Author: BBandbeyond BBandbeyond

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

Yes, and we back to top of the league again. For both August and September. How things can change in a year. Today we were, dare I say, imperious. Even with a few enforced changes we dominated the game, withstood some initial intensity from Brentford and controlled the entirety of the game.

It’s hard to decide who was our best player today. Between Xhaka, Partey, Saliba and Jesus I’d slightly come down on the side of Xhaka. Partey purred today. Today he was so quick and simple on the ball. Often surrounded by one of two of their players he is able to know where he wants to pass before he receives the ball. And no hamstring or thigh injury today. Let’s hope he does not play many minutes during this infuriatingly unnecessary International break. As impressive as Sambi has been, Partey operates at an elevated level. And today he linked up the play effortlessly.

Jesus continues to highlight what we were so lacking last year. A true forward who can energize our team. His goal demonstrated his range of ability. From his delicate chips, breakaway goal and now Giroud-like headers. The pass though from Xhaka was Odegaard-like. He really has been liberated in this new role. Without Zinny to feed him, Xhaka had to play a little deeper at times – something we know can cause him problems. But today he moved up and down the left hand side and dominated the play. Martinelli was a little quiet – he’s allowed a day off. In fact, he should have given us the lead in the first two minutes. That passage of play was an example of the time of control and sweeping, controlled football we’d play throughout the game. It’s just a shame he were not able to convert.

Our opening goal though came care of our Enlarged Willy. Not only did he clock (oh, come on. I said clock) his second goal (ignoring his own-goal) but he controlled the newly called up Brentford forward Toney. There were a number of examples in the first half when Saliba calmness and strength enabled him to prevent any danger. Though the entire game, his reading of the play and position continues to amaze. This boy is a gem. As good a center half as I’ve had in my life-time. I know it’s only 7 games in so I should reserve judgement. And we have (aside from the next game) some big teams to play. So I’ll temper my opinion a little. He’s as good as a center half as I’ve seen in the last 7 games. But money is on my original statement being one I restate later on in the season. Let’s hope he stays fit.

Our defense was completely in control. From Tierney to White to Gabriel we were barely stretched. Ramsdale had but one real save to make. We need to wrap this boy in cotton wool as it’s the second time we’ve seen him holding his leg late on in the game. He is one though I want to see play during the internationals. Not just because he deserves it – he is the best keeper in England but because it’s inconceivable that the ugly Pickford should remain the #1 keeper. There is no comparison between the two. Pickford has no calmness. He’s a shotstopper and a thug. He can’t distribute the ball. And he can’t properly comb his hair. He looks like a hit man from the 1930’s with too much Brylcream on his hair.

And can anyone explain how England continue to pick a center half that can’t even get into the ManU starting 11? And yet, White, who’s played in every match this season, does not get picked. The man with the largest forehead and biggest chin, has not played since being embarrassed at Brentford. So how has Southgate judged whether he is fit and able to play? We know that the man is a donkey in disguise (The Manu player not Southgate). But how can he not have picked White. We benefit because he both gets a two week break and won’t have to socialize/train with the England captain. Sure, I was not happy with his performance against Zaha and Palace in our first game but since then he’s been pretty impressive. Why would you not want someone who can play at either center-half or right back. As opposed to someone, say, who can’t play in any position? Southgate is too conservative. Better than nearly every prior England manager but still too conservative. We saw that in the Euros’ final when he was too scared to win. And this is another example.

Anyway back to today. I can rarely remember us going to another ground against a pretty decent team and totally controlling the pace of the game. Some of our quick passing and movement -again, without Zinny or Odegaard – was really so enjoyable to watch. This is a team that is operating at another level. We have advanced more than I would expected in the last year.  We are a joy to watch. There’s nothing like watching your team win and, at the same time, being proud of the way they play the game. Obviously many people will compare this to our performance here last season. But look the which players were in that team and remain in todays team. Just four – Tierney, White, Martinelli and Xhaka. And it was White’s first game. That’s quite a turnover.

I had few expectations of Vieira today being his first game against a pretty physical and intense Brentford team. But he kept things simple and made no obvious mistakes. It was noticeable that Saka was not in the game as much because of the lack of interplay with Odegaard. But Vieira moved around the pitch and seemed to gradually adapt to the pace of the game. And then capped it off with a glorious goal. One that I don’t think our Norwegian could pull off. It was effortless and seemed to come out of nowhere. And truly sealed off the game and put any nerves to rest. There seemed no backlift or significant power but was perfectly placed. What a perfect start. If it usually takes six months for a player to adapt to English football then we’re in for a treat.

We were so good today that at times I forgot Zinny was not on the field. Nor Odegaard. Arteta got it completely right today. The way he set the team up. It was a continuation of how we played against ManU but this time with the outcome and goals we deserved. There was not intervention by VAR or the referee today. Though, can someone explain to me how in the hell Jesus picked up a yellow card for his only foul in the game? That made no sense.

