Newcastle United 0 Arsenal 1 – Happy St. Totteringham’s!

Newcastle United 0 – Arsenal 1 (Koscielny 52)

Man of the Match - Laurent Koscielny (Arsenal)

Ah! The pain, the nerves, the relief, the nerves, the pain and then joy! It was another nerve-wracking and typical Arsenal performance on the last day of the season.

Arsene Wenger named an unchanged squad from the one that beat Wigan 4-1 just 5 days earlier. Mikel Arteta managed to pass a late fitness test, after fears that he could miss this due to a calf strain. Lukas Podolski was the lone man up front, while Kieran Gibbs was again preferred to Nacho Monreal at left-back, despite the Spaniard featuring heavily in most away league games since his arrival from Malaga in January.

Newcastle named Steven Taylor alongside Fabricio Collocini in defence, while Steven Harper captained the Magpies on his last appearance for the club, whom he has served since 1993.

Newcastle certainly looked geared up for the ocassion, having lost their last two home games heavily, 3-0 to North East rivals Sunderland and a 6-0 thrashing meted out by Liverpool.

The first chance came when former Montpellier captain Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa, who has already played against the Gunners earlier this season, in the Champions League, for the French champions, skipped easily past a stationary Per Mertesacker for a low cross towards Papis Demba Cisse, whose first time effort went just over the bar.

Arsenal’s first real chance came when Laurent Koscielny’s header went just wide, and the dogged Frenchman made a vital interception just moments later, when it seemingly looked like Cisse would have a tap-in off a Yoan Goufrran cross.

Newcastle were making life hard for the Gunners, playing a good pressing game, as Arsenal failed to get into their rhythm. Hatem Ben Arfa was a constant thorn for the defenders, especially Kieran Gibbs as he made numerous runs into Arsenal’s defensive third. Fabricio Collicini then almost scored an own goal off a Theo Walcott free kick.

Mikel Arteta was forced to hobble off the pitch, having strained his, er, calf strain. He was surprisingly replaced by Alex Oxlade Chamberlain. Arsenal were making few inroads into Newcastle’s defence, and when they did they failed to take their chances, Cazorla blazing over a Gibbs cross.

The crowd rose to applause Steve Harper in the 37^th minute, a tribute to their goalkeeper, who wears the ‘37’ jersey.  Even as Harper broke down in tears, Tomas Rosicky sent Lukas Podolski clear off the Toon defence, but he was pulled back for offside, though it was a tight call for the linesman. Hatem Ben Arfa then fashioned a chance, beating several Arsenal defenders, but his shot went just over the post.

Howard Webb and his cronies had a kit change at half-time, as Arsenal needed to get an early goal in the second half to calm nerves, and they set about the task in earnest, Walcott forcing a Harper save. However, the Gunners didn’t have to wait too long for the important goal.

In the 52^nd minute Bacary Sagna won a free kick. Walcott took it, and it rebounded off the head of Per Mertesacker, right into the path of Laurent Koscielny, who was closely marked by Argentine Collocini. Koscielny kung-fued the ball off Harper’s cheeks to give the Gunners the all important lead.

Arsenal were then pressed back for majority of the remainder of the game, with Newcastle looking for the equalizer. Aaron Ramsey, playing deeper than usual, was brilliant, helping out the defence sort out several attacks.

It was nerve wracking stuff as Newcastle tried their utmost to score. Gutierrez had a run at the Arsenal defence, and was bought down by someone. Luckily, no one got a card. Ben Arfa was continuing to be a pain with his pace and movement, as Arsenal looked to hold on the dear old lead.

Gibbs was yellow carded for having a go at the linesman. It was getting more intense as Yoan Gourcouff in a brilliant position to score was entangled between Mertesacker and Koscielny. He was soon replaced by Sylvain Marveaux, who scored when the sides met the last time, at the Emirates in December.

He had a go as well, near the edge of the box. Arsenal were huffing and puffing, but it really didn’t matter, as long as the job was being done. Lukas Podolski was replaced by Olivier Giroud, as Arsenal tried to pile on the numbers. Santi Cazorla was replaced by Jack Wilshere with minutes remaining.

Newcastle managed to win a couple of corners towards the end but all were cleared. Even as Arsenal tried to break on counters they failed to do so.  News poured in off Sp*rs having taken a 1-0 lead against Sunderland at White Hart Lane through Gareth Bale in the 88^th minute.

And just then, Walcott ran clear of Collocini, and another bloke, before his shot struck the post and out. It was still 1-0, and would Arsenal live to rue that miss. Extra time seemed to go on for ages, as Harper came out to the midway line to pump in a free kick. The Gunners managed to clear all danger, and held on for the 1-0 win. Utmost relief!

It was tumultous, nerve wracking and at times, unbearable to watch. 1-0 to the Arsenal!

For the second season running, Arsenal pipped Sp*rs to Champions League qualification, with Koscielny scoring the decisive goal in the final game of either season. For a team written off so quickly, having sold their star players, with new recruits unproven on the English scene, knocked out by lower league opposition in both cup competitions, a 4^th place finish is something to hold on to for the moment. Champions League football for the 16^th consecutive season baby!

Sp*rs fans, the deluded lot they are, started premature celebrations, having gotten rumours of a Newcastle equalizer. They will be making lots of DVD’s of that I suppose. Having been subjected to the nonsensical whims of Andre Villas Boas, Gareth Bale, and Emmanuel Adebayor, of their baseless notion that Sp*rs are superior than Arsenal, it should come as some sort of retributon that they are still way behind in the North London supremacy race, having failed to finish above the Gunners a single time in the 17 seasons that Arsene Wenger has been at the helm.

