Let’s Sheikh, Rattle, And Roll
Apr 7th, 2012 by 'holic
First things first. I don’t really care that City are likely to start this match trailing their neighbours by eight points. I am more concerned that we trail ours by one, and this ‘game in hand’ gives us the opportunity to put a marker down in the battle for third place.
Arsenal versus Manchester City may not be the greatest story ever told at Easter, but it is a production of complicated plots and sub-plots. For the first time under Mancini the visitors will have to adopt something more adventurous than their usual tedious ultra-defensive strategy at the Grove in a Premiership contest. A classic awaits? We shall see. Arsene clearly thinks along similar lines.
“What is for sure is that a draw is not good enough for them. It is true that in the last two seasons they came to play for a draw, and they got it, but I believe that this time, both teams are in a situation where they want to win”
Of course quite apart from the need for both sides to take all three points we have the potential return of Kolo Toure, Gael Clichy, and Samir Nasri, although only the former started last week as City were held at home by Sunderland. The latter wasn’t even on his treasured position on the bench, although player and manager disagreed on the reason for his absence.
It seems we have no new injury concerns ahead of the game. That means a couple of decisions for Arsene to make. Ahead of Alex Song and Mikel Arteta does he go for Tomas Rosicky or Aaron Ramsey. For me that has to be Rosicky, inclined to get the ball forward quickly at every opportunity. We are at our best when going forward with pace and intent. At this stage the more experienced player has the edge in that respect.
On the left hand side of the front three we surely have to see Gervinho or Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain back in place of the young Welshman. I think, having plumped for experience in the centre, I would go with youth on the left. The Ox is more of an unknown quantity for the opposition, and can interchange with Theo Walcott so both players can test themselves against both of the City full-backs.
All we can ask for is that the side gives it everything for ninety plus minutes. There were signs at Loftus Road that some had left a little bit in the tank at the end of the game. That simply cannot be allowed to happen in any of the remaining fixtures. Nothing City have to offer should come as a surprise to us. We know they have quality. Nothing less than marrying industry to our preferred way of playing will do.
In considering the placing of the ‘holic pound I am anticipating that we will put that extra little bit in. This is the first of two or three huge games in the last seven. Take the points here and it will be a big step towards clinching third place. 2-1 is my favoured punt, available at nines if you shop around. Stan James offer 13/8 against us winning, and for a home game those are generous odds.
I am hoping not just for a performance from the team tomorrow, but also one from the home crowd who have been superb of late. I know much stick will be aimed at Nasri, but I hope most effort will be reserved for backing the Gunners who want to wear the shirt, not those who have chosen petro-dollars above starts.
Oh, and I would be mightily grateful if you want to score as well, Robin. Three games without a goal from the skipper? It has to end here.
Yes, They Really Did It
If you haven’t seen the latest Citroen viral elsewhere today then take a butchers at this.
Four members of Arsenalβs first team have swapped studs for soubresaut, the pitch for pliΓ© and goalposts for glissade in the latest CitroΓ«n campaign promoting the stylish new flagship DS5.
Alex Song, Wojciech Szczesny, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Bacary Sagna learn ballet moves with guidance from star dancers of English National Ballet and choreographer and dancer Jenna Lee.
Apparently there is more to come. If you are from Citroen I will be looking to upgrade my C4 Picasso next summer (cough).
Have a great weekend, ‘holics. I’m looking forward to seeing a number of you again before and after the game.
273 Responses to “Let’s Sheikh, Rattle, And Roll”
Foist? Off to read the post…
Great stuff as usual barman. The countdown to third and a Champions League berth starts tomorrow, after 2 points dropped by the spuds today. City know they’re playing for second place. Come on the Arsenal!
Well no, you’re not all hiding there, now I realise this post is only up now.
OK
Is it up man?
Usual top-drawer thinking Maestro.
Judging by the amount of ‘mind the gap’ texts that Gooners are receiving from their Totteringham Enthusaist mates, nothing would give me more pleasure tomorrow afternoon than to shut the scummy little feckers-up… again!
The chinle$$ le$bian is nothng mor than a freakish little side-show. If he shows his asexual face on the pitch tomorrow, we’ll need to be sure-footed at the back (Tommy!) to prevent the usual player come back to The HoF to score a goal scenario.
Looking forward to seeing you and the other top ‘Holics you know where under you know what π
PS: For any Citroen execs looking in. Give this man a cracking deal on his next car please. He may not be much of a ballet dancer these days but if you want to connect to Arsenal supporters, that would be a damn fine way to do it.
Laters all….
GT@205 in the previous drinks. I wasn’t particularly bothered about the lack of close-up pictures of the guy – it was the fact that the commentators didn’t mention it. I saw him lying back at the end of the race and thought he was knackered – hardly surprising since they were rowing 7 against 8.[1] I kind of assumed that he had come around and was trying to muster the strength to cheer the winning crew at the end of the race, as is traditional. You kind of assume that if some poor bugger’s come to serious harm the commentators will mention it before the ambulance arrives.
I’ve no idea why Loughborough should have hated Oxford so much. I assume they (L) thought they (O) were a bunch of elitist bastards. Who’s to say they were wrong?
[1]To be fair to the race commentator, he did suggest that Oxford might be best served by packing it in so that the result would be recorded as “Oxford did not finish” rather than “Cambridge won by a zillion lengths”.
I want a 4 nil victory tomorrow.
Nothing less will do. Ok, maybe 3 nil.
Gutted that I won’t be there – to the usual suspects, I will be there in spirit. Remember you need to take a bunch of flowers for the lady bouncer, tabs π
I’d also go with the Ox on the left. He scared the living crap out of City in the Carling Cup game at the Emirates, by the end of the game they had two or sometimes even three players tracking him as soon as we got the ball.
Of course, a lot of what happens tomorrow will also depend on how City have reacted to more or less losing out to ManU in the title race. They will most likely be eight points behind when the game kicks off and that can just as easily set them free (nothing to lose) as cause a complete disintegration of any work ethic in the team.
Oi Holic is this your idea of a joke? Well its not that funny! Next time put up the Chevrons when there’s a new post…grumble, grumble, grumble…
Hmm, flowers for the lady bouncer? What has he done this time? π
Oxon: Bob Wilson in a recent interview (we had a link of it a few drinks ago) talked about the same thing happening during the Hillsborough disaster. The Beeb refused to acknowledge it happening and cut away to the snooker and Bob had to pretend it wasn’t happening. He describes it as his lowest moment as a sports broadcaster..
@ 10
A pre-emptive strike π
zico@12: heh, I see! She’s Swedish, by the way.
Right, MotD is on in a few seconds. The FilmOn app for the iPad is feckin’ awesone for allowing me to watch british telly!