As much as I hate early games this was thoroughly enjoyable. We completely deserved these three points. And we’re back to our rightful position at the top of the league. It’s only seven games in and I know that’s not where we will finish up. But it’s good to see a gap with the other teams looking to get into the Champions League. We remain a young team and there will be periods where we throw away games and points as we show our inexperience. And let’s face it, we’ve not had Xhaka sent off yet. In fact, we’ve not had anyone sent off. But with that lot down the road due up next let’s see how that turns out. Surely they can’t have Paul Tierney referee that game. At least our Gabriels will all be rested – along with White.

Before we head off into this infernal international break let’s all take a minute to barf out loud about the new Chelsea owner and the bonehead statements emanating from his too-often-open mouth. It’s enough to get Americans in England a bad name. It’s bad enough the Glaziers are at United (or, maybe, we are lucky they are there). At least Kroenke is Silent. There is virtue in that. It’s so embarrassing and squirmy it makes you pine for having an Oligarch run the club. At least we never heard from him. Oh, sure, he might have been responsible for fleecing his nation and supporting a megalomanic, messianic dictator who’s trying to push the world into World War III. But, listen, no one’s perfect. But at least he kept his mouth shut. And all-star game north versus south? Really? He said that out loud? What a putz. Has he no shame. No chance. When the only one agreeing with you is Stevie Gerrard you know it’s a horrible idea. What a moron (either of them). It’s hard enough watching Saka play up front with that England captain. Imagine a north versus south game. Inconceivable. If this is a fine example of his thought process, then Chelski are well and truly fucked. Not that I would mind. I remember when they were a bang below average team before the Russian dollars took Ashley Cole away from us. They deserve nothing less. I just don’t know I can take listening to this big mouth spouting off his ridiculous ideas. He makes Ted Lasso seem pretty intelligent.  How he could have fired Tuchel a few days after the transfer window closed after letting him bring in Aubameyang or paid £60m for the Brighton left-back when he already had another £50m fullback in place. Well, after listening to the latest drivel spewing from his egotistical brain, I think we now have the answer. He’s a buffoon. Buffoon Boehly.

Oh, did I mention, you know, what is it that I wanted to say? And leave this in your head for two weeks. Oh, I know. We’re top of the league.

-LB7

We’re still top of the league. But only just. That was a painful reminder of how far we’ve come but yet how far we’ve yet to go. This is a long journey. Let’s hope we don’t get lost. I decided to wait 24 hours to put pen to paper (well, not literally – neither exactly 24 hours nor pen on paper). We had deserved something from this game but somehow managed to make crucial mistakes

Did I mention VAR?

This was the first game of the season where we did not start with possession domination. For the first 15 minutes they, had more energy, looked fairly decent but did not create any outright chances. We held a firm line and waited. Then we had a counter attack goal, beautifully executed from Odegaard winning the ball back to Saka playing through Marintelli who’s speed and delicate chip was reminiscent of Overmars.

And then VAR gets in on the scene. How this is clear an obvious error? It takes 3+ minutes to decide it might have been a foul. But don’t tell me that’s clear and obvious. That wanker Tierney was two inches away and had eyes on this. He did not think it was a foul. Yet, VAR hundreds of miles away, someone deep in a bunker, decides this was clear and obvious. They spent an extended period looking in microscopic detail for any contact or possible foul. If you look long enough and in excruciating detail, you’ll always find something. Now, it’s clear and obvious that VAR can’t help trying to re-referee a game. I’m sure other teams had more egregious instances of being penalized this weekend. And we will witness yet more as the season drags on. At some point boundary conditions have to be put in place on VAR. Or, better still, take the human subjective element out of VAR. automated offside and maybe red cards but you don’t have to intervene on any and every situation. To be fair this was marginal. It might have been a foul. But so what? It might not have been. And Tierny is there to referee. As painful as that is.

But from that moment on we woke up (in a non-woke way). Odegaard got on the ball, Zinny feed Martinelli and Saka started to rinse their fullback. But aside from one De Gea save with his feet, we failed to test him. We would get close in the box but missed that final pass or shot. Like Bigg(ish) Willy, this time he shrank way from his shot.

And then we were picked off for their first goal. Gabriel jumped in where he should not have; he broke the line. And then the wonderful Zinny got sucked into a central position to leave their tattooed, ugly new forward to slot it past Ramsdale. It was a well taken goal but not exactly deserved and against the run of play.

The second half started in the same vein. You could see that United were lacking in self belief and confidence. We played some nice football. Pressured them up the pitch but somehow lacked that final killer pass or shot. The truth is we did not make DeGea work too hard. But we still deservedly drew level. High pressure and Odegaard playing the intelligent pass through to Jesus for Saka to sniff out a shot. All good things continue to run through Jesus. And both Martinelli and Saka were tormenting their full-backs. We just needed to be patient. And then Sambi mis-places a pass to Jesus in their half and they counter-attack again. White was caught out this time (and for their third goal). But when we, like Man City, play such a high-line, small errors will be costly.

