One Year On, Have We Learned The Lesson Of Leeds
Jan 8th, 2012 by 'holic
A year and a day after Arsenal came within a last minute penalty of going out of the FA Cup 3rd round against Leeds United we have a reprise at the Grove. Hopefully Arsene will have learned the lesson from last year and will not make unnecessary wholesale changes, although it has to be said that the visitors too will be far from full strength due to their own injury situation.
Reports that Robin van Persie has been taking a break in Dubai are not a surprise. If anybody should be recharging his batteries right now it is the skipper. We are about to discover, I hope, that we are not the easily-labelled one man team. I personally would also allow Mikel Arteta a breather if he, or the training staff, feel that he needs it. Other than those two I would put the best side we have standing out. I have this nagging little doubt on that score, however.
In goal I would retain Wojciech Szczesny because frankly Manuel Almunia would have nothing to gain from being selected. Ahead of him the suspension of Johan Djourou, added to the injuries to Bacary Sagna, Thomas Vermaelen, Andre Santos, Keiran Gibbs, and Carl Jenkinson, leaves us looking threadbare in the extreme. For me Francis Coquelin should drop into right-back, young central defender Ignasi Miquel should start on the left, and the spine of Laurent Koscielny and the BFG should be retained. Squillaci, like Almunia, would be best left out of the firing line. Having said that Jamie from Young Guns has tweeted this evening that Nico Yennaris, a young full-back who played in the 2-1 Carling Cup win over Bolton, trained with the Arsenal first-team today.
If Nico starts at right back that suggests Coquelin could be anchoring the midfield, hopefully alongside and not instead of Alex Song, with Yossi Benayoun or Tomas Rosicky starting alongside them. Theo Walcott has been off the boil of late, and that could mean a start for Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain. I would welcome that as long as the England winger is ready to come off the bench if required. Marouane Chamakh should get the nod to replace the skipper up top, otherwise why would we have requested his delayed departure to the African Cup of Nations? Andrey Arshavin is the obvious candidate to replace the already-departed Gervinho on the left.
What? Who? Oh him! Yes, I expect Thierry Henry to be on the bench, a likely second-half introduction behind Chamakh or replacing Arshavin on the left for me. Then listen to the roof coming off. It will be great to see an invincible back in the red and white, especially this particular invincible. Good luck Titi.
The visitors did much last season to repair the image of the Yorkshire club with older Gooners. They played some very good football after Howson and Snodgrass, in particular, had earned them that right. In the replay too they played their part in a thoroughly entertaining game. I’m breathing a sigh of relief that both of those players are on the injury list I mentioned earlier. They will not lack motivation though. Michael Brown is an old adversary who is likely to start in midfield, while on-loan Tottenham winger Andros Townsend should also play.
On the assumption that something close to my team plays I am looking at 3-1 to Arsenal as the ‘holic pound. Gunners Gaming, my hosts for the match, offer 10/1 against that scoreline. I wonder if I can get a price for that and Michael Brown getting booked? If we do go with a weaker line-up Leeds fans I’m sure will look carefully at the 11/1 against they are quoted by Victor Chandler. In a two horse race that is some value.
The added incentive for both clubs arrived in the shape of the fourth round draw. Anybody at home is a bonus, and I think Aston Villa is a good one for us, should we progress, on the basis of ‘better the devil you know’. Unfortunately for the television executives we don’t have any history of racist abuse with Villa, so a couple of the other games will be preferred for prime-time viewing. Monday night again, anybody?
342 Responses to “One Year On, Have We Learned The Lesson Of Leeds”
Get in!
Holic – Top post.
I too think AW will go for minimal changes in the side (apart from the forced ones with JD’s suspension and RvP being in Dubai).
We should be too strong for them.
Can’t wait for Titi’s reception. The roof will literally come off.
I hope the roof only metaphorically comes off or it will be a very messy business
thunder – don’t be so petty… π Was trying to get some effect on the sentence… Go with me man π
Leeds overall cost of team Β£1.5 million in total
wages maxiumum Β£15k per week
Cant defend at all
all attacking/creative players injured
If you can beat Leeds by a hatful, I would close the place down
Leeds hold the record of the most supporters at the Emirates.
gunners to get a hatfull
Here’s to a famous victory. Still haven’t forgiven them for Hasselbank’s late goal to stop us winning the Premiership circa 1999.
Very strong detox red berry fruit juice all round.
Off to read the maestro’s post.
Played ‘holic
The scene looks set
Good man Bathgooner – your detox has lasted five days longer than mine!
I have a slightly nervous feeling about this one, but also excited by Henry returning.
Wish I could see it, but I presume that Monday = ESPN? Stream hunting it will be then…
A cold beer to all of you. Mine is going down very nicely.
Now off to cheer quietly for Espanyol…. π
I’ll happily accept your selection, ‘Holic. And your predicted scoreline.
Have a double Glenmorangie, barman.
Evening all,
agree with your team musings ‘Holic and personally glad to see Yennaris get another chance. At least he is a specialist in the position and I thought he did really well for his debut vs Bolton.
The only disagreement I have is your assertion that “Squillaci would be best left out of the firing line”.
I would much prefer to see Squillaci left right in absolutely any firing line, and hope that the marksmen had had less to drink than Lars.
Happy Birthday by the way Lars!
This, by the way, will be my final post ever if Snir is correct and the roof literally comes off tomorrow night, as I will be underneath it.
Snir, if I’ve told you once I’ve told you a million times – don’t exaggerate. π
‘Holic –
looks like I will miss you tomorrow night if you are leaving The Tollie by 5.30, but enjoy the occasion, the game, and hopefully the result.
Hope the last few days have gone well for you and Mrs ‘H.
Just to raise the TH12 hysteria a bit – I read somewhere that we have the option to extend the loan by a further two weeks if it works out well.
Is this true ? – any insider knowledge ? – go get Snir, but don’t explode if it is the case, or you won’t get to see him anyway !!
Thanks Trev,
Daughter still making progress?
Phil, I hear what you are saying, and hope you notice I have acknowledged the injury situation for BOTH clubs.
Catalan, you’re not cheering loudly enough. Another Cesc header puts Barcacunts one up.
Evening bath, Snir, AL, thunder.
Great post ‘Holic, I was refreshing the last one for about 1/2 a hour – Century Hunting blurrs the mind π
No Tabs again, or TS ?
Hope all is well fellas. . . . . .
She is thanks ‘H.
Agree with everything you’ve said, although I did see Yennaris against Bolton at the Ems, looks promising to say the least.
Titi to come off the bench and do the damage with his presence alone! π
Geoff –
tremendous one-two for the goal in previous drinks btw.
ManUre must have our ball-in-the-bag for the FA Cup draw this season – Liverpool away next π π
Holic
I’d cheer louder, but I’m a bit scared!! Crap goalkeeping though….
Great post Holic!
Wisnowka waiting for you as always π
Should be a very good game, early goals are welcome so we can control this outing throughout. Leeds will always be up for a game like this no doubt whoever is putting the red and white on 100% effort please.
