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  • EAGLE EYE

    The Carabao Cup presents a tough test, against The Eagles. Arsenal will need to put in a good performance, to advance to the semi-final, where a fixture against  dirty Chelsea, awaits us.

    Crystal Palace have shown that they’re more than capable, of causing upsets, in cup competitions. Just ask Manchester City… who were beaten in last season’s FA Cup Final, by The Eagles.

    As I’ve said before, I’m desperate for The Arsenal to win the Carabao Cup, as we haven’t won it since the 1992-93 season, when we beat Sheffield Wednesday 2-1 in the final.

    The Carabao Cup is the first opportunity to win silverware in the season, and can act as a springboard for the rest of the season, and can be a foundation to build upon, for the seasons to come.

    We’ll need eagle eye focus to make the vision, become a reality. We simply cannot allow The Eagles to swoop into The Emirates, and take flight with a win. Their wings, MUST BE clipped, gunned down, maimed, and severely damaged.

    Crystal Palace are on the back of a 4-1 defeat, away to Leeds, in the Premier League… but I don’t think this will have any bearing on this game, as it’s a different competition, and with any derby, form goes out the window.

    The Arsenal are on the back of a hard fought 1-0 away win, over Everton.

    I’m expecting Mikel Arteta to make some changes, but still ensure the team is still highly competitive, as we’re facing Premier League opposition.

    The Arsenal team was a much changed starting eleven.

    Kepa Arrizabalaga started in goal, Timber at right-back, Saliba, and Calafiori, in central defence… and Lewis-Skelly at left-back.

    It was a midfield trio of Merino, Norgaard, and Eze… and up top, it was Madueke on the right, Jesus through the middle, and Martinelli on the left.

    Gabriel Jesus started his first game in eleven months, and there wasn’t a dry eye in the house. MY house… as I shed tears of joy. Jesus was back just in time for his birthday, on the 25th December, and I was hoping he’d help turn our quarter-final water, into semi-final wine.

    We started the match brilliantly! We flew out the blocks, and were immediately at The Eagles’ throat. The main instigator, was Gabriel Martinelli… who was relentlessly going for the jugular. He cooked, roasted, and served up embarrassment, and a clean pair of heels, to the Palace right-back, Jaydee Canvot.

    Each time Martinelli skinned Canvot, he put an excellent ball into the box.

    Unfortunately though, wave after wave of attack… just encouraged Palace to surf their luck, and it inspired their keeper to make a string of good saves.

    We were getting in behind  the Eagles’ backline at will, creating chances in abundance… but we just couldn’t put the ball in the net.

    I’m struggling to think of a more dominating first half performance this season, than this one.

    It was so frustrating to witness, because it was like The Gunners were taking aim, had the target lined up, but then dropped their guns, and kicked them away, beyond reach. This happened, time, and time, and time, again.

    The creative aspect of our game was phenomenal, so I don’t want to be too overly critical… but we cannot keep squandering chances the way we do, as it will inevitably lead to dropped points in the league, or in this case… elimination from a cup competition.

    I feel like I’ve written “We need to be more ruthless” in multiple blogs, because guess what… WE NEED TO BE MORE RUTHLESS!!!

    The defence has been exceptional this season, and now it’s time for the frontline, to be the same.

    I’m sure the attacking relationships, potent combinations, and ruthlessness to kill games off, will come… but I just hope it comes sooner, rather than later.

    Please Santa, I’d like attacking prowess restored to my team, for Christmas. I’ve been good all year.

    Despite our best efforts, the first half finished 0-0… and I stared at the screen in disbelief, bound by confusion, and gagged by our wastefulness.

    The second half seemed to of caught us by surprise. It was like our body was out on the pitch, but our minds were still in the dressing room… but The Eagles in contrast, had their beak primed, and their talons out… swooping down aggressively… like they had chosen us for their prey.

    Palace were in our faces, in the tackles, and now suddenly, in the mood.

    The Arsenal were paying a HEAVY, heavy price, for not putting the game to bed, in that first half… and now a rejuvenated Crystal Palace, are threatening to ruin our Christmas.

    Arteta said… “I love Christmas, and NOBODY ruins it for ME, or my team!” and then he made substitutions. Ok, ok… he didn’t say that, he just made the substitutions… but it would’ve been HILARIOUS if he did. HAHAHA!!


    Anywhoooo… in the 59th minute, Trossard was introduced, as Martinelli took a knock, and in the 67th minute… Eze was replaced by Odegaard, and Madueke came off for Saka.

    The changes helped us gain more control in the game, but we didn’t look anywhere near as dangerous, as we did in the first half.

    In the 80th minute we earned a corner, that Saka took… and he put an exquisite ball into the box. Palace struggled to clear their lines, and in the confusion, the Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix, stabbed the ball into his own net. An own goal… but they all count. 1-0 to the Arsneal!!

    What was positive though, is that even with Palace playing better in the second half, we still limited them to zero shots on target, until the 95th minute, when we gave away a corner… and Jefferson Lerma flicked on said corner, into the path of Marc Guehi, and Guehi slotted the ball home with ease, and megged Kepa in the process… just to add insult to injury. 1-1.

    The unthinkable happened… The Arsenal conceded a late goal, and all our hard work in the first half, was undone.

    A penalty shootout was next, and I was asking myself.. “How the hell did we get, HERE?!?!?” but I couldn’t answer, wouldn’t answer, and didn’t want an answer… because the answer is… IT’S OUR OWN FAULT!!

    We failed to convert 2 clear cut chances from Jesus, 2 from Madueke, 1 from Timber, and 1 from Rice, near the end of the 90 minutes.

    All we could do now, is focus on the penalties we’re about to take, and maybe look back in anger at the missed opportunities, at a later date.

    Arsenal were getting the penalty shootout underway, with the skipper Martin Odegaard, taking the first spot-kick.

    He placed the ball down, looked at the Palace keeper… and my heart rate IMMEDIATELY increased. Not because I thought he was going to miss, but because I’m a nervous wreck, during penalty shootouts.

    I even checked my smartwatch, and my heartrate read… “Aye, calm down bro! BREEEAAAATHE.”

    But against my will, I defied my smartwatch… because my emotions now belonged to Arsenal Football Club.

    Thankfully, Odegaard despatched his penalty with aplomb… and he set the tone, for the remaining pens.

    Rice, Saka, Trossard, and Merino, all went on to score their pens confidently. That’s 5 perfect pens in-a-row… but the problem was, Palace did exactly the same.

    Calafioti scored the sixth penalty, and the composure that he, and Arsenal were showing, can only stand us in good stead, for any other shootouts, that we may be involved in this season.

    Timber was taking the seventh penalty, and the camera zoomed in on his face… and he didn’t look confident, AT ALL!! I feared the worst, and tried my best to prepare for football heartbreak, with a dollop of despair.

    Timber though, fooled us all. He fooled me, the Palace keeper… and did I mention, that he fooled… ME?

    Jurrien Timber went on to take a sensational penalty, and him scoring his pen, reduced my heartrate by a whole 0.7%

    Palace again equalled what we did, so it was now 7-7 in penalties scored.

    Saliba stepped up, and banged in his penalty. It was now 8-7 to The Arsenal!!

    Up stepped Maxence Lacroix, to take the eighth penalty for The Eagles… and one he HAS TO score, or they’re out.

    Lacroix struck the ball tentatively, and Kepa saved it!!! Arsenal were through to the semi-finals, and Palace were out.

    PHEEEEEEEEEEEEWWWW!!!! We deserved the win, based on the first half performance, and some of what we did in the second half… but MYYYYYY GOOOOOOOODNEEESSS…. we made a meal of it, and ironically, couldn’t finish the meal we prepared.

    Look, bottom line time…  as well as being top of the Premier League, and top of the Champions League, we now have a cup semi-final to look forward to.

    Well done to Mikel Arteta, and his backroom staff… and well done to the Arsenal players.

    Our frontline WILL click, and when it does, a few teams are in for a vicious beating.

    We’re going to rack up the goal difference… and soon.

    Were you as frustrated after the 90 minutes, as I was?

    Are you concerned that not for the first time this season, we didn’t take our chances?

    Let’s discuss this… let me know in the comments… don’t be shy.

    Next up, we have Brighton at home in the Premier League. I have a feeling we’ll take our chances in that game. Only three points will do!

    Merry Christmas to all those who celebrate. COYG!!

  • STICKY TOFFEES

    Everton away, is always a tricky fixture to navigate… and this game will be no different, especially as this is our first time playing at The Toffees’ new home… the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

    The Toffees have a decent home record, so no doubt, they’ll make it sticky for us.

    We’ll need to play exceptionally well, to get a result here. Playing much better than we did against Wolves, is a minimum requirement.

