Most heartening to see Giroud get his goal and an assist. Yennaris, Angha and Gnabry all look very promising. Much to celebrate!!!
Cheers for that mate. Great result. Hope we go all the way to Wembley, again.
Scruz… I’ll need your phone number and shit, and for you to answer at 4 am.
The last thing I wanna do is get lost in California when The Arsenal are playing.
Maybe the criticism and desire to prove himself will life Theo up to the next level. Hoping he continues to develop and bangs in goals. We will all benefit if he continues to do so.
I wonder if the Boss will play Arshavin as second striker in the Premier League though? He could do so if personnel needed to be rested or were otherwise indisposed…
Btw, I saw Ignasi kiss the badge in the highlights on the official website. Am I the only one who cringed?
That’s almost like the Kiss of Death in modern football right?
I wonder how soon we’ll have to wait for his “you guys” message as he goes back to Spain?
Good stuff Holic for the review, looking forward to the 12 mins highlight package if not both 1st & 2nd half on Arsenal Player
“I just thought I’d celebrate the occassion with this adaptation of Janie’s Got a Gun by Aerosmith.”
Christ, I wish he hadn’t scored now
Only 45 posts?
Now, this is a celebration!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQXKtrkmOb8&feature=youtube_gdata_player
Not bad getting such a complete report together from a game you haven’t seen, Holic
Very difficult to comment any more than that on a game from which I have yet only seen the goals, but Giroud getting his first will hopefully open the floodgates. A well taken goal it was too, a calm and composed chip over the keeper.
Haven’t had time in the past few days to make more than short visits to the bar and have not done too much back-drinking, but I am quite sure I agree with whatever tabs and Ollie have said
@44: Haha, touché Monsieur Nonny
Only seen the brief highlights but you can’t grumble at another 6 goals. 2 good finishes from theo and nice to see Giroud get off the mark. The Ox with a pile driver. Watch it again. No run up and minimum back lift. A great hit.
Cannons. No, you weren’t the only one that cringed.
Another 6 on Saturday please. Now that really would be beer time.
Finally saw the goals and my word, where to start.
Girouds finish – as cool as you will see, this is what he should have done against Liverpool. The penalty was well struck and only denied by great save. I am sure this will give him huge confident boost and the goals will flow from him now.
AOC – you beauty, goalkeeper should do better but still..what ..a ..shot.
Arshavin – lovely finish, showing glimpses of what hes capable of, if only his workrate was comparable with his talent and skills.
Feos first – as said in commentary, trademark him, he has these runs from angle with low and hard finish to far post really in him apparently. When I saw it Sp*rs home game instantly came to mind.
Coventry goal – gotta give credit since it was amazing pass and even better finish, Martinez could do nothing about that one.
Miquel – low and hard, thats how you should head the ball from such kind of cross.
Feos second – if only he did this kind of stuff on regular basis, pure class and another great finish, proving his point apparently. Giving Arsene pleasant headache in the process that he actually might deploy him up front.
All in all, great performance, youngsters looking sharp, Coquelin and Yennaris had great games especially.
I’m sailing in the same boat as most you Holics, only seen the goals and nothing else. Would have followed the action somehow/somewhere last night if my body hadn’t forced me into bed at 9.30 through utter exhaustion. This being in your mid-thirties thing really forces you to pick and choose doesn’t it? It’s either get pissed and then rest up and recover, but as far as get pissed on 2 or 3 different nights in one week is concerned? Forget it!
I’ve got two words for last night’s finishing: sub lime!
Giroud’s opener: I know it’s only Coventry but you gotta start somewhere. Plus, that kind of dinked finish can easily go wrong and make you look like a bellend, so in my book it goes down as a very classy, perfectly-timed goal
A to the O to the C: more of the same please sir! I love the smell of a whanger from outside the box.
Russia’s Finest Haircut: OG’s assist was unselfish and perfectly weighted, the trap and finish were just sick.
Theo’s double: if picking splinters out of his arse is making play like THAT, I want to see him against the Chavs. On fire.
Miquel: lovely stuff, but spare us the badge-kissing. It means nothing to me.
I suppose we’re getting there!
I’ve got the highlights recorded. Going to try and catch em tonight!
Giroud penalty miss huh?
Anyway dare be it for me to talk about second string squads which are top five in the uk.
Be it for me!
Reminiscent of the 2007 final anyone?
Reading next?
Anyway I’m off!
For now!
Thee Bus stop in 48 hours!
Heh!
I can confirm it was a great night out for all kind of reasons.
*BOILK* and UTA!
Holic and to think you didnt watch!!!you truly are a master!!
Off to back drinking from where I left off last night, hopefully and some other match reports from those who were in attendance at the Emirates.
Can’t believe the hype about Walcott’s second goal (I actually thought his first was better) – if my Sunday night team had defended the way Coventry did for that goal then there would have been fist fights in the dressing room afterwards.
Yes it was a nice turn and well put away, but face it, the Coventry team were out on their feet. If Theo was doing this on a regular and consistent basis against better teams then he might be taken more seriously when he questions Arsene’s judgement, about where he should be playing.
Oh, and a yellow card for Miquel for kissing the badge. Cut that shit out. Now.
Coffee, black for this grumpy bastard.
Dr.z – Happy pills available aplenty from you know where
FYI, I was fortuntate to be in the perfect postion to enjoy Theo’s second last night. It was the best goal in terms of pure footballing ability that I’ve seen him score. Against poor opposition for sure but it was pure class and you can only beat what’s in front of you.
As you say, IF he can do that in The Prem AND on a consistent basis then we should at least try to move heaven and earth to keep him. Would it be fair to say that the jury remains out?
Badge kissing a definite yellow card offence these days unless you’ve been with the club for 6 years min and have just signed another 6 year contract. It’s all about the 6.
Hey Cannons. I found your post at 42 quite hilarious
Allow me to practice some of my rhetorics:
You cringe? Kiss of Death? End of relation? I hope you don`t subject yourself to this kinds of thoughts and feelings often if a girl happens to come and show you some affection mate?
If a young player expresses his momentary happiness in the way he likes it`d be both a mistake and a waste to qualify it as fake.
Professor,
All I’m saying is that the defending team might have thought about putting a challenge in.
The fact that you were in a perfect position to see it, doesn’t change the fact that it was shit defending.
And as I said, my opinion is that it wasn’t even the best goal he scored last night.
Well that was well worth departing with a tenner for.
Only a last minute solo effort from Theo denied me a spot-on pre-match prediction of 5-1 in the previous drinks.
Judging by the way Theo stayed on the pitch at the final whistle, and walked around acknowledging and applauding every section of the support, he clearly has a place in is heart for the club and I do very much hope he has a long-term future with us.
Good effort Holic. I also thought that Keith’s sketches were a highlight!
I have only seen the goals so don’t have anything to add save that I think we can all get used to seeing the Ox regularly drill them in from that kind of distance. It’s clearly in his locker, and I was reminded of his effort against City pre-season that hit the inside of both posts.