Back to reality. That’s what this game was. I believe we were better than United. But we did not earn the right to win. We made two many mistakes. Aside from our defense mistakes, in hindsight, Arteta should not have made 3 substitutions at once. And not then. We were still in the ascendancy. They hit us on the break for the second. But we had dominated the second half. He should have been more patient. And I would not have taken off Zinny (though maybe that was more protective) because with those changes we were too open. And that third goal killed it for us. And it might have been more if Ronaldo was, like, 30 years younger. We need to get used to this. Because when we play the wankers down the road this is exactly the strategy they will use – to hit us rapidly on the counter-attack.

It was good to see Zinny back out there though Tierney must be a little pissed. But Zinny adds more for us in creativity and forward movement. He also helped – as did Xhaka – with Sambi. And Sambi had a decent game. Some of his passing was excellent. He controlled his game and could not really be blamed too much – even if he helped on their second. Once those subs came on I think he got a little lost positionally. As long as he is not over played he should continue to develop.

But like the rest of the team they need a year or so to fully cook and mature. I still believe we were unlucky yesterday. We held our own against a re-energized and re-organized United team. The score line flattered them. This is a good team (to be clear i’m refering to Arsenal). We were picked off against the run of play.

And back to VAR. There have been many instances where VAR has interceded correctly (i.e. VARdy diving in our area against Leicester). And I don’t hear of any anti-VAR noises our of Spain or France. Or in International matches. Or European matches. So, just maybe, we in England just have knobs for Referees and VAR assistants? Is that possible? A long line of knobs from Dean to Tierney to Moss. VAR has evolved in the 4 seasons we’ve experienced it. But someone needs to take clear ownership and define clear standards. First off, there has to be a timer on VAR. The person reviewing has no more than 1 minute to assess and make a decision. I mean, that’s still more than 60 times as long as the referee had to make the original decision. If they require more than 1 minute then it can’t be clear and obvious. How hard a concept is that? Let’s see how long it takes to implement this? People will argue, when does the 1 minute start? Well, when the referee refers it or from when the incident occurs. We would need someone to oversee VAR and implement the changes needed. Not FIFA or EUFA thank you. But someone steeped in the knowledge of the game. And, yes, I am available. I would be prepared to make that sacrifice. For a large sum of cash (in re-usable notes – no crypto thanks) deposited into an account in Bermuda, I would be willing to be the Czar Master of VAR. There that’s settled.

So the next few games will be interesting. Aside from the accumulation of injuries, this will be an interesting test. Last year we were a streaky team. A run of wins followed by a run of losses. Is that still the nature of this team? Or can we find a way to immediately bounce back. That will tell us a lot about our character. Let’s see how Arteta reacts in his team selection. As I always say, it’s a long season and it’s early days yet. We are still top of the league. We are still in a great position. It’s not the end of the world. But neither should it be the beginning of the end of the world. So let’s see what backbone we have. I suspect we will bounce back. This team has more confidence. And better players. But we need to sort out the defense. Maybe we’ll see Tommy re-appear. Not to blame White but we need to get this right.

And now we have the distraction of the NoHoppaCup on Thursday. Let’s see if we have any players to put out there. ESR, who was invisible when he came on, now seems to be injured again. I hope does not turn into another version of our Jack. This would have been a fine time for him to get some minutes. But we can’t afford to play Sambi nor Odegaard nor Jesus. So let’s see.

And remember, we’re still top of the league. For the moment.

-LB7

So near yet so far. A fine season comes to a close with a deadening silence. For us it’s the NoHoppaCup – no surprise there given the prior two results. And, as they say, the table does not lie. But in this case the team above us is inferior in every way aside from two world class strikers.

Everton should have been relegated – along with Burnley, of course. They are pretty crap. But you can only beat what’s in front of you. And we thrashed them. I know they had nothing to play for apart from pride. But evidentially they don’t have any. We dominated from the first to last minute. And care of the wonderful ObeOne we actually were the beneficiaries of a penalty. But I don’t really get why it took them so long to decide. It either is or is not. In the case you could make the argument that it hit way above his elbow. But then he also made a move to the ball. If it wasn’t given I would not have gone mad. Of course, it was that other team in North London, it would have been given immediately without the help of VAR and, in all likehood, before the game started..

We began the game the way we should have against Newcastle. Creating and passing quickly. And once we got one it became so easy. Odegaard was clearly present for this game and dictated the game. Whereas on their side they had Deli Ali. His objective it seemed was to rile up Xhaka to try and get him sent off. I can’t believe that Ali did not get a yellow for some of his lame, late tackles. And yet more amazing was that Xhaka not only stayed on the pitch but did not even pick up a yellow. I’ll never get what Lampard saw in Ali and why he’s in this team. If that’s evidence of Lampard’s judgement then they will be stuck in the relegation zone again next year.

Eddie nipped in with a classic poachers goal. And, again, his link up play was both effective and nimble. Like Monday, this was amplified once Cigarette replaced him. Cigarette immediately missed a chance and then had a few other shots that explained why he’s not scored since man landed on the moon. And, yet again, he continues to foul the defenders just inside our half to set up their set pieces. I am so looking forward to him returning to France. I would willing pay for the airfare and personally drive him to any French club of his choosing. As likable as he is, he’s never lived up to the required standards. And in the last 12 months he has materially hurt our team. Not intentionally, it’s just that he’s not up to the level of the Premier League any more.