True, 4^th place is no trophy, and it is about time that the clubs begins to look forward to next season. Arsene Wenger expressed his delight at having a squad, where no one is looking to leave, and one with no disgruntled star players looking for a move to fulfill their personal medal ambitions.

Last season, Arsenal finished 3^rd with 70 points, and this time round finished 4^th with 73 points. Strange as it may seem, there have been some improvements. Having conceded 49 goals last season, the goals against section was reduced to 37, the second best defence in the league, behind Manchester City, who conceded just 34.

With the new financial backing of the Emirates deal, and a huge number of sponsorship deals being tied up, and the board and manager claiming that the club’s finances haven’t been healthier, it is about time some cash is splashed on some quality players who will enrich the squad. On the other hand ,there needs to be some internal cleaning within the squad.

Andrei Arshavin, Sebastien Squillaci, Niklas Bendtner, Denilson, Abou Diaby, Marrouane Chamakh, Johan Djourou are just some of the names that need some sorting out to do.

I am optimistic about Arsenal’s chances next season in the league, considering Manchester City, Chelsea and Manchester United will be under completely new management’s next season and there will be an adjustment period, of which the Gunners need to take full advantage of. For that to happen, the groundwork needs to start soon enough, and be completed well in time for August.

Former Steve McMahon was slagging off the Arsenal players for celebrating like they had won the league after the narrow win over Newcastle, saying stuff like 4^th place is not a trophy. Well, bollocks to you, kind Sir. About time we pick up from here and restore some pride to the Arsenal!

For now, Happy St. Totteringham’s!

Stay tuned for season review’s , player reviews and moments of the season, coming up soon on this blog!

Jai Arsenal!

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Newcastle Preview + Lineups – Crucial, Crucial Game!

The first question that popped into my head when I woke up this morning was “Will I get to celebrate St. Totteringham’s Day today?”. For the second season in a row, it has come down to the final round of fixtures to decide who finishes above whom in the North London battle for supremacy.

But apart from the bragging rights available in town, the bigger prize is that of qualification to the Champions League, something that not only promises financial rewards, but also helps attract players and keep the best existing players in the squad, er, yeah it really does!

This season has been hard. Starting off with the sale of the Dutch traitor to Manchester United to the incredible 7-5 win at Reading, getting knocked out of the League Cup against Bradford, before being humbled at home by Championship strugglers Blackburn Rovers, topsy turvy league form, a heroic performance in Munich and some rallying victories towards the fag end of the season. Another typical Arsenal season of trials, hits, misses, frustrations and tribulations.

Arsenal’s league form, in mid March, however, has slightly improved and the side now finds itself unbeaten in 9 league games, in which they garnered 2 home draws against Everton and Manchester United, apart from 7 wins.

To be honest, the 7 wins were close ones, including the 2-1 win at West Brom, the 3-1 revival against Norwich, 1-0 scrapes against Fulham and QPR, while the 4-1 beatings of Reading and Wigan added some gloss. Most games have been close, and nerve wracking right till the end.

This is something that definitely needs fixing over the summer. Arsenal managed to outpass their opponents for good part of the first half in most of the games I just mentioned, and even found themselves a goal ahead, but either failed to capitalize on the good starts or didn’t build on the one goal leads they took and found themselves in sticky situations, with last minute clearances, nerve wracking tackles and the sort.

Anyways, it was this series of results that have put Arsenal in pole position to finish in the top 4, at 70 points, with Tottenham on 69, and a chance to pip Chelsea, who face Everton at home, who are on 72 points.

There is still a possibility that this could not end up being the final competitive game of the season, with the Premier League proposing a play-off between Chelsea and Arsenal at Villa Park on 26th May 2013. Of course this game would be required only if the scenario of both sides ending up with the same points, goal difference, goals scored and goals conceded arises.

Chelsea have scored 73 goals and conceded 38, while the Gunners have scored 71 and conceded 37. Goal difference stands at +35 and +34 respectively, and I really wouldn’t mind having the play-off, as an extension to the season. Atleast the summer would feel a bit shorter. Being an Arsenal fan, I would however take a 4th place finish today gleefully, but Arsene Wenger really does fancy a play-off match.

If last season’s final day is anything to go by, it promises to be nail biting for sure. Arsenal traveled to West Brom with 67 points on the board, while Sp*rs hosted Fulham. Arsenal knew a win would ensure 3rd place, and took the lead in as early as the 2nd minute through Israel captain Yossi Benayoun thanks to comical goalkeeping from Martin Fulop.

But, within minutes, Arsenal were down 2-1 down thanks to some calamitous defending, which had become the norm last season. However, a certain Andre Santos made it 2-2, more thanks to Sir Martin Fulop. He came to Arsenal’s rescue again, and for a moment looked like he was possessed by the ghosts of Almunia and Fabianksi, when he came forward, flapped at the ball, allowing Laurent Koscielny to score the winner in the 54th minute.

While Sp*rs ensured a comfortable 2-0 win, Arsenal had to deal with bit nails and shivering hands, as Kieran Gibbs made a season changing 89th minute tackle, which prompted an impromptu hug between Arsene Wenger and Pat Rice. Aaaw! And, so we celebrated St. Totteringham’s day by throwing Pat Rice into the warm Birmingham sunlight, as the Dutch cunt applauded the travelling Arsenal support.