Been scrabbling around the Internet reading what people that were there had to say. Never ceases to amaze me how differently people can view the game. In one place Yennaris is described as “outstanding”, in another “disappointing”. Arshavin is either “mercurial” or “wasteful”, and Theo has either “sent a message” or “confirmed his best position is wide”. Heh ho. For those interested,the most extensive write up I’ve seen thus far is on Gunnerblog.
There does seem to be unanimity on two things. Miquel was outstanding, and Gnabry showed why he is so highly rated. All good. Always rated Miquel. Great little footballer and now he’s adding physical bulk, he’s potentially got it all. Would like to see him out on loan at another Prem Club to see if he’s got it week in week out against stronger opposition.
Scruz @36 – You reckon Snir’s screaming on saturday will be “silent”? Haha, good luck with that one!
Lars @47 – Heh
Dr Z @55 – Make you right re Theo. I wouldn’t start him on saturday or indeed any other Premiership game, until he signs on the dotted line. I just don’t think he can expect to play in the last year of his contract without having signed up. Another benching might concentrate his (and his agent’s) mind. If not, then get used to that bench Theo.
Right, I’m off to kiss the badge.
Uncle Charlie – That, or he is very media savvy?
Did theo just do a henry? The speed and swerve leading to that second finish had me thinking-it about f*ckin time! Dont tell le boss, show him! Boy oh boy he did.
The boss now knows arshavin is more creative in the hole…it took thaaaaat long to realise it boss?
Giroud scored…was there any doubt?
Here’s to proving people right/wrong, these players did it yesternight.
Next? More oilers in blue…am not afraid anymore.
By the way, I see that Arsene said after the game that he is “not against” Theo playing up front.
Presumably that takes care of the “footballing reasons” behind the delay, and he will sign his contract immediately.
What’s that? He hasn’t? Oh, but it’s not about the wonga. Oh no.
Am hearing you loud and clear Dr.z. Hair of the dog? It’s about that time….
I probably should explain why I’m so grumpy.
I had it in my mind that tickets for QPR were to go on sale tomorrow morning to Red, only to discover on .con today that the game is already sold out.
I was “this” close to booking my flights ‘n all……
Guess my next mineral water will be Fulham in November….
@ 60.
From where I sat I can confirm that Gnabry looks to be a real prospect. Full of confidence to shoot on site too.
Yennaris also continues to impress me. Composed and plenty of ability. A very useful squad player with years ahead of him.
A blessing in disguise Dr.GrumpmeiZter. Fulham should provide a much better game of football.
I do accept that money is a major factor, but I believe that he would much prefer to earn it at Arsenal
zico, the educated red member will tell you that Ticket Exchange will yield better tickets than you will get on day one of red sale anyway.
Book your flight for QPR. If you don’t get a good lower tier ticket on Tx, I will for you.
There are educated red members?
I thought they were all like me
Well played ‘Holic. That’s one hell of a service.
Uncle Charlie – Yep fair enough.
TS – Cheers for the assessment on Yennaris/Gnabry.
Blimey, if Holic offers Dr Z a ticket every time he throws a moody, I reckon we can all expect a lot more Caledonian crankiness in the future!
Can’t believe I don’t have your mobile no. Email it to gooner@goonerholic.com
Feckers!
Now where’s me Tottenham ticket!?
Afternoon all.
I was away from the computer for a good while before and during the game, managed to catch the goals in the early hours of the morning on The League Cup show which in a rare moment of sober clarity I had had the awareness to set to record, (can’t remember doing it though).
Nice to score six, whoever the opponants maybe and if this is basically our B team then our squad is in a pretty healthy state.
With Citeh already out and the other Mancs been drawn against the Chavs, this is a competition that we really should target to win, just to get all the hacks off AW’s back.
‘H,
you have mail.
Actually Holic you have 2 items of mail
He gets what he wants
He get what he waaaaants
Grumpy from Callie
He get what he wants
This has got Feelgood written all over it.
“Fist fights in the dressing-room afterwards” – Ohno. Can’t. Get. The. Image. Of. Scantily (oops!). Clad. Snarling Caledonians. Swapping punches.Outta me head now – that’s lunch outta the window.
Agree with Zee in principle. Refuse to join the hype re Free-O till he signs a sensible deal with us and does what he did last night more regularly against half-decent opposition. Till then the boy, though not dead to me, is certainly walking wounded. (Like that’s gonna make any difference to anyfink he does – but ya know etc. .) # ComonSonSignSoonOrSodOrf!
Psed – would like to place an advanced order for a champs league semi-final ticket at The Emirates – jus’ behind the dugout – ta!
Uncle Charlie
I’m hoping you’re right. In the meantime, it’s all about signing on the line that is dotted and my gut tells me that it’s a long shot now.
Heh! @ AL
… but why stop at the semi-final for a ticket request???
Fair point TS – was assuming the barkeep’s influence stretched only as far as home … but from what you’s implying maybes not then …
Psed – hope the final’s somewhere right nice this season
Hate to p*ss on your chips AL but it’s Wembley
Also good to see that our fans are the only ones who take the competition seriously. As far as I could see there were a hell of a lot of empty seats in the stadia up and down the country.
Wembley again TS? Blimey. Had it in 2011.
AL
Agreed H2H. Should target to win this thing, and knock the LWC’s out along the way (as long as Norwich don’t do it first of course).
H2H
Anything to shut those f*ckers up would be a blessing but I’ll admit to having grown weary of The League Cup over the years with teams like Swindon, Leeds, Luton & B’Ham sapping the joy of the tournament from me. If we can win it with a B/U21 team then fine.
I’m turning into Dr.z aren’t I? Meh.
Oooh! tabs has got me moist again. Knocking out the LWCs along the way, that always gets the juices flowing.
AND… an away evening in Reading!
Let’s field Wilshire, Cazorla & Diaby for that one. What? Oh…
I’ve never been of the opinion that we must win a trophy to define us, but I want this one so bad I can almost taste it. Not only to vindicate Le Boss, but to stick it to R van Iscariot and that fuckstick with the stupid hair who was once again bleating to the media today.
He should let his football do the talking……………
Oh what? ……….
Wait……yeah…………
That’s not that easy to do from the bench, eh?
Wemberlee TS??? Oh well, p’raps i’ll save meself for the season after when we go on to retain the thing …
with tabs and the man from Holloway as this thing looks well winnable. Quad still on!!!
AL, You’re not including CL?!
I think he is ABB.
Financial results due today apparently, with another £50m profit to be announced.
H2H, Help me out. Capital One Cup, Carling Cup, PL Title, FA Cup, and UEFA CL. That’s 5 competitions.
This year’s COC = Last year’s Carling Cup.
It’s 4 abb
Re: scruz @36. I’ve been to Maggie McGarry’s and an excellent atmosphere it is with dedicated gooners galore. I’m assuming they are dedicated because they show up so early in the morning, as their all nighters are winding down. But you should warn Snir about how curvy Highway 17 is for a late night ramble through the mountains.
And you say it like its a bad thing Nonny.
Shame we didn’t spunk it all on Dempsey, Lloris, Garcia et al.
Abb,
THe Carling cup was the old name for what is this year known as the Capital One Cup .