    This is also a game we didn’t manage to win last season. We dropped 2 precious points, drawing 1-1, in a game that we should’ve won.

    So far this season, we’ve managed to exact our revenge, on all the teams we slipped up against last season. Hopefully, this trend continues.

    The starting lineup for The Arsenal, was David Raya in goal, Calafiori at left-back, after returning from suspension. Hincapie, and Saliba, central… and Timber at right-back.

    In the midfield, it was Rice, Zubimendi, and Odegaard… and the front three was Trossard on the left, Gyokeres through the middle, and Saka on the right.

    We started the game nervously, which is understandable, as our away form has been indifferent, so far this season. In addition to that, the Arsenal players would’ve been aware that Mancheatster City, won earlier in the day, and went top of the table. This had a psychological impact, and most certainly added more pressure to the game.

    This is something that you have to deal with, when you’re challenging for a Premier League title, and I have no doubt, that this group of Arsenal players, have the mental toughness to deal with this.

    After we shed, and discarded our nervousness, like a snake sheds it’s skin… we controlled the game. We passed with confidence, our ball retention was excellent, and our professionalism was evident.

    The sticky Toffee’s sat back, and refused to be broken down… but Arsenal, refusing to get toothache… forced a corner in the 27th minute, which was taken by Declan Rice.

    Rice put such a great ball in, that the Everton defender, Jake O’Brien… jumped high into the air, and tried his best to catch the ball, and take it home. If only someone had informed him that he’s NOT a goalkeeper, and that you only get to keep the match ball, if you score a hat-trick.

    O’Brien played Volleyball, Pat-a-cake, and double high-fived the football. (HAHAHAHA!!)

    It was a blatant handball, and after a VAR check, Arsenal were awarded a penalty.

    Bukayo Saka, and Martin Odegaard, decided between themselves, that Viktor Gyokeres should take the resulting penalty. An excellent decision, as if scored… it’ll give Gyokeres confidence, going into the next games.

    Up stepped Viktor Gyokeres, and he thundered the ball home! The finish was emphatic, it was confident, it was vicious… it was needed. I could see the frustration leaving Gyokeres’ body.

    1-0 to The Arsenal!!

      We continued to control the game, but we couldn’t get the second goal. It was 1-0 at the break, and I was happy with our first half performance. We weren’t at our sparkling best, by any stretch of the imagination… but we looked solid at the back again, we were assured in our play again, and we responded in the right way, to our poor performance against Wolves.

      The second half started more evenly… and I’m sure that’s due to the Everton manager David Moyes, demanding more from his players. They got in a few tackles, got the home crowd up, and put us under pressure. Thankfully though, we were faultless at the back, and dealt with Everton’s revival, in a composed, and efficient way.

      We should’ve increased our lead, after a wonderful passing move, between Odegaard, Timber, and Rice. Trossard had the shot at the end of the move, but he unfortunately hit the post.

      As we couldn’t kill the game off, and had no wins in 3 games, away from home… nervousness started to taunt me. I looked the other way, and pretended not to feel it.

      The Arsenal continued to control the game, and we limited Everton to only 1 shot on target.

      In the 65th minute, Gabriel Jesus came on for Viktor Gyokeres. The change made sense, as Gyokeres is not long back from injury, and we have A LOT of other games coming up, over the Christmas period… and of course, Gabriel Jesus needs more minutes, and has been looking sharp in recent games.

      Even though Jesus offered a different dimension to our front line, the second goal still escaped us, like an elusive fugitive.

      Everton were kept at bay, due to our defensive solidity, but we didn’t do enough going forward, to finish Everton off. Like eating when you’re not hungry, we couldn’t finish our dinner.

      In the 80th minute, Martinelli was introduced for Trossard, and in the 88th minute, Odegaard made way for Merino.

      The match finished 1-0 to The Arsenal, and it felt like a HUUUUUUUGE win, when you factor in my aforementioned points.

      We’re now back to the top of the league, after being on the right side of a difficult away fixture, we responded to Mancheatster City’s win, before we kicked-off… and we kept a clean sheet.

      We’ll be top at Christmas, and can now look ahead to our Carabao Cup game, against Crystal Palace.

      There’s a section of Arsenal fans, that are moaning, whinging, complaining, and remonstrating, about the performance, even after putting the result into context.

      Apparently, the tempo’s too slow, we’re not good enough to win the league, we lack the mentality to see it through…and blah, blaaaah, blardy-blah. Jibba-jabber…yada-yada.

      Talk to me people… Do YOU think the tempo in our play, is too slow?

      Do you think that we lack the required mentality, to win this league?

      I know I do….but do YOU, still have confidence in Viktor Gyokeres?

      When everyone’s fit, who do you think should start up front for us?

      Is being top at Christmas again, a blessing… because we have experience of being there before… or is it a hindrance, because the last 2 times we were top at Christmas, we haven’t gone on to win the league? Do you think it’ll have a positive, or negative impact, on the players?

      Personally, I think there’s NEVER a wrong way, or a wrong time, to be top of the league.

      Aaaaaaanywhooooo… The Arsenal go marching on! Merry Christmas, to all those who celebrate! COYG!!!

    1. WHEREWOLVES?

      Aaaaah yes… back at the Emirates Stadium. Back to our fortress… back to the opportunity, of protecting our proud home record… and hopefully, back to winning ways in the Premier League.

      The Arsenal host Wolverhampton Wanderers F.C… a team who are winless this season, and sit rock bottom of the Premier League, with only 2 points to their name.

      Yes, their name… Wolverhampton Wanderers. They’ve left their fans wondering, where the team that showed great form last season… has disappeared to. Where are Wolves? “Wherewolves” if you will. Only when it’s a full moon, they transform into capitulation, cluelessness, and devoid of all creativity.

      Let’s face it, the “Wherewolves” have been awful this season, and I expect us to reach into our Arsenal, load up the silver bullets, and finish them off, mercilessly. That’s what I expect.

      However, football doesn’t always live up to expectations… so Arsenal must be ready… we must be professional, we must be aggressive, and we must be ruthless… to take all 3 points. We’ll still have to work for the win, is my point.

      We lost our last Premier League game, to Aston Villa… and the only way to completely expel the pain of that defeat, is to get a victory against Wolves.

      The starting lineup was… David Raya in goal, Hincapie at left-back, Saliba, and Timber, in central defence… and Ben White (Benny Blanco) continued at right-back.

      The midfield was Rice, Zubimendi, and Eze… and up top, was Martinelli, Gyokeres, and Saka.

      Injuries still haunt us, like a trapped spirit, in a remote, derelict house… denied it’s final resting place… BUT, this team was still more than good enough to beat Wolves.

      Unsurprisingly, the “Wherewolves” set up in a low block, absorbing pressure, and looking to sink their teeth into us, on the counter-attack.

      Surprisingly though, The Arsenal started the game at a slow tempo. Passes were passive, and predictable… and we had the movement, of a cluster of statues.

      Where were Arsenal? Where’s the Arsenal that put these teams to the sword? WHERE?!?

      “Wherearsenal” doesn’t have a nice ring to it, and it’s most certainly, not as funny as “Wherewolves”

      As I said earlier, football doesn’t always live up to expectations… and it’s the unpredictability of the beautiful game, which makes us both love it…AND… loathe it.

      As the Arsenal crowd got anxious, knowledge of the basics, seemed to of eluded us.

      We struggled in the final third, and looked about as sharp, as a wooden spoon.

      Saka beat his man multiple times, and tried to make things happen, but all that came of it, were nearly moments.

      The game got scrappy, and we got sucked into the exact type of game, that Wolves wanted to play… and credit to them, because it was working.

      To add insult to injury… we got ANOTHER INJURY!! This time, the fallen… was Ben White. He was forced off in the 31st minute, with a suspected hamstring injury.

      I have to believe we’ve been cursed, at this point. (Siiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiighhhhhhhhhhh)

      Benny Blanco was replaced by Myles Lewis-Skelly. Good to see him get some more minutes, but I just wish it was under more positive circumstances.

      Aaaaaanywhoooo…

      The curtain closed on the first half, and unbelievably… the scoreline was 0-0.

      It was a good defensive display from Wolves, and a woeful display, from The Gunners.

      Much needed improvement in the second half, because the first half… made for painful viewing. It was excruciatingly bad.

      Unfortunately, there was no improvement in the early stages of the second half. Arteta had seen enough, in the 57th minute… and made changes.

      Odegaard was on for Eze, Trossard replaced Martinelli, and Merino was introduced, for Zubimendi.

      It was just one of those days, games, matches, performances, displays… whatever you want to call it, it was one of them. We still struggled to break down this Wolves side, and were still unable to recollect, how good we actually are.