Nice preview Holic. Pretty much agree with everything – except for mentioning the odds for us not winning! I hope you all – the team and the assembled Holics – have a smashing time tomorrow and that we will all be smiling by the end of the game. So without further ado I bid you farewell until after the game tomorrow..
Holic, Never have I agreed with you more, every single word. We need that lineup starting the game. The video a very delightful surprise, well done.
Top rate title, ‘holic. Will read post and watch promising video later.
Video top rate too. If my prediction holds, once she watches it, it could be the only thing the wife has ever liked about Arsenal. π
Top rate game preview too, as ever. A lot of variables could change the tone and outcome of this one, as you say. But we have come too far to let this one slip away. Time to make the ex-Arsenal three realize their mistake. By the way, I’ve never seen the car but that video makes me want to buy a DS5.
Snir, Please check your mail. Well, I’m off to work, goodnight everybody.
Will do abb.
Lars – What is FilmOn?
Does the Iphone have it too?
Turns out that dude that tweeted about Jack’s setback was right.
http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/news/Arsenal-Jack-Wilshere-Euro-2012-England-chances-hit-as-rehab-halted-by-new-injury-setback-article887657.html
See you tomorrow – all being well.
I’ll be sitting close by the warm up corner flag
I maybe distracted !
*waves*
Hello mrs
*woowaves*
Great post ‘Holic, enjoyed it and I enjoyed the video in addition to it, quality stuff from our lads, especially the nervous Ox. Anyone spot a certain Mr Keown on the keys apparently?
Nice preview ‘Holic – good points, well made.
In the last two seasons the Citeh games have been a real let down. As you say, they can’t come to defend this time. I would play Theo and The Ox as the latter always manufactures something special whenever he gets on the pitch.
It has to be a high tempo pressing game for us. We are not equipped to contain a side like Citeh, but we could just tear them apart. Lescott will be back for his first game in six, and we can hope that Gael’s concentration levels are normal !
Looking forward to seeing all those attending for A cold drink beforehand.
Zico – will leave you an empty glass under the umbrella π
Shame you can’t be there.
Oxon Gooner – I was at Villa Park too. Quite a profitable day as there was a good deal of loose change lying around by half-time. It was a bit sharp-edged though and required a deal of care whilst trousering same.
Abb will like that last paragraph – she gets quite turned on by the idea of Gooners in mortal danger π
‘Til tomorrow fellas – Come on REEDDDSSSS !!!!
abb- check your inbox.
Nice preview holic although I must say that I think all 7 games are both huge and must win affairs.
I agree with Trev. From memory Citeh have not had a shot on target in the last 2 league games at The Grove. They will have to come out more on Sunday and that may well suit us. I would not start AOC. I think he can have more of an impact on the game coming off the bench with about 20 to go when legs are tired.
None of the saucepans in tow tomorrow so hoping to make the Tollie both pre and post match. It will be nice to be the right side of the railings. Looking forward to it. What time are people starting?????
Keep the faith.
Loved the video. Loved the fact that When Sagna sautΓ©ed he put a header in. And was that Martin Keown at the piano?
Definitely Keown at the Joanna – always a sharp, key defender. Sorry if that fell a bit flat, π
Oh Trev π
Evenin’ all!
Nice post ‘holic and I fully concur with your analysis and line-up!
AOC and TR must start to immediately impose the intensity and directness that was blatantly lacking at QPR! This’ll be key to overwhelming the Merc-cunts and will surely light the touch-paper for Balotelli to implode and take a few with him on the way! I’ll feckin’ love-it if we terminally fuck-up those greedy cunts’ season on our own patch tomorrow, and take advantage of the LWC’s failure to pick up full points! Sweet as a feckin’ nut!
Desperately wanted to be back for the match as the atmos’ at the Grove’ll be immense but i’m still on the management’s grand family get-away across the pond – hence my lack of attendance at the bar or drinking! Had begun to feel deprived of sporting action, and gutted that my old alma-mater were cheated out of another victory by some “common” protesting cunt from up north! Irresponsible wanker! π Thankfully though, the management’s giving me a couple of days’ leave to attend the golf at Augusta – my second sporting love! π Arguably’s got to be the most beautiful setting for a round of golf (even better than St Andrew’s i have to say) and it never ceases to amaze! Abit like playing golf at the flower show! π
A win over the oily-whores before the final groupings set out tomorrow and I’ll feel like a male panda who’s about to get his end-away on one of the only 2 days in the year when the wife’s not got a headache! π
Predictions:
Footy = 4 – 2! Fuck-off Na$ri you greedy, bench-warming cunt!
Masters’ Golf = Mickelson for his 4th green jacket!
COYBG!!!
Enjoy the match ‘holics! π
I absolutely love the guy.
http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/football/4244271/Robin-van-Persie-My-best-goal-ever-was-at-Man-City-in-2004.html
No chance he’s gonna leave.
But if he leaves, I’m pretty sure I’d be the most disappointed I’ve ever been. More than TH and Cesc.
I am not sure what is more amusing; the four players dancing or Keown on piano!
COYGs!!!
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/blog/2012/apr/06/arsenal-arsene-wenger-sol-campbell?INTCMP=SRCH
To anyone who missed it.
I love reading what ex players say about AW.
Na na na na na na na na Samir you’re a cunt, you’re a cunt, Samir you’re a cunt!
Let’s do those fucking oil moneybags.
Morning all.
Steve, trust me on this one. I will be in the pub whenever you get there π
http://www.dailystar.co.uk/posts/view/244866/Cesc-Fabregas-out-to-tempt-40m-Robin-Van-Persie/
I know it’s the Daily Star, but I’m not commenting on if it’s true or not, I’m commenting on the scenario itself as an idea, if that scenario happens then Cesc for me as CUNT just like the rest of ’em.
*as = is a
Catalan jinx cunt.
Hello from a quiet Eurostar lounge. You can trust holic to be there indeed. I’ll be a ‘close’ second. I mean an hour later.
Taxi any minute.
Be careful out there, ‘holics.
See you in a few hours, ‘holic & the ‘holics.
To the Tollie Holics, remember :
A picture of sobriety and rectitude 8)
Dapper Dan@31 – Re your alma mater – when? which college? what subject?
(1974-79, CCC, Maths then Engineering)
BtM is about today. You should have been here zico!
Nice video ‘Holic .
Great to see that the Arsenal players are adopting the kind of revolutionary training that was introduced down at The Speedo Massive some time ago !
Yeah I know H, someone needs to help him with his haddock and chips.
As it happens, the old Feelgood father fell and broke his hip on Friday so I’ve been in and out of hospital all weekend so probably just as well I didn’t make travel plans.