It’s really the League Cup, but has gone by it’s sponsers name since the 80′s, I believe.
It has also been known as the Littlewoods Cup, the Milk Cup and thev Coca-cola cup down the years.
Unlike the FA cup where basically any team can apply to enter, the League Cup is only open to the 92 clubs that form the football leagues. (PL, Championship, League 1 and League 2)
Hope that helps.
Nurse the cup formerly known as “Carling” has a new sponsor – so has a new name too – “The Capital Thingy Cup”.
I know. i know – no-one told me either. Didn’t realize till last night. Will meself rebrand the quad, and call it the quin from now on – till somebody comes up with a better offer.
Cheats!!
Hey! Laughing. Thanks TS. Yep that’s four
Aww TaBs it.
Oh Lester, You make me feel better Lad! Well in.
abb, Capital One Cup is the current name of what was once known as the Carling Cup and before that various other names. New sponsor this season, hence the new name.
And ofcourse, well in Rev’.
Oh crap, forgot to update before I replied to abb…
Yes H2H, Very thorough. Boy, I make everbody look good!
Hi Lars. Tea and crumpets on the bar for all.
@ 81
Who said anything about clothing?
There goes dinner as well
@ 101 – Saved ya from yerself dearboy. No, no – don’t thank me – jus’ doin’ me job.
Amen To The Arse!
Heh.
Damn yer Zee – may have drown meself in drink instead, now … Sexton fetch me the altar (yer state o’ mind) wine – i’m acomin’ in …
AL, solids are for softies anyway
You know it makes sense…..
Why’s they is wise words Zee – hallelujah (as a holyman i really should know how to spell that word – no?) praise be!!!
Right – i’ve got a flock to attend to – time to clock back on and flock orf.
Amen To The Arse – and dare i say it – keep the faith!!!
Well in AL, and savin’ souls as well.
Well I’ll be damned
tabs @98 – a £50m profit with a trophy = good. A £50m profit with another empty season after selling our captain = bad.
Rev AL. You should have sung this one to Cunty Van Cunty before he sold his soul for seven pieces of silver.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D9wkcfCbZqM&playnext=1&list=PL968E6059B21A7210&feature=results_main
@ 117
Whose specialist subject clearly is Stating the bleeding obvious
Nonny.
A fifty million profit is always a good thing ask any Leeds or Rangers fan.
While you’re at it, ask a Pompey fan if it was really worth it, winning the FA cup.
Ta tabs. John C@ntery – found guilty of racism charge by the sweet FA. Lord have mercy on his soul. (But please leave it till the end of the season, or the season after, or the one after that – ta.)
Right, really moustache
HaHa! 8Ball. By the way that fella’s doin’ alright nicking my gig ain’t he.
To The Rev Mobile!!!
Only four matches?
Suarez got banned for eight and JT’s at least just as big of a cunt that he is.
Does this mean we won’t get to enjoy JT’s grass eating antics this weekend?
Afternoon ‘holics,seems our Cuddly Maverick has been found guilty and banned from driving for 12 months. I get the Miquel bashing,if he kissed the badge so be it,we should not judge him based on another man’s wrong doing,i feel he has a genuine attachment to our club considering we gave him a second shot at been a footballer after Farca deemed him not good enough and released him.
Afternoon all,
Extremely busy and tired.
Everything worth saying has probably been said about last night.
The Giroud assist for Arshavin is standing out in my memory, amongst many very good and energetic performances.
Gnabry looks great.
Coquelin will be a major player if he stays long term.
Thanks to Abb, and others, for your thoughts.
Have a good afternoon, all.
H2H @ #125
Looks like it. Shame. Chel$ea might be better off playing against our kind of football with him out of the side anyway. Luiz & Cahill will be their CBs now I guess? Praying that Luiz, having got away with it once, does not try one of those kinds of tackles on any of our players this weekend.
Reading-Arsenal in the League Milk Rumeblows Littlewoods Carling One Cup will be live on Sky.
Good to hear we’re on track to comply with FFP
http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/arsenal-holdings-publishes-financial-results
Arsenal Holdings publishes financial results
Club remains on track to comply with Financial Fair Play rules
Nonny @118,
Well thanks for that!
My only point is that there is no point spending money for its own sake.
No-one is taking money out of the Club by way of dividend. If its not spent, it’s still at the Club waiting to be spent.
Our manager ,(who you seem determined to hate so much), would prefer to wait and spend it on quality rather than spunk it on whoever’s available, as so many managers do. Look at Cazorla. Couldn’t get him last summer. Kept his money in his pocket. Got him this summer. Perhaps we should have spunked it all on Henderson last summer? Would that have demonstrated enough ambition for you?
Profit by the way was £37m (before tax) £30m (after tax), not £50m, but don’t let facts get in the way of the agenda.
Interesting also that without player sales profit (£65m) and property profit(£2m), Arsenal made a loss of £31m before tax.*
*Swiss Ramble.
tabs, are you still planning to be in the Tollie on Saturday?
@ Snir and Cent
Agree totally about Miquel and his badge-kissing – I think it’s genuine. Let’s not get all cynical for no reason.
****
Just think, we have no new injuries. Roll those words around your mouth. No…new…injuries. What the hell is happening to us?
Hearing about the Terry verdict has just put a little spring into my step.
Dr Z @120 I fear you might be right
Ollie – Certainly. You about?
I have a message for Nonny and every other person who slag the club off for “making profits” “buying cheap players” “rewarding deadwood players with big salaries” “not showing ambition” “ripping the fans off and lying to them” and “not winning trophies every single year” i’m sure you all don’t have intentions of making profits in your respective buisnesses,am sure you all buy only the most expensive products when you go shopping,am sure you all have a 100% success rate in your buisness decisions,am very sure you dont have savings and spend your salaries/wages/income/paycheck as soon as you get them,am sure you have never lied to your kids/partner/employer or employees because you think it’s in their best interest not to know the truth,am sure you all emerge as the best in your respective fields of endavour every year,no? Then you all must have accepted pay cuts,quit your jobs and turned your kids in to welfare because of your “incompetence” and “failure” to do these things,no? again? Hypocrites.
TS.
I think he (JT) plans to appeal, so he may very well be able to play against us.
As for Luiz, I don’t think e’s a dirty player, just a clumsy one, I think his feet just get in the way;
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/c/c8/C-bob.png/200px-C-bob.png
Tabs 135 – aye.
I was very very nearly tempted to buy a ticket this lunchtime. It was there in my basket, but I’ll stick to the plan.
I will most probably take the train that takes me to Paddington at 1214, so I’m guessing I should be nearly on time for kick-off.
@ 136 Cent
ha ha
***
And the Ladies beat Barcelona away in the WCL. So all in all a great day, yesterday.
@ Cent
That was a supportive and empathetic ha ha, btw.
If I am reading the runes correctly, tabs and Ollie are attending the Tollie but not the match, therefore spending more time sending liquids South?
Messy.
I suggest all leave is cancelled by the Met.
See you in there Ollie.
Dr Z knows
Another prospect who we’ve been forgetting about – Ryo.