      Saka though, has an excellent memory… and he took a superb corner, in the 70th minute… that was curling straight in, but instead… it hit the post, hit the keepers back, and went in. It goes down as a Johnstone own goal. 1-0 to the Arsenal… Just about.

      Our Starboy, doing Starboy things.

      Ok, we finally got the goal, so we’re going to build on it, right?… WRONG!

      We sat back, and got deeper, and deeper, inside our own half… inviting pressure, looking nervous, and riddled with uncertainty. This just wasn’t sustainable… not with how badly we’d been playing.

      In the 81st minute, Gabriel Jesus came on, for Viktor Gyokeres. We needed something, anything… to kill this game off.

      With the game seemingly, immortal… the unthinkable, then happened… in the 90th minute.

      Mane put a dangerous ball into our box, and completely unmarked, Arokodare headed the ball in. Wolves had equalised. Wolves… had… equalised. WOOOLVES… HAD… EQUALIIIISED, IN THE 90TH MINUTE!!!

      Frustration leaned on one shoulder, despair on the other, anger was poking me in the eye, and disbelief had it’s knee in my back.

      In the 94th minute, Saka picked the ball up on the right, and played a lovely ball in… which initially looked like it was headed in, emphatically, by Gabriel Jesus… but upon closer inspection, it was deemed to be ANOTHER own goal… this time, by the Wolves defender, Yerson Mosquera. They all count! We’ll take it! 2-1 to the Arsenal! Juuuussst about.

      The match finished 2-1, and Arsenal THANKFULLY… took the 3 points.

      It was a dismal performance, but we still found a way to win the game. No league titles are won without a bit of luck… and if you look at all our injuries, you know we’ve had ALL the bad luck. Maybe our luck is changing. Maybe.

      We’re not consistent in our performances at the moment, but I don’t believe we’re quite at “Panic Stations”. We can resolve the issues, and regain our good form, by learning from games like this.

      Every team can have a bad day at the office, or a bad run of games… but it’s how we react that really counts.

      We’ve dealt with adversity fantastically well, throughout the season… and I’m sure we’ll continue to do so.

      We’re away to Everton next, and I’m expecting an incredibly difficult game… Hopefully, I’m waaaay off, and we cruise to victory, winning at a canter. New found good luck, and all that. HAHAHA!!

      Was my criticism of the team too harsh?

      Did some of our “Big players” go missing, in this match?

      Are you confident we’ll regain the sort of form, that took us top of the league?

      What do you think Arteta will do, regarding our right-back problem?… because Timber cannot play every game.

      Do you get battered everywhere you go?

      Are you Tottenham in disguise?

      Let me know in the comments people. Don’t be shy!

      COYG!

    2. UP IN THE CLUB

      We’ve barely had time to nurse our Aston Villa wounds, and we’re back with a chance to get that bitter taste of defeat, out of our mouths.

      The stage we perform on this time, is the Champions League… and our opponents, are Club Brugge. A team who currently sit 3rd in the Belgian Pro League, and who also suffered a defeat in their last match… so I’m not expecting an easy game… ESPECIALLY, as Club Brugge now have a new manager, so they’ll inevitably have that “New manager bounce.”

      Both teams will be determined, to get back to winning ways.

      As Arsenal have 5 wins, from 5, in the Champions League, and sit top of the table with 15 points… I’m hoping Arteta takes this game as an opportunity to rest some players, and give some much needed minutes to the “Fringe” players.

      Maybe just 3-4 changes… as I feel anything more than that, will cause a further disruption to the team, that it really doesn’t need. We’ve definitely had MORE THAN ENOUGH of those.

      I haven’t seen Max “The Wonderkid” Dowman for a while… so it’d be nice if he played some part in this game. The same goes for Ethan Nwaneri, and Myles Lewis-Skelly.

      Norgaard also needs game time… so this is the perfect time to rest Rice, or Zubimendi.

      I guess closer to kick-off, Mikel Arteta will contact me, and seek out my expert opinion on the team selection. (Yeah, I wish.. HAHA!!)

      Okay, so team news…

      David Raya started in goal. I honestly expected Kepa Arrizabalaga to start this game… but I was wrong… which is so, so rare. HAHA!

      The backline was, Lewis-Skelly at left-back, Hincapie, and Norgaard central. Yes, you read that correctly… Norgaard is playing  centre-back, and I’m all awash with befuddlement. I’m not sure he’s ever played there in his career. (Please DO, correct me if I’m wrong)

      Jurrien Timber took a knock in the Villa game, and is unavailable… hence Arteta putting Norgaard at centre-back. Needs must, I guess.

      Thankfully, Benny Blanco was able to continue at right-back. We’ve had so many injuries this season, that I’m now surprised when players are fit, and NOT, when they’re injured.

      With Declan Rice ill, and not even in the matchday squad… In midfield, we had Merino, Zubimendi, and Odegaard.

      The front three was Martinelli on the left, Gyokeres through the middle, and Madueke starting on the right, as Bukayo Ayoyinka Temidayo Saka… AKA… Starboy, was rested.

      The match started very lively indeed, with Arsenal dominating their opponents, and carving them up at will, like a Christman Turkey… with their incisive passing.

      Club Brugge was rocking, and The Arsenal were two-stepping on the dancefloor, waiting for the right opportunity to cut up a rug.

      Early efforts from Hencapie, and Odegarrd, were saved by the keeper… but it felt like we were getting closer to “Happy Hour” nonetheless.

      In the 25th minute, the Club Brugge DJ, played Noni Madueke’s song… and he responded with some incredible dance moves. He skipped around the defender, and brushed him off, like unwanted lint, on a fine suit…. and still cutting shapes, he sprinted towards the Brugge goal, commanded the ball onto his left, and let a venomous, powerful shot go, from 20 yards out.

      The ball kissed the underside of the crossbar, ignored the goalkeeper… and hit the back of the net, like it was in an altercation. A magnificent goal from Madueke… 1-0 to the Arsenal!!

      Club Brugge responded well to our goal, and started putting us under pressure. Their pacey winger Forbs, in particular… was causing us problems.

      In the 44th minute, Stankovic found himself clean through on our goal… but thankfully David Raya made a brilliant save, that was low, and to his right. With our lead still intact, we managed to go in at the half-time break 1-0 up.

      Yes, Brugge ended the half strongly, but we were still the better team, and deserved to be in front.

      We started the second half, exactly how we did the first… absolutely, SUPERBLY!

      In the 47th minute, Zubimendi picked up the ball on the left, and put a beautiful, inch perfect ball in to Madueke, at the back post. He headed the ball home from close range, for his second goal of the game. 2-0 to the Arsenal!!

      Club Brugge had some nearly moments, but our makeshift defence, remained resolute.

      In the 56th minute, Martinelli got the ball under his spell, on the left-hand side… cut onto his right, and from way out… he blasted the ball into the top corner. A fantastic goal by Martinelli, and he became the first Arsenal player, to score in 5 consecutive Champions League games.

      A well deserved record for him, as he’s been excellent this season. 3-0 to the Arsenal!!

      Game over. Time to close Club Brugge,  ring the bell for last call, and turn the lights on, and turn the music off.

      With the Club now closing, Arteta made some changes.

      In the 63rd minute, Gyokeres  made way for Gabriel Jesus, and Hincapie was replaced by Calafiori.

      Gyokeres held the ball up well, but was visibly lacking match sharpness… which is understandable, as he’s not long returned from injury. He needs time to get back to his most dangerous… so please Arsenal faithful, let’s be patient.

      Gabriel Jesus returned to the pitch, for the first time in 11 months…and It was wonderful to see him back. He looked determined to show us what we’ve been missing. He was linking play, he looked lively… and had a good shot, that clipped the top of the bar.

      I genuinely believe Jesus will be an integral part of the team, for the remainder of the season.

      The Arsenal were in complete control, and were gliding across the Club Brugge dancefloor, effortlessly, without spilling their drinks.

      In the 71st minute, Saka came on for Madueke… and Nwaneri replaced Odegaard.

      Madueke was magnificent! He was a constant threat, even before he scored his 2 goals. He was positive, ran at the opposition repeatedly… and his decision making was flawless in the final third.

      Odegaard had a good game, and looks to be getting back to his best. He helps us control the midfield, when he’s in the team… Especially as there was no Declan Rice.

      Odegaard was linking up fantastically with Benny Blanco, and Madueke, on the right hand-side… and then Saka, when he came on.

      Hopefully, our Skipper stays fit for the rest of the season, because we’re going to need him… ESPECIALLY, over the busy Christmas period.

      There was a truly special moment in the 83rd minute, when 16 year old right-back, Marli Salmon… was brought on for Benny Blanco. A beautiful moment for him, and his family.