Ox for Theo is also a good shout and when Titi comes on it’s only a shame I wont be able to hear it and see it with my own ears and eyes.
Come on Arsenal!
What Mr C said! π
Trev, thanks a lot but my birthday is not until July 25th π
You’re giving us far too much credit I’m afraid.
Should be an absolute stroll in the park for you because we’re ravaged by injuries and don’t have any kind of depth to call upon. If this was Leeds’ first XI v Arsenal, I’d expect us to give you a game. As it is, this should be nothing less than a resounding victory for your lot.
Good luck for the rest of the season anyway, looks like we’ll both need some.
cheers Trev!
Nice post ‘holic although may I take issue with you over this part;
‘Iβm breathing a sigh of relief that both of those players are on the injury list I mentioned earlier.’
Even though we have so many players injured and will be resting significant others I would still prefer the opposition to field as close to a full strength team as possible, after all we’re talking about a championship side.
I remember CL final 2006 and being slightly miffed that the superstar child Messi was injured in case they used it a an excuse for us beating them.
Anyways just my tuppence h’penny worth!
Lars, you’re very welcome !
I thought you mentioned the other day that it was your birthday and would be buying (not that I’m asking) drinks at The Tollie to that effect !
Must be the Alzheimers again.
Regards the greetings, I do suffer, as i’ve already said, from premature congratulation π
@23 – Dirty Leeds fans making excuses already π
Love it !
Trev – I like exaggerating, it’s makes everything more exciting π
Seriousness is sometimes a bit too boring π
As for TH – The loan is set to end after the AC Milan right now (15.2.12) as the Red Bulls are going on the preseason tour on the 16th.
The Arsenal have an option to ask for an extension so TH will be able to play against Spurs (26.2.12) and go back the day after.
@26 – Didn’t realise we needed them? We’re a division below you and have Ken Bates as chairman – hardly a level playing field, is it?
No π π π
Lars – just checked the last 3 posts and can find no mention at all of your birthday. NURSE !!!
Scratching Shed – just kidding, you sound okay (for a Leeds fan π )
Fair points all SS, but have you seen Almunia and Squillaci? Prayers will be offered here tonight.
You are right about how much you have been weakened, and your recent results show that. Mediocre players tend to have their one good performance at our place though…
Heh thought exactly that about monday night for the next round.
Let’s beat Leeds first. I’ve got a sneaky feeling I won’t be home before the second half…..
Looks like Andy Goram nicked some Apple device
Well we’re due a performance, I just can’t see where it’ll come from. Last season Snoddy’s performance was predictable – he’s always looked capable of playing at a higher level. Same is true of Howson, and we also had Max Gradel. It was an excellent midfield that always stood a chance.
But with them two injured and Max gone we’re pinning our hopes on the ageing mad man Michael Brown (all the creativity of a paint by numbers masterpiece as I recently described him), one fit defender (and even he’s a loan) and a strike “force” that is unlikely to see any service. The only threat I can think of is Andros Townsend who was excellent v Burnley, but you can’t expect a one man show to win football games.
To be honest with you, I’ve already written this game off. For me, it just provides a welcome break for some players to return before the league resumes.
Just arrived in Hamburg. Greetings all. Penned this fast and furiously between reception and the second floor of the Marriott…
Time To Ruffle Peacocksβ Feathers
Itβs only just a year since we last played Leeds in the FA Cup; but itβs a whole generation since the FA Cup encounters in the bad old glory days of Dirty Leeds.
A visit from Revieβs Rotweilers of Elland Road in the aptly named Beeston area of West Yorkshire was sufficient to bring a sweat to the calmest palm in these days gone down.
They were a quality side then, but were forged from very solid stuff and had a reputation for taking no prisoners and doing whatever was necessary to win. No one epitomized this more than their turnip haired captain, the late Billy Bremner, playing along side Norman βbites your legβ Hunter.
Passions still run high at Leeds and it wonβt be any surprise to hear that the away end is a sell-out for Monday nightβs game. Thousands of rabid Yorkshiremen will be hoping to see The Damned United shaft Arsenal who, as every Yorkshireman worth his black puddinβ knows, donβt like it up βem. But the reality is that a visit from the boys from the former Old Peacock Ground in pursuit of Old Big Ears is something that this Arsenal side need fear not one jot. Leeds are Arsenal in reverse gear, Arsenal in a never to be seen downward spiral, an Arsenal that will never be.
The financial prudence of the Wenger years has seen the building of the finest new stadium in the land, the establishment of the finest training facility in Britain and the assembly of the most envied and entertaining young squad in the world. Arsenal has flourished and is the only top five club in the Premiership, Spain or Italy able to win AND trade profitably. That brilliant red picture is in very stark contrast to the spectacular white-hot melt down from the pinnacle that has been suffered by Leeds at the hands of the financially profligate and inept.
Financial mismanagement (of the kind demanded often by the likes of the LeGrash @ Le Grove) has seen Leeds go in the opposite direction, needing to SELL their training ground, their stadium, all their star players and even their club (for a miserly 10M, half a Tevez or a whole Demba Ba). No one-time league topping team has ever been nearer liquidation.
So should they be a team to be feared on Monday. NO. This should be a very winnable encounter for Arsenal. A big night out for Leeds and their fans when they come to grace the same piece of turf with the best team in the business – but, not a contest that they should expect to win.
Arsenalβs Young Guns will be prouder than peacocks at the end of the evening. The feathers of The Peacocks themselves will be well and truly ruffled. These birds will be very professionally plucked and Arseneβs hat will be adorned in feathery blue, Cluck, Cluck, Cluck.
But for the anticipated win to materialise, Le Boss will need to pick an eleven that resembles our βfirst teamβ and instill in them the attitude and endeavour that would be required to win against Leeds in days of The Don.
Iβm expecting to see the following take the field while Robin and Arteta watch from their sofas at home:
Sczezny
Yennaris, Mertesacker, Koscieny, Miguel,
Rosicky, Coquelin, Ramsey,
Walcott, Chamakh, Arshavin
Subs: Chamberlain, Henry, Park, Benayoun, Song,
The BtM crystal ball is shining on brightly with a sheen of crystalline brilliance and exuding a rare confidence in the form of a blue electromagnetic field flashing like an electric thunderstorm in a North of England town. HOME WIN can be seen clearly in electro-blue magnetic magnificence. There are two ecky thumps on the red side of the globe and not a single thump, of any persuasion, on the ghostly white side.
2-0 to the Arsenal it is then and I for one will be taking the family fortune down to the bookmaker in Oakton to get onto this good thing. I would have been there if the game had been played on Saturday as planned before television power changed it to Monday. Such is life in these money driven days. Enjoy it Holics. Hope I can find a stream.
warnock cocked as qpr cleans house…
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/news/story/_/id/1006201/qpr-sack-manager-neil-warnock—report?cc=5901
gosh, i feel bad for…ah, fuckit, i think he deserves the sack, and then to have the top tied off and it thrown into a coldwater pond.
cheers, btm, nicely put. i’d rather go with ‘holic’s line up, and see ox instead of theo, though i think you’re right on the scoreline. unless aluminum starts over chez, in which case i can see a deer-in-the-headlights moment or two leading to a leeds goal. then, depending on how much of a one man team we aren’t, we’ll either bang in comfortably or have some squeaky bums over the last…so chez it’s gotta be.
glad to hear your missy is on the mend, trev. our lad was close to hospitalized for poison oak (a plant that causes an oozing rash) on his hands, face, mouth, and privates last spring, and we were freaking out. my heart goes out to you and yours over it.
and, ‘holic, i trust that management is better with each passing day?