And in a mirror of the activity in North London, Dr Feelgood will be meeting with the peerless Bergkamp the Man in a boozer in the Ancient Seat of Scottish Kings, to not go to the match but to send some drinks down South.
Bring. It. On.
“Profit by the way was £37m (before tax) £30m (after tax), not £50m, but don’t let facts get in the way of the agenda.”
Well as the figures weren’t out when I made the post and it was based on what the usually well informed John Cross tweeted earlier in the afternoon, I wasn’t letting the facts get in the way of any agenda.
But thanks for your concern and input.
Official (as if we didn’t already know it): “big” JT is a dirty racist.
Afternoon all.
A quick half please… can´t stay long. TaBS knows why
A quick scan through the drinks would SEEM to suggest that Snir hasn´t posted this yet, so sit back and enjoy…
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VY1JNGJ_PIg
Here to help Nonny, here to help.
I’ll get that half Mr C
Fun G,thanks mate,i just needed to get that off my chest,we are all working towards perfection even though we know no human can achieve perfection so i expect everybody to be given a lttle margin for error,tired of people criticizing the club’s employees like they are not human.
No time to really back drink but saw your @60 Tabs.
I was there and Yennaris was good. Started a little edgily, at times, but generally did well and got more confident and better as the game went on.
A very lively combination with Coquelin.
Very promising.
Nonny,you didnt by any means see my post @136,did ya?
Trev, Cheers mate.
I was impressed with Yennaris at RB last season against the Mancs. Pleased he looked good in midfield too, which I understand is his usual position in the reserves.
TaBS… are you buying the half or nicking it?!
Reckon we all need a full report from you Trev … no pressure
Mr C – rumbled!
Full game here for anyone who doesn’t have access to Arsenal Player.
http://www.dailymotion.com/playlist/x295xe_Shahriar_NorouziMajlan_ars-cov-cc-full-game-12-13/1#video=xtwmeg
There is an eerie silence…..the Arsenal treatment room has just been re-bamed the Marie Celeste
Is it just me, or “have we never had it so good?”
*re-named*
Feckin Apple
Jinxed it just there, Dr Z?
attempting a small backdrink in the windy stylee…
cannons, steve t, others about badge kissing. i sure wondered why he was doing that, and am just hoping it was youthful joy and naïveté, rather than any kiss of death by dna.
well played, uncle charlie@59. can’t say i was disappointed to see the sixth go in, it was a pretty goal to boot (regardless of what the unhappified dr. z. is grumbling about).
tabs@60, we really, really, really don’t want to wake mrs. scruz. the kid i’m not so worried about, he sleeps through anything; and no, he won’t get up for those early games any more, at 14 he’d much rather sleep. btw, snir has asked me to teach him the “silent screaming” technique
kenyan@62, that might just be a *bit* overegging the theo pudding to say.
h2h@86, after all the complaining coming from league cup headquarters about “not fielding strong teams”, the class of arsenal is evident again.
ts@89, no offense, but i can certainly do without an image of you going moist…
abb@95, the carling cup…oh, never mind, i’ll bet loads of people answered you.
8ball@97, good point on hwy 17, but snir’s a big boy. he’ll be leaving *well* after the bars shut here, so i’d be more worried about deer in the headlights than drunks on the road.
rev@100, well in, though a tad redundant i believe.
nonny@118, profit = good. trophies = good. either without the other = good.
rev@122, love that cunterry has such a black mark against his name; the piles of other evidence have done little to convince most of them.
fung@133, shut.the.hell.up.about.the.injury.thing. you trying to blow it for us?
zico@141, are we playing barcelona, then? and @144, if snir shows up we’ll be doing the same in the western reaches of the happy train orbit.
z, you can join fung in the zin bin for the injury comments. hush yo’ stuff.
must say, i’m looking forward to meeting my first ‘holic saturday, if it all works out with snir. i haven’t been able to watch a game with another gunner in a while, not since last year’s champions league. here’s to a hefty victory, cunterry or no cunterry.
catalan@147, that’s AWESOME. thank you. “you bring a gun, we bring an arsenal…” loved the hypocrite tag on the guy with the black box over his eyes…
Well Dr Z,
It is no coincidence that this run of all quiet at the training table started with my arrival at the Quackery!!
Do they test for banned substances in the EPL?
Guess I should have checked that first.
NorCal,
You’re not in The Quackery. Dear boy, you haven’t even been interviewed yet.
Carlos?
For the record, male interns will be seen by Carlos. I’ll do the ladies.
Scruz,
Maybe I should make the drive down for the game too. Then we can do a proper three gooner silent scream salute.
I’ve got a 14 year old too. He is plus/ minus on the early games too. The five year old is always up and ready to go.
scruz,
Where did I suggest I was unhappy to see the sixth goal go in?
I was merely calling for some perspective about the reaction to said goal, and the contribution made to it by piss-poor opposition.
Feelgod,
Please excuse the overstep. The standards “in” the Quackery are hard ( down Wolfie) to live up too. Ivana reminds me of this with annoying frequency.
All the same, I hope what ever the reason it continues!!
norcal, you’d be welcome…let me know by friday night, ok?
z, i just like being able to call you grumpy. heh. it wasn’t about the happiness, it was about the quality you called into question (naked pub team fistfights and all that).
Pub team?
How very dare you.
We’re not that good.
Still think Coventry, by that stage of the game, due to being tired were worse.
Feelgod
Oh yeah.
lol, zico, my bad. your “sunday night team”. not the same as your “saturday night team”, i’d expect roxette knows all about the former.
NorCal, dear God, you’ve started something now, “Feelgod”????
As if he needed any encouragement!
Dr Z, if we get any injuries on saturday, or if there is the merest hiccup in Jack’s recovery, I’m blaming you, and only you. No questions, no hesitation, no balance, just full on bitter blame!
For those now saying how lucky we are with injuries, Schez, Fabianski, Sagna, Jack and Rosicky still not fit to play. Situation getting better, but hardly one worth singing from the rooftops.
Right I’m off to fetch Carlos to sort out once and for all what position , if any, NorCal holds in the Quackery.
Later.
tabs, if any position (this being california), i’d bet on the missionary…
and when you fetch carlos, make sure he brings his lead-filled sock to take care of that feelgod fella once we lose someone to injury.
@ abb and firstlady
Have now backdrunk from previous post (warm champagne, yum)… and I wish you had been there as well! Between us we would have screamed the place down, I don’t doubt.
Tabs,
Actually nurse Abb coined ” feelgod” during the last interbull.
Credit or discredit to her.
Scruz @ 161, what a backdrink… :’)
Terry been charged for racism even though we all knew he was a racist from long time? Oh
@ 176 NorCalArsenal
interbull
ha ha
I love it when people build on a good thing
Suarez gets 8 match ban and Terry gets 4. I’m shocked…… Oh wait, no I’m not.
Feelgod? haha!
Saw the highlights, of all the goals I liked Ox’s the best. Brilliant strike!
Right, some back drinking for later
cheers, wind. just trying to emulate my betters…
NorCal,
In my position as Head of Security,I have been asked to consider your application to the Quackery. This is clearly sensible as I have absolutely no medical knowledge whatsoever.
