Month: October 2022

TOTL. And that was easier than expected. There were some nervous moments but finally we remembered how to score and dominate. After the last few weeks, I’d figured this would be a tiresome game with an obstinate, defensive Forest proving tough to breakdown. In the previous four games we’d started to show some fatigue. This seemed the game where we could take a wrong turn and veer backwards. It’s all relative, of course. You could run me over with a bus and chop off my legs (please place them carefully somewhere so I can reattach them) but I’d still have the joy of the first eleven games. So, I went in with low expectations. And by half time I was genuinely nervous.

We dominated the first half. Forest were as advertised. A latter day Bolton. Banks of defenders looking to score from set-peices and our mistakes. And there were a few care of a White/Partey mix up and then a classic Garbiel moment of suicide in the box. Overall though we came out the blocks fast and sharp. And within 5 minutes our youngsters had combined for a brilliant headed goal. Martinelli had evolved from last year and he’s still a baby. I’m not sure he’s allowed to go out at night. But what a header; all care of Saka. At that point you figured we’d dominate and run up the score. Instead, we had to watch as we missed too many chances.

Poor old Jesus, he is fated to never score again. Fortunately, he can still set up goals. Hopefully he knows more than us and has decided to break his goal drought next week. But today he found numerous ways to not score.

A moment of thought for Saka. At one nill up losing him did not bode well. I bet few people expected to see Nelson emerge as his replacement. It felt to me that this could turn into one of those games where we let them back in; just as we did last week. For Saka, this was quite upsetting. He has been targeted by every team we play. He’s normally the first person on Arsenal to be fouled. And sure as you can set your watch by it, he was immediately fouled to start the game. I suspect that was the kick that hurt the most. But within 20 minutes he’d been fouled three times. No yellow card for anyone. This boy screams out for protection. At least that knuckle head is no longer at Villa. Instead, we’ll have the pleasure of seeing the accountant return to lead them. But back to the game.

The rest of the first half was one way traffic – aside from the mindless pass by Gabriel in the penalty box. Once Lingard spurned that chance – though, it was White that threw himself in to block that shot – you felt we’d likely be safe. How passive was Lingard generally. There’s a boy who’s career was blessed by being at United, raised on a pedestal because of that club and has since flattered to deceive. Anyway, once we got through that moment of madness – we are more or less guaranteed once a game a Gabriel moment of suicide – we remained in control if somewhat ponderous and slow.

Halftime was worrying; thinking about the lack of Saka, the introduction of Nelson who immediately seemed to play too narrow and thus force our creativity down the left-hand side. I could see Forest undeservedly sneaking back into the game.

Whatever Arteta said at half-time he should copywrite and franchise. The second half looked entirely different. Of course, it helped that Forest continued to give us space to construct their demolition. And it turns out Nelson is not half bad. From being surprised and concerned about his appearance I quickly pivoted to demanding that he replace Kane in the England squad for the WC. Not just one goal but two and then an assist! And the second was a little more intriguing. And real opportunist goal. A delicate touch with a late arrival into the box. That first goal seemed to transform him. From the first half when he seemed scared of making any moves. Where he passed the ball sideways and backs to remembering that he could take on players and create. From then on he shone bright. Even when moved over to the left hand side to accommodate the ineffectual Vieira. Nelson today, hopefully, marked his formal arrival. Of course, Saka will consign him back to the bench where, hopefully, he will soon be rejoined by the beaming Elneny. But today Nelson made a real difference. Maybe that’s the diference between playing with the second string in the NoHoppa cup and playing with the big boys against the Mighty Forest. Many have often worried what would happen once we lost Saka. And today we found out.

After that cameo, it was one way traffic. Forest were pretty abject but that was also partly down to the majesty of Partey. I was in shock at the amount of space Forest continue to give him. In the first half they remained fairly close to him but by the second half there was rarely anyone within a 20 yard radius from him. He controlled the game and purred. And then, unbelievable, he scored another picturesque, curling goal. Twice in one season. And no injury yet. Could this still be our Partey? Reality returned towards the end when he reassuringly tried another shot that ended up in row Z. Phew, normal service was resumed. He shone so bright today. Effortless and simple. For that second goal you could see the vertical progression from Ramsdale simple throw to Partey who then perfectly threaded the ball through to the rejuvenated Xhaka. That pass split their defense and lead to Jesus realizing that he was not destined to score and set up Nelson instead.

The defense was not really tested accept when we decided to test it ourselves. We created their best chances from our own mistakes. But thankfully in the second half there were none. Aside from that moment Gabriel was unchallenged. In the first half there were too many times where the ball was at his feet as we looked to progress the ball whereas in the second half it was, thankfully, others. Alongside him Saliba was as majestic as ever. And then there’s White. It’s impressive to see how he’s settled into that right back position. It was harder for him once Saka went off, with no clear outlet in front of him, but he still shut down anything and helped create. And then, once the game was won he switched back to center half and effortlessly controlled the defense. And don’t forget that block in the first half when he threw himself at the Lindgard shot. How can White not be going to the WC? How can Southgate not pick this guy? Maybe we’ll benefit by keeping him fresh but given his ability and versatility it’s amazing to think he won’t make the squad while the chin that plays for Man U might not only be in the squad but the starting eleven. Oh poor England.