It was almost done and dusted, the race for Champions League spots last season, with Sp*rs enjoying a 10 point lead when they visited the Emirates in late February. However, a 5-2 mauling revived a faltering Arsenal and demoralized the chokers to such an extent that they barely recovered.

Right, enough of the history lesson, and let’s have a look at today’s opponents. Newcastle have had a mixed season. After the high of finishing 5th, when they took the league by storm, they find themselves in 13th position, and recently escaped relegation fears.

Manager Alan Pardew, who was the Manager of the Year, has found it hard to keep the same flow of results as last season. In the process he has lost his star striker Demba Ba to Chelsea, while also having to deal with unhappy Argentine captain Fabricio Collocini.

On the positive side, he has managed to attract half the France international side to the North East in the January transfer window. No, really. Right back Mathieu Debuchy joined from Lille for £5.5 million, centre back Mapou Yanga-Mbiwa, last seasons title winning captain from Montpellier for £6.7million, left back Massadio Haidara from Nancy for £2 million, winger Yoan Goufrran from Bordeaux for £1.4 million and bustling midfielder Moussa Sissoko from Toulouse for £2.1 million, to add to an already existing French contingent of Gabriel Obertan, Hatem Ben Arfa, Yohan Cabaye, Romain Amalfitano and Sylvain Marveaux.

It has been a transitional season for the Magpies, and they face a massive summer as they prepare for next season. When the sides met back in December, it was a 7-3 thriller, with the second half proving to be one of the best attacking halves of Premier League football this season.

Walcott provided Arsenal the lead in the 20th minute, after being put through, before Demba Ba levelled matters in the 43rd minute. Alex Oxlade Chamberlain made it 2-1 after the break, before Marveaux’s tap in made it 2-2. Lukas Podolski gave Arsenal the lead in the 64th minute, but Demba Ba pegged the Gunners back within minutes.

Arsenal ran riot after that, with the introduction of Olivier Giroud, who scored a brace, and Walcott completing his hat-trick to make it 7-3 within the space of 20 minutes, and it could have been more had Giroud not struck the post.

Right, team news then. Mikel Arteta is a major doubt for the game with a calf strain, and Jack Wilshere is the favorite to start in his place. With the manager clearly having lost faith in Francis Coquelin, it will be interesting to watch if he plays Wilshere or captain Thomas Vermaelen, in a position where has almost never played before in. Wilshere faces a surgery very soon, and the captain has found himself out of favor in recent times.

Apart from that, Olivier Giroud is back in the squad after serving his suspension, and there will also be the left-back decision to make. Nacho Monreal has proved to be a very competitive and combative player, while Gibbs has maintained consistency recently.

For Newcastle, Tim Krul is injured while Rob Elliot is suspended after last week’s red card, which he received for handling the ball outside the area, against QPR. This means Steve Harper will be handed a start. The stage is set for him to follow in the footsteps of the legendary Martin Fulop. Harper, who has been at the club since 1993, will be playing for the last time in Newcastle colors.

Midfielder Cheikh Tiote (hamstring) was forced off early in the win over QPR last time out, but is expected to be fit to start. However, fellow enforcer Moussa Sissoko, striker Shola Ameobi and defender Ryan Taylor (all knee) are out. Davide Santon (hamstring) is back in training and could come back into contention, whilst Steven Taylor (illness) and Massadio Haidara (hamstring) could also return to the first-team squad.

Here is how I expect the teams to line up.

Newcastle look like a balanced side, but they are more imbalanced than it seems. Ridden with poor positioning and an error strewn defence, Arsenal will have to capitalize on these deficiencies that Newcastle possess.

Newcastle’s strength is their unpredictable style of play, with spontaneous players like Hatem Ben Arfa, Papis Cisse, Cheik Tiote and Yohan Cabaye. Again, a quick start and a second goal before half time should help calm down nerves and ensure a relaxed second half, against a side that have little impetus to garner a result.

I prefer Lukas Podolski instead of Olivier Giroud up front. In the Champions League game against Montpellier, Giroud was well marshaled by Yanga-Mbiwa, and Mathieu Debuchy, his international teammate, er, knows the inside out of Giroud’s play. I am of course referring to the French kiss between Giroud and Debuchy, in an international game between France and Germany.

The other reason being, Podolski looks like he can lead the line, with his midweek brace against Wigan. Giroud would be a good option to get off the bench, if Arsenal can utilize his mobility and physicality to good effect.

One must remember that couple of seasons back Arsenal gave up a 4-0 lead, to draw 4-4 and drew again last season, on the first day of the campaign. It could be a fight to the finish for 4th spot!

Enjoy the game wherever you are!

Jai Arsenal

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Arsenal 4 Wigan 1 – Inches Away Now!

Arsenal 4 (Podolski 11, Walcott 63, Podolski 68, Ramsey 71) – Wigan 1 (Maloney 45)

Man of the Match - Santi Cazorla (Arsenal)

So, things are a lot clearer and brighter this morning, as Arsenal trounced an exhausted Wigan side 4-1 to emerge as favorites to finish in the top 4 along with Chelsea, and consigned the Lancashire side, who had won the FA Cup less than 3 days earlier to life in the Championship next season.

There were no surprises in either lineup with Arsene Wenger opting for only one change to the side that won at QPR, Kieran Gibbs replacing Nacho Monreal at left back. Wigan manager Roberto Martinez named the same lineup that started against Manchester City in the FA Cup final at Wembley.

The game, billed as a must win game for both sides, for completely different reasons started in Arsenal’s favor. Wigan, looking to plot the great escape again were immediately on the back foot, as the Gunners started in earnest in their bid to pip Sp*rs to 4th spot again.