Please come in. Please try and relax. Yes that is a gun in my pocket,and no, I am not pleased to see you. No need to be alarmed. I will only shoot you if you annoy me.
Now you have made application to work in the Quackery. They are , as you know, a close knit team, and only the most suitable applicants are accepted. They are also quite mad, heavily reliant on hard core drugs, and endemically lazy.
There are currently four positions available :-
1. Chief Registrar- Working under Messrs C&T, this involves undertaking all aspects of medical ministration – diagnosis, surgery, rehabilitation, after-care. In a nutshell, all the work.
2. Assistant – Basically the same as above (all the work), but without title, kudos, pay or indeed the merest hint of humanitarian respect.
3. Senior Nurse Wolfie’s little helper – Basically the same as Nurse Abb but slightly lower. Duties include Speedo stroking, mirror holding and sycophantic flattery.
4. A Receptacle. – What it says on the tin. Basically a holder of swabs, empty lipsticks, pipes, and drinking vessels. Duties must be carried out in silence and without complaint.
Obviously the utmost care must be taken as to what position you are placed so a most scientific questionnaire has been devised. The Questionnaire is multiple choice and you will be graded on the answers you give, your working out rationales, and the speed of your responses.
I will then confer with Messrs C&T, Nurse Wolfie and Nurse Abb, before a final decision is made.
QUESTIONNAIRE
1. A Doomer is found on the Happy Train. He is shot in the face by me and attends the Quackery looking for medical care. Do you
a) Tell him to lie down, give him a local anaesthetic, and unerringly pick the shrapnel out of his face whilst radiating a Doctorly calm.
b) Tell him he deserved it and order him to stand in the corner with his face to the wall as it offends you.
c) Ignore him completely and carry on sorting out your colleagues breakfast drugs.
d) Try and catch Nurse Wolfie’s eye and mouth “you gorgeous foxy thing you”.
2. Cusop (LWC) turns up unexpectedly asking for drugs. Do you
a) Ask him for his prescription, and attend to his request briskly, efficiently and in an orderly fashion.
b) Laugh haughtily at him, and remind him that drugs are for the workers only.
c) Ask him to clean the Quackery urinals with his tongue.
d) Try and catch Nurse Wolfie’s eye and mouth “We can have some fun with this one Sugar”
3. The Police are on a drugs bust raid. Do you
a) Flush all the drugs down the loo in an effort to lose the evidence
b) Accept all responsibility for all Class A drugs, confirm that nobody else had an inkling what you were doing , and do a 25 year stretch whilst never breathing a word.
c) Panic and immediately eat all the drugs knowing that the self-induced coma brought on will last a minimum of 43 years.
d) Try and catch Nurse Wolfie’s eye and mouth “Bet you’d look good in Uniform Sweet thang.
Please consider your answers carefully. I look forward to hearing from you.
Everyone knows the answer to life, the universe and everything is c)
Well done Carlos, but remember when you shoot them in the face, make it count. We don’t want to lose valuable time that could be better spent drinking.
@172
“Just full on bitter blame.”
Are you Roxette’s life coach?
Wise Words Dr God
That video is awesome Catalan…thanks a lot
saw version of this song made from last season, but this one is much better and I really like Rotten van Pigstys bit there:P
I see that Santos got banned for 12 months.
He drives how he wants, he drives how he waaaants.
Well, he won’t for a while.
You know, this place really is the dog’s nuts.
No sooner had I made my pathetic noises that the Red membership ticket allocation had sold out for QPR and the inestimable Barman was offering to sort me out with a brief. So typical of the generosity of spirit frequently in evidence in this thinking-man’s saloon.
This has been evident pretty much from day one for me. I came here as a refugee from another blog where everything was so black and white it was like Bertie Bassett had walked into a Chaplin convention. I tend to be a “shades of grey” type of guy, (and I don’t mean the mummy-porn that is breaking publishing records in Britain at the moment) but merely, that whilst there is usually a polarity of views on all things Arsenal, I very rarely land at either end of the extremes. (Or at least I like to think so).
Take Theo Walcott.
I think he is a useful player for Arsenal. I think, he has a contribution to make and I would rather he was in the tent pissing outward, as opposed to the alternative. I am deeply uncertain however about offering him silly money (whatever that might be, for us). The numbers coming out today show that, in the absence of a candy-coated father figure, our finances are still precarious requiring sales to balance the books. If a decision about where we spend our money in future is to either spunk it on Team Walcott, as opposed to recognising both the strides made and the greater potential of Oxlade Chamberlain for instance, or preparing to keep some of our other younger talent sweet, then I might be tempted to politely show Theo the door and wish him well on the way out.
If playing for England is the barometer by which Theo measures his attainment in the game, then maybe he should consider asking for his wages to be adjusted downward to those earned by his young compatriot, Oxlade Chamberlain?
Just a thought.
Spot on Dr Z!
Excellent post Dr Z.
Agree with it all.
I am still blaming you for any injuries mind
Well played Dr. Zee @189. Particularly impressed with the fancy footwork re the comparison with the bloke that gets picked in front of him for the world’s third best (ahem, ahem!) team. (Thinking outta the Ox – no??? No, Ok – fair enough.) Still, like the idea that the club might gently waft that thought ‘neath the noses of Free-O’s people. Someone, somewhere should let PHW in on it ASAP.
Howdy Campers ..
Just want to say thanx for all the nice words you guys* – that’s why you are all so special to me
I am so pleased with our team that I have taken on an air of superiority as I strut around Kingston in my new Purple Reign top – the only disappointment though is that I have not seen a single Manu or Chav pretender … I wonder where they are hiding?
Red Stripe & Appleton Special Reserve on the bar for everyone
* this includes special guys Nurse ABB & FunG
Good evening all, FunGunner, Yes I enjoyed chatting with FirstLady very much so. Wouldn’t it be something if the three of us could join Delia at a game. Pure heaven! Zico, I believe you said something about we’ve never had it so good. Our #1 goalie is out for 2-3 more weeks and yet there seems to be no panic amongst the holics. This is testimony to how well we’ve been doing with our defending as well as scoring. Fingers crossed. And on Monday, we get a glimpse of Jack playing against WBA in the under 21′s, really can’t wait. And Catalan, good to see you sir. Well that’s a wrap. Have a good one all.
Oh Gooner Terry, hello mate! I’m off to work but just had to say ‘hi’. God how I’ve missed you. Take care.
Zico
The Lovely C has asked me to point out that there is no E in her name,The ‘ eyes ‘ have it,if you get my drift.
So she has respectfully suggested that you desist from giving her an ‘E ‘ where there should be an ‘ Eye ”
Also, i cannot believe the number of blogs on here in the past few days regarding the Dishonorable Schoolboy.
I can think of better subjects to spend my Column Inches on.
Also a Cranky Sweeper and a Grumpy Zico,is there a double act in there somewhere.??
With me in the lead role of course.
Just also to clarify the Terry situation.
After he receives the full brief of the decision,he has 14 days in which to lodge an appeal.
The Ban does not come into effect until after that is all resolved.