Xhaka was not pressurized today and therefore had ample time to stroke the ball around. But Elneny was the key creator today. Taking the ball from the defense and pushing us forward. In retrospect we lost 4^th place when we started Sambi in midfield over Elneny and pushed Xhaka to left-back. But, at the time, no-one would have countenanced Elneny playing over Sambi. But hindsight being what it is. Oh well.

And when Sambi came on you could see he did not have the positional awareness we need. And on that point, OhNo put in a typical shift. Not completely awful though he was barely tested. However, at the start of the second half, when Everton decided to actually try and play he both found a way to play the ball directly to them in a dangerous position and then give away a foolish foul on Calvert-Lewin. OnHo had a few chances on goal and, of course, managed to blast them way off target. We unquestionably, desperately require a real left-back for next season. And if it could be a part-exchange with OhNo and a pack of crisps, then so much the better. I don’t think I have enough years left on this planet to see OhNo develop into a trusted football player. He is what Theo would be at left back. Fast, exciting and totally unreliable. Though that might be a little unfair on Theo.

And on his vaunted return we saw again why we need Saliba back here next year. Poor Holding, who looks like he has a proper hedge growing on his head now, just makes too many mistakes at this level. He is an earnest, committed version of Mustafa. I can’t believe I’ve just said that. But when you consider the lack of judgement in the NLD and the decision today to leave the ball from Calvert-Lewin as it ran across our 6 yard area, you have to wonder whether he will ever be of the required quality. We all love our Rob but, at the level we’d like to get to, he’ll be left by the road side. Assuming, that is, we can convince Saliba to return. My hope is that he can replace Gabriel. Though he scored today he still insists on making long passes when Elneny or Odegaard is the obvious – and quicker – pass. Anyway, look at any of the top team and you’ll see they all carry at least 3 first rate center-halves. We need that.

Martinelli was a live wire again creating havoc down our left hand side. It makes you wonder why he did not start on Monday. He had chances – which we should have taken – but he adds a real threat down the left. It’s just a shame he has to work with OhNo and not Tierney.

As pleasant as today was I do wonder why we had to bring on Pepe at 4-1 up with nothing to play for. Hopefully he’s sold off in some garage sale over the next month or so. In this one instance the Accountant (i.e. Emery) was 100% right. We should have gotten Saha. Though with the emergence of Saka we actually needed neither. Well, definitely not Pepe. If we can get a bubble-gum wrapper and a half eaten hot dog I’d consider that a good trade. But why didn’t Arteta bring on one of the young kids. By this stage there was nothing to play for and they would have benefits from the experience.

Let’s hope that both Saka and ESR take nice long summer breaks though I fear stupid England internationals might interfere. Both have looked knackered over the last few games. At their age they’ve been played too much. Of course, if Pepe was not such a waste, Saka could have got some recovery time. But Saka, along with Ramsdale, were our players of the year. Not something you could ever accuse Pepe of. What a waste of money.

I nearly forgot. Cedric scored. That means he actually hit the target. It was, in truth, a well-taken goal. But I fear it might encourage him to try more shots or free-kicks. And that would be a disaster. Anyway, my bigger hope is that not only does Tomi make it back, fit and eager for the new season but that we find an alternate right-back to Cedric. If we want to progress we can’t have him as the back-up right back (nor OhNo as the backup left back). But today, give him credit. He hit the target. But lightening does not strike twice in the same place so let’s off-load him while he’s still smiling.

It’s a shame we could not produce a performance like this in the prior two games, though, to be fair, the opposition were at a very different level. It was pretty inevitable how today would play out for 4^th so we can’t say it was surprising even if there will always be lingering regret. But we can only blame ourselves (and Paul Tierney). Long-term, we might be grateful for entering Europe through the NoHoppa Cup. We need a couple more transfer windows to fully re-tool this squad. We’ve made excellent progress. Consider who we’ve jettisoned in the last 18 months – Ozil, David Luiz, Kolinsac, Mustafa, Ospina, Mikeytarrian, Aubameyang, Chambers, Mari, Torreira, Guendouzi and (yuk) Willian. That’s an entire team even ignoring those we’ve sent out on loan (Nelson, AMN etc). Though I hate those cheats and wankers from up the road getting into the CL, I like our progression and trajectory. The NoHoppaCup suits us quite nicely and will give playing time to our younger, less experienced players. And it will allow us to patiently add a few key players. Now that Mbappe has, for some crazy reason, decided to re-sign with the money pit of PSG as opposed to take the opportunity to lead the line at The Emirates, we can focus on the importance of the summer signings. But that’s for another post once we’ve digested and recovered from the trauma of the last few weeks. There will be ample time for reflection I’ll gather my usual random thoughts and see if I can generate a coherent, semi-intelligent review of the year later this week. A high bar indeed, I know. But I can hear by regular reader demanding to hear my thought (or, just maybe, thoughts).

And, remember, there is always next year. We’ll all be heading to Budapest! Oh come, on, no, not to fight the Russians – it’s where the NoHoppa Final is next year.