No doubt in my mind that Alex the Ox will feature, Scruz. Just expect Theo to play the first 60 mins – mind you, I’d happily be proved wrong. Watched Alex in the reserves game the other night, his potential is huge and his heart is even bigger.
Alright chaps,
My stock bet for the last couple of months has been Aaron Ramsey to score the 1st goal in the 1st 20 minutes on Bet365, prompted by the number of times he’s had a real good chance early on. This should let you know that over the years the bookies have come to love me ! Last weekend I couldn’t believe it when I noticed Blackburn were 25/1 at the place where WE WON THE LEAGUE in 2002. Villa were 12/1 at the Chavs, Sunderland 11/2 at home to the Middle-East and Swansea 9/2 at home to the LWC’s. Now as it was New Year’s Eve, I was in cups and I had us as the banker at 4/1 on, to anchor the bet, I had a tenner accumulator! I now have 151 thousand more reasons to hate that pile of shit from the wrong end of the Seven Sisters Road with there lucky deflected goal and goal-line clearances!!!
So having given up betting I just know for certain who will score the 1st goal in the 1st 20 minutes against Weeds or the next time he plays-enjoy your winnings fellow Gooners!
A Ram&Specshh for all in the bar and COME ON YOU GUNNERS!!!
Evening BTM
I see you ate up all your Haggis for breakfast this morning.!!
Only 2 nil,??
If you read The Scratching Shed’s doom and gloom Posts,it should be a cricket score.!!
But with our withered strikeforce you’re probably closer to the mark.
Nothing like a spot of haggis on a Sunday morning, Sweeper. Best eaten to an accompaniment of “Street Fighting Man” with former Leeds games in mind. (My record has a scratch in it though. Keeps sticking. You’ll know the line – “So what should a poor boy do, do, do, do, do, do, do…….to infinity”. Maybe I just need a new needle? Stylus is their new fangled name I think).
Without Robin, Clive, I’ll be happy with two. I can’t see Leeds scoring tomorrow night either – there, now I’ve gone and jinked us and Arsene will pick the Albatross and My Pal Al just to cause me grief.
If/when we qualify for the next round, the game against Villa is a nice opportunity to put McLeish back in his box after the beer cup of woe.
BtM @ 35, for terms of the haste you typed it up, the quality is amazing!
Great post-well balanced as ever. We should be able to see off this Leeds mob in the end-and although we look far stronger on paper, we shouldn’t underestimate that our second team is essentially a mishmash of inexperienced reserves, chronically out of form experienced players, and youngsters being played out of position-and its not surprising that they haven’t looked at all convincing so far this season. Playing with a degree of coherence will be no mean feat. They don’t need the crowd getting on their back if it doesn’t instantly come together.
That is why we should play Song if he is fit. -I would also like to see Park getting an opportunity of playing through the middle at some point.
What is the betting that it takes TH 14 coming on to lift the performance?
Shame we will miss tomorrow, BtM. Will put out feelers for our Mancunian friends tomorrow night.
Anybody who is interested, I also did an interview with a Leeds blog for their preview. It was a couple of days back so have discovered a bit more about the make up of the squad for tomorrow. It is here…
http://leeds.theoffside.com/team-news/interview-with-an-away-fan-arsenal.html
Please behave if you do go there. Thanks.
Guten tag BtM, lovely musings…
Don’t like this…
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/football/article-2084018/Arsenal-want-3m-Salomon-Kalou.html
Good read on that link Holic down to the wire I would say.
Need some shut eye now very early start tomorrow!
Evening all and one last round for the road please Barman.
Pure gossip Snir don’t you worry about it π
Snir: with 97 goals from 311 career apps (111) as sub we could do a lot worse.
I would prefer both Ba and Hoillet.
Ba can play on the wing as well and Hoillet is a very good player IMO.
I agree re: Hoilett and mooted the idea on this very forum barely a couple of weeks ago.
Subsequently I do have a reservation but only with the press if he doesn’t perform; you can just see the rhyming headlines eh?
Nice half century btw
Blackburn have just cinformed they’ll listen to offers for Hoillet this window since his contract is up in the summer.
Surely worth a bid.
Kalou cup tied and non HG.
You need to release someone to make room for him. If you’re gonna sign someone who will require you to release someone else then surely someone who isn’t cup tied is better option.
And someone who is quite good would be even better π
G’night, work and Dirty Leeds await.
Not to mention Thierry, of course π
‘Holic@44:
He’s here; he’s there;
He’s the voice of reason everywhere…
Looks like I too will be stream hunting tomorrow as the FA cup is not included in my sports package.
I’m afraid I know very little about the current Leeds squad, but decimatated by injury or not, I’m sure they’ll give us a game tomorrow, the FA cup is famous for upsets and I hope we don’t end up another statistic in the “shock” column as, even according to their own fanbase, they have have nothing to lose which always seems to give an extra incentive to do well.
I’m not even going to venture a guess on our starting line up, just hope that AW gets the balance right between youth and experience.
A home tie in the next round and the elimanition of Man City and United or L’pool should be incentive enough for us to do the business.
COYRRR’s.
BtM@35: well said. Leeds is a textbook example of spending tomorrow’s success before you have earned the cash to flash.
Nice work from the master holic & BtM. Wind has been getting a wonderful history lesson these past two days..
My 2-Cents worth is that Leeds always gives me the willies so I don’t care how we do it I just want us to win..
So who wants to hear my Leeds story?…See below:
So I will hold my hands up and admit that I once had a Leeds supporting “bird” (apologies to our female Holics beforehand but I was young and foolish and had met her at Highbury earlier in the season)..anyway she is actually incidental to the story but was the cause for my traveling to Leeds on a Friday before we were due to play them the day after (sleeping with the enemy you might say)…
So getting off at a fairly deserted station I looked around for a friendly face to ask directions to my “friends” house. Well my choice was either a Mick McManus lookalike or the young black guy who looked about my age:
GoonerTerry: (in my best traveling cockney) Hello mate, do you know where “such & such” Road is?
YBG: (Sounding like Charlie Williams)..eeh by gum..ahh. Yu go ti rite dun ta rooad an ti …..
GoonerTerry mouth wide open with an incredulous look on his face. YBG: stops talking and we both just stared at each other for a long minute…
Then..
GoonerTerry: (in his fall-back Jamaican “Yardie” slang)..Bredren a wey yuh a talk so fa? …translated means: Why are you talking like that?
YBG: A wey YU a talk so fa? translated: Why are YOU talking like that?
We regarded each other for another long minute before collapsing into each other arms in fits of laughter…we chatted for another 2-hours and he eventually walked me to my destination..