The demolition of Forest in the second half makes up for the lack of goals in the past few games. It was a pleasure to watch. Much like most other games this season. We just seemed to find another gear. There was a fluency, speed of movement and actual finishing. Well, apart from poor Jesus. Surely, he will score again in the next few years. You’d hope so. But in the meantime, he continues to create and set up others. Two more assists today. One of which set up twinkle toes Odegaard to crush the net. Our captain was fairly quiet today but it’s always good to see him actually take a shot – especially with real venom.

You have to feel a little sorry for Tierney. Not only did he not start. It seems pretty clear he’s lost his starting position to the reliable Tomi. But now even Cedric comes onto the pitch as a substitute before him. Oh, how painful must that be. I’m sure though that was just to give Cedric some minutes. Tomi is still figuring out the whole inverted full-back thing. He’s getting more involved in the creativity thing but when Zinny is finally back it will be interesting to see who starts.  

Arteta even sat down for the last 10 or 15 minutes today. That’s how assured we were and how tame Forest were. I have no idea how Forest managed to win against Liverpool. It must have been like winning the lottery though because they had nothing today. They seemed destined to return to the Championship. Surely, they will get relegated. They are the worst team we’ve played. Leeds, who were excellent against Liverpool yesterday, are miles ahead of them not just in terms of talent, work-rate and commitment but in terms of how Leeds actually try and play football. We can officially anoint Forest as this years Burnley.  With the same destination.

So, the accountant has landed at Villa. That will be a match made in heaven. They resemble Villareal and Seville in many ways. He also follows on from a Philistine who thought in terms of blood and guts. Actually, it’s not clear he thought. But the accountant will make them a more competitive team and allow them to become a solid mid-table team. He’ll need a little time to work his system and organization into that team. It will be a shock to the players to have some actual tactics and adaptability. He’s earned his right to return after getting the Champions League semi-final. Whatever he accomplishes though I will forever be relieved that we relieved him of his duties with us. Arteta is our savior and he was never going to be. Arteta had the backbone to stand up and insist on his methods, belief and the players he wanted. Two different styles; two different philosophies. And, depending on the club and their expectations, each could be successful. But at Arsenal it’s Arteta that works. And, it turns out, it’s happening quicker than we had a right to expect. And not just in terms of points and position in the league. But, more fundamentally, the way we are trying to play; the way we are trying to entertain; the way we are trying to dominate and impose ourselves. It won’t always work. As we saw against Leeds and Southampton. And that’s why today felt like a potential banana skin. Last season we’d go on those winless streaks where we’d seem to decay and deteriorate. But today we saw the new Arsenal. With better players and more experience. More experience from our 21 year olds.

So, aside from the Thursday distraction, it’s all eyes on Chelsea. We can’t hope for last years performance and result. They will surely react to the disaster in Brighton. And hopefully we’ll have Saka back. And this would be a nice time for Jesus to rediscover his scoring touch. Potter will be tactically fluid and we’ll have to adapt. This will be our last major conflict (no offence Wolves) before the infuriating WC. Two more games to see whether we can enter the WC period TOTL. But, in the meantime, we can remain content that we will, remarkably, remain TOTL.

-LB7

TOTL still. But a wasted chance to increase the gap. This was another game of two halves. Or rather the first 25 minutes and then the rest of the game. Today was a dose of realism. You can’t win every game. Especially if you don’t take your chances.

Again, we started the game with energy, domination and control. We were clicking and tearing them apart. We took the lead – deservedly – when White combined with Saka to deliver the perfect cross for the goal scoring machine that is Xhaka. Two goals in two games. And, more to the point, the only goal scorer in our last two games.

During the first half we were a pleasure to watch. We moved the ball quickly with Partey at the center of everything. His passing was, as ever, quick and instinctive. Everything about the team looked easy. Except for scoring. In periods such as this we have to convert our chances. Today it was not just Jesus but Odegaard that failed to take their chances. Martinelli, who I suspect was not fully fit, had moments of brilliance. Some of his close control is breathtaking. But he also had a few chances today. But overall, we looked like a team that could win the league. The play was incisive and intelligent. This team has improved so much over the last 12 months it’s unrecognizable.