Cazorla had the first shot on goal, as a Walcott cross bounced right in front of him, and the diminutive Spaniard’s header glanced narrowly wide. Arsenal didn’t have to wait long for the opening goal. A Santi Cazorla corner was headed in by Lukas Podolski as Per Mertesacker created enough of a diversion for his fellow German to escape the attention of his marker James McCarthy and guide ball home delicately.

Kieran Gibbs almost made it 2-0 when a Bacary Sagna cross across goal whizzed past him. Wigan were defending astutely, only allowing the Gunners to take shots from distance. Mikel Arteta and Theo Walcott both had their shots blocked by the defence.

Wigan, however slowly settled into the game, and got a passing rhythm going. Their first opportunity of the game came when a long ball played over the top nearly reached the bustling Arouna Kone, but only for an acrobatic challenge from Laurent Koscielny to clear the danger.

Wigan now were enjoying some good possession, albeit with little penetration. Arsenal had a rare great chance to make it 2-0 when Koscielny failed to score from less than 3 yards out. And Walcott rightly had a goal disallowed for offside, having been played in by Cazorla.

Like in previous games against Fulham, Manchester United and QPR, Arsenal failed to build on impressive starts and closing out the game, and Wigan sensed their chance was coming. Mikel Arteta and Shaun Maloney went for the same ball, with the Scot making the most of a touch from the Spaniard.

Off the resulting free-kick, Maloney whipped in an accurate free-kick, that snickered the fingertips of Szczesny but the Pole wasn’t able to stop the ball from ending up in the back of the net. Scores were level at half-time, and it was Arsenal’s carelessness and profligacy more than anything that offered Wigan hope of survival.

Wigan came out in the second half bristling with confidence, and almost took a 2-1 lead. Some brisk in interpassing played in for Kone on a one-on-one with Szczesny, who made himself big and averted any danger.

James McCarthy then provided more cause for concern for the Gunners’ defence when he had the ball in the back of the net, but it was ruled out for offside. Arsenal, however slowly created some chances of their own.

First, Cazorla had both his close range efforts stopped by Joel Roubles, deputizing for Oman international Ali Al-Habsi, before a Rosicky shot went just wide of the post. Lukas Podolski’s header was on target but easy to catch for Roubles. Theo Walcott surged clear of Wigan’s defence, but with either the goalkeeper to shoot at and Podolski to tee up, he decided to shoot, and Roubles managed to clear the danger.

The Gunners took the lead on 63 minutes, when Cazorla’s inch-perfect cross from the right fell right at the feet of Walcott who poked the ball past Roubles, who clumsily challenged for the ball with his feet. And Wigan were doomed when just 5 minutes later, a Szczesny goalkick was in turn headed up by Podolski and Cazorla to eventually set up the former who toe poked the ball into the net. 3-1 to the Gunners.

Wigan’s relegation was sealed 3 minutes later, as Aaron Ramsey latched on to a through ball, again from the magical Cazorla to create space for himself and shoot into the roof of the net.

Wigan tried, through Argentine international striker Franco di Santo, to rally with a couple of shots, but it was a case of too little, too late and too much for them as Arsenal held on to the 4-1 scoreline and send Wigan packing downwards.

Plenty of positives then. Let me start off with the attack. Though they looked toothless in the first half, a second half blitz ensured the 3 points, and you have to wonder what it will take for them to be more consistent with their scoring. Walcott now has 21 goals, to add to his 17 assists, which means he has contributed to a total of 38 goals this season. Podolski brace takes him to 16 goals and 11 assists for the season, while Cazorla’s quadruple assists takes him to 12 goals, and 15 assists for the seasons, a total of 27 goals each to which both have contributed. The suspended Olivier Giroud is not lagging too far behind, having scored 17 himself, and further assisted 12 goals.

Aaron Ramsey and Tomas Rosicky were superb yesterday, and the Welshman capped of an impressive month, with a fine goal. Mikel Arteta looked a bit weary and is a doubt for the important clash against Newcastle on Sunday. Thomas Vermaelen is being tipped to start in his place in central midfield.

The manager seems to have found the right combination at the back, with Koscielny and Mertesacker proving to be a more than reliable centre back pairing, and it will be interesting to watch how the Vermaelen situation will be dealt with.

So, 3 points and 4th spot. A win on Sunday will ensure qualification for the Champions League. As for poor Wigan, they become the first club to win the FA Cup and be relegated the same season. Testing times ahead for the club and it’s fans!

Jai Arsenal

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Wigan Preview + Lineups, Ferguson, Latic’s exploits and UCL Qualification

It’s been a long and hard 10 days without having to watch Arsenal strut their stuff on a football field. But, apart from that the past few days have been anything but boring.

First there was the announcement of retirement from management by Sir Alex Ferguson from Manchester United, before the resulting appointment of David Moyes from Everton to take on the soon-to-be-vacant position at Old Trafford.

Barcelona, Paris Saint Germain and Bayern Munich completed their title wins in their respective leagues and Wigan managed to snatch the FA Cup from Manchester City in a hotly contested final at Wembley to win their first piece of silverware in 87 years. Big spending Manchester City then sacked Roberto Mancini.

And in some of the big derby games around the world, Benfica were stunned by a late Porto winner, while Turkish champions Galatasaray slumped to a 2-1 defeat to bitter Istanbul rivals Fenerbahce. And finally, the Serie A clash between AC Milan and AS Roma was marred by a section of Roma fans racially abusing Milan’s players. Some thoughts on the same, then.