Will hopefully see the game today though – have a great day out all.
Signing number two then.
Ajax manager Frank de Boer virtually confirmed that Vertonghenβs move to Arsenal next season is already a done-deal.
βYes weβve already discussed it,β de Boer said this week speaking to Al Jazeera sports channel.
βWhen thereβs a club that heβs already interested in – and itβs really got to be a good club – then he will leave. Itβs 100 per cent sure.
Β
βI think heβs ready to make a next step. For us, itβs a setback, of course, to miss that kind of quality player.β
Β
Vertonghen, 24, has been described as an elegant and technical ball-playing central defender who can play in other positions.
Β
Trev@29: those puns did somehow strike a chord with me.
SnirΒ£38: stop reading the Sunday rags. They are not good for your health, and should anything in them ever turn out to be true then that is pure coincidence.
Snir again, the FilmOn app is available for free in the App Store. Search for filmon and then you’ll see “FilmOn Free TV” or something similar. It’s available for the iPhone as well, and from what I understand also for Android devices for those of a non-Apple persuasion.
Lars – regardless of if it’s true or not (I’m pretty sure it isn’t and it doesn’t really matter cos he’s staying anyways), I just don’t like the idea of that scenario, we’re that to happen I’d be pissed at Cesc.
I downloaded FilmOn but can’t find British TV, what category is that at?
zico, best wishes for a speedy recovery for your old man.
Sounds like there will be a good gathering of Holics at the Tollie, as always I wish I could be there too.
Snir@50: for me the British channels appear right at the top of the list under “UK TV”.
Morning All , Happy Easter , and may your eggs be chocolatey .
Got a bad feeling about today . Can’t put my feeling on why but there we go .
Dr Z – Now you’ve got me worried !! Why should I be buying flowers for Jackie Pallo ? I seem to remember that post Villa , a certain Caledonian was rather more tottery on his feet than I was π
As far as memory allows , (not always reliable I grant you) , the Bouncer has only spoken to me once for table dancing and that was after Everton , back in the mists of time !!!
And Lars , what do you mean , ” What has he done NOW ?” You make me sound like a cross between a naughty schoolboy and an embarrassing drunk .
What’s that ? Oh π
tabs, see 12 π
Cheers Lars
Fair enough Dr Z π
Sorry to hear about the old man btw . Hope all is well soon .
Is she really swedish ?? Can’t believe that . Her swedishness is well hidden under a gruff cockney exterior with a touch of Reggie Kray menace .
Still , as Baden-Powell used to say , “Be Prepared ” . A charm offensive might be required .
Lars could you post the phonetic Swedish for “You’re looking very sexy today , but not in a Jackie Pallo kind of way ”
Thanking you in advance .
tabs, I keep flip-flopping between thinking we’re going to get a proper pasting byt City and thinking we’ll win it quite comfortably so I guess that means it will most likely be a draw, then π
Whatever happens in the game, though, I think it’s important that we try to stay calm about it. This is not a pivotal game and a loss would not be disastrous (but of course not good in any way either), wheras a win would be almost like a bonus.
tabs@56: apparently, she’s lived in London for ages and I was as surprised as anybody else when I heard her address a mate of mine in Swedish.
The phonetics will be quite difficult to do in writing, I think a bunch of flowers will do just fine π
Dr F
All the best to the Feelgood Father! Get him up and about asap.
Oxon @44 – I believe DanC is a product of the John Radcliffe, no? Naturally I have no idea as to the years, but let’s have sweepstake…. my guess is he qualified circa ’88.
#Boring Sunday Morning!!
Snir
Was De Boer talking specifically about Arsenal?? Good news if true.
Lars ,
Heh , flowers it is then .
I shall also wander in , in full Wolfie get up , singing “Dancing Queen” . That should clinch the deal . Failing that , I shall mention the films of Ingmar Bergman , wax lyrical about the backhand of Bjorn Borg , and extol the virtues of Gustav the Great .
If none of that works , I’m in trouble ! π
As far as the game goes , I think you speak a great deal of sense . I don’t know why I’m feeling pessimistic , it’s not as if they’ve been any great shakes recently , but the feeling is there nevertheless .
Mr C – Had the same feeling as you , reading those quotes . Nothing directly attributable to Arsenal . It just confirms that he’s leaving Ajax , which we all knew anyway . I think Snir is playing with us .
Happy Easter Holics,
May your bunnies be covered in chololate or scantily clad, or both…!
Fingers, toes, legs, knees, elbows, teeth all crossed in hope that our midfield will compete and put pressure on the ball today……………
Today’s match will tell alot about our ability to compete next season.
Gervinho must start for me.
Enjoy the Guinni at the Tollie…..
I’ll be toasting all your health with a few Beamish across the pond.
Right , outta here . Good luck everybody .
COME ON THE ARSENAL !!!!!!!
Where the fuck are you all? On my fourth fucking pint here, and baby, it’s cold outside π
Afternoon all.
Nice write up holic, I’d like to see Rosicky and the Ox get a start today, but won’t be too disapointed if Flipper gets the nod. Let’s save Ramsey for another day.
I’m hoping to be around the bar for the first half, but once again I’ll be too busy to catch the second, I advertised in a local rag for a special Easter menu and got a great response, a bitter-sweet moment indeed.
I think him sans chin will get a strart for the Mercs, I get the feeling that Mankini likes seeing him suffer, I can see no other reason why he left him so long on the field during the CC game. Let’s show him the respect he deserves, less then none ofcourse.
It would be sweetest of ironic twists if it were us that insure their campaign ends up potless. They will, unlike previous encounters, have to come at us and I think that will suit us fine.
Enjoy the game from wherever you are watching and a Happy Easter to you and yours.
Come On You Gunners.
=========
ps. Best wishes to the Zicodad.
Fourth already??
Good man ‘holic.
Hope you brought your alarm clock for the train ride home. π
On my way in Maestro. Save some Guinness for the rest of us please π
Have a good one ‘Holics, wherever or however you are following the game.
Hi everybody! Snir @ 26, I did. Now check yours (smiling). Now to back drink and look at that video again.
Zico @ 47, Hey there kiddo, if laughter is the best medicine your dad is in very good hands. Wishing him all the best, truly.
Thanks to all above for the kind words – had him laughing yesterday, to which he said “ouch!”.
4 down at 12:49 Holic?
I suspect the water level of the Liffey to be at an all time low after today…..
Fergie’s 12th man has struck early
Don’t have too much fun, guys!
Best wishes to the Feelgood dad.
Pelanty for ManYoo and a red card for a QPR player. Shouldn’t have ben a pn though because Ashley young was offside whn played through. The linos have not have their finest hours this weekend.