So he is free to play against us and in any other league games until then.
Cheers
The Sweeper.
GT
Sorry i missed your blog about the loss of your FIL.
I hope the passing was peaceful.
Hopefully a win over the Chavs will give you some cheer,although my money is on a cast iron draw,with them bringing their CL away games defensive lineup to the Ems,with the attitude that says if it’s good enough to stop Barca,it will be no problem stopping the Arse.!!
They will be perfectly content with a point.
Cheers
The Sweeper
E’s are good, Sweeper.
So Feelgood says, anyway
.
Oh and pile in lurk-fiends…..
He shoots
…he scores!
My condolences to GT. Should have mentioned this sooner.
Ping.
Too late. Lonestar, I guess it’s time for me to abandon your technique. Nice goal OX! Ha!
Oh Impec, you couldn’t even tabs it
Well in Oxon, although I might have expected you to say it in Latin.
Thanks Tabs for the link to the game, which I will try to watch late tonight.
Carlos,
My husband, NorCal, asked me to drop by and um….well ….help him with his interview and application for the job at the Quackery. He is currently working at his “other” job right now and will be tied up (steady Wolfie) until the morning. That leaves me, well, all alone for the next 15 hours and 19 minutes.
I was going to wait until the next interlull to come visit but he gave me some freedom to come visit tonight.
As for the questions:
Norcal said to answer “C” foe all three with some clarifications.
Question 1: if you took the time and energy to shoot him in the face,who is he to question or help….also the regulars need their “meds” in a timely manner no matter what.
Question 2: the toilets always need a good licking from an LWC……isn’t that what the were naturally selected to do? Darwinism at its finest.
Question 3:again the answer is “C”. Although NorCal believes you underestimated his drug tolerance and believes the 43 year coma would amount to one night in Bangcock ( not a typo).
So, Carlos, will you talk with Dr. Feelgod for me and please be very specific about my “time constraints”.
Did your gun just move?
Nice 2 ton Oxon. professional lurking.
@ Sweeper: The old man was very sick for the past 2-years and very, very, very sick in the past few months, so truth be told, its a sort of relief that that’s all behind us now. That’s of course of little comfort to Mrs GT and the rest of the family who are still deep into the pain of it all …
Cast iron draw?! Not for me mate! I want to send the buggers back to their hovels with their dicks in their hands …
GT,
Always a tough situation, even when it’s expected. Condolences to the entire family.
Not sure if already posted but Song admitted that he asked/ forced the transfer.
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1171523/alex-song:-i-joined-barcelona-to-win-trophies?cc=5901
I do hope that is the end of the selfishness in the squad…….oh wait there is Theo.
Wind: Perhaps I need to steal your strategy as you’ve been very prolific over the years mate. A cold Red Stripe for Wind ,please Mr. Barman.
Just figured out why Tabs posted the video of the entire game. Streakers being chased by keystone cops …
gt, condolences to you and your family. i am glad your fil finally was released, and i hope your wife finds peace about it all. it’s one thing that puts all this in perspective.
Great second half performance, and an important reminder that Walcott and Arshavin can still be valuable players if they are used and motivated correctly. Not so impressed by our first half, but Miquel and Yennaris looked solid throughout and Gnabry has a buzz about him that grabs positive attention.
Hey GT, good to see you back in the bar. Not much of a backdrinker me thesedays (the boywonder Wind does enough to carry just about all of us slackers i reckon) – so missed your sad news – all the best on that front.
Psed, with you all the way re your aspirations regarding the big match-up at The Ems tomorrow.
CoMOnUreDS!
Hey folks, how goes it?
I don’t know about you folks but I want more six appeal against Chelsea seeing as my birthday’s the next day.
A lot of friends figure it’s going to be a draw though…
What say you on this fine Friday?
Fuck Chavski. Fucking hate those cunts. Each and every one of the mouthy cunts. Imperative we rip ‘em a new one tomorrow. Not going, wish I was, but already feel the nerves jangling.
The good news is………..off up to Brixton for the weekend to see my sister, bil and neice. Will watch it Pub that used to be called the Hobgoblin, cant remember what its called now. But last game I wtached in there was when we done the cunts 3-1 at home in December 2010. Cracking atmosphere full of the brothers all firmly behind the arse. Hoping for the same tomorrow.
3-0 to the Gunners.
Now that it’s Friday here I can go into full speculation mode.
3-1….goals from AOC, Giroud and Vermaelen.
Scruz @167 ish
I think you may have to teach Snir the “biting the pillow” technique.
I´m sure Wolfie would be happy to instruct…..
Tabs: Really appreciated that link to the game man. I just finished watching it and it was very enjoyable.
The little Russian had a great game in his favourite hole (Go easy Wolfie).
Sublime finishes for all the goals. I like the look of Gnabry; he seems powerful and skillful with bags of potential.
I don’t see why we can’t take it to Blue Fulham on Saturday and annihilate them. Gunners4life!
I want to batter those gobby cunnies with their gold and blue shit kit into oblivion. Hoping 3 own-goals off Terry and one from Theo, Lukas and Santi will give me my 6 goals.
I think it could be 3-1 to Arsenal as well though…
Impec @ 211, thanks mate, its just been a matter of turning up at the right time
AL @ 215, aw shucks
I too missed your post about the passing of your FiL, Tel.
My heart felt condolances go out to you and yours.
Ivana Kutemoff @207
Thank you for your replies on behalf of your husband. I have to say I am underwhelmed for the following reasons.
1. I am perturbed that your husband allows his wife to answer for him. The Quackery is already overloaded with those of either a “no balls” or a “small balls ” persuasion.
2. He clearly has another job. The Quackery is a full time role. I would even go as far as to say it is a vocation, a calling if you will, and all other extraneous activities would have to cease forthwith.
3. He is clearly a pervert. I shoot people who like being tied up.
That said, I thought your answers were generally acceptable, (even though your answer to (3) was laughably naive), so I shall place them before the Quackery team, and get back to you with their decision.
Thank you for your time.
Calling Mr C, Mr T, Nurse Wolfie and Nurse Abb.
Please take a gander @182 and @207.
Please let me know if you wish NorCal to be given one of the four available vacancies in the Quackery.
Given that he didn’t answer (d) to any of the three questions, he is clearly lacking in the brain department.
We can however always use errant stupidity in the Quackery.
I therefore vote that we use him as a receptacle.
Terry, best wishes for you and your family.
Unlike some I don’t think Chelsea will park the bus like they did last time. I think this is a game with potential to be a really good one and I honestly think we look like the better team so far this season (don’t forget that Chelsea have so far had a comparatively easy fixture list and a rather large slice of luck as well) and we should win it. My only worry is that there has been so much praise for our start to the season that complacency shall rear it’s ugly head again because much as I hate to say it that has at times been a problem in recent years. But then again we gave the guy that was probably the worst offender by far in that respect a firm kick up the backside which sent him all the way to Barcelona so the risk should be drastically smaller than before.
Come on Arsenal!
They are also quite mad, heavily reliant on hard core drugs, and endemically lazy.
That’s me to a T.