Unfortunately, in the second half we started to see elements of old Arsenal. This was reminiscent of last week against Leeds. Ironically, we were better than then but this time conceded a goal. It’s not like they peppered us with shots and had multiple chances. This was, I think, their first or second shot on goal. If I was to be critical – not that it’s in my sweet demeanor – both Party and Xhaka failed to pick up Armstrong as he came from deep. But it was a decent goal to be fair. By this time we had wandered into that Leeds-like situation where we could not retain possession. The smoothness of Partey was missing and we ceded control of the game. Odegaard was not impactful in either half and seemed to disappear in the second. Martinelli was not getting the ball and Jesus continued to get manhandled up front. That’s not to say we were as poor as last week in the that second half but it was unlike our first half performance today. We lacked cohesion. It was frustrating to watch.

Our defense, like last week was pretty solid. There was a period in the first half when they had about 6 or 7 consecutive corners. Each one, either Ramsdale, Gabriel or Tomi seemed to win that first header. The defense was barely tested – apart from the one time Saliba misplaced a pass. Gabriel was as solid and as focused as I’ve seen him. White, after setting up the first goal, was largely untested whereas Tomi provided his normal defensive cover. In the second half it seemed he tried to play a more Zinny role in possession – sliding into that midfield inside-left position.

The progression in Xhaka this season is remarkable. Aside from his second goal in two games, I thought he was our best player today. He finds himself in more advanced positions and, especially, as Partey faded, it was Xhaka who would drop to receive the ball to start any creative phases. His passing was crisp and his vision sharp. It’s a shame that Saka was barely involved in the second half – maybe because Odegaard disappeared. But we have to learn to take our chances. There were times – as much as Jesus is an infinite upgrade on the extinguished Cigarette – when he looked more like the Man City version. That forward who needed too many chances in order to convert one. His energy remains infectious and he elevates the quality of the entire team. However, it would be nice to see him return to scoring ways.

In the past we have wilted and withered against Southampton. Some of our more embarrassing defeats have occurred here. So, I suppose, as a glass half full person, we should be happy that we did not find a way to lose. It still felt that we were the only team capable of winning this game. And this is a long season and we can’t expect to win every game. But, against a team like this, we should have. We should have put it away in the first half.

It feels like we’re suffering from a lack of rotation. Too many of our key players have to play too many minutes. Arteta made the substitutions he needed to. Tierney added something when he came on but Vieira and Eddie were pretty ineffectual today. In particular Vieira never seemed to adjust to the pace of the match. To win games like this you need to be able to change the game from the bench and today we could not. Which also explains why so many of our keys players are not rotated. We just need greater squad depth. It’s all well and good Arteta saying they should be able to play 70 a season but that’s bullshit. But he has to say that. He needs a couple of more transfer windows.

How funny was it to see Theo come on as a sub for them? His man-bun seems as retarded as ever. As was his Oscar performance dive that was rightfully rewarded with a yellow card. Unlike the one Saka received in the first half when he was actually fouled. Theo could have played their man through but chose to take a dive; unfortunately this is his level. I’d always had a soft spot for him but he never really evolved as a football player or as a fashion icon.

We can take some solace from the results around us. That lot got shredded at home care of their great captain and Cech-like distributor of the ball. We should be slightly more weary of next weeks opposition after they stole a victory.  It fees like this season the chances will be there for us to get that top four position. We just have to ensure that our key players stay fit. We can only pray that Ghana get eliminated in the group stages of the corrupt world cup. At least none of our players will be required to work there and build stadiums.

Today is not the end of the world, though it was underwhelming and pretty disappointing that we dropped two points. But given the stunning start to the season it seemed inevitable that we’d drop needless points somewhere. It’s typical it would be against a workmanlike team like Southampton. But it’s not down to them; this was on us. We lost our rhythm and balance. All the things we’d be so good at in the first half vaporized in the second half. It did not help that the referee was pretty useless. Letting some quite physical challenges go unpunished – including potential penalty appeals. But, it’s still down to this team. The one actual real shot we had came Tierney who set up Odegaard after the ball had gone out. And that came from a long ball out of defense. We found it much harder to construct anything once Southampton changed their shape and flooded the midfield. But that second half was not enjoyable to watch. Quite frustrating in truth with that fear we’d implode and not even leave with a point. I’ve not really felt that way. Well, not since last week against Leeds.

So that’s three games in a row where we’ve managed to only score one goal. One from Saka and two from Xhaka. Clearly we need to sign Kaka (if he’s still playing). Hopefully Jesus will rediscover his scoring touch and that both he and Martinelli will be rested on Thursday. Obviously, Saka will play the entire 90 minutes, pilot the plane there and back, wash everyone’s kit just before cutting every blade of grass at the Emirates. Because, I mean, why would we rest or protect him? He is indestructible – ok, I know I just jinxed the poor boy. So, please leave him at home as well – I’m sure we won’t. We have a few keys matches now to pad our points total. So let’s not waste the chances. At some juncture these other teams will get their act together and we need as many points padding as we can get. Watch that gap.

In the meantime, we remain – just – TOTL. Enjoy it for another week.