…and the Swedish commentator says “here we see Young running in behind the QPR defence”, not realising that Young is about a yard offside.
Not a penalty and ridiculous red card.
Zico, What Catalan said @ 59,”get him up and about asap”.
And my prediction about the Citroen ad proved correct. First thing the wife ever liked about Arsenal…
Just some filler, to calm our nerves. Motherwell had a player sent off in the last few minutes of their game. Someone had the cleaver idea of filming him alone in their locker room, pacing back and forth, shaking his head. Adorable.
Trev@29: Boom! Boom!
Benayoun?
Strange.
Gervinho must be injured.
Woj, Sagna, kos, TV, Gibbs, Song, Rosicky, Arteta, Bnayoun, Walcott, RVP
zico, not sure that is so strange. Arsene is probably going for the same approach as he did v Sp*rs.
Except that Yossi has hardly kicked a ball since – just expected to see Walcott and Gervinho start.
An extra midfielder seems a bit cautious to me.
Snir @ 33/35, great link, I’ve got a lot of love for Robin and ArsΓ¨ne, love seeing them smile π
@ 38, if your link is true, then the love I once had for Cesc, el Capitan is fast diminshing… *shakes head* π
I can only hope that its a crock of shit, that the morals and ethics instilled in him by the Arsenal and ArsΓ¨ne won’t be corrupted so easily.
@ 49, Vertonghen eh? I can only hope that he’s in a Arsenal shirt in a few months π
Zico @ 47, best wishes for your old man mate.
tabs @ 53/61, heh! I managed to banish that bad feeling, mine pertains to the LWCs finishing ahead of us but I’m throwing myself 100% behind the lads to do the business π
H2H @ 65, your Na$ri explanation of why he plays against us makes a lot of sense π
bt8b @ 77, well in man π
Man Utd are cunts, couldn’t win a league title without outside assistance and interference if they tried. Gonna have to wait till MotD to get my head around it proper.
Come on Arsenal!
zico, if I am not completely mistaken, Benny has played a few reserve games. And cautious or not depends on how he is used, he can be pretty attacking as well.
Fucking hell, I’m really nervous now. Half a bloody hour to go.
And lets ruin the cunt Nasri’s “real” reason he went to sheikh his chinless face to manchester.
COYG.
Hi holics
Lars +1 – very nervous
Having seen the red card earlier it is clear that money buys a team of 14 for Fergshit, so what have the light blues spent in preparation for their visit?
Maybe we should invest a penny to allow Balotelli to kick N@sri into Aguero and get all the fookers off the pitch at the same time
COYRS
Hi everyone . I know it’s been ages, but I am just wondering: who else is at the Tollington right now?
I’m fairly easy to spot :I’m the guy with no Arsenal attire on him. π
Too busy to watch the game now
Good luck to us all.
.
No Silva for them.
I like that.
RvPs right foot – TS, tabs, Ollie, Holic and Steve T, possibly Delia, possibly Snowy, possibly BtM.
Good to see Balot defending in his box, safer for us
That was a pen ref Kompany on RVP
Not Yaya’s day – yellow card then bad fall after clash with Song – coming off?
Was that TV saving a certain goal for us – yersss
Nasty by Balot on Song – left his foot in deliberately
Typical Mancini tactics at the Emirates. park the bus and hope for a break away. BAlloteli should’ve been sent off
Czezzer poor kick out lucky to get it back
Time for ton up goal please
Again Balot goes in studs first – Bacary down
Chexxer comes half way to clear from Balot
Hows MrT still on the field? Amazing.
Our players refusing to shoot on goal when they had a chance starting to annoy me. Rosicky should’ve had a go himself instead of passing it back to a marked RVP
Just a yellow? The man is a thug!
abb – couldnt agree more – its all so calculated as well
Song delayed pass to Gibbs too long
FOUR yellow-card offences, one of which could easily have been a straight red, by Balotelli but only one yellow. Ridiculous, just ridiculous.
Not bad half but Balot should have got 2 reds before his yellow and we were unlucky with the deflection by TV on their goalline
Can only get better
Bring on the Ox for Benny I say
We missed a good chance to put them to the sword.
Of course, it’s not easy playing against a 100 million bus.
City have Vermalen to thank. we need to get a goal early 2nd half
According to Stewart Robson, Sagna was play acting.
And we pay him his wages.
Unbelievable.
We need more composure in the final third, not cross every ball when only RVP is the target
And Balotelli is a cunt
Stewart Robson needs to FOOK off Snir.
And you’re right abb and Trev, he is a thug and he shouldn’t be on the ptich, I want to see a retrospective 3 match ban for Balotelli, atrocious challenge.
Snir- S. Robson. trying to sound not bias to the point of becoming against Arsenal. Maybe he wants the media world to notice him a bit more.
He’d have gotten red if it had been at old trafford
Santos coming on for Gibbs?
we are still napping this 2nd half.
Good save by benny on the side
what is going ? we need to wake up
Snatos on for gibbs is a starnge one. Unless Gibbs is injured
Unlucky Robin header off the post
Song does a good pass this time – inches too long for Theo
Ox and Teves warming up Ox more valuable
Kos booked for touching ball first!!
COYReds
So Balot with both hands on someones shoulders isnt a foul?
How did we miss TWICE
Wtf man…
Rambo for Benny – Benny has defended well but not attacking enuff for me
Still N@sri off cant be all bad
Fuck so close
Song – whats his pass success?
Balot dives
Tevez to replace ref?
Ox coming on for Theo
Goal Artetttttttaaaa – wonderful
Keep calm now lads
Artetaaaaaa!!!!
At last 2 x yellow = Red
i’ve been moaning about our players not shooting from distance. finally someone did .first long range shot for a while and it pays off
Clearly Balot wanted a 3 week rest
The cherry on the cake. Chow baby.
Great. Red for the thug. Some cunt keeps saying sagna is at fault. Idiot commentator
someone needs to put a smelly sock in stewart Robson’s mouth. Sagna’s will do
Free kick for Tev versus Kos
How could Rambo do that with 2 players free
Resulttttttt!!!!
The only disappointment was that it helps Manure
Yummy!
Yummy Yum!
Yummy, yum, yum
Ramsey is not a goal scorer. he panics in front of goal. luckly it wasn’t costly
Great result. Well played. Plus the thug gets to be off the field for a while. Great.
The best player on the park scores the winner.
Fantastic.
And a big shout for our defence as well.
Well done, lads.
I predict carnage down Hornsey Road π
Carling cup: “you’re just our feeder club”.
How do you like that you bunch of glory seeking, free-spending, poznan dancing Manc twats?