      He played well in his 10 minute cameo, and wasn’t at all overawed by the occasion.

      I LOVE that The Arsenal have so many youngsters coming through, who get chances to play in the first team.

      As you’ve probably deduced by now, the match finished 3-0 to the Arsenal.

      An excellent result, considering we were away from home, and were missing… Kai Havertz, Cristhian Mosquera, William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes, Jurrien Timber, Leandro Trossard, Declan Rice, AND… Max “The Wonder-Kid” Dowman.

      We’ve now won 6, out of 6 games played, in the Champions League. Scoring 17 goals in the process, and only conceding 1.

      We have 18 points on the board, and stay top. It’s remarkable how good we’ve been, in the Champions League this season.

      Next up, we’re at home to Wolves in the Premier League… and we better leave them howling at the moon in despair, after giving them a good hiding.

      Only 3 points will do!!

      Please, DOOOOOO let me know your thoughts on the game, in the comments.

      What did you think of Jesus’ cameo appearance? Should he start against Wolves?

      Am I right in saying, we need to be patient with Gyokeres?

      Do you think Saliba’s injury is worse than Arteta’s letting on?

      Do you get battered, everywhere you go?  Are you Tottenham in disguise?

      Let’s create a dialogue… don’t be shy!!  COYG!!

    3. HEROES VS VILLAINS

      It seems like all we’re playing is “Big games”… and that’s about right, because when you’re trying to win the league, almost EVERY game is like a cup final. The games are big, they’re huge, they’re large, they’re massive, they’re GARGANTUAN!!

      This clash at Villa Park, against The Villains, is all of the above.

      Aston Villa have only lost 1 home game, in their last 32, so I think it’s safe to say that they’re formidable at home. In addition to that, The Villains have won 8 of their last 9 games, and are currently the most in form team in the Premier League.

      Their most recent win, was a dramatic 4-3 win, away from home to Brighton.

      A truly mammoth task for The Arsenal, who are still injury ravaged, and have a few of the fit players, looking a little fatigued.

      We come into this game, on the back of a 2-0 win over Brentford.

      Unai Emery being the ex-Arsenal manager, has given this match A LOT more importance, over the years… and The Villains have been exactly that, in the recent meetings between the two sides. They’re moving towards “Bogey Team” status.

      The Arsenal lineup included some forced changes, and not for the first time this season.

      David Raya continued in goal, Calafiori at left-back, Piero Hincapie, and Jurrien Timber, central… and Benny Blanco (Ben White) at right-back.

      The midfield was Rice, Zubimendi, and Odegaard.

      Up top…It was Eze on the left, Merino through the middle, and Saka on the right.

      Aston Villa started the game a lot quicker than we did… and got the Villa Park crowd rocking instantly. They roared on every pass, tackle, shot, foul, run… EVERYTHING.

      Watkins had an early shot saved by Raya, which Arsenal replied to… with a Saka shot, that was saved by Martinez.

      Arsenal were slowly getting into the game, but Aston Villa were the better team.

      Eze put the ball in the net, after some wonderful play from Saka… but it was deemed offside.

      In the 36th minute… the ball  was picked up on the left, and a deep cross put into the Arsenal box… and Matty Cash, unmarked at the back post, fired the ball in, and put The Villains, 1-0 up.

      We only had ourselves to blame, as the defending wasn’t good enough, and we hadn’t been as effective going forward, as we should’ve been… considering the attacking options we had available.

      Benny Blanco had shot just before half-time.. but it was saved comfortably, by Matinez.

      The half finished 1-0 to Aston Villa.

      Mikel Arteta wasted no time to make changes… and he brought on Trossard for Eze, and Gyokeres, for Merino.

      Arteta’s half-time team talk, and the substitutions, had the desired effect… as The Arsenal immediately looked more dangerous. We also took greater care while in possession, and won a lot of our duels.

      This was rewarded in the 52nd minute, when Odegaard and Saka linked up down the right… and Saka squared the ball across the Villa box, and Trossard side-footed the ball home, from close range. A much deserved equaliser, and another important goal from Leandro Trossard. What a season he’s having.

      With the scoreline now 1-1, Arsenal eagerly pushed for the winner.

      Odegaard had a long-range effort tipped over the bar, Saka had a shot blocked from an Arsenal corner… but we couldn’t find the winner.

      Aston Villa sat back, and tried to catch us on the break, and they had a couple of shots saved… but it felt like the game would end in a draw… and I think both teams would agree that it would be a fair result.

      Unfortunately though, football isn’t fair sometimes… and the same things that make us love the beautiful game, are the very things that make us hate it.

      With 90 minutes of football already played, and the clock approaching the 5th minute of injury-time… we struggled to clear the ball, after making some good blocks. The loose ball broke to Buendia, and he smashed the ball into the roof of the net. A devastating blow, in the last kick of the game. 2-1 to Aston Villa.    

      We’ve suffered another defeat, at the hands of the ex-Arsenal boss, and the ex-Arsenal, VERY ANNOYING, goalkeeper.

      Oh, the pain…THE PAIN! THE PAAAAAAAIIIIIIN!!

      When you consider the injuries we’ve had this season… the length of said injuries, and whose been injured, the run of games we’ve just had (Tottenham, Bayern Munich, Chelsea) It’s truly AMAZING, that we haven’t lost more games up to this point.

      Oh, and we’re STILL top of the league, by the way.

      Brand new superlatives must be created, to adequately give Mikel Arteta, and these Arsenal players, the credit they deserve.

      That’s only our second loss of the season, which ended an unbeaten run of 18 games.

      We’ve been fantastic… and I won’t allow reactionary fans, or mainstream media, to say otherwise.

      I still have unshakable faith in this team, and have no doubt that we’ll dust ourselves off, get back to winning ways, and go on to achieve great things this season.

      Next up, it’s an away trip to Club Brugge in the Champions League.

      This is where we’ll start our next unbeaten run.

      Do you agree / disagree with what I’ve said in this piece?

      Have you got any views about the team, that I may of overlooked?

      Are you a Tottenham fan that secretly LOVES Arsenal?

      Anything you wish to discuss, let me know in the comments.

      Thanks for reading. COYG!!

    4. WHAT WILL BEE, WILL BEE…

      We’re back home at The Emirates Stadium, hosting The Bees… and The Arsenal are determined to be the only ones creating a buzz in this match.

      Brentford have been in fine form of late, and their striker Igor Thiago, just cannot stop scoring at the moment. We need to stay focused, and ensure we don’t get stung.

      It’s yet Another London Derby, so it’ll be a tricky game to navigate… and even though Brentford’s long throws, and physicality, have been the main talking points, leading up to this game… the excellent football that they play, shouldn’t be overlooked.

      They’re efficient on the counter-attack, and very seldom squander opportunities.

      Away from home, The Bees haven’t been able to make honey, but they’ve got themselves into some sticky situations on the road, nonetheless.

      We need to get back to winning ways, after not collecting all three points against Chelsea… and this Arsenal squad are more than capable, of putting together another winning run.

      The starting lineup surprised me, because YES, players needed rest, but I just thought Arteta wouldn’t rest anyone. He generally plays his favourite players into the ground, until the muscles in their legs are falling off the bone… like meat cooked tenderly.

      Arteta went with David Raya in goal, Benny Blanco (Ben White) at right-back, Mosquera, and Hencapie, continued to deputise centrally… for the injured Saliba, and Gabriel… and Calafiori took his rightful place, at left-back. He’s been undeniably superb, so far this season.

      In midfield… our skipper Martin Odegaard, returned to the starting lineup… and he was kept company by Zubimendi, and Declan Rice.

      Up top, Saka was given a rest… so Madueke started on the right, Merino through the middle, and Martinelli started on the left.

      We started the game with a point to prove, after only getting a point at Chelsea… and I’d like to point out again, that it was a good point… so no pointing fingers to the contrary. You get my point.

      We also drew with Brentford in this fixture last season, and the players seemed determined to swarm The Bees, get an early goal, and make them buzz off.

      We kept the ball in the early stages, like it was a secret entrusted to us, by a loved one, or a dear, dear, friend.

      The Arsenal looked sharp, and energetic… and the Arsenal faithful, mirrored the team, in the stands. Singing, cheering, and roaring, loudly. We were up for this.

      In the 11th minute, Benny Blanco (Ben White) picked up the ball on the edge of the Brentford box, and he laid the ball off to Noni Madueke, and kept running on the overlap. Madueke, with an ingenious bit of skill… returned the ball into Benny Blanco’s path… and first time, he whipped in a sumptuous cross, and the dependable, makeshift striker… Mikel Merino, headed the ball home. A brilliant move! 1-0 to The Arsenal!! We got the all important first goal, and looked like we’d get a hatful more.