-LB7

Still TOTL. Somehow. That was close but care of Saka we found way to hang on. For sure, last year we’d have lost this game but somehow we managed to scrape through. As impressive as we were in the first half was followed by a meekness in the second half. It was this years Arsenal in the first half and last years in the second half. But, with a little luck, we still managed to win and stay TOTL. Somehow.

What a weird way to start the game. No power but only effecting the communication and VAR systems. But, boy, did we need it today. We weren’t impacted by the delays and quickly asserted ourselves as we have done this season. There was some wonderful interplay with Odegaard at the center of it orchestrating everything. Rapid one-touch football that played through their lines so sweetly. On the wings Martinelli continued to torment their backline. Partey was smooth and Xhaka was roaming freely. Tommi, who held onto his left-back spot looked a little less assured than last week.

We had the dominant possession and though clearly superior did not create too many outright chances. Until Rodrigo decided to assist with a perfect cross-field ball to Saka. Odegaard then played a typical Bergkampesque-pass to allow Saka to smash the ball into the top corner. Perfectly taken and not dissimilar to his Crystal Palace goal at the start of the season. It was thoroughly deserved and likely the platform for us to go on and score more.

The second half was an entirely different game. We could not possess the ball. Our passing was astray. The White we saw in the first half disappeared in second. He could not make a pass and got exposed down the right hand side on numerous occasions. Jesus, who was less involved than normal in the first half was unable to keep the ball in the second. Odegaard was hardly present and often gave the ball away cheaply.

The tempo was set within the first minute. With Bamford now on the pitch, we dithered down the right and before you know if Bamford had the ball in the net within a minute. But, with the power on and Paul Tierney recognizing that he still owed us from last season against that lot, rightly ruled that Gabriel was pushed off the ball. That should have been our wake-up call. Instead for the remainder of the half we found ways to make so many mistakes and hand them the momentum.

Ramsdale, who made a brilliant save in the first half during a scramble after a corner, was again crucial  to keeping a clean sheet. In front of him even Saliba was making mistakes. Bamford had another chance when Saliba gave it away. And this time Ramsdale literally put his balls on the line for the team. I kept expecting Arsenal to wake up but we seemed completely over-run. This was a different, more aggressive Leeds. Whereas they sat off in the first half with a half-block, now they harried us all of the field. And we could not control the ball. It just seemed inevitable that they would equalize and then go on to win. Beyond these two chances they had so many other opportunities. Not least of which was the penalty. This one we could have few complaints about. You could see on Saliba’s face right away that he knew he was in trouble. After defending so resolutely it seemed such a shame to give it away so weakly. Initially it looked like he found the corner of the goal but somehow though Bamford managed to miss. Unbelievable.

Luck seemed to be smiling on us today. Leeds kept pilling on the pressure and we kept giving the ball back to them. Arteta then made the right decision to take off White and swap Tommi to the right and bring on Tierney. That would surely solidify the defense. But Tierney had been watching us carefully. So about the first thing he does is try to chaperon off a ball before then deciding to blast up field right to a Leeds player to allow them to launch another counter-attack.  Clearly we were determined to self-destruct. We kept passing to players who were already under pressure and could never find a free man.

Partey had no time on the ball. Leeds swarmed around him. Leeds finally started to play a high press game. Replacing Odegaard with Vieira did not help. He barely touched the ball. Eddie for Jesus also made sense except he does not charge around or work as hard as Jesus. Nothing could change the momentum of the game. We just had to hang on. Even throwing Holding into the mix. But somehow we made it onto the final minutes of additional time. And then, Gabriel got entangled with Bamford and foolishly decided to kick-out. The linesman then made the call for Kavanagh to send off Gabriel and award a penalty.

Yet again Tierney (Paul not Kieran) came to the rescue. Not only did Kavanagh overturn the red card (and left Gabriel to play the next three games) but also overturned the penalty decision. Which, frankly, had made no sense anyway. There was (another) clear push by Bamford. Just like for his first disallowed goal. To be fair to Bamford, he caused chaos for the entire half and gave Gabriel a torrid time. But, how stupid was Gabriel to even lash out? In the last minute after defending so stoutly? He could have thrown it all away in a second of madness. But, with the power on, VAR was able to rescue us again. Though I’d like to know how the linesman saw the kickout but not the original push by Bamford. And did you notice how Xhaka, captain for the substituted Odegaard, took control of the situation with Kavanagh? Displaying all the traits of a real leader he pushed away everyone and took control of the players. Though it was inevitable that it would be reviewed, Xhaka made sure the right things were done.