You’re just our pawn shop is more like it.
Get in there!
OOHTOOOHTOBE
What a goal, what a game!
I’m happy we won, but when the LWCs are so close behind us, that shot needed to be in the net, from Ramsey or from anyone who was waiting on the other side, poor from Aaron.
Fantastic performance and well deserved….annoying about Kos (who is our best central defender at present).
California impact = 8 wins in 9
Gary Neville loves Arsenal as much as Tony Gale hates us….weird stuff
It would have been a travesty if we had lost that.
The only disappointment is Kos will miss the next 2 games but will be back for the Chelsea one.
Our lads deserved that win (and so did we)!
Here is a weather warning – floods and noise starting in the Tollie
Have a good one all you holics
Tim @ 158, I washed my Arsenal shirts before 12:00am today as well, and I’m sure everyone else followed their precautions to the t π
‘The [City] fans remind me of Marseille. Arsenal have good fans but they are not that passionate since they moved from Highbury to the Emirates’ ‘We are the club of the future and want to win everything’
some former player….last summer….
@ Tim 158: That cunt Tony Gale gets on my nerves. Every time Shitty gets the ball he blurts out “could this be the moment that City turns this around?”….God bless Neville because if you were only listening to Gale you’d think that City was ever in the game today. Total Arsenal domination!!!!
Tim – that will be the guy who moved to Manchester for trophies?
We are the Arsenaaaaaaaaal
Aaaaaaaarsenal FC
and we are by far the greatest club the world has ever seen.
Repeat ad infinitum.
Speacial special performance. totally outplayed the mercernary XI.
Fuck you Na$ri you greedy cunt, Arteta was the number 8 we should have bought instead.
COYG
We are the first team that restricted City to 0 shots on target this season.
TV overrated? pffft.
I said this countless times and I’ll say it again.
I DON’T RATE CITY!
Without Silva they are absolutely clueless.
That was fucking brilliant! 1-0 to the Arsenal
We battered them second half and got what we deserved
More than Vermaelen, I think it was our midfield and full backs that made it impossible for the Mancs to have any kind of sustained possesion to have a shot. The pressuring and tackling by the midfield was the difference. I would have been mighty pissed if this performance did not result in 3 points.
Not taking anything away from Vermaelen and Kos, they did their job against a docile Aguero. Vertonghen will have to cool his heels if he comes, I think we have the first choice centre backs for the next five years settled.
Where does Niall Quinn park his time machine when he goes back to 1974 to buy his suits?
How great was the “Money does not buy you class.” banner. Does anyone have the image??
To be fair Snir, Ya Ya Toure is very influential for them as well.
I was delighted to see him booked early doors and even more delighted to see one of our players crock one of the opposition for once and him limp off.
The fact that Mancini cannot send his team out to attack the opposition in a game they must win will see him getting replaced in the summer, in my opinion.
A lot to be satisfied about – not least Mr Nasri being replaced after yet another ineffective game.
As for RvP, will he EVER score? Get rid.
Zico – I know that’s usually the case but actually we were totally on top when Toure was on the pitch and calmed down when Pizzaro came on.
Pizzaro had a great game, but gave away the ball for the goal haha π
So, I would have preferred Toure to stay on as we were battering them with him on the pitch.
Solid win.
Don’t be so harsh on Rambo. He will settle down. I like his willingness to take a punt. We will need that next year.
All the best to your pops, Dr. Z
Drinks on the bar. Anybody fancy “2nd”s?
BMBD
Nice to see Na$ri get crucified by the Arsenal crowd on Easter Sunday….
Snir,
That may have been down to his early booking though – generally, he tends to be influential for them.
They deserved nothing from the game – that was down to us, and the negativity of their manager.
Fuck ’em.
You may recall I have a big Man City fan as colleague at work – the one who told me that we were now their feeder club and Nasri had moved to win trophies. Pity tomorrow’s a holiday π
I don’t really care for City, but if I was a City fan I’d be screaming for Mancini to get on the first plane to Italy.
How they managed 0 shots on target in a game they HAD to win is beyond me.
Zico – Hope all is well with your father.
And you’re right, it is down to the yellow and that’s exactly why I wanted him to stay on the pitch.
Rambo going through his Rosicky phase of not being able to score. Once one comes, more will follow.
Zico, hope your father recovers quickly. Nasty things falls.
For those at the Ems, was there a chant of “Mancini, spend some f**king money”?
Bless Arteta’s little feet.
Thanks for the good wishes guys – zico senior had his operation this afternoon, which went well and is now in recovery.
All in all, a good day.
Off to score some myself now – 6 a sides!!
City was lucky to have not conceded at least a couple more. And how RVP didn’t get that penalty is inexplicable. Then Stewart Robson has the temerity to complain about play-acting from us!
Great performance. It shows how thin the much vaunted City bench is when the manager has to consistently put his trust in someone like Balotelli. Should have seen a straight red.
Though he put in a tremendous effort as always Song looks a little jaded, no wonder as he has been playing non-stop. Thought Sagna was excellent with Arteta and Rosicky, Gibbs is showing more maturity, sad to seem him getting injured again. Santos showed some good touches, as expected, hopefully he is physically up for the next few matches.
Ramsey should really not have wasted that effort, he did everything well up until that point.
Against Wolves I guess Rosicky would be rested, Ramsey would play in that role and Gervinho/Ox would be on the left wing.
@slash there is a wallpaper u can find ,,,money does not make a club 125 years of history does ,cant agree more.
I’m with Zico. Van Persie OUT. What’s the point of playing a CF that NEVER scores?! Wenger out as well. We didn’t concede today but are letting far too many goals in. Get Mancini instead! Only let one goal in against the might of the Arsenal! Perhaps at least we can get him in as a defensive coach… He seems to know how to park the bus….
http://www.google.nl/imgres?num=10&um=1&hl=nl&gbv=2&biw=1366&bih=643&tbm=isch&tbnid=OwOFFGKRAsTfQM:&imgrefurl=http://twitter.com/AbsolutSuedois&docid=LiInDc0tfxm6GM&imgurl=http://a0.twimg.com/profile_images/1665953430/ArsenalAvatar.jpg&w=324&h=324&ei=odmBT5eQB8Kg0QWCivmFBw&zoom=1&iact=rc&dur=342&sig=104558612518638847174&sqi=2&page=1&tbnh=135&tbnw=142&start=0&ndsp=21&ved=1t:429,r:14,s:0,i:94&tx=76&ty=64
@186 French Fries
Thanks mate. This will do till the pic of the banner crops up. π
SlaSh, I think that the picture of that banner and many more is in a photo album on the Arsenal Facebook page, take a gander.
zico @93 – and Trev!