      The Bees were under siege, and ironically… it was Arsenal who showed a hive mentality. We moved intelligently, and as a collective, all over the pitch.

      Madueke had a shot saved, after his twinkle toes created space in the box. It should’ve been

      2-0, but the shot was straight at the keeper.

      Brentford had a corner, and put a good ball into our box, that the Brentford striker, Kevin Schade, headed powerfully goalwards. With surreal reflexes… David Raya leapt into the air, with catlike agility, and stretched out a hand, that somehow tipped the ball onto the bar.

      It was a spectacular save, from David Raya. WOW!!

      Madueke had another nearly moment… when the ball was squared to him, but as he was about to tap the ball in from close range, the Brentford defender, Rico Henry… got a vital block in. It was superb defending (Unfortunately).

      We were in complete control of the game, and were creating chances at will… but the 1-0 scoreline, suggested otherwise.

      It’s impossible to relax, with such a slender lead.

      Mosquera went down in the 44th minute, with what appeared to be a quite innocuous injury.

      He had to go off, and was replaced by Jurrien Timber, who is no stranger to playing at centre-back, due to playing the position for his national team.

      Our luck must change, where injuries are concerned… because this is beyond ridiculous now.

      I don’t know what we did to make the football gods so angry, but I hope they forgive us soon… and stop putting our players out of commission.

      The first half finished 1-0 to The Arsenal, and I was a little disappointed, because we had a plethora of chances, to kill the game off… but failed to do so.

      In the second half, we dropped off, and I’m unsure why. Maybe it was fatigue, maybe we had one eye on the Villa game on Saturday… or, maybe…  it was fear of conceding a Brentford equaliser.

      We still had the lion share of the possession, but we were less efficient with the ball, and we looked a bit flat.

      Changes were made in the 61st minute. Eze came on for Martinelli, and Saka came on for Madueke.

      We still lacked fluency, but still managed to work their keeper.

      Shots from Declan Rice, and Calafiori , didn’t bear fruit… and the longer the game went on, the more slender our lead looked.

      Gyokeres was  introduced in the 83rd minute, but with him still trying to regain the form he showed, before his injury… he couldn’t make the impact he would’ve liked. (He will soon though)

      Just when I was accepting the famous, 1-0 to the Arsenal… up steps, Bukayo Ayoyinka Temidayo Saka… in the 91st minute. AKA… The Starboy.

      He took a great through ball from Merino, in his stride… got in behind the Brentford defence, and cut back onto his left, took the shot… and the keeper got a hand to it, but couldn’t keep it out.

      2-0 to The Arsenal… and there’s nothing to see here, except our Starboy, doing Starboy things.

      The match finished 2-0, and I’m happy with that… as we weren’t at our sparkling best, and really had to grind out the result, against a good Brentford team.

      We take that 3 points, and we’re on to the next. One game, at a time… an old cliché, but a true one.

      The Villains will be a tough test… but in the Premier League, all we face, are tough tests… and thus far, we’ve passed said tests, with flying colours.

      COYG!!

    5. IT ALL BLUE UP IN THEIR FACES

      Here we are, back to the Premier League stage, and the venue is Stamford Bridge… home of The Blues. Another London Derby to navigate.

      I’m sure that MANY will disagree, but I think it’s harder for London teams to win the league, because of all the derbies.

      Every season, Arsenal face Brentford, West Ham, Crystal Palace, Fulham, Chelsea…aaaaand, errr…I feel like I’m forgetting someone… ah yes…Tottenham. They’re extremely forgettable, so it’s easily done.

      The intensity in these games though, takes A LOT out of the players… Physically, and mentally… and each London team, has to do this SIX TIMES!!

      This isn’t a complaint, or an excuse, for any future slip-ups… I’m merely stating the facts, that underline my “It’s harder for London teams to win the league” statement.

      By the way, under Mikel Arteta… The Arsenal have only lost three of their forty derbies in the Premier League. A fantastic record!!

      Chelsea this season are somewhat of a puzzle. As soon as you think you’ve figured them out, they surprise you. They’re a young team, but have a lot of players in their squad, who have played at the very top level.

      I look at Chelsea, and see a team with great potential.. (I threw up in my mouth a little, after admitting that) … potential that I hope they don’t realise.

      The games I think Chelsea will win, they lose….and they games I think they’ll lose, they win. Hence why I called them a puzzle… I just cannot figure them out.

      This is 1st vs 3rd in the Premier League, and The Arsenal have to remind this young Chelsea team, that they’re up waaaaay past their bedtime, and it’s time for them to get tucked in.

      Chelsea come into this game on the back of a good win against Barcelona, and The Arsenal come into this game, on the back of mauling Bayern Munich.

      Both teams will be confident, and both teams will want to have the derby bragging rights. It’s all set up, for a bruising encounter.

      Our starting lineup was David Raya in goal, Calafiori at left-back…and it was a new look central defence, as Saliba took a knock in training, and couldn’t play.

      It was an untested centre-back pairing of, Piero Hincapie, and Cristhian Mosquera.

      Now, both players are excellent defenders… but both of them playing together for the first time, away to an IN FORM Chelsea, with no Gabriel, or Saliba, in sight… worried me. No, it scared the living daylights out of me. There… the truth set me free.

      Oh yes, and the incredible Jurrien Timber, of course… continued at right-back.

      The midfield was Rice, Zubimendi, and Eze… and we went with a front three of Martinelli on the left, Merino through the middle, and Saka on the right.

      Gabriel Jesus was on the bench. He hadn’t been in the matchday squad, since January.

      Really good to see him back!

      Chelsea started the game A LOT better than we did. They were first to the ball, they were more aggressive, and they looked sharper than us.

      There seemed to be a level of uncertainty in our play, and I believe it was down to us not having at least one of our main centre-backs.

      Rice, and Zubimendi, looked reluctant to carry the ball forward, or pass the ball forward quickly, as they didn’t entirely trust the defence behind them, so didn’t want to leave them unprotected.

      As they couldn’t do what they usually do in the midfield, it prevented us from building our attacks, as efficiently as we usually do.

      That reluctance, uncertainty, and a little nervousness… echoed throughout the team.

      Chelsea were clever in their approach, as they constantly committed little fouls, just to further disrupt our rhythm, and naturally… we fouled them back, and before we knew it, we got sucked into a game that we didn’t want to play.

      We played the type of game Chelsea wanted to play, and not our own game… which has taken us top of the table, in both the Premier League, and in the Champions League.

      Most of the battle took place in the midfield, so there was very little goalmouth action.

      Saka had a couple of shots saved early on, but they were comfortable saves for the keeper.

      It was a very tight game, with very little space, and time, on the ball.

      Chelsea also had a couple of shots, that were also comfortable for David Raya.

      The game wasn’t much of a spectacle, and was very much.. stop-start-stop-start. The referee loved, and adored his whistle, and tried his very best, to make the game about him.

      In the 38th minute, the referee got to blow his beloved whistle once again, and rightly so this time… after a disgusting tackle by Moises Caicedo, on Mikel Merino.

      Caicedo jumped into the tackle, and could’ve easily of broken Merino’s ankle. It was rash, reckless, and ridiculous.

      The referee matched Caicedo’s ridiculousness, by initially only showing him a yellow card.

      After VAR prompted the ref to review the incident on the monitor, he thankfully changed the yellow card, to a red one. Cheerio Caicedo.

      With Chelsea now down to ten men, I expected us to end the half 1-0 up, at the very least… but that’s not the way things went, AT ALL.

      The sending off seemed to galvanise Chelsea, and they started to defend better, and looked incredibly dangerous on the counter-attack.

      The first half finished 0-0, and was probably a fair reflection of a bitty, scrappy, bruising half.

      I’m sure Arteta would’ve demanded more from the players at half-time, because we didn’t play well, and Chelsea were the better team. (YUCK!)

      The second half started pretty much the way the first half ended… with Chelsea in the ascendency. (I’m sick to my stomach, having to compliment them so much)

      In the 48th minute, Chelsea earned a corner, that Reece James took. He put a good ball in, that was met by the head of Trevoh Chalobah, who unfortunately… headed the ball past David Raya.

      Chelsea were 1-0 up. (BOOOOOOOOOO!!!)

      The Arsenal, were undone… by a set-piece. The irony was suffocating.

      We reacted in the right way, and started to move the ball quicker. Passes became more accurate, and we looked more threatening. It’s like we suddenly remembered that we’re the best team in the league, have the best record in London Derbies, and haven’t lost to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, since 2018.

      For all our endeavours, we were still unable to break down the stubborn ten men of Chelsea. They defended doggedly, and with unwavering determination.

      In the 57th minute, Arteta made some changes.