Cherry on the cake was that as a Bradford supporter he hated Leeds with a passion..
I have a friend who speaks Patwa..
It always amazes me how little I can pick up even though it’s supposed to be based on English (or at least that’s what I think).
No offence GT, but it always makes me laugh… Not because of the language itself, but the speed of the talking… Every single time, I crack up..
GT
Excellent story to start the day. Cheers! π
Bloody Mary to kick off the week?
I’ll just have some coffee thanks, Dr C
I have to say I find Monday night football annoying. Our game should have been yesterday. ESPN cunts
Chamakhattack to score today anyone?
Yes, more History from GT @ 59/60! ‘Slides on the ground on his knees for a high-intensity fist pump, no he doesn’t, he’s in a suit :|’
Fair play about the Leeds bird, I only wouldn’t accept a LWC fan or a Citeh fan, Chelsea are borderline, Liverpool in spite of their racism supporting habits and Man Utd are the only other respectable clubs in the whole league.
Snir @ 46, I could of looked at the back of my head and told you that!
Maybe the crystal ball needs a tune-up, jump start cables anyone? π
‘Holic @ 44, very nice Q+A at that link, you’ve done yourself and all of us proud, hopefully the Arsenal will do the same tonight π
Good stuff Holic (and BtM).
In Transit. Hopefully see you in the Tollie for one Maestro. π
The Scene : Feelgood Mansions
Dr Feelgood is packing for a business trip. Β He makes sure he has his three essential items (Membership Card, toothbrush and beer goggles) and promptly advises Roxette he is “going for a walk”. Β Roxette, engrossed in Delia’s latest episode of “How to make several Norfolk Dumplings”, barely notices as he skips down the drive.
A short time later, at Airport Security, a plain-clothes policeman betrays a glimmer of recognition as Feelgood gets into difficulties when questioned about his luggage:
Feelgood (to girl at check in desk) Β : “No I Β did not pack this bag myself, why have a dog and bark yourself?”
At which point the plain clothes policeman intervenes and asks Feelgood to follow him into a small, intimidating interview room.
Policeman : “You look vaguely familiar…..have we met?”
Feelgood : “Almost definitely not. Β I am, however, continually hounded by the paparazzi, so no doubt you’ve seen this famous physog in Business Week…..”
Policeman (looking at his passport suspiciously) : “Transport Executive. Β You don’t look much like a businessman. Β Very scruffy in fact….”
Feelgood : “I didn’t have time to shave – is that now a crime?”
Policeman : “Look Sir. Β We all have a job to do. Β I’m just on the look-out for Dirty Leads….”
To be continued
Wind, GT: I once slept with the enemy for a quite extended period, went out with an LWC for over 2 years! She refused to talk to me after TH ran through the entire team from our box and buried it down the other end.
Now, on to matters more topical. Personally I’m nervous about tonight. If we’re honest I’m sure many here would agree this is just the kind of game that we struggle at. Without The Only Goalscorer In The Team (TM) I have a strong feeling we might make a bit of a meal of it, plus we seem to have the square root of bugger all defenders.
I’m not being a soothsayer of doom, I predict a fairly narrow victory plus – perhaps – one change of boxers.
Come on lads.
Good morning one and all
Quick visit to send greetings and to thank The Maestro for yet another intelligent and accurate posting.
I’m with BtM, can’t see us losing this one and am hoping that Al & Squilly are both left back in the changing rooms where they belong with all due respect, waiting for that right deal to come along so that club and player can both move on and part as friends.
I’ll be doing my bit to help raise the roof when The King returns. Looking forward to seing those of you who will be able to make it for a libation or two at The Tollie.
Trev – no need for concern, just very busy at the mo.
zico – I hear that there’ll be 9000 away fans helping to build the atmos tonight. Half of them are supposed to be travelling with unwashed pooches. Yup, the HoF will be full of Dirty Leads.
*grabs coat, skips off into the distance*
As far as I’m concerned it’s imperative that we beat Leeds – too many bad memories of them.
Otherwise, I have been given a 3 DvD Box set collection of “Classic Arsenal Matches” and I wondered ‘Holic (or indeed ‘Holics) which one you recommend as the starting point or whether they had any special memories for you – 2 predate me and 2 I was too young to remember. They are:
Arsenal 2 – Liverpool 0 (2/2/75)
Arsenal 3 – Man U (20/8/73)
Arsenal 3 – Forest 0 (3/9/77)
Palace 0 – Arsenal 2 (14/3/71)
The other two are more recent and well in the memory!
Hey Snir
That Kalou rumour is getting bigger….
Personally, IF he is part of building the squad and replaces AA / Chamakh / or lights a fire under Theo then I think that is an improvement.
Remember also that, at the moment, we only have Yossi available to the end of the season.
I don’t think he’s the solution to everything, but would improve the squad. Opinion only, of course. Someone is better than nothing.
One thing.
Who will take the acronym of CG, Camberwell Gooner or Catalan Gunner?
Can the HT board take a referendum on this possibly?
But for CG @ 68, an LWC for 2 years?!
I hope she was fit AS. Or funny as, or something to explain this trangression X_X
Zico @ 67, often at the airport our Dr Feelgood is eh? Those dirty leads must be global…
Happy New Year everyone!
Sorry I’ve been so scarce these days but while in Florida I was surprised with a ticket to Trinidad by my mum who is more like M the organizer. It was fantastic being home after being so long. Lots of rum, beers, women, family and illegal fireworks to be had. Then it was back to Florida where it was sleep, cable, TV, beer that tasted like water and hanging with the parentals and the younger brother. Good relaxing fun was had and then a flight that saw me leave Florida on Friday and get back to Osaka on Sunday night.
Still jetlagged but can’t wait to see us overturn the Leeds. Should be another great matchup I think. The two last season were both good matches. Without Johnson and Beckford Leeds may be a different creature this time around. Is Snodgrass still there?
Anyhoo, just finished watching my RVP 100 Goals DVD, off to play MW3 now! Guinness Stout all around gooners π
GT@60:
Very funny π
Wind @ 72: Big tits.
True Storey –
I bet Peter Storey never skipped – ANYWHERE π
See you later π
“We all hate Leeds and Leeds and Leeds and Leeds etc etc etc”
Afternoon all,
Phoning the taxi in twenty. Looking forward to getting up there now. See you briefly around five those who are going early. I think I have found all of those matches on YouTube in the not too distant past.
Poppet, I reckon you won’t go far wrong if you watch them in chronological order and notice the differences in the make up of the side over time, and the difference between the style of play in ’71 and the Alan Ball/Liam Brady eras.
LET IT BLEEDS!
CG@75: most of them are.
NBN: Hahaha…but seriously, hers really were.
Wind @ 72: I think officially naming one of us as “the only CG” would definitely help clarify things. And isn’t there a third CG kicking around somewhere as well?
Surely, some form of differentiation would not go amiss here. I have no quarrel with Catalan being the trademarked CG – he is, after all, a much more prolific contributor than me.