Just back from THoF – cracking atmosphere – Man Citeh attempting to become a richer and even more unpopular version of Chavski.
Arrogant, play-acting, spiteful and not even very good.
Great game from many today, and Arteta getting deserved special mentions.
Terrific result under pressure, and even had the opportunity to gently extract the Michael out of some Citeh fans on the train on the way home.
Will leave the match reports to the many others that will surely follow – have to leave at crack of dawn (lovely girl that Dawn) for the West Country. Back for Wigan next Monday.
Enjoy your bank holiday ‘Holics – good to see the man himself at The Tollie today, plus Tabs, TS, Snowy, Ollie, Mr Scoop(an Arseblogger), and the inimitable Esso.
Second place, anybody ? π
Forgot to mention how kind of Mancini it was to haul Na$ri off in front of his enchanted ex-fans. Nice touch Roberto π
And the home crowd taking the piss out of the Citeh fans, by doing that daft Poznan thing they so love to copy when we scored. Priceless.
No, this is ridiculously funny!!!
http://twitpic.com/97f69q
I saw the bottle land on the pitch Snir – let’s hope it was beer . . . .
@Wind Checked the page, No luck.
@Trev: Instead of second will rather have Newcastle qualify for 4th ahead of scum and chavs. THAT would make this season memorable.
And BTW, I love Andy Santos, the true heir of the cult of Eboue. With footballing skills to match his growing legion.
Oh, what a sweet victory. Had it not been for Kompany and Lescott we would have fucking hammered them. So much money, so little class. And Martin Atkinson can go fuck himself, one of the worst refereeing displays of all season. Not even a free kick when Balotelli attempted to break Song’s leg? Pathetic.
Now for some back-drinking π
SlaSh, unlucky mate, and I agree with you on Newcastle finishing 4th, chuck in Everton finishing above Liverpool for the 1st time since 2004-5 and you’ve got yourself a truly memorable season π
Also agree about Santos and the Cult of Eboue, what a guy, I’m surprised these two don’t tweet each other π
Only because RVP and Ramsey had their radar off and great goal-line defending from Verminator prevented this from being a rout.
Couldn’t care less about LFC and Kenny although Everton realistically have a better chance of 6th than the Geordies of fourth. Anyways signing off for the night, its gonna be a great Monday tomorrow. π π
AFC <3
Oh yeah, Mikel doesn’t have a Twitter account, that’s why… π³
Crunching tackle in the middle of the field by GT
Powers in a shot like Arteta (0;
Knocks it in..
* OK I will take the yella for the team (0;
GT, you’re the head of the discplinary committee!!! Bloody hell mate π
Now they’ll make an offer for Mikel.
Hurricane blame WordPress mate! I made the tackle and when I tried to pass the ball @ 197 WordPress tols me “you are posting too quickly. Please slow down!”…I shit you not (0;
Heh, you’re walking on ice GT Mate… π
Spot on Lars @194.
https://p.twimg.com/Ap-mC3HCEAIJBAN.jpg
Now, this is lazy journalism.
http://www.mirrorfootball.co.uk/transfer-news/Transfer-gossip-Arsenal-to-sell-Per-Mertesacker-in-summer-after-one-season-according-to-report-article888160.html
http://www.guardian.co.uk/football/blog/2012/apr/08/alex-song-arsenal-manchester-city
A nice piece.
Shows why I’ve been championing the Song flag.
I get the feeling people are cherry picking his faults and berate him for the odd loss of possession despite him dominating games.
6 games to go, 10 points behind…. hmmm. Is it asking too much?? π
Probably, but hey…..
Brilliant brilliant brilliant.
Ramsey – just needs a little more composue in front of goal and he could be immense. I think it’ll come…. Remember he made the opportunity in the first place.
Catalan, agree about Ramsey. The first part of scoring goals is getting the opportunities to do so.
Very quiet in here tonight, I must say. I suppose the Tollie is still quite lively though π
Snir @ 209, its disgraceful, like 13 year old Media Homework done 5 mins before class X_X
@ 210, a joy to read.
MOTD in 25 minutes lads!
Catalan & Lars, I was really annoyed that he missed (see my tweets) but you two are right, + its his first season back since the injury, gotta cut him a lot of slack.
I see that Sir Chris Hoy won a race today. Tottenham fans have tweeted Chris Foy en masse to congratulate him.
I see our neighbors, tipped by so many to be title-contenders, are, as of today, mathematically out of contention.
Nooooo, something’s wrong with the BBC feed on the FilmOn app π I want to watch MOTD2!
SG@209: indeed, there was not one shred of evidence to support that piece. However, if Vertonghen does arrive in the summer, there are going to be an awful lot of international CBs at the club.
Lars
Mine’s working fine. But I’m watching The Masters!
#banishedToTheKitchen!
Yes, it’s back on again… but now it died again π
Ned @ 217
Vertonghen will take Squillaci’s place, no?
(If he comes).
Trev @ 189 – please forgive me. A serious oversight. Have a nice break, with Dawn. π
Trev and Catalan, 2nd place…why not. Snir, you are so right about Song, a workhorse extraordinaire. Sagna was spectacular. Really a team effort including our goalie. Some beautiful foot work by RVP, I believe in about the 21st min. in front of City’s goal. Benny too, in the 2nd half, dazzled me with some of his moves. Neither lead to goals, but enjoyable all the same.
Zico, Good news about Dr Feelgood, senior. Now off to work. Enjoy the moment, everybody.
Got the stream going again a few seconds into the highlights package from our game so I could see the important bit of the show and just after they were done with our game the stream got a real bad case of the hiccups again. Good timing π
For those who didn’t see it, just at the end they reported that there are reports of a major bust-up in the City dressing room. Anyone surprised? No, didn’t think so.
I wonder if Holic got home ok?….Gissa shout if you’re alright Guv..
Lars: If I were coaching our team I’d have them focus on Shitty and try to catch them! It will be a lot less stressful than holding off the spuds..
Incredible.
It would appear that the photo doing the rounds of Chesney swigging from a bottle of beer thrown onto the pitch is, on fact, genuine.
Not only have I heard from a few people this evening who were close by when it happened, but if you watch the higlights where Balotelli was about to be sent off, Chesney comes running over, pursued by Kolarov, to show the ref what is clearly a bottle of beer. The ref isn’t interested and he disappears back off camera with it, presumably taking a swig a few seconds later.
On the one hand, it’s hard to condone one of our players drinking during a game, but on the other – and I’ll speak frankly here – fuck that, what an absolute legend!
Terry, I know we have bridged one ten-point gap this season but two might be stretching it. I would not focus on any other team whatsoever, I would just tell the players to focus on beating whatever team we are playing in the next game.