Even though I may fit the bill, please do not treat this as an application for a position in the Quackery*, sounds a little bit too much like work to me.
*I do however offer my services in a drug testing capacity.
I believe my resume speaks for itself.
I believe that post is already heavily oversubscribed H2H
Nice one Esso. Have a good one mate.
8Ball, Impec1, – Glad to be of service and heh @212
GT, all the Best Mate.
@229
Having recently been appointed to the DLL Executive, I would’ve thought that you’d remember that you have a job.
Then I remembered it’s in a drug-testing capacity.
Heh
Countdown to Chelsea. Why is the media saying Chelsea is playing more like us; really don’t see that. A team in transition, yes. But the Blues will never be us. Thank god. A quick visit to their fan sites and the majority of them don’t want to see Lampard in the game. Of course, I don’t either. Wenger mentions the option of playing Theo down the middle. So I’m left wondering who will get the nod. Will Gervinho start ? Will TV return…some feel Kos isbetter suited for this fixture. Time will tell. Oh, before I forget, hope scruz, Snir and (?Norcal) have a terrific time tomorrow, and take pictures! Cor, does that mean your BD is on Sunday
Jenkinson for England?
@ GoonerTerry
Hello again and sorry to hear about your father-in-law. However old or sick a parent is, it’s always a horrible shock when they pass away.
From today’s MeedjaWatch on F365…
Easy-Peasy
Says Cesc Fabregas: “When I returned to Spain [from Arsenal] I was taken aback by the fact that La Liga is harder to win than the Premier League. In England it’s easier to win the league, because even if you lose five or six games you still have a good chance. Spanish teams are better prepared tactically. It is more difficult to score and assist here as there is less freedom and more pressing. England is more fun because it is less defensive.”
Glossing over the fact that some players at Real Madrid and Barcelona must have have found it relatively easy to score and assist as they scored 121 and 114 goals retrospectively last season (as opposed to 93 and 89 for Manchesters City and United), Mediawatch is forced to ask Cesc one question: If it was so sodding easy to win the Premier League, why didn’t you ever win one?
Cheers.
One that mediawatch missed;
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has threatened that his players may start diving after failing to get the “rub of the green” from referees.
Full story: the Guardian
So, what you’re saying is, that all this time Suarez has been trying to stay on his feet?
Also on F365:
Walcott relishing Cole clash
Apparently he’s looking forward to taking Cole on tomorrow because he’s ‘had the better of their clashes the last few times’.
Don’t count your chickens sunshine. Just because you scored 2 goals against possibly the shittest team we’ll face all season, doesn’t make you a shoo-in to start against probably one of the best we’ll play.
Usmanov tells Reuters that he “enjoys having an incognito drink in a Holloway pub near Arsenal’s new stadium where ‘no one recognises me’”. So be careful where you drink. He also said we have to stop selling players and that AW is his hero. And no more letters this season.
Struggling to think of a Holloway Rd Pub whose doors are big enough to enable the incognito one to gain entry Ned.
Camberwell. Are you sure F365 reported the interview accurately? I have a sneaking suspicion Theo was actually speaking about relishing Cold H. Cash.
Nurse Abb. I’m taking a guess that AW is having a pretty hard decision to choose two between Koscielny, Vermaelen and Mertesacker. But since he tends to surprise me, that means it’s a sure thing to be Djourou.
Re: H2H. The tough thing is to get your resume to speak TO itself.
All my best to GoonerTerry and the family on the passing of the father in law.
8Ball@243.
Not really, one more pill-beer cocktail should do it.
Norcal. I am amazed you have such gumption as to put yourself through such an excruciatingly and patently unfair public inquisition, but now that I see how it is developing may I suggest Ivana Kutemoff as a suitable replacement candidate? One important characteristic of every successful executive in my experience is the ability to recognize the time when it is best to “cut your losses” and run.
Carlos
Thank you my good man, for your sterling efforts to date. However I am afraid to point out that you have omitted the most pertinent question, without which there is no real reason to go on to the rest;
Does “Dr” NorCal have a sister? And if not, is Ivana amenable to lending a “helping hand” to whomever may need it?
A favourable response to this allows us to continue the application process.
I do fear that NorCal is massively overqualified for the job. But he does seem to grasp the gist of the patient care and inattention to duty required…. as ever, I feel Nurse Wolfie will have something to say…
Esso, You certainly have the correct attitude down pat. Have a great one at the Hobgoblin, it sounds like the right kind of place to be.
Afternoon all,
Sadly no back drinking time, except Mr C’s @247 suggests some Quackery fun?
Also sadly, my internet router has decided it can do the job no more. Can’t get a new one ’til tomorrow, after the game, so I’ve had to do this on the run.
Looking forward to seeing those of you who are going, under the Tollie Brollie.
‘Til tomorrow – losing contact now, Captain.
Come on you Reeddss………………..
A little aperitif before tomorrow:
http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/45221/arsenal-train-ahead-of-chelsea-pictures
Thank you for your input Mr C.
NorCal, back to you. All this tooing and froing is beginning to make me trigger happy. Where’s Cusop when you need him.
Trev, when time is less precious, Mr T’s input is required on @182 and @207.
Mr C – Wolfie has already decreed what he thinks should happen @227
Ok then. We’ve seen the team in practice (thanks Fun). Test time. Who is YOUR starting 11? 8ball, lets compare. Alrighty then. Vito (hey that’s a freebie !). Gibbs, Per, TV and Jenks. Arteta, Santi and Ramsey. Poldi, Theo and Gervais. Whew!
Yes, I saw that Carlos
Wolfie always has been quick off the mark. Light feet apparently.
abb – sounds almost tasty, but I think AW will do rotation and reward our goal scorers so Kos for Per and Geeerrrooooo for Gervy
Hey cognac, hope your missus is feeling better. Would love to see Kos out there, gosh I’m torn. As for OG, if we don’t see him in the first half, he’ll be involved later. A pleasant dilemma for Arsene.
Thanks for the game’s link Tabs. Arshavin looks slim and fit.He may come in handy at some point this season.
Fungunner & Abb re-watching the game at the Emirates, SOMEDAY! SOMEDAY!
“At this point last season, Arsenal had only scored seven goals in their first seven games, compared to 17 this time around, and Wenger believes this bodes well” Not to mention we have conceded far less than we had at this point last season. No wonder we all feel that this may just be our season.
NorCal – where in Cali are you from?
Hi Firstlady. Glad you mentioned AA, dare I hope for a late cameo from him tomorrow? Never have we had such a strong bench, bodes well for us.
Abb this proves your point, Chelsea in no way plays like us!!
http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/45205/stats-zone-your-pre-match-facts-and-figures
FirstLady, Yeah, I know Hazard is good and all that but our midfield options are stronger than theirs. And if you compare Mata to Santi, well we even look stronger. I’m hoping Mikel gets a red (easy for him, he plays dirty). Don’t think it will be like our last game with them. I see a wide open game (which we excel in).
Abb it sure does. Cant wait for the game tomorrow, somebody needs to break the chavs unbeaten run!!Tomorrow would be a good day to do it.