Perhaps the quackery/landlord could suggest an alternative moniker for yours truly? Someone once called me “Cam'” (note apostrophe), perhaps this would fit the bill?
CG @ 75, Respect! B-)
Camberwell, I just like to call you Camberwell cos that’s one of my areas (The Peckham/Camberwell&Walworth Road/Old Kent Road Tri-State Area ;))
Take notes currently in America Cannons of Rhetoric, good to have you back π
Are you on MW3 on PS3 or Xbox 360?
Hey Wind, I’m on Xbox 360 but don’t have an Xbox live account. Never got around to paying for one with my creditcard-less self π
One of them is referred to as Dr/Mr C, wind
And you know who that is! π
Afternoon All ,
Just a flying visit . Great couple of posts Holic .
Too many drinks to mention them all , but great stuff Dr Z on The Dirty Leeds theme , and Clive , hilarious “back from retirement” story . Wouldn’t be surprised to see you on the bench tonight – after watching Scholes trot on yesterday , anything’s possible !
Haven’t managed to back-drink all , so apologies if this has already been said , but I think one of the major reasons why Leeds were so hated in the late sixties/early seventies , was that in addition to their success and their very robust approach , they were perhaps the first team to embrace all facets of gamesmanship – haranguing the ref , time-wasting , feigning injury etc . Also , I think you would have to put in the mix the constant though never proven allegations against Revie of match-fixing and gifts to referees .
Having watched the Wank Derby yesterday , a few personal observations :-
1. Foy is a moron .
2. Is De Jong Clichy’s older , fatter brother ?
3. Looking at Nasri , I’m guessing a sizeable chunk of his Β£180k a week is being spent on cake .
Right , good luck everybody , all those going to The Tollie , I’ll see you later .
COME ON THE ARSENAL !!!
Hah – weasled out of the last meeting early.
Off to the hotel, to waken up my liver. (Yes, I said liver. There’s football. Women can wait).
See you later, loonies. 8)
In the hotel, have just had an hour of additional kip to the ten hours I had last night (wtf is up with that? I very rarely sleep that much) and turned on the tv where Deal or no Deal is on and one of the chaps at the boxes is called Snowy. It’s not the real Top Man Snowy of course, but still.
tabs, you might be on to something there about De Jong. And Nasri as well, for that matter. Don’t think Messi is too worried about losing the Ballon d’Or to Nasri any time soon.
Anyway, time to freshen up a bit and then get something to eat before going to the Tollie. Game on!
Have fun all you gents attending the NY edition of the Tollie ‘holic /HT get together.
For those left behind, a link to a decent site (preferbly Sopcast) would be highly appreaciated.
Cheers.
Wind
If typing “Catalan” or “camberwell” or indeed “Cognac” is beyond the youth of today, then you may distinguish me by using my non-professional title. Either of them.
Or “Sir”.
π
Holic, I’m trying to take some comfort from your prediction of 3-1. But encounters with lesser teams (with nothing to lose) always make me feel a little wary. Hope your’re right about Woj in goal or I’ll have no nails by the end of the game.
CG – wouldn’t you rather have someone who isn’t cup tied though?
Who you talking to? π
But yes, that would be ideal if available and fits wenga’s plans.
looks like podolski or other big ones are going to have to wait until summer. Haven’t the club got high hopes for Afobe? We know that arsene plans his teams a couple of years ahead, so who knows what’s going on! π
Tabs @ 85 My impression of yesterday’s battle of the Titans was this 1) no way a red card 2) seeing ginger play made me feel a little disoriented to what year it was 3) Rooney smashing the ball into the back of the net, way to go!!! 4) Nasri is spending too much time with his Russian girlfiriend, I think. Bit jealous, I am.
*sigh*
Nurse ABB – time for your medication again.
Mr C She is tall, blond, and beautiful. Probably a nice person, too. No meds will help, I’m afraid. Cheers!
Another timely arrival…
Looks to Wind for the nod…
Link up play in the middle of the park, abb and the only CG in support…
Receives it, buries it.
and CG scores!
Oh. Wrong one! π
Sweeeet.
BTW CG, this naming rights issue is still unclear.
Reckon I should be referred to as Cam’ from now on.
Idc, I’m calling poeple my the first part of their names, apart from Mr C of course :), very nice feint at 92 good sir (I listened to 89 :))
Cor @ 82, tis a shame mate, I’m on PS3 π
XBL is overrated anyways lol.
Camberwell or The Only CG as Mr C kindly defered this title to you it seems unless you choose to defer it to Cognac @ 80, I think that’s a good idea, but Harsha’s genius @ 84 paved the way for it π
tabs @ 85, you expand my Dirty Leads (XD) history with your account, many thanks π
I’m with you on 1, 2 & 3 mate.
iZico @ 86, I stand and applaud. (only applaud, I’m lazy ;P)
I might have to agree with Mr Sir C on 94 abb X_X
Get in Camberwell, the funeral for that shot and the net was very fitting! π
You scored in Spirit Mr C, in spirit π
Well done lads, but who was the goalie who let it in?!
Any praise for the Windy assister Cam?
Nurse abb, I recind my agreement with Mr C, I never saw your post @ 96, and I read online at theSun that one time she and Na$ri rented out ome super-bed thingy each with a TV, PS3 & Xbox 360 and plenty of booze and both of them but especially her hardly made a dent in the booze, so that much assists your probably a nice person review of her.
Although it could be a different girlfriend… 8):?
Wind, I’m referring to the tennis player, she has a bad back. The kiss of death for someone in that game, I’m afraid.
Wind, how remiss of me…
*runs to the assister, pointing at him and grinning inanely. They do the Gazza ‘dentist’s chair’ celebration*
Ahh I understand abb, Tatiana Golovin right?
Retired, tis a shame.
Before he left, I hear she interviewed him for football focus, probably was a good one.
PS – Wind, I’m on point of buying MW3 for my PS3, when I get it I’ll add you…and see you on the battlefield!
‘Goes to google Gazza’s Dentist Chair celebration’
Sick! That’s the highest acclaim I could garner for assist I think π
On the battlefield, I’ll see you there Cam π
Wind @ 108 Yes, that’s her. I’ll have to find that interview. Her career cut short by an injury. Speaking of injuries, I see that Gatusso will be seeing some action soon, good for him. Don’t know if we will face him in Milan, but if we do, we’re in for quite a battle.
YES!
I have my two tickets for ManUre on 22nd. Thanks to all who made the effort on my behalf and my old mate Alastair MacNaughton who finally delivered from the dark, dank depths of Lagos, Nigeria.
Thank you ‘Holic. It will certainly be interesting.
Can someone help me de-stress before this match
(There’s only 2 CG but not including me)
My son is there but for the other side – a plague on Yorkshiremen (for tonight)
I have to watch on France 4 (whose commentators are in hysterics at the slightest threat of an attack)
Have to sit in kitchen cos tv not available
Oh woe
COYRRRSSSS
This day did NOT start well for me…
First I missed school, then my car doesn’t start and now I find out that (rumor though, not confirmed yet) BFG and Rosicky are out with illness for today.