-LB7

Twenty four hours later I still feel pissed off and frustrated. I figured the time might heal the wounds but not really. Unlike the Thursday game where we could rightly blame circumstances aka a wanker for a referee, this one was entirely on us. No-one else to blame for this. No excuses. Well, apart from having Cedric in the team.

We did not turn up. We were missing in action. Or, rather, there was no action. This felt like we’d decided to repeat our performance against Brentford. Maybe it’s the stripped opposition. Newcastle, to be fair, were pretty decent. But it’s hard to understand how they won every tackle, every little skirmish and were always first to the ball. We looked to be playing at 1/3^rd speed. We were slow to the ball and, at no time, did we get control of this game. We barely put any passes together. Even with 10 men (and against 12) on Thursday we created more chances.

Too many of our players were mere shadows of their former self. ESR was non-existent. He would lose the ball or make dubious passes. He looked entirely light-weight. In complete contrast to his Chelsea performance. I had to check a few times to see whether Odegaard was even on the pitch he was that anonymous. Of course, he was clattered one time in the first half but he barely touched the ball. These two don’t exactly carry any excess muscle and Newcastle all too easily leant in and got the ball from them. Xhaka and Elneny looked at odds and ends. The stability that they had provided for the last five games disappeared. Even the wonderful Ramsdale looked nervous in the first half. His distribution and timing seemed off.

As for the defense, as unhealthy as it looked, it only got worse once the curse of the hamstring struck Tomi. Maybe we should consider ourselves lucky to have had him play this last couple of games. His withdrawal brought in the midget-man Cedric. It was fun to see him consider marking their man-mountain Dunk from corners. This man is so poor he made Oh No not be the worse player on our team. Actually, it’s hard to pin any of this on Oh No. He was reasonably solid. But the entire game both White and Gabriel were under pressure. They had no chance to settle on the ball. Newcastle pressed high up and they had no outlets. Saka was hard to find and that just left Eddie. And, of all our players, I thought he was the best. Of course, that’s like saying of all dictators Mussolini was the best (of the worst).  He was the only one who showed any spark and worked hard (Eddie not Mussolini). Over these few games you can see that his game has evolved. He is more than a poacher (not that he has poached recently). His link up play was quite effective. And, in context, when Cigarette came on, still Eddie linked up better.

Not that it mattered, we were flatter than a flat earth. We were more dead than a do-do. We were lost and aimless. We seemed shellshocked before any shells went off. We were outmanned because we had no men. We had no gas in the tank. We had no juice left. And I have no idea why. Was it tactics? Maybe? Was it Artetas’ strategy? Possibly. But if your players can’t make simple passes I don’t know what the manager is supposed to do. If a player, of real quality, like ESR can’t win a simple tackle, I don’t know what Arteta is supposed to do.

I’d like to suggest it’s because the players were just knackered after a long season. But it’s no longer than any other team. It’s not like we had European football to distract us. Maybe it’s related to our squad depth and the youth of our team. I felt that Saka had been run down for a month now. ESR has been carrying an injury. And, clearly, White and Gabriel were patched together with band-aid before being pushed onto the field. But if we’re an under-equiped squad to play the regular English season god helps us when we layer in 10+ games in Europe along with a World Cup sandwiched in between. The list of key starters – Tierney & Partey – along with the walking cripples of White, Gabriel, Tomi, Saka and ESR just about decimated this team. And then there is Cigarette. He has been truly extinguished. He can’t be part of this squad next year.

And nor can Pepe. He is one player who can’t possibly be running out of gas. He’s just not ever had any. And against Newcastle, when given his chance, he was classically useless. I know it would not have made a difference anyway, but it’s so depressing to see how wasteful he is. His clear talent has never translated to the EPL. He has to be flogged off in the summer. Get a can of tomatoes and a used newspaper in exchange if you can. But, really, his pass to Xhaka that exposed the entire defense i.e. by that stage, just poor old White, was so careless and inexcusable. White, half dead already had to then contend with a 2 on 1, only to be saved by Ramsdale. But how could Pepe be so irresponsible? Well, that’s just the way he rolls unfortunately. He reminds me of a less ugly version of Gervinho – who went onto have a good career in Italy. Let’s just hope we can package him together with the midget Cedric to complete the final stages of the clear out.

So we’re not headed to the Champions League. And after the last two games it’s hard to argue that we deserve it. The problem is that those other wankers – who don’t deserve it either – will get it. But I suspect it’s a pyrrhic victory. They are a long way away from having a real team there. It’s only because we’re such wankers that we let the door open for them.

For us, we’ll have to suffer through Sunday with the full knowledge we are destined for the NoHopaCup. As painful as that is, because we had the CL in our grasp, we chose to throw it away. Whether it was because to Paul Tierney, Rob Holding or our inability to travel beyond the wall of the north into that cold wasteland to face mighty Newcastle, it matters not now. Even as we suffer through this we have to console ourselves with the fact that we did not lose the CL in one game. Look back to those first three games, to the loss at Everton, to those Palace, Brighton and Southampton losses. Just a couple of points more from these games would have put us in the CL.