N7: I find it hard to believe that Szczesny really did drink from a bottle thrown from the stands. He might have pretended to drink from it, though – that would be quite like him π
I must confess that I was abroad (in Serbia! Of all places) during the game against QPR so I missed that. Right now, however, things feel alright. I believe tomorrow will be quite sunny. Quite sunny indeed.
Another glass of Rioja for me, please. Or a Riesling, they make a nice white wine in Serbia.
N7 – are beer bottles on sale at the Ems or is it just cups??
Dancing around the room with your 4 year old as Arsenal score the winner.
Priceless. π
That’s the truth Catalan (0;
Snir , you can get a bottle of beer on the concourse for a silly price
Puddled. Report tomorrow…
Well played Bubba.
Fuck off Nasri π
Heh holicmeister. Arteta for emperor?
abb- Inbox.
Fucking briliant!!!
Catch up with the drinks tomorrow, but in case it hasn’t been mentioned, Balotelli is a world class cuntbucket.
been away on a “Reverse Ollie” – looking forward to backdrinking and that…
ReeeeeeeeeeSSSSSSSSSSSUUUUUUUULLLLLLLLLLLLLTTTT!!!!!!!!!!!!
UREDS!
Snir, Happy Pesach. The wife, who hates all things Arsenal, made the family a delicious matzoh ball soup tonight to redeem herself. π
@ Toby 228
I’m from Serbia…of all places. Belgrade rules!
Catalan @ 230, indeed π
8ball – Are you Jewish or just enjoy that weird dish (sorry, I’m not a fan of it)? π
Didn’t she redeem herself by liking the Citroen ad ;)?
Zico@220: that’s a pretty pricey upgrade for a fifth choice CB, or even sixth or seventh if you put Squillaci below Miquel and Bartly.
N7G@226: the caption the Getty photo agency put out on that photo was particular to say that Woj was pretending — it’s word– to be drinking from the bottle. No doubt, though, that the lad is legend.
Dr Zee / NED: Vertonghen’s versatility is what is attractive to Arsene. With regards to Bartley, its probably fair to say that if he was going to make it at Arsenal he would be in situ in the squad by now. Miguel is still young – and also versatile – so one has to think that he has time on his side..
For those still in the bar…if any….really thought we deserved the three points today, which is something I always say when we draw against a team that has parked the bus….but in this case we actually got the winner. Man, they just had no time on the ball…we were really good.
Could have been two reds for one guy…not possible of course…and four goals. Not that it is our problem, but why with all the talent MC has do they even bother with B’telli, why? Simply not worth the trouble.
Back to us, back four played really well, too bad for us with Kos….guy wasn’t going anywhere when he was fouled….not even facing the goal, oh well. Suprised to see BennyGoon get a run out….thought he was combative along with Rosicky….man when he plays well I just keep saying TO-MAS!, TO-MAS!…..while the opposition is thinking NO MAS!, NO MAS!.
Wolves will be fighting for their lives midweek…we really have to come with our A game….no big match win hangover…..please!!!
COYR
Gedo, spot on. We have to have our A-game against Wolves, just the sort of side that in the past we have tended to turn for, assuming the win is in our pocket, and then come a cropper.
GT: point taken, but going back to the start of the thread about Vertonghen, Mertesacker, Djourou and him seem one reserve CB too many.
Gedo – Please enlighten me, what talent City have outside their first 11.
In fact, City have only 48 points in the injury table (last, United is first with 261!), meaning even Mancini knows his squad lacks quality and has relied on his first eleven for most of the season.
As for the Vertonghen debate – I’m pretty sure JD would be sold or become Squillaci. JD did trigger a clause in his contract that warranted an extension but that can only do us good as we can get a higher fee for him that way.
There will be takers as he is an established international.
A quarter of TV, BFG, Kos and Vertonghen would be by far the best in the PL, with Miquel waiting in the wings.
Like GT said, Vertonghen’s versatility is something that is super attractive to AW as he is 3 signings in one.
Capable of LB and DM, and established at CB.
Just ask H2H – Everybody in Holland was surprised that we bought TV and not Vertonghen (a masterclass from AW, ’cause at the time TV was playing at LB and most clubs were settled with their LBs – Cole, Evra, Bridge etc.)
Snir, my friend…they do have a lot of talent….I might not know all of the names but they did have Tevez, Richards and the big lumbering Decko/Jecko or whatever his name is on the bench today. Perhaps you don’t rate them, fine….but if they were all rowing in the same direction they would be a hell of a squad….not to mention they have that certain striker that plays for the LWCs on the payroll….he can score regardless of what you think of him.
I may not rate all of these guys at certain times given their attitudes but my point was, and I think you would agree, that there really is no point playing the angry Italian, especially when he is played out of position.
Be happy Snir, we got the three points.
Gedo – Adebayor is like saying we have Bendtner, it’s irrelevant.
I agree they do have Richards, and Dzeko.
I would not include Tevez in their squad and the reasons why they broke down because he wasn’t used during the season, so he’s not part of the “better depth than United” discussion.
The way I see it, they have a good first thirteen and then mediocre players as cover.
De Jong, Savic, Kolo (I’m sorry big guy, but you aren’t at that level anymore), Kolarov, Clichy, Hargreaves, Barry are all mediocre.
Take a look at their squad and you’ll see they (extremely!) lack options in central midfield.
In fact, that is exactly why they are clueless when Toure and Silva are out, because their cover players are mediocre.
Compare that to Song, Coq, MA, TR, AR, JW, Diaby, Ox and if you’d like Frimpong, and our options in midfield (which again are for three positions only) show a great deal of depth, promise, and solidity.
As for the Italian – he’s a dumb cunt who finished his career in England.
And I am happy, more than happy π
I actually wish we kept the big Dane in the squad….but if we are going to play him on the wing (never understood that) or just in the CC, then we’ve made the right call….but he does offer a different threat than Wengerball, which is needed against the more physical teams.
Gedo, agree that Bendtner was the plan B, but AW, rightly or wrongly, decided Chamakh was the man for the role.
SG: Citeh bought talent in depth, though I’m not sure Milner and Barry would start in the midfield of many of Europe’s top clubs. They have not been able to meld it into an effective team, as say Chelsea did. It would be interesting to speculate what Citeh might have done with those same players if the Special One, or even Hughes, had been in charge rather than Mancini.
Gedo, NB52 (or any other CF for that matter) has no place in our squad, simply because he cannot play (effectively) on the wing.
Our system requires one man up front and no one would play ahead of RvP ever.
Meaning the CF would always be on the bench and if RvP gets injured he is not sharp (and perhaps unsettled at lack of first team opportunities).