No BFG means only one thing……. *scared face*
G’day, all! BFG out? Miquel back in the middle, le Coq back at fullback me thinks….
Come on U REDS!!!
Maybe Titi could play a flying wing back role!? That would have to scare the living shit out of anybody…
Cognac, a bit of the namesake may suffice… have one on me.
I’m feeling recklessly confident about today, gents!
the balloon d’whore is being passed out like penny candy in a few minutes.
robin should be up there, instead of those ugly mugs.
though i must say i’d rather have him resting in dubai than sitting in switzerland.
Almunia is done. Thank god.
Team News: Woj, Le Coq, Kos, Squillaci, Miquel, Song, Arteta (Captain!), Ramsey,AOC, AA, Chamakh.
Bench: Damien Martinez, Yennaris, Yossi, Ryo, Theo, Park, Titi.
Still no start for Park tells us what many of us kinda thought we knew.
Snir, you’re usually the king of the streams, help a ‘holic out, thanx.
H2H – http://www.footballstreaming.info/streams/todays-links/
If that doesn’t work out – firstrow.tv
is the most reliable.
squeal-llachi!
Yikes…
evening all.
Been quite an intense day at work (well I might do a bit of work during the game….), but hey I’m home before kick-off and the game is on France 4, hooray!
Is the highly regarded young Argentine keeper on the bench so Almunia isn’t cup-tied?
Cheers Snir.
Martinez on the bench ? Interesting.
Ha, didn’t think of that NBN, might well be.
Or to keep Woj on his toes? Martinez had a full Argentine squad call-up last July and may provide more long-term competition for the No 13 jersey than Flappy. With McDermott and Charles-Cook, too, we are stocked with up and coming talent in goals.
http://www.francefootball.fr/#!/news/2012/01/09/190804_le-onze-mondial-de-l-annee-2011.html
It’s a joke, right? How is Rooney in that team ahead of RvP?
Ollie:
Team in full: Szczesny, Coquelin, Koscielny, Squillaci, Miquel, Song, Arteta, Ramsey, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Arshavin, Chamakh.
Substitutes: Martinez, Yennaris, Benayoun, Ryo, Walcott, Park, Henry.
Wasn’t exactly impressed with McDermott when I saw him play for the U18s, to be honest.
Henry in, Warnock out: revelations will be revealed tonight!
Footie should be a better place without the bitter!
First string midfield ahead of the defence. I suspect there would have been more rotation there if we weren’t so stretched for fit defenders.
And this is a day to get behind Squillaci. His Arsenal career may not have worked out as we all would have wished for a French international who has played in a CL final — and remember, back when he joined in 2010 he fit the bill when all the voices were clamoring for AW to buy a seasoned, experienced centre back. But it is tough as a defender if you are not playing regularly. And for today, he and Kos are it.
surprised at same mid 3 thought someone might get a rest – still with this lad in charge what can possibly go wrong
UREDS!
http://youtu.be/kwJWr_Zk1R8
psed – Go on The Ox!
Ollie, McDermott is well regarded at London Colney. Mark you, his keeping hero is Shay Given, which says a lot.
Ollie… How is RvP not one of the three shortlisted for the Ballon D’or…
His goal ratio is better than Messi’s.
Yes, it’s very stupid indeed, Snir.
Looked rather clumsy and overweight to me when I watched the game against Norwich U18s, NBN. To blame for one or two goals, and very slow with his distribution.
If I were to bet, I’d say he won’t have his career at Arsenal.
And spot on at 135, NBN.
Snir
He wasn’t in the top 50.
#uefanumpties#
I’m surprised you were not in their list with that name, Dr C.
Right, time to focus on the TV (er, and the work laptop at some point :s).
Come on You Rip-Roaring Reds!
Captain ARteta? Nice.
Streams working well, once again cheers Snir.
Okay Burley ffs
AA should have buried tat
Just got in, the Ox starts!
Arshavin you waster, haven’t even seen it yet!
Unlucky squiller
AA gets upper cut by defenders shoulder – nothing given
Indeed cognac. French commentator (but not Manu) got that very wrong.
Snir – Got a stream dude?
http://www.footballstreaming.info/streams/todays-links/
AA is working hard here – wow
Cheers H2H. Well in mate.
Terrible decision by the linesman, that was never a foul by the Ox.
Wecome Cam’
Quelle coq – truly plucked – will Titi replace him
Le Coq out – we’s cursed back there
Fuck, not another defender down and out.
Yennaris time.
Down to bare bones shyte!
what, is this the eboue curse? he was forced out, and now it has come home to our fullbacks?
Is this some kind of joke?
We should play with three at the back with no FBs.
Maybe that way we won’t get injuries.
This is beyond being a jinx. This is so ridiculous.
well done, aaron, in an emergency right back position. now nico, let’s see you live up to the need. please.
abb @ 111, when you do, please do pass on the link, I had a gander, got copyrighted by the Premier League.
Oi BtM @ 112, its not THAT dank and dark… π
And I would know, I’ve been there (in transit to my final destination of Port Harcourt back in ’09 on a family holiday)
Very happy with the starting line-up @ 132, a damned shame Le Coq has gone off injured.
And I agree with you NBN @ 135, I’m behind him, he’s trying as his header on goal shows.
Ballon D’Jor is a joke. Nuff’ said.
Mr C shows that @ 142.
Come on you Reds!!!
LJW yawns at it all – no penetration COYREDDDS
too fancy pants on the edge of the box, aaron.
Did anyone just see the Ox’s distribution with that ball?
Phenomenal!
Frustrating performance so far!
well done, chamakh. good work down the right. *finally* a yellow card for the whites.
keep it simple, ox.
that crossfield pass, wind? oh, yes, love the curve on it. but then, i love curves.
nils at halftime. crap.
That stank the place out – more scene setting for the second coming?
Better things to comin in the second half then.
Haha Scruz @ 171, very nice mate π
Well it was poor by us against a side playing for the draw from almost the first minute
We had chances – best was AA
Must look for a stronger drink for 2nd half – Pelforth brune not strong enufff
AA and Ramsey involved a lot.
Good distribution by Arteta.
Ox looks lively, but overal we lack penetration, I only realised Chamack was on the field in the last five minutes or so.
We must do better.
Better things to come in the second half then.
That first half was a disgrace, a slap in the face for every Arsenal fan that paid money and invested their time to attend.
Where’s the passion?
Where’s the desire to win?
2nd half has to be a huge improvement
geoff, there was the desire for too many backheels (ramsey), too many long, misdirected passes (song), and the occasional passion to get past people (amazingly, chamakh, no so much amazement at le ox).
that said, it looks to me like leeds took lessons from the british diving team. how that last one wasn’t a yellow (where ignasi, who has otherwise acquitted himself pretty well, “tripped” the leeds winger), i’ll never know.
Chamakh having his best game of the season…now of all times. Let him get the opener and Henry to wrap it up. Squiddley should have got that header on target.
Come on you reds
COYRRR’s.
Thiery warming up!!!
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain is so alike to… my virtual pro on Fifa 12!