Remember, after three games of this season no-one would imagine we’d finished 5^th. No-one would have imagined that we’d even qualify for the NoHoppaCup. I know it does not feel like an achievement. But it is progress. This team has developed. Sure, the last few games has illuminated our known issues. With careful recruitment – a center-forward, a center midfield player and a left back – we can build on last summers progress. If we are able to find equivalent players to White and Ramsdale, then the NoHoppaCup could be a good place for this young team to develop. We do need a backbone though. We need a few players who can grab a game by the scruff of the neck when we’re being battered. Someone who can lead on the field. Because that was clearly lacking. And we’ve seen that happen more than once this season.

So it’s not back to the drawing board. Not quite. It just feels like a wasted opportunity. And these windows don’t come along that often. I wonder, in future years, whether we’ll look back on this the same way we do on Leicester winning the league. Next season there is just no way Man United can be as utterly useless as this year. So, they will contend for that 4^th spot. And West Ham are unlikely to have a distraction of European football – oh, hold on, they would get the European Conference thing. Maybe we can only pray that Chelski go bankrupt before the season starts.

Hopefully the atmosphere on Sunday will not be funereal. And, hopefully, on the side line, Arteta can find his energy. I think he was in shock for most the Newcastle game. We’ve seen this happen a few times. He looks like a deer in headlights. He’s a young inexperienced manager. But he has to find ways of reacting when his team completely go off the rails. He had no visible impact at half-time. He has to learn how to correct these situations. For Sunday though, let’s hope we get our energy, passion and creativity back. Unfortunately, our losing streaks come in 3 so that does not bode well. And let’s also hope the midget does not play right back. Though without Tomi I’d prefer to see anyone from the academy rather than our mustached midget.

• LB7

Or Tierney 3 Arsenal 0. Or Cedric+Holding 3 Arsenal 0

You wait the entire week for the game and you get this shit. I was as excited and nervous for a game as I have been in ages. And within 20 minutes it’s all up in smoke. The cumulative effect of each of Tierney’s decision was to give the game to Sp*rs. Sure Holding butchered Son a little – who wouldn’t? And why not? But why did he have to give the penalty? Sure Cedirc is dumb. We know that. But no-one is actually reaching that ball as it was too high. And, for their third goal Kane clearly pulls on Gabriel and yet that’s not a foul. But Tierney changes the course of the game with that penalty call. It was borderline and he did not need to give it. This reminded me of Michael Oliver at Wolves sending off Martinelli. It just did not need to happened. But this is Tierney. A bullshit referee that makes you pine for the days of Mike Dean.

Clearly Cedric bares some responsibility. Just as Holding does for his consistent fouling on Son. But, even for his second booking, the ball was going way away from the players so it was not like he blocked any chance. He did use his shoulder and you can see him raise his elbow but he did not have to book him. He could have given a final warning or something. He could have exercised some judgement. But, no, just like the penalty, he was very quick to make that decision and then, again, change the course of the entire game.

Prior to that we had come out firing. Sp*rs were looking to play their boring defensive containment brand of football (yawn) and to hit us on the counter-attack; and this was a home game for them, mind you. We moved the ball around and looked in control. Until Tierney stepped in.

It’s so frustrating. All the luck we’ve had in the last four games evaporated. In addition to losing Holding for the next game it looks like we lost Gabriel for the season. And White, who was warming up never came on. Maybe he’s being saved for Monday but I fear he really is not fit. So we’re out of center-halves for Monday.

By the way, before the second goal Saka was fouled and they got the free-kick that lead to the corner and the goal. Tierney did not give us any decisions. He just handed us a red card and numerous yellows. This is not how you referee a top flight game. I’ve always thought he was a joke and tonight we got confirmation of it. He is not fit to referee. But he won’t be held accountable. He was their difference maker. What should have been a balanced and genuinely competitive contest was rendered useless. After a game like that you can’t tell who was the better team.

So I lay this at the feet of Teirney. I think that’s pretty clear. But, and here’s the funny thing (though I know no-one, in particular me, is laughing), we all know that have the youngest team in the Premier League. We lack experience. And tonight it showed. But we will learn and improve. But yet our failures today were not due to our youngsters but actually our older players. It was not the inexperienced players that let us down tonight. Cedric – who is as close to retirement as we can hope – and Holding are two of our most experienced players (aside from Xhaka). They are certainly our oldest. And yet, it was their decisions that cost us this game. Well, apart from Tierney but maybe I’ve already mentioned that.

What was Holding thinking? Did he let Son rile him up? If so, even more shame on him. This was his chance to nail down that position. He’s been so solid up until now. I’ve not seen him lose control but tonight he did. And even though the referee was a wanker, Holding did not need to give him the opening to book him again. And as for Cedric, in addition to the stupid challenge in the box for the (non)-penalty, he also found ways to pass the ball back to Sp*rs and set up more chances for them. He has replaced On No as our kamikaze full-back and our liability.

Arteta seemed, from the penalty decision onwards, in shock. For that first 20 minutes he was his usual self. But once they went 1-0 up it looks like he could not channel his anger and frustration into tactics. It was interesting though that he warmed up White but did not bring him on. As mentioned, this does not bode well. It was interesting to see Tomi move to center back. We’ll need him there for Monday. But Arteta will also have learned a lot. He won’t have learned that Tierney is a wanker because he’ll have known that already.