Let’s start off with Alex Ferguson. I would be dishonest if I said I did not admire the achievements of the Scot at Manchester United. He took the club from being a drink house to the world’s most popular football team, and the most succesful English club in the space of 26 years, while instilling in the club a kind of winning mentality that not only intimidated opposition sides, but far too often referees as well.

13 Premier League titles, 2 Champions League titles, 5 FA Cups, 4 League Cups and a Club World Cup decorated his time at the club. He managed to buy some of the best footballers to have graced the Premiership, from Eric Cantona to Jaap Stam to, er..Juan Sebastien Veron to Cristiano Ronaldo.

There is no doubting that he retired at the very top, having safely toppled Liverpool off their perch by claiming United’s 20th crown, 2 more than Liverpool’s 18, a number which has been untroubled for over 2 decades now. He is by far the greatest manager in the league.

Well, as Arsenal fans, one can only fondly look back at the start of the millennium where Ferguson’s globetrotters pitted with Arsene Wenger’s greatest footballing sides for Premier League domination.

There were so many fantastic tussles, Arsenal winning 3-2 in the 1997/1998 season at home, before winning 1-0 at Old Trafford thanks to Marc Overmars to eventually win their first title in 7 years. Then came a blinder of a goal from Ryan Giggs, on the way to a historic treble. There was the wonderful goal from Thierry Henry, numerous Barthez errors, the ‘Battle of Old Trafford’, which culminated in Martin Keown bitch slapping Ruud van Nistelrooy, the end of Arsenal’s unbeaten run, the FA Cup final win where the Gunners failed to turn up. Not to forget Roy Keane and Patrick Vieira having a go at each other at every possible ocassion.

And then it all ended abruptly. Manchester United regained lost ground while Arsenal went into a long rebuilding process and victories over their foes became sporadic. Arsenal did the double in 2006/2007, before the Red Devils knocked out the Gunners in the FA Cup and won 2-1 at Old Trafford to claim the league title as well.

A Champions League exit would also follow, as Manchester United kept piling their trophy cabinet with silverware. Probably the greatest humiliation would come when Arsenal were pounded 8-2 at Old Trafford. Even though the club and its fans eventually recovered, they were destined to lose their prize asset, striker Robin van Persie to Manchester United, to further vent the fury of the Arsenal faithful.

While a part of me will miss the big Wenger – Ferguson tussles, which have gone cold in recent years, I also heave a sigh of relief to the see the red-nosed man finally leave his position as manager of our foes. It will be interesting to watch how the Red Devils will deal with change.

On the other hand, I have despised the same man for his ways. His abusive behavior at times towards the press, his ranting at the officials when something didn’t go his sides way, his furious pointing at the watch, to extend extra time, his constant demeaning of opposition managers, his disregard for the FA in general (I have a hunch he was their secret agent or something!), his moaning at decisions at the end of games he lost, and oh, his hypocrisy.

Has there ever been a bigger hypocrite? Anyone with more double standards than him. He speaks highly of discipline on and off the pitch, while his players go kung-fu-ing rival fans, missing drug tests, intimidating referees, cheating and diving their way into winning penalties, defending his own players when it came to them committing any offence and in general his vile and abusive nature. Well, good riddance and thanks.

Now, to on to the next thing on the agenda. And it is Wigan. The small club from Lancashire which has just about managed to survive it out with the big boys in England for 8 years now, are rightfully the FA Cup winners.

Dubbed instantly as the underdogs, they went into the FA Cup final against last year’s Premier League champions and big spending mega rich Manchester City, with some grit between their teeth and rightfully claimed the victory as their own.

The Latics compensated for their lack of natural footballing talent with a workmanlike performance to wear out a City side, sprinkled with household footballing names. The likes of Shaun Maloney, Jordi Gomez, Callum McManaman, Paul Scharner, Arouna Kone, James McCarthy among others put in a brave performance to eventually win it through a late Ben Watson header. Goes to show that money alone in football doesn’t win you trophies.

City have had a long hard season, and their fall from FA Cup and Premier League triumphs in the space of 2 seasons, amidst heavy splurging of cash to a trophyless season, branded as a failure has been well chronicled. It all would end up with the City board deciding to sack manager Roberto Mancini for having failed to win anything at all; this morning, with Malaga’s Manuel Pellegrini the forerunner to succeed at the Etihad. Goes to show how fickle the world of football management is at some clubs.

Wigan come today to the Emirates in good spirits, a FA Cup win under their belt, and a massive relegation dogfight ahead of them. A loss today would signal the end of the Latic’s 8 year stay in the premier division, as they join the list of clubs that have the dubious distinction of winning a cup and getting relegated the same season.

Arsenal have their own agenda, of winning in order to propel their chances of finishing in the top 4 in the Premier League to secure Champions League qualification for next season. It could all come down to nerves and the question of who wants it more.

Wigan will come into the game a bit leggy and weary having played 3 times in the space of a week, this being their 4th game in 10 days. This included some naturally tiring encounters, a 3-2 win at West Brom, a 3-2 home loss to Swansea and the 1-0 win over Manchester City at Wembley; while Arsenal come into the game after a good 10 day break, their last game being a close 1-0 win over already relegated QPR – Quality Professionals Relegated.

The Premier League table proves to be a very interesting read. Chelsea and Tottenham have both played 37 games with 72 and 69 points respectively, while Arsenal now have played 36 games with 67 points on the board. Chelsea have a superior goal difference of +35, while Arsenal have +31, with Sp*rs lagging behind at +19.