DId you see that Heel Chop on the edge of the box! π
The King is warming up… π
Titi for AA please ASAP
So poor from AA23 π
well played, chamakh. come *on*, from the corner, now.
second corner, get it UP.
aiiiiiii, almost. well played back from the ox, but pissy little shot from arteta.
Ox sets it up via Cham but Arteta had weak shot
Whats coming first, 200 drinks , a goal for us or TH coming on
Arshavin almost had another Swansea moment as well π
the attacking verve is notching up. the titi effect?
A goal? π
looking like 200, cg.
Nope, weak corner from Arteta.
cometh the hour?
sends it to the center of midfield, streaks down the right (distracting the entire leeds team).
Nods it forward
Plays it out to the wing for the runner…
Song shot for 200?
who shoots….
feed the ox
only to have cg nick it off his toe and in! well in…
ugh, michael brown.
Double assists for Wind!!!
This time its Cognac on the end of his technical prowess, a cool cut in from the right and the ball is in the end!
Well in cognac, sir.
Would rather we had a goal Lets go
andrei’s one burst of pace in the game. throw in.
fucking chinless cunt nasri.
Oh no Nasri in the crowd
Wow, that is the worst ball I’ve ever seen the Ox play.
Bang to rights shocked.
And Na$ri’s in the crowd?
Too much cake lad π
LeQocs’ sub means less imaginative subs beside Titi!
How you gonna do it boss?
Come on Arsenal!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
All the possesion without penetration.
A bit like a marriage.
Just as I thought titi and T.O
Haha Townsend you LWC!
Theo and Titi getting ready to come on…
It’s about to happen!!!!!
Thierry Henri and his mini meeeeee!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Here comes THiiieeerrrrrrryyyyy.
Heh AL.
Townsend you stig of the crumbling dump!
Goose bumps.
Thierry Henry, Thierry Henry
Why Ox off but AA still on?
Thierry!!!
and heeeeesss back
Freakin ell, O’neil, Beckham and the French Les. All out tonight!
coming close. juicing up, nerves a ging gang goolying…
Lol Thierry still strict about stray passes to him!
arshavin, get the ball UP.
though perhaps not *that* far up.
OOOOOOOOOOH!!!!!!
hahahahahahahhahahahahahahahahahahah
I dont believe it Thierrrrryyyyyyy
Welcome home!!!!! Henry!!!!
hennnnnnnnrrrrrryyyyyyyyyyyyyyoooooooooohhhhhhhhh…..
welcome home!
hehehehehehehehehehehehehehhehehhehehehehhehehehenryyyyy!!!!
Holy shhit!
What a pass from Alexx
LEGEND!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thierry Henry!!!
He’s scored!!!!
Just Incredible guys. Congrats to all π
look at the hug with wenger…bucking frilliant…
TiTTTTIIIIIIII.
Legendary.
WHHHHHAAAAATTTTT GGGGGGGGGOOOOOOOOOALLLLLLLLLL!!!!!
Thierry!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
What a wonderful (if offside) goal!
Could the scenario have been any better?
cg@239, totally wet my pants at song’s through ball.
ok, let the power down, boys, focus on defense…
matt 26 sorry not offside
Henry ESPN MOTM, Heh
good save chezza…
CZ saves our faces – 3 mins to go
Budweiser man of the match actually π And everyone else’s too!
@Cognac. Not sure either way, doesn’t mattter, it counts!
That’s why Woj is soooo important.
Bugger all to do the whole match, but still sharp to pull off a last minute save.
man of the moment
man of the miracle
miracle of the man.
Reeesult!
1 nil to The Arsenal and the newboy looks promising
UReeeeeeeeedddddddsssssssssss!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Yessssssssssss – France 4 raves about 227th goal for a super sub
Heh Thierry wiping his sweat on the leeds players shirt during the hug!
Dirty Leeds GT, Dirty Leeds.
What can I say I have tears in my eyes no shit!
Mottie raves about decision by AW to get TH in and allow RVP a holiday
Get in TH12!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
What a moment!!! I’ll never forget it
You know, if Henry was a detective he’d be crap because he’s always destroying Leeds π
What a result! Mr Blog and Sir Holic should be ecstatic! π
London Pride all around gooners and goonerettes, time to put my suit on and head to work now π
Absolutely unbelievable….I can’t believe what just saw.
Hats off to Leeds, who although also ravished by injuries gave it one hell of a go, I thought they defended stoutly throughout the game.
The absolute classic ‘Thierry Henry’ finish.
227 and counting.
Has any football player ever scored a goal in an official game, when there’s a statue of himself outside the ground?
Absolute Legend.
Fairytale stuff! Return of the king and he scores the only goal to make it the best scoreline scored by a true legend.
Leeds are dirty.
We have NOONE at full back.
Thierry Henry, Thierry Henry, Thierry Henry, Thierry Henry!!!
The passion the look on his face the body language said it all, beautiful simply beautiful!
You couldn’t have made it up!
Best day of the season. So far. Sign him back- he won’t refuse.
Guinness all around please, barman. Today is a good day!
CoR – Groan! π
Hehe, sorry Camber mate. Have a Guinness to help with the suffering π
…. And you thought Behind The Arse was unbelievable…
Accepted – tastes delish!
To think (for those too young), that’s what we used to see every week….. π
I have a damn kiss mark on my screen now- I only wish I could have been there to see it live. Absolute legend. Thank you Titi, for all you’ve given us!
Oh Catalan (@276), it was almost painful to see the return glimpse of those days… almost, mind you. A bottle of vino, if you will?
When Thierry collected the pass from Song, you just knew he was going to score. Absolutely amazing. And I think Thierry enjoyed it as well!
Well I could stay up all night (in what state and a what time will ‘holic file his report? – although obviously he seems to be mostly staying away from bad influences….) celebrating and such.
Such a fairytale return.
And the perfect classic goal, he still doesn’t miss these….amazing!
Bravo Thierry and goodnight all!
H2H
I agree Leeds gave us a good game we seem to have run out of ideas but I will never forget what Thierry has done tonight. Truly magnificent stuff absolute magic!
Hey let’s not forget great pass from Song!
I’ll celebrate for a while more, I can’t wear my Arsenal Home Shirt tomorrow to College, there’s a Gay Suit policy in place but I’ll be wearing my Arsenal 125th Anniversary Pin from my Red Membership Box proudly π
The king has returned!!!
hope Le Coq is ok or we will be in a real spot this weekend
Legend..wait (4.5 years) for it….. ARY!!!!
Haha Teary, Classic Barney from HIMYM!
I am in love with a man.
His name is Thierry Henry.
Life is good.
“He who knows and knows that he knows is a wise man – follow him.”
Did you saw THAT goal, Samir?…Well, did you?
Na$ri the fecking twat, bet he’s regretting moving for money now.
Mythical hero, the stuff of legends, engineers fairy tale ending. He’s still got it!!! Honorable mention, IMHO, goes to AA, he worked very hard, esp. in the 2nd half.
No idea what Na$ri was doing there. Back from a break and this feels just great π
http://soccernet.espn.go.com/video?video=channels/339821/1579135&cc=5901
Yay!