I also have a sneaking fear that he should have pulled Saka off because he did not look entirely healthy and we’ll need him for Monday. He protected Eddie but not Saka. As an aside, when Cigarette came on it only amplified how much better Eddie is. I know it was only for ten minutes but his lack of mobility compared to Eddie shone though.

There were little periods in the second half when we created some chances – for example, when Odegaard shot right at Lloris or when he had a shot deflect away by Davies. This was like the Southampton game, nothing was going our way, we were never going to score and we certainly were not going to get any calls from this wanker referee. So most of the rest of the game turned into a training session. Sp*rs did not need to extend themselves. They should and could have rung up the score. I would have hoped we would have in the same position. As it was, this game was effectively done after 20 minutes. What a waste.

We are in Europe next year irrespective. I would not bet on it being the Champions League. Without White and Gabriel, and with an unfit Saka, we now have two challenging games versus the easier fixture for them. We have to win both games. Hopefully by the last game of the season Everton will be safe from relegation. But the Newcastle game is going to be challenging. Look how hard it was for Liverpool. For us to have any chance of three points (or any) we will need a different referee and definitely the luck we had in the last four games.

I know I should be angrier. I was from their first goal until half-time but then it became a joke and I was more worried about not getting Xhaka sent off. I have no idea why he did receive a yellow card because the cameras continued this trend of showing us the crowds and not the game. Or the managers and not the game. I will know when we have entered the future when we actually can watch games with picture in picture. Or where we can chose the camera angles. Because whoever in the production room is making those decision is a cretin. We want to watch the action on the field not some chubby, hairless tattooed twat in the stands. As anyone who has the misfortune to know me will attest, this has been a frustration of mine for many years. It’s as though the producers (or directors, whoever they are) are trying to create some real-time artistic reality show with various personalities. Trying to capture everyone’s reaction. Whenever a player does anything it immediately then tracks back to follow the player -even if the play is proceeding somewhere else on the pitch. Why can’t they simply let us watch the action on the pitch?

Oh, I feel just a little better now. For one minute there I nearly forgot my anger and disappointment along with the sense of injustice as I got into my standard TV camera rant.

The good news though, as stated before, is that we are going to be in Europe. But, what a letdown. To lose like this. It was not a contest really. It was 12 against 10. And I had been so excited for this game.

So, onto Monday now. I truly believed we’d be able to wrap up the season today. I truly believed (and still do) that we’re a better team than that lot. Turns out Tierney does not see it that way. Of course, Leeds could make a similar argument. They made us work for it. I will retire to repair my wounds, put on my game face and hope that I can rediscover my mojo for Monday. How sad is it that now, rather than check out the opposition players, I’m checking who’s referring the next game. It’s Darren England. Whoever he might be. Maybe we should ask for Jonny English instead.

-LB7

Oh Yes. That’s what happens when you leave Oh No on the bench. Three points earned within the first 20 minutes and then a relative training exercise apart from some angst once they scored.

Eddie is soaring like an eagle (sorry, a reference to an Olympian from the 1980’s there). Cigarette could not and would not have scored either goal. The first was just pure opportunism and hard work. Even Wright-esque if you will. And the second one was actually quite difficult but well taken. His overall link up play was also excellent. It’s amazing to see the growth and evolution in his all-round play in these last few matches. His form could not be more timely. Cigarette was crying out to be extinguished. Eddie, basically – along with Elneny (I kid you not) , has helped turned this team around. Last year it was Saka and ESR. This year it’s another Hale End product and the-most-boring-player-ever. Ok, maybe there are a few others that have contributed. Xhaka was excellent today. Because of the nature of Leeds, Xhaka was played slightly further upfield with just Elneny covering the back-line. But back to Eddie, by the end, he looked knackered again which indicates he’s still working on adjusting to all this playing time. There could still be more from this boy. I go back to his miss against Everton. At that point I’d have been happy to throw the towel in on this guy. He’s not going to turn into Messi anytime soon but he’s proved that he is worthy of a place in this current team. And, going forward, as we confidently stride back onto the Eurostar (second-class seats only please) as we re-enter into Europe, he should be one of two or three forwards. Assuming he wants to stay. Which he must. Why would he want to join a bang-up average team like Palace or Brighton for more predictable playing time. Well, aside from the fact that both teams embarrassed us only a few weeks ago.

Finally, we’ve sorted out the starting position of Nuno. Dear old Oh No has a bright future as one of our trainers easing cramp on our players. Martinelli appreciated that contribution today. And that, thankfully, was his only contribution today.