      Martinelli made way for Madueke, and Zubimendi  was replaced by Odegaard.

      The substitutions gave us a different dimension, and helped us launch our attacks…and in the 59th minute… we had lift-off.

      Odegaard played the ball out to Saka on the right flank, and he was closely marked by the Chelsea right-back, Marc Cucurella.

      Saka turned him, twisted, turned again.. this way, and that way… did a faint… dropped the shoulder, and put a great ball into the box. Spare a thought for Cucurella… whose legs were in a knot, and who was sent for refreshments against his will… due to Saka’s mesmerizing skill.

      Saka’s cross was headed in masterfully, by Mikel Merino. GOOOOOOAAAAAAL!!!

      Arsenal equalised… and we deserved it too! We played much better in the second half.

      We pushed for the winner, but their keeper made some good saves.

      In the 72nd minute, Eze made way for Viktor Gyokeres… who looked visibly rusty, after just returning from injury.

      The rest of the league are in trouble, once Gyokeres, Odegaard, Martinell, Madueke, and Gabriel Jesus, all get back up to speed, and regain that match sharpness.

      We still have Kai Havertz to return too… and I cannot wait!

      We definitely missed Trossard in this game. His guile, and ability to make things happen, was perfect for this match.

      It finished 1-1, and at the final whistle, the Chelsea fans roared like they had won the game. I’m not sure if their fans understand how wins against Arsenal work… which is understandable, considering they’ve only beaten us once, in the last 12 times we’ve played them.

      Our 6 point gap over them remains intact, we’ve increased our lead over Manchester City to 5 points too.

      In a week that saw us obliterate Tottenham, and dismantle Bayern Munich… the magnitude of those games of course took a lot out of the players… and it showed in this game. They deserve massive credit, for the fact that they were able to leave Stamford Bridge with a point… without our main centre-backs, and without playing particularly well.

      We take that point, and we move on.

      Brentford at home next. Let’s hope we can sting The Bees… I’ll be buzzing if we can do that!

      COYG!!

    6. WHEN AN UNSTOPPABLE FORCE, MEETS AN IMMOVABLE OBJECT…

      I’ve been rewatching the Tottenham massacre, every day, since Sunday… and giggling gleefully. Just like that though… we’re already back, to Champions League business.

      We host Bayern Munich at The Emirates, and this could quite possibly be the toughest test we’ve faced this season.

      Bayern have played 18 games, and have won 17 of them. The game they didn’t win, was a 2-2 draw.

      They’re still unbeaten, and score goals in abundance. Like I said, the toughest test we’ve faced so far this season.

      We’ve had some HORRENDOUS results against Bayern in the past, so I would of course love us to give them a battering… Especially as ex-Tottenham player, Harry Kane… leads their front line.

      Both teams have a 100% record in the Champions League this season.

      Arsenal though, are slightly more impressive… because we’re yet to concede a goal.

      Like the title alludes to…  Bayern have been the unstoppable force this season, but The Arsenal… have been the immovable object.

      Something’s got to give, and we’ll need to give EVERYTHING, to commandeer all 3 points.

      Ok, on to the starting lineup…

      Raya in goal, Timber at right-back, Saliba, and Mosquera, central…and Lewis-Skelly, at left-back.

      I expected Lewis-Skelly to come in for Calafiori, because Calafiori was long overdue for a rest. He’s played A LOT of football this season. Lewis-Skelly is an excellent replacement though.

      The inclusion of Mosquera threw me, because I thought Hencapie would’ve kept his place, after his colossal performance, against Rottenham Notspur.

      I have absolutely no issues with Mosquera’s defensive capabilities by the way, I’m just surprised.

      In the midfield… Eze, Zubimendi, and Rice.

      Up front, Arteta went with Saka on the right, Merino through the middle, and Trossard on the left.

      Odegaard fit enough to make the bench, and that’s a massive boost to have our skipper back.

      We’re a better team, with Odegaard in it… and every time I reflect on how well we’ve done so far this season, I’m in awe. Most of our injuries, have been long term absentees.

      We’ve missed Gabriel Jesus for 45 games.

      Kai Havertz for 18 games.

      Noni Madueke for 12 games.

      Martin Odegaard for 8 games.

      Bukayo Saka for 6 games.

      Viktor Gyokeres for 4 games.

      Gabriel Martinelli for 3 games.

      William Saliba for 2 games.

      Gabriel Magalhaes for 2 games.

      There’s been injuries to KEY PLAYERS, throughout this season, and we’re STILL performing at the highest level… still dominating games… and haven’t allowed our passion, or intensity, to be affected.

      That’s truly amazing, and it isn’t talked about enough.

      Arteta, his backroom staff, and the players, deserve ALL the praise!

      The injuries, coupled with the fact that we’ve had to integrate new players into the squad, is something that would destabilize ANY team… but we’re not just ANY team… We’re The Arsenal.

      We’re looking through the scope, we have trophies in the crosshairs, and we’re ready to pull the trigger. Our rivals are nothing but wind velocity, for us to adjust to.

      Long may this incredible form continue.

      The match started rather cagey, with both teams just feeling each other out, and showing a mutual respect.

      Bayern were popping the ball about, and were having more of the possession. I’m not used to that, so to say I was sitting uncomfortably, is an understatement.

      It was a rainy night in North London, and the ball was zipping off the surface. It was the perfect conditions for slick passing… but also for mistimed tackles, and goalkeeping errors.

      The game was frenetic… with both teams trying to hurt the opponent, while remaining cautious of the imminent danger.

      We earned a corner in the 22nd minute, which Saka took.

      He put a menacing ball in… just in front of the keeper, but behind the defenders… and it activated their panic stations.

      Jurrien Timber rose highest, and glanced the ball home. A lovely header, from a player who more than deserved the goal… in terms of how magnificent, he’s played this season.

       AGAIN, he’s the best right-back …IN THE WORLD!!…Anyway, I digress.. It’s 1-0 to the Arsenal!!

      Eze put a shot wide, after some wonderful link-up play, with Mikel Merino. He was unlucky, but it should’ve been 2-0… and in the 32nd minute, we paid dearly, for that squandered chance.

      A ball was played very direct, into the left-back area, which was met with a first time cross, and unfortunately… the cross was despatched emphatically, by Lennart Karl, the 17 year old, that came through the Bayern academy. It was an excellent goal… which hurt my feelings even more.

      The scoreline 1-1… but heads didn’t drop, and focus, and belief… remained, unwavering. We already showed that Bayern can be got at, and the feeling was, that there’s more goals in this tie for us.

      Leandro Trossard was forced off in the 38th minute… the full extent of his injury is unknown, but he did seem to be holding his calf area. Hopefully it’s nothing long term, as he’s been one of our best players this season… consistently scoring big goals, in big games.

      Trossard was replaced by Noni Madueke, and he looked bright, and continued where he left off, before his injury. He took players on, dragged players out of position, and his decision making was excellent.

      Good to have him back.

      The first half ended honours even, and there was plenty for both managers to contemplate.

      We started the second half at break-neck speed, and seemed determined to regain the lead, with godlike swiftness.

      We pressed higher up the pitch, and reduced Bayern Munich’s time on the ball drastically. This forced more errors, created more set-piece opportunities and enabled us to dominate the second half. Every single set-piece we took, caused all sorts of problems for the Bayern defence… but they seemed to keep surviving, because of lucky blocks, or good saves.

      The 62nd minute, saw the gladiatorial, the irrepressible, the unplayable, Declan Rice… pick the ball up in the midfield… and run at the Bayern Munich defence. He got into the box, took a great shot, but unfortunately…it was saved by Manuel Neuer, the Bayern goalkeeper.

      A great run, and then a wonderful effort, from Rice.

      In the 68th minute, Calafiori came on for Lewis-Skelly.

      Lewis-Skelly struggled all night against Olise, and that’s ok…Because Olise is a superb winger, also experienced… and Lewis-Skelly is a young player, so inconsistencies in performances, will happen. He’ll learn from it, and come back stronger.

      Martinelli was introduced, for Saka…also in the 68th minute… and I was happy to see Saka get some rest (For once) …and also to see Martinelli back in action, in the Champions League.

      Saka put in another marvellous performance. He terrorised the Bayern defenders, created space for others, linked up play beautifully, and was super productive with his passes in the final third. Let’s not forget, he set up Timber’s goal…so that’s yet ANOTHER assist to his name.

      Calafiori was only on the pitch for 1 minute, and 20 seconds… before impacting the game.

      Rice latched onto a loose ball, and played it quickly to Eze on the left. He spotted Calafiori in acres of space… and slid the ball to him. Calafiori whipped the ball in first time…but this wasn’t any ordinary ball. The ball was bent around three Bayern defenders, and landed at Madueke’s feet, like it was paying homage to him. He tapped the ball in from close range… and put The Arsenal 2-1 up.