By this stage, I was already pulling out my remaining hair and teeth. As serene as the first half was the second was painfully reminiscent of last year. We seemed intent on self-destruction. Leeds just refused to help themselves. And Gabriel needs to evaluate his performances. They are too littered with needless mistakes. Today, unfortunately, those around him seemed to try and emulate him. Except, that is, for Martinelli and Ramsey. Big balls (if slightly bruised) Ramsdale saved us today. Along with VAR. In fact, VAR has come to the rescue a number of times this season. It’s inevitable that we’ll soon suffer at the hands of VAR. And remember, when we do, we’ll always have Leeds. A nullified goal, an overturned red card and a cancelled penalty. So much for suffering from the cancel culture.

I truly have no idea how we won this game. It was thoroughly undeserved and made no sense. We were pretty awful in the second half. They dominated and we flailed. But through a combination of VAR, luck and lack of quality in finishing Leeds were not able to exploit their chances. It’s a game like this that makes you laugh out loud – but only on the final whistle. And also make you realize that there is definitely something brewing in this team. How else can you explain the three points. Last year we were a one half team. And we’d have lost this game. This year there is a resilience and determination. And luck. And a lot of luck.

It’s remarkable that we’re still TOTL. And what a contrast, performance-wise, to last week. But, for a team to be successful you have to be able to win games like this. When you’re backs are against the wall, you have to be able to eek out those undeserved victories. We’ve seen plenty of examples where we’ve lost games where we deserved to win (see the game at ManU this year). And it also speaks to the mental strength of this team. They dug in as best they could and held on. That is an achievement that was beyond us previously. So, in a weird way, todays victory was more satisfying than last week. Sure last week I was buzzing for many hours after and proud the quality of our football. Today though was more of a reality check in a hostile environment. And we passed – just – the test. Not that Gabriel did. Hopefully it will instill both more confidence in this team and also add to their collective experience. This is still a very young team. And it’s important they learn how to win games where they are getting battered. Thankfully we had the sparkling Saka goal to hold onto. It’s just a shame I had Rodrigo in my fantasy team.

I do have one recommendation for this team though; they have to hire a throw-in coach. Because we seem to take forever to figure out how to put the ball in play and yet nearly always turn the ball over. Poor White has the jitters when throwing the ball in often taken multiple minutes trying to figure out what to do. Given that he’s not played right-back for that long, someone should help him figure out what to do. I am, of course, available for a nominal fee.

And no review would be complete without the obligatory rant about the camera work. I get that Jesse March is the new boy in the league but why must we see a shot of him after every piece of  action. The new thing is to first have a close up of the person last involved in a piece of action. As though it’s important to capture that moment when the players head explodes squirting out heaps of nice, juicy red blood. But is then followed by any opposition player who might have been involved. We get these juicy close-up shots that last for ten plus seconds. And, finally, we go to the obligatory shot of J. March in his lovely fitting jeans. All the time, the game is proceeding but the director or producer is more concerned with some reality-like show human reaction from the manager. And there was I thinking I was there to watch a game of football. I can’t wait for the introduction of either picture in picture or for viewers to have the ability to select a camera view of the game. Both of which have been technically feasible for 10 + years.

Today we were saved by VAR and a large dose of luck. And yet, we are now TOTL by 4 points. This team has something in it. There were periods in the first half where we looked like potential champions. Maybe the travel and trials in Norway took their toll in the second half. Maybe we’ll see more rotation in the future or less time in the NoHoppaCup games for our key players. As I keep saying, this team actually needs another year or so to mature further. But I’ll take results like today. So, thank you for turning the power back on at Elland Road.  And let’s enjoy and revel in our good fortune and position. For we are, yet again. TOTL.

-LB7

Happy happyiness with a dose of happiness to everyone. The last time I felt this good was when we trashed those wankers last week. This was both an impressive result and a ridiculous game.

But, first, I feel like I owe an apology for this late posting. Especially after such an exciting game. Normally I would have been truly eager to put my random, disorganized and random (sorry, did I say random already) thoughts in writing. But, like Mustafi, it was not my fault. For this I blame one of my defective offspring (for I have many).  I was forced to journey off-site away from my TV and thus had to watch the game, as best I could, on my phone. I was though able to re-watch the entire game on a nice, big screen late last night by which time I had to retire to my hole in the ground in order to replenish my athletic physique. So I blame #2 son. I often do. And it works for me. Because I’m such a wonderful father, I was forced to put family before Arsenal. That won’t happen again.

24 hour later though, the glow has not disappeared. That was a brilliant performance. I had a nagging suspicion we would win. Liverpool have not quite found their mojo this season and we certainly have. But the manner of this victory was just so impressive. The energy, the skill, the interplay culminating in such attractive and entertaining football is not something we’ve seen at the Emirates before. Sure, round the corner at the former home of football (aka Highbury) but not here.