What a difference he made to the team today. By his absence we finally saw what a solid, reliable and talented left-back could do for this team. We finally had some balance to this team. Notice how both goals and most of our attacks came down the left? When was the last time we saw that. How much more confident was Gabriel – not having to worry about a runaway, random bundle of chaos on his left. The defense – though untested largely – was able to deal with Raphinha. In the first half Tomi was able to track back and battle him without the usual heart in mouth moment we’ve suffered under Oh No. Instead of the fear of Oh No we had the quality and stability of Tomi. No angst just an actual footballer who understands the game. And it’s not like Tomi is a grizzled, experienced players. He’s barely three years older. But with him at left back we were able to free up Xhaka and increase our fluency. Let’s just hope that Oh No can stay on the bench for the remaining three games. Without Oh No, the natural order could be returned. And that meant our worst player reverted to being Cedric. As it should be.

Another reason for the shift to being so focused on the left-hand side was the sparkling Martinelli. He roasted Leeds today. In addition to creating the second goal he basically tore them apart today. One of his best games in quite a while. Xhaka played through some sublime passes for him today. Martinelli was at the center of most action today. From that perfect pass to Eddie to their sending off. I’m sure, even by that early stage, Ayling was so frustrated with Martinelli that he went all-Xhaka on him. This was one time when VAR came to our rescue. As soon as you saw the first replay you just knew if it was Xhaka jumping in then he’d already have been taking an early shower. Thankfully Kavanagh watched the replay himself.  Between a couple of penalties and the help of VAR ever since Southampton we finally seem to have got our fair share of luck. I don’t mean we were lucky to have Ayling sent off – that was well deserved. But we were lucky that Ayling was so reckless and stupid to have committed that unnecessary tackle. Very Xhaka-like.

But even before all this action, we were dominating the game. The balance in this team is so much better. No just because of Oh No being on the bench. We barely missed White. Holding, with his full head of hair, was solid. But with Elneny being available to receive the ball immediately in front of them, we’ve taken some of the weight off Gabriel. Our overall interplay is quicker and transitions happen quicker with Eddie also helping here. Odegaard was majestic again though he has to deal with Cedric behind him. Saka was a little quiet by his high standards but still managed to set up a few opportunities.

The only negative today – aside from not keeping a clean sheet – was our inability to really pile on the goals. Our inability to get that 3^rd or 4^th goal was highlighted by their one shot and one goal. We should really have put the game away by then. We missed so many chances as we understandably dominated the game. Credit to Leeds though, they worked hard and continued to try and play football. Apart from that little shit James who is a nasty little dirty fucker. Someone needs to go all Ayling on him.

The last 10 minutes were unnecessarily nerve wracking. We even brought on Pepe. He’s been on the bench for an eternity. Yet again though, when he comes on he barely flickers. He is our own version of Grealish. A large transfer fee. And very little return. Surely, he will be sold this summer. Even with European football, it’s hard to see where he fits now. With the emergence of Saka and ESR, his time has come and gone. Maybe if we end up in the NoHoppaCup he could help us against the sub-standard teams out of unknown parts of Europe. But I’d still rather get $20m and sell him on. He’ll be quite effective in the French or Spanish Leagues. But he was not built for the EPL.

Four wins on the trot. Assured of a place in Europe we now enter the NLD knowing that whatever happens we will still be 4^th. I had to force myself to watch the Liverpool game this weekend. Unfortunately, they looked nearly decent and should have won the game in the last few minutes but Hojbjerg bottled it. So, you know they will be up for it on Thursday. Their dirty little captain, Captain England, will be dangerous and jumping in with two footed challenges. Son will be threatening, and they will play their boring counter-attacking game. But with Tomi to cover Kulusevski we should at least be able to defend properly. If we can come away with a draw I’ll be happy. We just need our luck to run our way for one more game. It’s not actually the most important game of the season. Arguably that was the 4-2 turnaround game at Chelski. But, of course, it’s against those arrogant, upstart twats. I’d have been happy with the NoHoppaCup at the start of the season but, more than anything, I don’t want them to get into the Champions League. It’s not that I desperately want to be there. I know we will with time. Next year, given the growth and development of this team. I have no doubt. But I’m buggered if those tossers should be in it. Can you imagine the pain and grief on Kane’s face knowing that he can no longer escape to Man City and he’s stuck playing in the NoHoppaCup for the rest of his career. How beautiful will that be.

But even after this NLD, there will be plenty of opportunity for both of us to drop points. Though these two teams are on different trajectories, we have in common inconsistency. Both teams tend oscillate between mediocrity and excellence. This game will be physical, intense and exhausting. So I would not bet against either of us dropping further points.

Last word now on the Arteta contract. That was a smart move and the timing was clever. It tells any future potential summer signings we have stability and a long-tmer plan. There are one or two twats out there claiming it was too soon to reward him. Claiming that he’s not earned it because we’ve not won anything yet. So, first off, he won us the F A Cup. And secondly, what the fuck did they expect him to win? The League? They are just miserable morons that can’t see the development and progress of this team. He’s turned over nearly an entire squad, got rid of the dead wood (both expensive and also the cheap) and returned us to a style of play we can be happy with. And he’s introduced youngsters. And he’s got us back into Europe. I love the idea that we offered him the contract after the three losing games. That tells me that there is some (though how much I don’t know) football intelligence within Arsenal. And it’s been a while since you could say that. So even if the NLD is a disaster, in the broader context, I know which team has a brighter future.

-LB7