      Madueke got his first goal us, and did so, by being in the right place… at the right time…which couldn’t of happened, without his great run into the box.

      As for the pass from Calafiori… it was otherworldly!!! WOWZERS!!!

      With the game still not won, Arsenal reloaded the clip, and continued to fire upon Bayern. They tried their best to take cover, but The Arsenal refused a ceasefire… and in the 77th minute, Bayern were fatally wounded.

      Eze picked up the ball deep inside his own half, looked up… and saw Gabriel Martinelli running at about 74mph, leaving opposition players in his wake. Eze played a glorious ball over the top, which landed near the centre circle… and Martinelli touched the ball around the onrushing Manuel Neuer, who was in no man’s land… and then Martinelli, still sprinting…got to the edge of the Bayern box, and tapped the ball into an empty net. WHAT A STUPENDOUS GOAL!!

      3-1 to the Arsenal!! Martinelli now has 4 goals, in 5 Champions League games. An incredible return.

      Bayern had no answers, to Arsenal’s footballing questions… and with the game seemingly over, Arteta made some more changes in the 81st minute.

      Martin Odegaard came on for Eze, and Ben White came on for Timber.

      It was good to see Odegaard back in first team action, even if it was only for 10 minutes.

      I hope to see more of Ben White, as the season progresses, because Timber cannot play every single game. He’s an incredible athlete…but even incredible athletes, need a rest.

      Eze had a brilliant game, and besides being involved in 2 of our goals… he passed with astounding accuracy, and showed great composure on the ball, that inspired others around him.

      Zubaaah-Zubaaah (Zubimendi) is another player, who had an exceptional game… and he’s been exceptional, since pre-season. He’s a wonderful player, that has added an efficiency to our midfield, that opposition teams struggle to cope with. He moves the ball quickly, accurately, and always makes forward passes. This enables us to build our attacks much, much quicker.

      The match finished 3-1 to The Arsenal. We FINALLY got our revenge on Bayern Munich, after the years of pain that they’ve caused us.

      Make no mistake, this was a statement win. Bayern were well beaten, and they’re a team that many regard (Including me) as the best team in Europe, right now.

      For us to play the way we did, and to beat them the way we did, AFTER the physical, and emotional demands, of the North London Derby… is nothing short of spectacular. The reverberations of this win, will be felt all around Europe.

      Next up for The Arsenal… we face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. It’ll undoubtedly be a tough game, but I’m convinced that we’ll give The Blues…. the blues.

      COYG!!

    7. ROTTENHAM NOTSPUR

      Well, THAT particular international break, DIDN’T feel as long as it usually does.

      I’m still glad that it’s the last international break, for a while now. (At least 3 months.)

      No more rude interruptions, no more unnecessary risk of injury, to key players, in nothing games.

      Just pure, unadulterated… uncensored, incomparable, full-blooded, no holds barred, a million miles a minute, Premier League football.  YESSSS!!!

      What better game to bounce back in, than the North London Derby?!

      We host Tottenham at The Emirates Stadium, in the first North London Derby of the season.

      I hope our dusty, trophy starved neighbours, wiped their feet, before stepping into the arena, of their superiors.

      Arteta won’t need to get the players up for this one, as I’m sure they’ll be a laser focus, to take all 3 points.

      UNFORTUNATELY, Gabriel Magalhaes sustained an injury while playing for Brazil, during the international break.

      His presence in defence will be missed, and his attacking prowess from set-pieces, will be missed even more.

      It’s time for others to step up! This is why The Arsenal have assembled a squad with such depth.

      Arteta must reach into the armoury, check weapons, and ammo, and ensure we’re armed and dangerous, for this next run of fixtures.

      The returning players will give us a huge boost, but also give Mikel Arteta a team selection headache, that I’m sure he welcomes. There’s no paracetamol needed.

      Prior to kick-off the players would’ve been fully aware that both Liverpool, and Mancheatster.. Excuse me, I mean.. Man-CHESTER City, lost their respective games, and it was an opportunity to increase our lead at the top of the table.

      As if the game wasn’t big enough already, it was made to be GARGANTUAN!

      The team news is always something I look forward to, but this particular team-sheet… I waited for with bated breath. I needed to know which of our walking wounded, were fit enough to make the bench.

      Well, let me begin with the starting line-up.

      David Raya in goal, Timber at right-back, Saliba, and Hencapie, central. Hencapie handed his first Premier League start, and has a chance to nail down a regular place in the first 11, while Gabriel’s out injured.

      Calafiori continued at left-back… and was thankfully able to shake off the previous injury scare, while playing for Italy.

      In the midfield, it was Rice, and Zubimendi. Ahead of them, it was Saka on the right, Eze central, and Trossard on the left.

      Mikel Merino was again deployed up front, in the absence of Gabriel Jesus, Kai Havertz, and Viktor Gyokeres.

      Gabriel Martinelli, and Noni Madueke, now fit again… made the bench. It was so good to see the bench looking so strong. Both players have been in excellent form this season.

      We started the match positively, and made our intentions known in the opening minutes, with a shot from Declan Rice, that was saved by the Tottenham goalkeeper.

      Vicario still hasn’t fully recovered from the trauma he suffered, when Ben White undone his gloves, last season. (HAHAHA)

      He’s had a nervous disposition, ever since. He’s somewhat of a whimsical goalkeeper, and I’m so happy he plies his trade, at Tottenham. (HAHAHA!!)

      Tottenham started defensively, as expected. They talk a good game, but they’re scared of us… and it showed.

      We smelled their fear, and inhaled it deeply into our lungs, like we’d been starved of oxygen.

      Tottenham were unable to cope with our movement, and quick passing. They doubled-up on Saka, but that just allowed more space for other players.

      In the 36th minute, Trossard exploited that space, after a wonderfully timed run, that was only matched by a sumptuous, chipped pass, by Mikel Merino.

      Trossard controlled the ball expertly, and shot on the swivel. A slight deflection on the shot, took the ball past the hapless keeper. A beautiful goal!! 1-0 to the Arsenal, and an early reminder to Tottenham, that North London is ALWAYS red.

      Another reminder was forced down Tottenham throats, just 5 minutes later.

      In the 41st minute, Timber put the ball in the box… Rice played a lovely first time ball to Eze, who beat two Tottenham players, before drilling the ball home. A brilliant goal! 2-0 to the Arsenal!!

      Eberechi Eze scores in his first ever North London Derby… and the fact that Tottenham almost signed him, rubs salt into gaping wounds.

      Tottenham looked punch drunk, and couldn’t even muster a single shot on the Arsenal goal, in the entire first half. (HAHAHAHA!!)

      They were unsteady on their feet, stumbling towards defeat, vision blurred, breathing heavily, and not able to protect themselves, from a knockout blow.

      Arsenal went in at the interval, 2-0 up.

      It was less than a minute into the second half, when Timber squared the ball to Eze, on the edge of the box… and Eze struck the ball low, and hard, with his left foot. No chance for the keeper. A quite superb goal from Eze, and certainly… the aforementioned, knockout blow.

      3-0 to the Arsenal!! A brace for that man Eze! Did I mention that it’s his first ever North London Derby? …I know I did.

      When the third goal went in, I could hear the Tottenham hearts breaking. The melody made my eardrums smile… and the look of despair on the players’ faces, was a thing of beauty.

      We continued to dominate every aspect of the game, but in the 55th minute… against the run of play… Zubimendi was dispossessed in midfield, and the ball broke to Richarlison. He spotted David Raya off his line, and chipped him, from about 40 yards out. It was an excellent goal. One of the best consolation goals, I’ve ever seen. 3-1 now the scoreline. (YUCK)

      Tottenham’s goal took a little gloss off a sparkling performance from Arsenal… and in the 76th minute, we did something about it.

      Merino played a ball through to Trossard, and he squared the ball to Eze, again…on the edge of the Tottenham box. Eze calmly let the ball run across his body, and then stroked the ball home with his right foot. A fantastic goal!! 4-1 to the Arsenal… and Tottenham’s humiliation, was back at optimum levels. Balance had been restored to the universe.

      A hat-trick for Eberechi Eze, in his first EVER….North London Derby. In case you forgot.

      He’s the first Arsenal player to score a hat-trick, in the North London Derby, since Alan Sunderland did it, back in 1978.

      A scintillating performance from Eze, and I’m sure we have more performances like that to look forward to.

      The game finished 4-1, but it could’ve easily of been 6 or 7-1.

      Eze alone could’ve got 4 or 5, and Saka was close with a couple of good shots.