Arshavin and Chamakh had great games surprisly, especially the latter in terms of attacking and hold-up play, his form should only get better during the ACoN & coming back from it.
Proud of both of them, of Squillaci, of Szczesny, of the whole team and Club.
We love you Arsenal, We do.
Ohh, Arsenal we love you.
Wind I shall join you in that song:
We love you Arsenal, We do……..
Ohhhhh, Arsenal we love you………….
π
Moves to the left wing, waving a finger at Alex
Becomes the 1 in the 1-2 and lays it off back to Cognac on the left.
A gentle breeze of a Wind blows the ball back towards the middle
Jinks past a dirty Leeds player, looks up in the middle of the park for a fine brandy.
Plays the ball in…
Creams it through the covers….
210, 211, 288, and 290 Well lads, there’s an old saying. “You can take the man out of Arsenal, but you can’t take the Arsenal out of…”. Oh, why do I bother, you’d never believe Samir has a soft spot for Arsenal, not in a kazillion years.
Cognitive sip and slips it towards a gentle gale (or Gallic)
…and raises his bat in acknowledgement of the gentle applause from the balcony.
Tendulkar can only watch and learn… π
Ooops anther CG has got a smooth result – nice one
….a firm handshake in the middle between CG and CG..
I’m not even going to comment. I’ll just read and enjoy. And get more drunk.
Well in Catalan!
That’s 3 assists in 3 efforts for me, even more phenomonal!
Cognac, where were you mate? π
Nurse abb @ 301, I was watching some Nasri (notice the lack of dollar sign), specifically his goals against Man United, and I realised my reason for my antagonism against him.
His promise & potential. I honestly thought he’d become France Captain while playing for our club, such was his talent. But he left for his own personal reasons, trophies he says. You can convince yourself about the motive, but the fans know it was financial.
This guy played well for Arsenal, and it rubs he both ways the wrong way how he left us, especially when seeing the goals and assists he’s had over the years π
On behalf of both of us : thank you Mr Henry. You are a true Arsenal Legend.
Thanks for the dolly, Wind! π
Class never ages.
Samir was wearing Monica Belucci T-shirt. Tatiana will kill him.
“You derty, filty vorm of a man! D whole verld saw you in det shit shert! I vill stick dis reket so far up your lidle arse, you vish you’d never been born!”
I know you are at the game ‘holic, but don’t you dare write anything tonight. Enjoy it. See you tommorow.
Glad to assist Catalan π
Can’t spell tonight
So uh, anyone else getting a number 12 long-sleeve Arsenal shirt today? I’m still in vacation mode so just wondering who else is with me?
Form is temporary Class is PERMANENT!
No, you can’t spell tomorrow, Toby.
*gets coat*
CoR
Just ordered for my son. Might increase the order! π
Sobriety, anyone?? Not too impressed with our performance overall, and wasn’t Henry offside? (Not to throw water on anybody’s parade, of course.)
Oh if only Tendulkar learnt from you Catalan;) His 100th 100 would have been well and truly done by now, and people could get on with their lives!
Heh, SSY:) Tatiana would indeed have been livid. Malena Bellucci on your BFs shirt, I mean what!
Well in Ollie. Get that coat off and I’ll get you something to drink.
And BT8BBGFG, true enough about the first half but the second was alright. And no, after a few replays, I don’t think it was offside. Anyways, the problems are for tomorrow. Join me and Ollie for a drink!
Sobriety 8 ball? We`re desperately poor on the creative side, Ramsey holds on too much to the ball, the goal wasn`t offside and was perfectly executed. I can`t think of many who could have scored it that way apart from TH14 π
Wind, great post hitting the nail on the head with Nasri. His move was so shortsighted and hurt both him and us. I may be proved wrong but I can’t see him turning into the great player he could have been. Serves him right.
Anyway, screw him. We’re through to the next round.
Thierry Henry, Thierry Henry.. (repeat ad infinitum)!
FunGunner @ 324, thank you honestly, I put my heart and feelings into that π
No offsides…checked the replay several times with the DVR and he’s actually behind the far defender when the pass is made…..
Thanks Toby. Gotta go to sleep now as the cough’s just gone really bad again. Might be a good idea to see a doc at some point.
Historic night.
Just like old times. Written in the stars. Class is permanent.
We’ll remember this night for ever.
Sign this promising loan player up properly Arsene!
More toddy, Ollie.
CoR – I’m way ahead of you… Already ordered the short sleeve shirt π
Ollie, Please see a doctor, pronto. And I don’t mean one from the Quackery.
Nurse abb, to summarise my post @ 307, if he didn’t have a spot spot for the club, he wouldn’t of been there tonight. Am I right? π
Bring on Aston Villa!!!
But I have a dilemma!
Do I buy my desired TH12 2011/2012 away shirt or do I buy a ticket for the Villa home game?
Do you think the serial numbers on the shirts between now and March are specific for that TH12 shirt as anyone could have a TH12 shirt made towards the end of the season or could of on the off chance had one made already. Open question?
A ticket for Villa Wind π
And sadly in case one of you smart alec’s comes up with it, at this juncture of all junctures, its not possible for me to do both π
Le prof felt the goal was like a dream – http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/wenger-henry-s-goal-was-like-a-drream- –
I know what he means but after tonight I thought it was his absence which felt like the dream. π
Bird, thanks mate, that’s 1 notion towards the 4th Round.
Can anyone who knows or who was at Leeds give me a price of a a standard lower tier ticket please so I can potentially prep for the Red Member Ticket Selling Day for that game?
A glorious moment that shall live long in the memory. A perfect Hollywood scripted moment fitting for a living legend.
An exquisite beautifully poetic moment.
In fact other than some promising attacking play from The Ox thats all we have from 90 minutes against an injury ravaged championship team. And we fielded our 1st choice midfield 3…..
Chamack and Arshavin are not fit to wear the shirt, that much is painfully clear. If Ramsey is to make the step up he needs to release the ball much earlier and build some strength. Also improve his decision making, there was one moment toward the end when he had the chance to play a free TH12 in on the left and chose to make a poor shot instead.
We have ONE striker in this club and this has been obvious for a while. With 35-40 million to spend this is not good enough.
Honestly is there anyone on here surprised at AA or chamack’s form this year? They were abysmal in the last 6 months of last year.
For one of the top 8 wealthiest football clubs in the world it’s just not acceptable. Everyone is going overboard about Henry’s spectacular return but don’t let it mask a truly dreadful performance. If anything let it serve to remind you how good we once had it and how we have somehow grown to accept secon best.
Geoff
I know we weren’t spectacular but enjoy the moment my friend!
Drinks are on me everyone!
Cheers Arthur, good advice!!
Back at the hotel after having had a great time. Everyone who was there, massive thanks for a brilliant day and night. I am now off to sleep, will have to be up again in about five and a half hours to catch my flight, but that is totally worth it after having seen Thierry score that goal. Take care everyone, see you tomorrow!
iLars
Safe trip back home!
Lars, have a great journey back. I hope you have looked after zico tonight.
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