And it literally started from the first minute. What a way to start a game. We have seemed to start every game this season with this approach. Credit to Arteta for that. But more on our little-Pep later (if I don’t forget). From Saliba, via White to a borderline offside Saka and then Odegaard onto Martinelli’s right foot. Breathtaking. The speed and incision. We out Liverpooled Liverpool. This is what they’ve done to us for so many years at Anfield. This was as good a game as Martinelli has produced for us. He was a constant thorn in their side. His energy levels were like that of the Energizer Bunny. This boy is relentless. He gave AA a torrid time on the right. Inconjunction with Jesus and Saka, the three of them terrorized their defense. We consistently pressed and forced them backwards and sideways.

Behind these three nearly every player performed at the highest level. Unfortunately Gabriel was the exception. This boy has a nasty habit of making crucial mistakes. He was very fortunate to get away with a handball for a penalty. But then casually stuck out a boot for a long-pass from AA that result in Saliba being pulled out of position. And Gabriel was too slow to realize he needed to cover his man. And then they were level. Poor play from him and frustrating. This though was the only black mark on the team. We continued to work our way back and put them under pressure. Then the industrious Gabriel released Martinelli who eventually feed Saka to regain the lead. It was noticeable that Gabriel was up there to dummy the ball for Saka. But this goal reminded me of “that” goal against the wankers in white at their place when it was Henry, Bergkamp and Viera hitting them on the break. That’s a pretty high bar I know. But, for this game, we felt like a complete team. And, unlike last week when we had to play Bolton in the NLD, against a real team. And, though not firing on all cylinders, a very good team at that. Watching Thiago made you appreciate the contribution of Partey. They both play a similar position. As smooth and silky as Thiago is, he has the lump Henderson alongside him whereas Partey has to cover all the defensive work himself.  Partey, aside from the odd missed tackle, is pivotal to our team. He plays these vertical passes that open up the opposition and yet strolls around, reading the game to be in the right position to break up their play. And this allows us to release Xhaka from any defensive duties and the resultant yellow & red cards.

Back to that second goal though, that all started with Jesus. No goals yesterday but he was all over the pitch. There were times when Liverpool broke fast and that he, Jesus, was in the right back position defending. You would not have seen that from Cigarette or OhHe’sAtChelskiNow. Jesus put himself in all the right positions and buzzed around their defense. Sure no goals, but he electrifies the team and the crowd.

Saka continues to evolve and rediscover last years form. Two goals and, again, requiring them to have two people mark him. Alongside him the impressive White not only provided excellent defensive cover but managed to overlap and provide yet more attacking options. It’s noticeable how his relationship with Saka is blossoming. I know that some people, early in the season, were highly critical but those idiots clearly don’t know the game. White has excelled. And, as mentioned, even the conservative Southgate must pick him. This game highlighted the contrast with AA. I felt a little sorry for AA. He had to deal with Martinelli and was not helped out by his other defenders. All the focus is on AA. Yet Van Dyke was way off his game yesterday. It feels like he’s on such a pedestal that no-one can question him. But it was Van Dyke who played Saka onside for our second goal. As Saka ran into the box VD followed and kept Saka onside. And, for that first goal he did not close Saka down either. But AA will carry the brunt of the criticism. But then, that’s their problem.

This was as good a performance as I can remember – it’s up there with last years away win at Chekski. But Liverpool are a different proposition even if when they are slightly off the boil. Look how they controlled stretches of the game. So many parts of our team purred along. The quick, simple interplay – usually with Partey involved allowed us to create so many chances. Whether it was the always impressive Saliba starting the movement or Xhaka opening up their right hand side. And then there was Odegaard slicing them open. It was a joy to watch.

And then there is the resilience. In previous years there is no way we would have found a way to come back to regain the lead so many times. We’ve seen this in other games this season. There is a belief and determination. Each time they equalized we found ways to step up our intensity and find a way to score. And, at the end, we even seemed to understand how game management should work helping to see the game out. It was a little nerve wracking sure but this team has evolved. It does not mean – even with all this gushing – that we’ll win the league. We still might not even make the top 4. We’ve seen too many collapses to know better. But it does feel like this team is different. Even if we are susceptible to an injury to Partey.

But look at depth we now have. For instance, how inspired was the decision by MA to put Tommi at right back. He completed controlled Salah. The end result was he barely had a shot on target and, even when they were behind, being withdrawn. Tommi won every header and provided important stability on the left. Sure, with Zinny, we would have had more attacking intent but given his injury that was not an option. And, as much as I love our own Ukrainian, that was blessing in disguise.  It still allowed Xhaka to roam on the left without having to worry about Salah. Tommi is a certified star. Just keep him fit please.

Behind them all we had the limping Ramsdale who is so desperate for attention that he had to fake out a little injury early on just to make us even more nervous. His distribution was excellent and he made a few important saves. Ramsdale and the back four really do function like a unit now. In fact, this whole team excelled. Again, unlike last week when we played against a parked bus, this time it was against a genuinely impressive, talented team.