Should Arsenal only manage a draw or even end up losing today, they would have to hope Sunderland do them a favor on the last day of the season, as they travel to White Hart Lane. And should that happen, Arsenal themselves will have to secure a win at Newcastle United, who are almost safe at this stage.

3rd place looks a bit beyond Arsenal’s reach and the only way to get there is to win both their remaining games, and hope Everton spoil Chelsea’s last day of the season. The Blues face Benfica in the Europa League final tomorrow evening. This should clear allpossible permutations and combinations.

Right, team news then. Kieran Gibbs and Lukasz Fabianski are both fit. I expect Kieran Gibbs to be picked ahead of Nacho Monreal, with Wojciech Szczesny continuing in goal. Jack Wilshere will have a ‘minor’ surgery at the end of the season, and the manager would want to play it safe by keeping the Englishman out of the squad.

So, the midfield should be the quartet of Mikel Arteta, Tomas Rosicky; Arsenal player of the month Aaron Ramsey and Santi Cazorla. Olivier Giroud serves the last game of his 3 match suspension, which means Lukas Podolski and Theo Walcott should start up front. The manager revealed recently about his decision to sub the German early in most games this season.

For Wigan, Jean Beausejour may return after missing the match at Wembley, but Maynor Figueroa, Ivan Ramis and Ronnie Stam remain on the sidelines.

This is how I expect the teams to lineup.

Wigan employ an unconventional 3-5-2 formation. Emmerson Boyce, a right-back partners Antonin Alcaraz and boyhood Arsenal fan and Austria international Paul Scharner in defence. You would do well to remember that Scharner scored against Arsenal on his Wigan debut during his first stint with the club in the League Cup semi-final way back in 2006.

Wigan will look to make it as tight as possible and use the same tactics as they did against City, shoring up midfield and defence and using their two full backs Giovanny Espinoza and James McCarthur to full effect. The cup final winner Ben Watson is expected to start in midfield, in place of Jordi Gomez, to support the hard working duo of James McCarthy and Callum McManaman.

Arsenal will have to release the hand breaks and have a go at Wigan right from the word go. In the past couple of games, Theo Walcott has managed to put the Gunners ahead with just seconds gone on the clock and Arsenal will require another such start and apply pressure on the Latics.

It could get interesting after an hour or so, when Wigan’s exertions of the past week come into play and they tire out. An Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain or a Gervinho introduced at this stage should be able to produce some fizz and pace for Arsenal, as they look for a win in a must-win game for both sides.

Last season, at almost the same stage, Arsenal lost 2-1 at home to a Victor Moses inspired Wigan who scored two quickfire goals through Franco di Santo and Jordi Gomez. A Thomas Vermaelen header reduced the deficit but an insipid and lackluster Arsenal failed to score again.

Such a result would be disastrous for the club, while a loss for Wigan would mean definite relegation. All ingredients set for an exciting encounter!

Enjoy the game wherever you are!

Jai Arsenal

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Queen’s Park Rangers 0 Arsenal 1 – Boring, But Who Cares!

Queen’s Park Rangers 0 – Arsenal 1 (Walcott 1)

Man of the Match - Laurent Koscielny (Arsenal)

Tetchy. Tiring. Boring. And yes painful to watch. Extremely painful to watch. There is something about the lower placed teams that they come up with the goods when it comes to facing Arsenal.

They always manage to provide an intense, physical battle, making it hard for Arsenal to play their natural, free-roaming, running through the channels game. Already relegated QPR made it an extremely hard game for Arsenal to endure, on a bright late Saturday evening kick-off at Loftus Road.

Nacho Monreal returned to the starting lineup in place of Kieran Gibbs, in keeping with Arsene Wenger’s policy of playing the Spaniard in away games and the Englishman in home games. Lukas Podolski started up front again, and there was no place yet again for Jack Wilshere, with the manager keeping faith in the quartet of Arteta, Ramsey, Rosicky and Cazorla.

Queen’s Park Rangers had a host of Tottenham connections, with Jermaine Jenas, Andros Townsend and Bobby Zamora, who has a knack of scoring against Arsenal, all starting. Oh, and there was Mr. Harry Twitchy Redknapp as well.

Arsenal started off just like they had against Manchester United. Scoring in the opening minutes. Er, in this case, minute rather. There was almost no opposition as Arsenal advanced straight after kick-off, and ex-Arsenal left back Armand Traore proved why he was moved on by the Gunners with a piss poor header.

The ball fell to the feet of Rosicky, who managed to play in Arteta, who in turn set up Walcott in between two QPR defenders, and the striker made no mistake and scored past Green. 1-0 to Arsenal, with barely even 30 seconds gone on the clock.

After that, it was more of a cagey affair between the two London sides, on a cramped pitch. Walcott had another great opportunity on the half hour mark, when his shot squirmed past Green, who got minimum contact, but it only struck the post and wriggld out.

Andros Townsend was giving Nacho Monreal a pretty rugged afternoon, with some intelligent running. He set up chances for Bobby Zamora and Park Ji-Sung, but they both failed to take their opportunities.

QPR didn’t look like a side already relegated, as Arsenal failed to convince their detractors that they could actually be title challengers next season, with a dour performance. Rangers used their physical presence all over the pitch to hassle the Gunners.

Loic Remy was making intelligent runs, but Mertesacker had the wily Frenchman well covered, while Laurent Koscielny kept a close eye on the ever dangerous Zamora. It was Andros Townsend, who was looking the most dangerous, with his swerving long range shot, testing Wojciech Szczesny.