Vito
Gibbs – Per – Kos – Jenks
Arteta – Diaby (not injured is he?) – Santi
Ox – Poldi – Gervester
Sorry Theo, no breaks for you till get your biro out son.
Camberwell, AFC’s site has just put up article about TV relishing taking on Hazard. For what it’s worth. I try to take the hints the Club leaves for us fans. But who knows!
Fair enough ABB, so if I had to choose between the BFG and Kos it’s like asking me: “Would you like this delicious cold premium lager or this other delicious cold premium lager?”
BTW Abb where do you stand on Theo? Yes his goals the other day were lush but I say let him pick splinters out of his arse until he puts pen to paper.
Hey, You’re wetting my whistle! Oh, good times
Oh dear, put me on the hot seat! Theo (deep breathe). He has a good record against Chelsea. Great pace. Loves to mix it up with Cole. Has 2 goals under his belt this week (albeit against a weak defence). Think he’ll start.
Ahhhhh, I cannot £@<%}^? WAIT to get a beer down me…
My whistle is drier than the Pope's bedsheets.
CG 266 I am with you as far as Theo’s playing time is concerned, having been burned too many times by players who pretend to love Arsenal and then sod off the minute a chance arises I’d rather he put pen to paper before he plays. Biro that’s a word I havent heard used in …well a very long time.
I never get teams right but this the team I’d go with tomorrow
Mannone-
Jenks-Mert-Kozzer-Gibbs
Arteta-Diaby-Carzola
Gervs-Giroud-Poldi
A bench of theo, chambo, ramsey to come off the bench
Cheers Camberwell. Well holics, that concludes the early version of prematch analysis. Thanks to all my guests with their spot on take all things futbol. Can’t imagine Holic will have much to do now (eyes rolling). Until later, Smile!!!
FL @ 270 I like the word biro and I think they’ll be around for a long time. Plus they’re really good and deserve to persist, whereas cassette tapes were complete toss and I’m glad they’re totally obsolete.
Will he use a biro? Or does he carry around a vintage Visconti fountain pen?
Ah – I know. He’ll sign it at home and FAX the contract to the Ems. Just remembered that the football world still insists on using a really crap bit of IT to send documents.
abb – thanks for wishes – she is getting better slowly, and french med system is taking charge
Re Theo, I feel that his 2 goals were TH14 like, but he needs to do more of the same consistently (and sign dammit) before he gets my vote
Bring on tomorrow COYR
Thanks for the link, FL – that stat for the number of touches Jenkinson has had stands out.
I concur with your suggested line-up. I suspect that they might park the bus, although I hope they don’t. Whoever we field, we should go at them at a million miles an hour. When we set a fast tempo, no-one can live with us.
@ 272 CG
ha ha
Seriously, using fax machines in this day and age is baffling. Where do they draw up the contracts? On papyrus with a quill pen and a bottle of ink, using a candle to see in the dark?
I can think of only one reason for this. The people who rubber-stamp pro footballers’ contracts are all over the age of 60 and worry that an attachment can ‘get lost in transit’. It’s like my aunt and uncle (not over 60 but nearly) who refuse to do online banking because they don’t trust it, or my parents, who still buy the Radio Times (btw, they have a broadband connection in their house, it’s not like they’re cut off).
Right, enough of this. I’m off down the battle cruiser.
COYRRRssss!
Carlos, Mr T, Mr C, Wolfie, Nurse ABB, and a partridge in a Per tree,
I appreciate you considering my application for any and all positions at the Quackery. I also understand your reservations in Ivana “escorting” my answers to the questionnaire. However, in the past she has been very persuasive in getting ( and giving) me what I want.
As for the fact that I have another job, I would gladly flush that down a freshly licked LWC toilet in a heartbeat. You do have a student loan payoff program, right?
Wolfie, you little vixen, I could not answer “D” for any of the questions because Ivana has a jealous streak and a family association with a certain pickwickian Uzbeki gangster. I can, however, be discrete if the need “arises”.
Mr C,
Two sisters who are always willing to help out in the advancement of my career. And I believe you have seen Ivana’s stamina to take it the distance for me as well.
And my qualifications are the subject of several inquires here in the States. Does anyone know if Interpol has access to such things?
Again, thanks for the consideration
Snir,
I live in Redding California. About 3 hours north and slightly east of San Francisco. It takes me about 4.5 hours to get to Scruz’s area.
I won’t be able to make it down in the morning as I have some family obligations. Hope you and Scruz enjoy the morning, and maybe we will meet a different time.
@ Camberwell Gooner
(chuckle)
It is strange but my guess is that you have to have a hard copy because it has to be physically signed. And if it’s an email attachment, perhaps it could be altered. So, if it has to be a hard copy, the question arises of how do you exchange in a short time frame – posting or couriering is too slow and impossible to synchronise, hence use of fax machine. Do you buy that explanation?
Enjoy the battle cruiser.
Early kick-off tomorrow. I sort of hate those but on the other hand I don’t have to wait so long.
Nice NorCal. I have been up your way once for a baseball tournament. Some huge complex with multiple fields and stadiums that are meant to replicate actual MLB stadiums. Beautiful area and even more amazing when you head over to the coast to see the Redwoods.
I think there is little doubt in the line up tomorrow behind the front three
The Don
Jenks Pear TV Gibbs
Diaby Arteta Santi
Up front I could see Wenger going with the same line-up as City but would personally like to see
Ox Giroud Poldi
Oh and with DiMatteo in charge I do think Chelski will park the bus, but I think this team has quick enough movement in the final third for a goal. Then get a second on the break when Chelski are forced to come out and play.
Nurse Abb. I think we can expect to see Diaby starting tomorrow. As it was with RVP last season, AW’s strategy with the perennially injured who are finally having one health season seems to be to run them into the ground while he can.
Camberwell Gooner @275 your post had me giggling all through it.
I think Theo should have a goal celebration where after he scores he pulls the contract out of shorts and a pen out of his sock and signs the damn thing down by the corner flag.
CG……your slur on the more senior members of the public re modern technology are quite unfounded. Why a nice young man called at my door just last week offering me a computer thingy at a super low price as it is apparently “last years model”. I gave him the payment in cash as he asked and he promised to send the instructions how it works in the post ( not yet arrived – the post is an awful service nowadays ). He assured me the Sinclair ZX is all the rave ( his words of course).
Team I’m expecting for tomorrow : don Vito, Corp Jenkinson. BFG, TV5,
Gibbsy, slick Mikey A, Abou, saint Cazorla, Flipper, the Hunk, Poldi.
GT…condolences for the loss of the F I L.
Norcal….do not be fooled by invites to the quackery….they only want the keys to your private “medical” store.
NorCal at 283, neat suggestion re Theo, will keep fingers crossed!
The fuss about Hazard? Its that boy oscar we shud be worried about….
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
“Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger blamed some ‘unacceptable’ defending as Chelsea inflicted a first defeat of the season on the Gunners.”
Yeah, what genius dropped his best defender for our biggest game of the season? Oh.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-north-east-orkney-shetland-19790191
Heh!
Multiple hehs! Poor chap.