And this falls at the feet of Arteta. He make all the right selection decisions and adjusted our formation as the game went on. He has built something that we’ve not seen in a decade. And, though I still don’t expect too much more this year, it’s the platform for great things. One or two more signings along with further experience and maturation and this team will excel. The quality of play, the attitude and the fight come directly from MA. I’m sure we’ll have hick-ups along the way – we’re too young to be this good consistently. But even in the NoHoppaCup with 8 replacements, the style and approach was the same. Just like the Man City backup eleven.

A word or two on VAR. We rode our luck. Gabriel could have been called for a penalty. Even our first goal could have been pulled back for Saka being offside. And then our penalty. All three decisions went in our favor. Let’s remember that. Because it won’t happen again. The weird one was the first one. Because of the way the technology works with various cameras, it turns out Saka was out of frame and they were not able to draw a line to see his position. So they had to go with the on-field decision. How amateur is that. This is a billion pound business. But they lack the requisite number of cameras. The sooner they auto-mate offside the better – even if it might have worked against us yesterday.

Have no doubt though, we were the superior team and we completely deserved to win. And, to his credit their Nazi was very gracious in defeat. He could have lamented VAR but did not harp on it too long. This guys is a class act. And an entertaining one. The sooner he can leave Liverpool the better.

So, yet again, here we sit, Top of The Table. Ahead of everyone’s favorite to win the league. Of course, while we have to venture up to the White Walkers of the frozen north this Sunday, they have to play Liverpool at Anfield. Hopefully Liverpool can extract vengeance on them. Maybe they can tie down their Norse god, cut his hair and sap his strength. Who would have guessed we’d have been top at this stage though? It would be nice to last just a little longer. Fortunately, we don’t have to play them until sometime in 2023. By then, if we’re lucky, they will have all their players injured in the world cup – except their big, beasty center forward won’t be attending. As brilliant as he’s been, it has to be said, he really is quite an ugly basterd. I know, pretty childish. But that’s what you can be sure to get here

So another wonderful weekend. It’s so refreshing to be so proud of the players, the manager and the overall club. Entertaining and exciting football. It’s stunning when you consider the transformation of this team over the last six months. And, as I keep saying, this journey is by no means over. Another transfer window or two, a little bit more experience for the cresh at London Colney and this team can genuinely compete. But first it’s off to Norway. BTW, this lot aren’t so bad for Norwegians. Their current manager is sure to end up in the Premier League at some point. So that game won’t be so easy. And then back to the league. My only wish is that we can remain top going into the world cup. The longer we can stay there the more likely it is that we’ll qualify for the Champions League. That still has to be our realistic objective. That, and keeping Partey fit and Xhaka from being sent off.

-LB7

And this is what it’s all about. Happy October. Dominated, dictated and deserved. There was only one team and one team bus today. It was one-way traffic. Clearly superior, we got the result we deserved today with only one team on the pitch. And we’re still TOTL.

Eight games in – 21% of the season – and we’re still top. That’s got to be worth something. A little piece of a medal. Or early qualification for some useless third rate European competition.  Not that I expect to retain this place come end of the season. But, in the interim, how much fun is this? Watching this team is starting to feel like a throw-back to the best AW years. Obviously, we’re not there yet. We’re still very young, lacking in experience and are short of being the finished product. But, days like today re-enforce how much progress we’ve made and how much further we can go.

Right from the start – again – we controlled the game. With Zinny, Odegaard and Partey returning our balance was re-established. I’m not sure any of them was entirely fully fit. The first two were relatively quiet by their standards. But Partey shook the world to its core when he not only got a shot on target but actually scored. And a mighty fine goal it was. Surprisingly good in fact. I don’t think we can expect to see that again from him in our lifetimes. And overall, his play was simple and accurate. Zinny dropped into the middle of the pitch often to support him. But Partey picked up Kane when he dropped deep and also overshadowed their ugly Danish midfielder.

Saka shone brightly today. He reserved his best performance of the season for this game. They had to double mark him at all times and thus left others open – such as Partey. Nearly anything good today ran through Saka. He scared the wits out of them. And, along with Jesus and Martinelli, kept them off balance the entire game. I think this was the first game this season in which they did not foul Saka nor pick-up a yellow card. For such a genuinely dull and dreary team such as Sp*rs that is unexpected. They play the most tedious form of football you could see. Blanket defending, little possession and then hit you on the counter-attack. Apart from a stupid penalty, one free-kick and one corner, Ramsdale did not have a real save to make. They have two of the best strikers in the league (including one of the ugliest) yet they insist on playing the most boring form of football you could hope for. This is what happens though when you’re managed by Mourinho 2.0.  

In contrast, we continued to carve them open and entertain. Jesus could have added another in the first half but for shooting directly at Lloris. And Xhaka, who seemed to play in an even more advanced role today, had the freedom of the park. Unfortunately, as well as he played, he was partially at fault for their penalty when he missed controlled the ball. Of course, it was mighty clumsy for Gabriel to dive in and give up the penalty. That’s not the first time he’s done that and he has to learn to be more patient.