Going forward, Arsenal were struggling, with attacks breaking down far too often for the visitor’s comfort. Lukas Podolski looked ineffectual as the lone man up front, while Theo Walcott was only showing momentary glimpses of his pace, but failed to make any decisive impact.

Remy forced two fine saves from Szczesny late on, as the game ended in a narrow Arsenal win. A goal within 30 seconds and over 92 minutes of mediocrity would perfectly sum up Arsenal’s last London derby of the season.

Elucidating Arsenal’s positives is going to be a pretty tough job. Firstly, garnering 3 points despite being in a sticky situation for so long is something that seems to be the norm now. Arsenal now have gathered 3 away 1-0 wins since the start of the year, at Sunderland, Fulham and QPR, all tough places to go to.

Secondly, Walcott has gotten to 21 goals this season, and while he may not have the real decisive impact that the traitor had last season, it definitely is a sign that the Englishman can deliver the goods when required.

Lastly, a word for the defence, that has now let in just 1 goal in the last 4 games, a penalty made and scored by the traitor. There seems to be a solid understanding between the pair of Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker, and the rotation at the left-back slot seems to be keeping both Gibbs and Monreal fit and fresh. There have been question marks raised over the performance of Bacary Sagna, but let’s keep in mind he has been Arsenal’s most consistent player for many years now!

The biggest positive is that Arsenal absolutely needed to win their last 3 games, especially after Gareth Bale scored a beauty against Southampton to help Sp*rs to a narrow 1-0 win at White Hart Lane. 1 down, 2 to go. Hopefully Wigan will be absolutely knackered after their game against Swansea and the FA Cup final against Manchester City. Too bad they are in a relegation quagmire.

Jai Arsenal

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QPR Preview + Lineups – Transfer Talk and More!

Another bright and sunny day out here, another Saturday, and an all important Premier League game for Arsenal today.

With draws against Everton and Manchester United very recently, the pendulum has swung slightly into the favor of Tottenham again, to secure that all important 4th spot. Sp*rs play already safe Southampton this weekend, knowing that a win would take them a point ahead of the Gunners, even if for a short period of time.

With reports in the week suggesting that Arsenal are set for a major transfer overhaul in the coming summer, a frenzy of transfer rumors have broken out. From the believable to the downright ridiculous.

One of the major rumors is the possible return of Cesc Fabregas to North London, who is currently going through a rather tumultuous phase with Barcelona. Reports also suggest that Arsenal are precariously close to sealing the signature of Stevan Jovetic from Fiorentina, in a deal akin to that of Lukas Podolski last summer.

In terms of players going out, the major news has been that of Galatasaray looking to price away either of Lukas Podolski or Gervinho as they continue their rebuilding process assembling an array of stars. The manager said the following about the up coming transfer window.

We have gone through a period that was very sensitive, we are coming out of it now, in a much stronger position financially.I believe that this club is today in a very, very strong position and has gone through a very sensitive period in a very intelligent way. After that, everything is here to have a great future.We have a good fanbase, we have now a strong financial situation, we have good young players and a squad with a bright future with the quality of the young players we have. It is just to manage it well now.

Arsene Wenger was yet again linked with a move to mega-rich French giants PSG, but quashed any such rumors.

I answered that question already. I respect my contracts. I want to stay on if I do well and if I consider or the club considers that I do well, that is all.I want this club to do well, that is my basic feeling.

It will be interesting to watch again how the club’s transfers are dealt with. After seeing star after star leave, and his youth project dismantled, the manager has learnt his lessons, and put his best English youngsters on long term contracts. Plus, he has managed to add some fine continental talent to go with it.

By the looks of it, that policy will continue to be in place, as the club seeks to clear all the deadwood that exists, which should free up a substantial amount of salary space. Players on whom the club will have to work hard to hold on to will be Bacary Sagna, who has been at the end of some costly errors of late; Thomas Vermaelen, the out-of favour captain and Francis Coquelin, supposedly unhappy with the lack of chances.

To more important matters for the moment then. With Olivier Giroud still serving his 3 match suspension, it looks likely that Lukas Podolski will start up front, despite an average performance against Manchester United.

Apart from that Jack Wilshere, Nacho Monreal all are back into the squad, so that means that the manager has a fully fit squad to choose from. Lukasz Fabianski, however, remains sidelined.

Already relegated QPR are a team full of individuals who have managed to hurt Arsenal in the past. They have only pride to play for, but Arsenal will have to be on their heels at all times during the game. Arsenal lost 2-1 at Loftus Road last season, after going through a 7 match winning streak. Bobby Zamora is one such player, who seems to have a knack of reserving his best against the Gunners. There is also the added Sp*rs connection, in Jermaine Jenas and Andros Townsend. Christopher Samba could be recalled into the squad. Former Arsenal left back Armand Traore is in contention to start as well.

Here is how I expect the two sides to line up.

Arsenal will have to deal with the added physicality of Loic Remy up front, who is a self confessed Arsenal fan and been linked with a move to the Emirates for some time now. Andros Townsend has been one bright spark in otherwise what has been an abysmal season for the heavy spending London outfit.

The transfer policy to sign top players, out of favour elsewhere has come back hard to hit QPR, who were relegated along with Reading, after the two sides played out an insipid draw. However, Arsenal enough will be enough motivation for Harry Redknapp, to secure a win for the Hoops.

Enjoy the game wherever you are!