On the other hand a player (like Poldi) who can play both as a winger and as a CF, would be sharp and up for it when he’s called to fill in and lead the line because he’s got plenty of match practice playing on the wings.
NBN – Football is won and lost in the midfield battle (most times) and their midfield backups are average. Not top four quality.
Meanwhile, for something much more important.
Trevor Harris’ reaction to the Arteta goal on Arsenal Player is exactly why I love highlights on Arsenal Player. Stewart Robson, listen and learn!!! I absolutely hate him, despite the fact that he played for Arsenal. The way he talks about Arsenal is worse than Hansen, Gale, Lawrenson, Shearer, Savage, Thompson, Francis put together.
I absolutely despise him.
I love Trevor Harris. A proper Gooner.
Winning the league is incredibly difficult. This is a list of the clubs who have won the Premiership and the old Division One before it, with the number of seasons since they last won it.
Manchester United 1
Chelsea 2
Arsenal 8
Blackburn Rovers 17
Leeds United 20
Aston Villa 21
Liverpool 22
Everton 25
Nottingham Forest 34
Derby County 37
Manchester City 44
Ipswich Town 50
Tottenham Hotspur 51
Burnley 52
Wolverhampton Wanderers 53
Portsmouth 62
Sunderland 76
Sheffield Wednesday 82
Newcastle United 85
Huddersfield Town 86
West Bromwich Albion 92
Sheffield United 104
Preston North End 112
Is Toure taking the piss? Collision was on his left knee and he was pointing to his right knee as the injured one.
Strange.
NBN – we know too well how hard it is.
For the bad and for the good π
*all too well.
Sadly true, SG.
https://twitter.com/#!/Snir_Geuli/status/189214024016216064
@259
Thanks a lot Snir, that is my new Wallpaper. π
Someone else mentioned it above, but on the subject of commentators …. I think Gary Neville rather likes us! Who knew?!
He’s also the most intelligent co commentator. Coincidence? π
Ned @ 242
I don’t think Bartley will make it – having had the opportunity to see him at close quarters, in a very poor league, he doesn’t look like Arsenal first team quality, I’m afraid.
I had forgotten about Mertesacker.
I would definitely like Vertonghen as an option all the same as I’m greedy, and his versatility is also a big attraction.
Still buzzin’. 8)
Snir, Djourou isn’t going anywhere, he’s homegrown. And quite frankly, I’m rather happy with him as fourth-choice CB.
zico@262: heh, I am also still buzzin’! I didn’t fall asleep until well after 3AM partly because I was still so high on adrenaline from the game, whenever I tried to fall asleep I just kept seeing sequences from the game in my head and got all excited again π
Gedo@245: too right, let’s have none of that big-game win hangover on Wednesday. However, I think the fixture list might actually help us with that because with all three of Sp*rs, Chelsea and Newcastle playing tonight and with games that I expect both Newcastle and Sp*rs to win (Bolton and Norwich at home), that means we will be in fourth place before kick-off and that should help the lads to focus. Chelsea are playing Fulham away and that is a game in which they may well drop points, but they can of course also just as well win it.
And then the next weekend we are in fact the only team of the four who are playing. Well, we aren’t even playing on the weekend since it’s on Monday night, but that gives us the opportunity to really put pressure on the teams behind us. These are the remaining fixtures:
ARSENAL
11/4 Wolves (a)
16/4 Wigan (h)
21/4 Chelsea (h)
28/4 Stoke (a)
5/5 Norwich (h)
13/5 WBA (a)
NEWCASTLE
9/4 Bolton (h)
21/4 Stoke (h)
28/4 Wigan (a)
2/5 Chelsea (a)
6/5 ManC (h)
13/5 Everton (a)
CHELSEA
9/4 Fulham (a)
21/4 Arsenal (a)
29/4 QPR (h)
2/5 Newcastle (h)
5/5 Liverpool (a)
13/5 Blackburn (h)
LOOTING TOWN
9/4 Norwich (h)
21/4 QPR (a)
29/4 Blackburn (h)
2/5 Bolton (a)
6/5 Villa (a)
13/5 Fulham (h)
Looking at the four lists above, I actually think Newcastle have the easiest run-in. Bolton and Stoke at home should be fairly easy wins for them, Wigan away could be a bit tricky but they should win it, and then they will face a probably completely knackered Chelsea followed by a Manchester City team that will have disintegrated entirely by then. That leaves Everton away which is tricky any day of the week, but still a winnable game.
Lars @ #263
Thanks for that, really useful post. I’m biased but i think we’ll manage to hold onto thrid but it will be anything but easy.
My dream scenario is (naturally) us 3rd and The Barcodes 4th but the reality is any of the above 4 could finish third and fourth.
Thanks for your texts yeserday. You and Dr.z were sorely missed from the Tollie.
Don’t worry Snir, we had a drink for you too.
Geoff & AL, where were you?
Another great afternoon at The Ems. Ever since we mashed the scum 5-2, the crowd has been magnificent.
The Poznan parody thing was just HILARIOUS. Another great memory from this season.
*Boilk.
I kinda forgot I still got a bar to run as I ever so slightly completely over undulged on the amber necter before during and after warching the game……..
Well worth it though.
Heh! @ H2H
How very unlike you fella. Great day and great scenes at The Ems yesterday. You over-indulgence fully justified π
Great day out with the usual suspects.
Just seen a replay of the Balotellin ‘tackle’ on Song.
Lucky that his foot wasn’t firmly planted on the ground, or it was a broken leg.
Criminal assault.
He’ll get a ban, although, as arseblogger points out, nowhere as big as he should, I suspect.
Poznan was funny indeed π
I blame the golf for no report yet. Mind you I got home in time to watch the finale. Gripping, even if I am not a big golf fan.
A ‘reverse Ollie’, heh, AL?
Dear Na$ri,
Just wanted to drop you a quick line to find out how it was going for you at Oil Shitty.
I seem to remember you mentioned something about “winning trophies” and “joining a club on an upward curve” with “higher standards than Arsenal”. (By the way, standards of what exactly? If you mean attacking football then no, they aren’t higher – witness Mancini’s cowardly tactics every time he visits the Grove)
You also said you could feel yourself getting better as you trained with better players. I’m confused. If you class yesterday’s anonymous performance as “better”, who are you comparing it to? I suppose it was a small improvement on 80% of your games at your old club, where you had 3 good months in 36.
Anyway, must dash. Write soon.
Dom, London
P.S. Ha ha ha ha ha
Camberwell@269 – Excellent π Help yourself to a drink
Cheers Oxon!
I do hope he manages to see that message, I’m dying to know how he’s getting on… π
>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
boilk