He could just look over to his right. Saliba was masterfall today. Aside from one foul and one yellow card, he utterly dominated both Son and Kane. His touch is delicate, his anticipation is beyond his years and his strength allowed him to withstand any bullying. They literally got nothing out of him. And on the ball he’s so calm. He was the best defender out there today. There were a few instances where he was defending one on one and each time came out on top.

Alongside him, White was able to both push up and support Saka and also deal with any counter-attacks. His positioning was excellent and, like Saliba, his distribution was excellent. How this boy was not in the England squad is beyond me. Southgate picks the forehead that sits on the bench for Man United and their reserve left-back, but can’t pick the best English defender that has played in every game this season. But then this is the same manage that put Nick Fucking Pope in goal for two matches and then watched him hand a draw to the underpowered Nazis at Wembley. Pope’s distribution was utterly horrendous. He’s incapable of passing the ball. Whereas, today, we saw Ramsdale play a number of perfect long balls to Martinelli, Zinny and others. Yet Pope – like Pickford – would kick the ball into touch. Southgate clearly has shit in his eyes. From starting Saka at left back to them leaving him on the bench. Only when Saka came on as a sub did England suddenly come into life and should have won the game if not for Dope in goal.

Saka set up the second goal. As they continued to drop further back and allow more space, he was able to beat a few men and cause mayhem in their goal area. Like Dope, Lloris spilled the ball when he should have caught it and then proceed to entirely miss the ball. But as poor as Lloris is – he should also, I think, have done better on the Partey shot and also with Xhakas’ – Romero should have smashed the ball into touch. Thankfully Jesus was there to reestablish the deserved lead. And this guy is their captain. But, clearly, they are a crap team.

Then, of course, we had payback for Rob Holding. There is no version of this world in which that was a straight red-card. It was VAR reviewable but, in slow motion, everything looks worse. It was a poor decision but could not have happened to a more useless player. Royale is pretty gormless and we should forever be thankful that we acquired Tommy and not him. Royale follows in the rich tradition of Auriel and Doherty. Right-backs, who can’t defend that they have overpaid for. It was a stupid, unnecessary foul in a part of the pitch where he did not even need to win the ball. But he was late and high (not on drugs – but you could be forgiven for thinking otherwise) on Martinelli’s shin.

But they got what they deserved. They did not come to play football whereas from the outset we played attractive, entertaining football. That is why we watch the game. Who would watch that lot? There’s nothing there. You can’t win this league playing like that. A truck load of defenders – who are not that good – trying to blanket the opposition with no intent to play. They managed to pull it off last year at Manchester City. But who wants to see their team play like that? In the very early years of Arteta he had to set up his team like that. But he quickly evolved. Whereas Mourinho 2.0 has always set up his team like this. They should be embarrassed to play like this. I would hate Arsenal to be anything like this. And when they have genuine forwards as well? What’s the point. It’s unenjoyable and so negative. Sure they could threaten on the counter-attack and against others it might work. But today, we had them completely beaten. We controlled all phases of the game and highlighted the stark contrast between the direction of these two teams. They have won nothing for years and yet this is the best they can offer? Maybe in other games – and maybe at home – they will have more urgency and passion. But today, they were too passive and fearful of us. Maybe they were right to be. But that negative, pessimistic philosophy is not something you’ll find in our team.

Who would have believed we could be top of the league 8 games in? Today, naturally, was a pleasure. Generally I hate these games. Because a referee will intervene, in a Holding-like way – to undermine us. And I despise that lot so much that I always fear the worst – because they just don’t deserve to be in the same elevated company as us. They have no history and no record of success. But yet they think they are worthy. Enough about them though; they are shite. We knew that before today and just confirmed it again.

But we continue to grow and evolve. There is a sense of progress and maturity. Look at the reaction of Xhaka after that first goal. That is leadership. He immediately gathered everyone round him to get them re-focused. Aside from the previously mentioned mistake, he was immense today culminating in the deserved third goal. The additions to the team over the last year have helped rebuild Arsenal. But we’re not done yet. This team has more room to grow and evolve. We are far from perfect. And yet we’re the youngest team in the league. We know we’re vulnerable to the loss of Partey. We are exposed in that position. But hopefully in January that will be addressed. But when you can bring on Vieira, Eddie, Sambi and Tierney as subs you know we’ve developed a stronger team. This team is incomparable to previous years. The evolution is so exciting. And that lays at the feet of Arteta. This is his creation. And we’re seeing the fruits of that commitment to play the game in the right way.

Today was so much better than I could have hoped for. Sure, we beat them last year at home but then they had a clueless manager who was clearly out of his depth. This year they had a manager that actually has organized them. An early morning start that set up an enjoyable weekend for all of us. And, you know what? We’re still Top Of The League. Enjoy it. And enjoy the beautiful game.

-LB7