Jai Arsenal

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Arsenal 1 Manchester United 1 – Fair Result!

Arsenal 1 (Walcott 2) – Manchester United 1 (van Persie 42)

Man of the Match - Laurent Koscielny (Arsenal)

It was not like one of the usual games. Games with Manchester United always are special occasions, but this one was different. More different for my liking, or for the liking of any other Arsenal fan.

Having to form the guard of honor to the champions is fine, but knowing that a big part in the title win was played by an ex-player, who left ‘to win’ trophies, and returned to vindicate his move, made it even harder to watch the game.

A huge swarm of Arsenal fans and glory hunting noobshits, calling themselves as Manure supporters intersected at Dugout, in Bangalore, and there was a brilliant atmosphere with chants, rants and abuses being hurled all over a small screening area.

Arsene Wenger continued with his central defensive pair of Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker, while Kieran Gibbs was chosen ahead of Nacho Monreal. Jack Wilshere was not named in the starting line-up, probably too soon to make a return from injury. With Olivier Giroud suspended, Lukas Podolski and Theo Walcott both started, while Santi Cazorla and Tomas Rosicky made starts as well.

For Manchester United, Rio Ferdinand and Johnny Evans started in defence, while Phil Jones was named to bolster midfield. The traitor, of course, had to start, and did.

It was a moment of contemplation for the Arsenal board, fans, players and staff alike as the champions walked out of the tunnel to a standing ovation from Arsenal players. Not too long ago, the sides were neck to neck in Premiership battles. Sigh!

Maybe it was a jerk reaction to the guard of honor, but Arsenal immediately set about their task. In as early as the 3rd minute, the Dutch traitor gave the ball away in midfield, and Rosicky played the ball through to Walcott who was marginally offside, and finished past David de Gea.

Arsenal were looking to build more pressure, as a Tomas Rosicky effort went wide while de Gea had to make a great save, as Santi Cazorla unleashed a left footed effort. Arsenal were looking comfortable in midfield, with the trio of Ramsey, Arteta and Rosicky drawing strings.

Manchester United, however had a great chance to go level, but Phil Jones made a complete hash of it. Aaron Ramsey was having a good game, and almost set up Podolski, but for a good save from David de Gea.

At the back, Arsenal were putting a committed performance, and when Portuguese winger Nani found some space, he was met with a lunging Kieran Gibbs. The traitor had a great chance to level matters, with a header, but it was too close to Szczesny, and the Arsenal keeper saved with his, er, nose. Ouch! Phil Jones miscued another chance.

For all of Arsenal’s good work in the first half, it was undone by one moment of mediocrity. Bacary Sagna’s misplaced pass fell right into the path of Judas, who surged forward. Sagna, in an attempt to undo what he had done lunged for a tackle from behind, but instead fouled the traitor in the box.

He, who else, stepped up, and leveled matters from the spot. In the second half, Arsenal got to work right from the beginning, and Tomas Rosicky curled a shot just wide having played a one-two with Aaron Ramsey.

However, Arsenal were giving the ball away too easily and making too many lapses in concentration, giving Manchester United some good chances to take the lead. A cross from the traitor could not be met by an uncharacteristically quiet Wayne Rooney.

Rafael looked to score one of his trademark goals, trying to cut inside, but missed, as the ball flew narrowly wide of the post. Rooney headed straight at Szczesny from close range, as Arsenal were increasingly looking weary.

There were few chances as the game progressed, with the best one falling to Ryan Giggs, who could only find a blocking Alex-Oxlade Chamberlain.

In the end, it was a pretty even contest, with Arsenal proving to be marginally, by small margins, better than Manchester United, on the evening. The point, however, leaves us in a situation, where Champions League places are still out of our hands. Sp*rs, who drew Wigan the previous evening, are two points behind, with a game in hand.

Positives and negatives then. The players displayed good character in this tussle with the champions, and matched them for most of the game, and proved to be slightly better. In all honesty, there is very little to choose between the sides, but for a certain thing called mentality.

United have shown all season, that even though they do not boast the most glitziest of squads, they conjure up results with a single minded determination to win. Arsenal, at this moment of time, need that very mentality, to first secure a top 4 finish, and to make sure that they are in the title race next season, and do not fizzle out before it is even December.

Laurent Koscielny has been brilliant and without doubt, is Arsenal’s best defender at the moment. His tenacity, reading of the game, pace and willingness to battle the strikers makes him a very important player in the side. Bacary Sagna, despite all his consistency over the years, has had an error-strewn recent past, and his contract will be one that will be hotly debated about at the end of the season.

Arsenal’s midfield is starting to look increasingly balanced. Yes, it’s almost the end of the season, but hey, better late than never. Aaron Ramsey looks sharp, decisive and seems to have gotten rid of those irritating back passes and all. Cazorla and Rosicky look like two good attacking midfield options to start off with, and it will be interesting to see if the manager decided to haul Wilshere back into the fray.

Up front, Lukas Podolski looked clueless, and had to make most of the running in behind him, with little or no service. Walcott had a decent game, apart from the goal and a few moments of spark. Having been played on the right, he had to contend with the combination of Jones, Evra and Evans constantly heckling him down.

A point gained, rather than two points lost. This was always going to be a tough encounter. Arsenal definitely need to win their remaining 3 games, to absolutely guarantee themselves of a Champions League place next season.

Jai Arsenal

—————————————————————————————————————————————————————– While you are about it, follow Blazing Cannons on twitter. @blazingcannons

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Go ahead you lazy bum, that’s all I ask of you!