      Saka had an excellent game, considering he had 2-3 Tottenham players around him, at all times. He still managed to drive forward, and take players on, and consistently played dangerous passes.

      I have to also mention Piero Hincapie, because he put in an exceptional performance.

      He made tackles, won headers, had great composure on the ball, and didn’t allow the occasion to overwhelm him.

      Noni Madueke was introduced late on, for Trossard… and even later, in the 88th minute, Nwaneri came on for Merino… Mosquera for Hinacpie, and Lewis-Skelly came on for Calafiori.

      It was a superb Arsenal performance, and we now have the small matter of a home tie against Bayern Munich, in the Champions League…. but until then…let’s enjoy this Derby win.

      Let’s ensure we’re unrelenting, when bantering Tottenham fans. Bellow out those bragging rights, chant the scoreline, and inform them Eze got a hat-trick… in case they missed it.

      Show no mercy for Spursy.

      They’re FOREVER in our shadow. They get battered everywhere they go…. and they ARE in fact, Tottenham in disguise… even though they’re Tottenham.

      North London is…. RED.

    8. WALKING IN THE WINTER SUNDERLAND

      We now embark upon our final obstacle, before the international break. The last push… the “One more rep” when your arms are dead, and you feel like you’ll collapse from exhaustion. That thirty second sprint, after a long run… That’s where we are now.

      We HAVE TO dig deep, and take all three points… because Liverpool play Manchester City this weekend, and one of those teams, are dropping points. Personally, I hope BOTH teams lose.

      An away game up north, in the Winter… is the type of game where we USED TO become unstuck. We have no such problems now, and welcome the geographical location, the elements, and the fight.

      Arsenal cannot allow The Black Cats to be “Bad luck”… in fact, I’m confident that we’ll play so well, that they’ll be forced into a… paw performance. (HAHAHA!)

      I’ve mentioned many times that I loathe the international break… but this one, THIS ONE… I don’t mind, as it gives our injured players more time to recover. It’s truly amazing what we’ve done so far, with our injury ravaged squad.

      Just imagine the boost it’ll give to the squad, if Noni Madueke, Kai Havertz, and Gabriel Martinelli, all return from injury together.

      Obviously, I’d LOVE Martin Odegaard, Gabriel Jesus, and Viktor Gyokeres back too… but their injuries, are longer term.

      It’s written in the stars that Granit Xhaka, will have a superb performance against us. He’s played exceptionally well so far this season, and I can only see it continuing. (I hope I’m wrong)

      Xhaka was a great player for us… during the OK times, the GOOD times, AND… the BAD times.

      What’s most incredible however, is how he navigated his way through the, TOXIC TIMES.

      He LOVES Arsenal, and The Arsenal love him back… but once that whistle goes, he’s just another Sunderland player.

      We have a job to do, and we cannot allow sentiment, to trespass in our workplace.

      On to the team news…

      David Raya in goal, Calafiori  left-back, Gabriel, and Saliba, central… and Timber at right-back.

      Zubimendi returned in midfield, alongside Rice, and Eze.

      The front three was… Trossard on the left, the miracle working marksman, Merino… through the middle, and Saka on the right.

      Sunderland started the game incredibly well. They were first to every ball, and the second balls… they also won almost every duel. Their organisation was superb, and we struggled to disturb their disciplined defensive shape.

      We earned a free-kick in the 16th minute, on the left side of the pitch, perfect for a right-footer, and about the same sort of distance out, as Declan Rice’s free-kicks, against Real Madrid last season. So naturally, up stepped Declan Rice… but unfortunately, his shot was parried aside comfortably, by the keeper.

      Wilson Isidor dragged a shot wide, after some nice play… the Sunderland striker was surprised by the space he found himself in, and his shot quite possibly reflected that.

      Sunderland were the better team, and Arsenal were not doing the basics. There seemed to be an overcomplication on simple passes, and we were not pressing from the front.

      A clash of heads between Jurrien Timber, and Enzo Le Fee, caused a lengthy stoppage to the game, and promised a considerable amount of added time, onto the first half.

      Thankfully, both players were able to continue.

      After a foul deep in the Sunderland half, by Zubimendi (I don’t think it was a foul, by the way) but the resulting free-kick was taken by Robin Roefs, the Sunderland goalkeeper… who launched the ball toward the Arsenal box. Uncharacteristically, Arsenal allowed the ball to bounce, and what’s usually a “Food and Drink” clearance for our defence… looked more like famished flummoxing. The loose ball broke to ex-Arsenal, academy graduate… Daniel Ballard… and the centre-back blasted the ball home emphatically, giving David Raya absolutely no chance. It was shocking defending, but credit to Sunderland, for capitalising on it. 1-0 to Sunderland… and their lead, was well deserved.

      The Arsenal conceded a goal, for the first time in 8 games. That’s 881 minutes of football. Of course it had to end, and of course it’s an incredible record… but that doesn’t mean it didn’t hurt more than stubbing my little toe on the corner of some furniture, while simultaneously, stepping on Lego, barefoot. Oh, I’m in absolute… AGONY!

      The additional time at the end of the first half, didn’t help our cause… it just stood idly by, as Sunderland deservedly went in 1-0 up, at the interval.

      We needed a HUUUUUUGE response from the Arsenal players, as the first half simply wasn’t good enough.

      I’m sure Mikel Arteta told the players the same thing, because we started the second half at a much quicker pace, we were making more incisive passes, pressing from the front, and were much more competitive in our duels.

      We were rewarded in the 54th minute, when Declan Rice won the ball back in the Sunderland half, passed it to Eze, who passed it quickly to Merino… and Merino played a lovely little pass to Saka, on the right of the Sunderland box… and Saka kept his right-foot shot low, and slid the ball home… to the keepers near post. It was a deserved equaliser. 1-1 and with more than enough time on the clock, to get a winner. Our Starboy, just doing Starboy things.

      When Saka’s goal went in, the camera panned to the Arsenal bench, and Gabriel Heinze, was holding Arteta, like it was his prom date. (HAHAHA!) I get it though, because THAT’S how much it means… and I felt it was symbolic, because we needed to get a tight grip on this game.

      Trossard put Zubimendi through on goal, with a cheeky nutmegged pass, through the Sunderland defender’s legs, but Zubimendi put his effort wide, from close range. Should’ve been 2-1 up there.

      Eze had a shot saved that was straight at the keeper… so we were getting closer, and closer, to that elusive second goal, but it still started to feel like…”One of those days” and I couldn’t shake the feeling.

      Zubimendi rattled the crossbar from the edge of the box, with a thunderous volley, but again… Sunderland survived. Frustration began to bully me, and I couldn’t defend myself.

      In the 74th minute, Trossard… who’d had yet another excellent game, on the left… picked up the ball, and with Sunderland defenders marshalling him closely, Trossard twisted, and turned, created a smidgeon of space, looked up, and hit a powerful… ferocious shot, into the top right-hand corner. A phenomenal strike from Trossard. WHAT A GOAL!! A BEAUTIFUL GOAL!! A goal worthy of winning ANY match! 2-1 to The Arsenal!!

      We had taken the lead, but the 3 points still seemed reluctant, to take up residence in the Arsenal bag.

      The players sensed this too, as we started to defend A LOT deeper, which invited more pressure from Sunderland, and it was an invitation, they gladly accepted.

      Arteta withdrew Eze in the 88th minute, and brought on Mosquera, for more defensive reinforcements… which was a wise decision.

      David Raya kept Sunderland out, with a great double save. Incredible reflexes, and agility shown, from the Arsenal No.1.

      Sunderland continued to search for an equaliser, and in the 94th minute, their search party, found what they were looking for.

      They put the ball into the Arsenal box, Ballard won the flick-on, and under pressure from Gabriel… Brian Brobbey somehow managed to steer the ball home, acrobatically. A great finish from the Sunderland striker, on for Wilson Isidor.

      David Raya didn’t cover himself in glory, by rushing off his line. If he stays on his line, he would’ve kept out Brobbey’s goal quite easily.

      The 2-2 scoreline at the full-time whistle, wounded me fatally, like a dagger to the heart… but upon reflection, a draw was a fair result. Credit to Sunderland, as they didn’t deserve to lose the game, and we didn’t quite do enough, to win the game.

      Though we were unable to flick the dimmer switch, at the Stadium of Light… we still put another point on the board, and have stretched our unbeaten run in all competitions, to 14 games.

      We’re now 6 points clear at the top of the league, so it’s time for perspective, and NOT time for kneejerk reaction, and negative narratives.

      We move on, and will be ready to do battle again, after the international break… against Tottenham. The battleground… The Emirates. 3 points to take, bragging rights to shout, and a chance to remind our noisy neighbours, that they’re FOREVER in our shadow.

      COYG!!