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| Rob K - March 16,
2005
Dear Forum - I am very
sad to have to say that my wonderful cousin Steve Gleiber, host of the
forum, passed away a few hours ago. Stevie was only 41 years old but has
finally lost his battle with cancer. He is survived by his loving family
Jutka, Janche & Susie and his wonderful partner Angela. Note: A memorial page has been created HERE |
Adverts/services (including ripping off genuine supporters with astronomically priced ticket offers) posted to this forum will be removed
IMMEDIATELY. The same goes for abusive messages.
If you have a product or service that you feel is relevant to Arsenal supporters then contact us and we can discuss it. If you have a problem or a question for me, then contact us DON'T post it here it. If you want to post rumours, then use the Rumours Page and not this one. This is NOT a joke/windup page. |
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POSTINGS:
Richie
April 17, 2005
Looks like there was more to RVP's collision with Todd's elbow than I first thought. On the first viewing and in real time it looked like an accident. It would seem that the FA might like a second look at it.
Man About Town
April 17, 2005
Tom Dean - you are obviously fixtated with the great and mighty Arsenal and just can not leave this site alone. I know as a Chelsea kiddie you are severely starved of success (probably also in your personal life too) but why don't you just **** off back to your little Chelsea world. Can't you see that you are a laughing stock - you haven't beaten us in the league for 10 years - what sort of record is that? Jeez, you guys are so embarrasing I almost feel sorry for you.
DaveM
April 17, 2005
Senderos, Cesc and VP should be the spine of the side right now. And there are so many others. I wonder if there has been a side in the last few decades with as many potentially world class players in the 17-21 age band? Maybe Ajax? I even notice Ryan Garry is nearly fit. He was just as exciting a propect as Clichy was a couple of years back before his injury nightmare. But we won't win the league this year, and if Wenger doesn't make better use of the talent he has we won't win it next year either. Beating Chelsea at their place would be rather sweet though.
US Martin
on a mate's computer
April 16, 2005
Senderos , Cesc and VanPersie are the spine of Arsenal in four years time - wonderful to a man today, and joined in that by Vieira, Toure, Pires, Gilberto, and Lauren - in Fact a wonderful team effort at all ends when you knew it would be like this and that fat f**k Dunn would let it be like this. So proud of the boys today, especially for not letting Blackburn and Dunn's looking away from their tactics get to them, even to the end with Todd who CLEARLY raised his forearm and he crossed Robin and elbowed him deliberately. I don't think the injury was intended (he meant to just elbow him in a niggly unsporting manner, not seriously injure him) Great job today. Now let's take the Cup and ideally deny the druken scot any joy this year, and let's see what happens Wednesday and WHEN we win as we SHOULD, see if the romans can hold it together....Come On Double...COME ON ARSENAL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Steve Martin
April 16, 2005
DaveM I don't think Arsenal fans appreciate how good Arsenal players are full stop... RVP was getting it in the neck... Many said play Senderos, then he was played, then he was not good enough, now he is the business... 50 games lost 6, scored 103 goals...
goonerguru
April 16, 2005
Excellent result and not just for us but for football as well,Andy Gray was a disgrace,how can a supposed unbiased football pundit condone that type of thuggery in the disguise of football,Paddy who was man of the match by a mile was given a right going over by the BBurn hooligans and I will be surprised if he plays Wednesday,Two of the sweetest goals by VPersie,long live the new DB10,will the video panel ban Tod for a vicious assault on him after his second goal,I doubt it,VPTBAG.
Steve Martin
April 16, 2005
Also, if an Arsenal player had done what the blackburn player had done to RVP, Gray and Tyler would have thrown the noose round his neck... 3-0 they got off lightly
DaveM
April 16, 2005
Forgive me for getting over-excited, but VP is going to be some player. Actually he already is some player. He's really grown up this season - the evidence has been there for the last month or so. I wonder if he's reached the 'Senderos threshold' - the point where it's obviously stupid to leave him out. I think Wenger is actually getting worse with his use of subs - VP should have replaced Bergkamp at least 10 minutes earlier than he did. I thought Vieira and Toure had excellent games. Reyes was invisible and Bergkamp made mistake after mistake. Pires had a mixed game. Gilberto did better as Blackburn tired. Ljungberg was predictably awful. Injured or not, that's exactly the sort of performance I was expecting. Lauren and Cole were ok, Lehmann played well. Senderos has some trouble with offsides, but generally had a good game. Aliadiere looked excellent for the couple of minutes he was on. Cesc didn't have his best game, but he got forward well and had a few efforts on goal. Losing Ljungberg is a real boost before the Chelsea game. The fact Vieira is playing well is also excellent news. Senderos appears dominant in the air, so it will be intersting to see how he deals with Drogba. If we want to win we should start with VP and Aliadiere - their pace and movement will unsettle any defence. I don't think most Arsenal fans appreciate how good Aliadiere can be, because of his injuries and the fact he played in two games last season where we were awful as a team. He is a complete striker - pace, movement, can run at players, finishing off both feet and with his head, very good link up play. If he can stay fit he'll become one of the best in the world. He and VP are an extremely exciting partnership. Our young players are amazing - it's not a risk to start with them, it's a risk to start without them. I thought Blackburn did a good impression of Bolton, which was entirely predictable. I didn't think we covered ourselves in glory at all times. In particular the silly bookings we picked up (although Cesc was incredibly unlucky) and the 45 pass move. If we'd lost after that we'd never have lived it down. Still, today was a good day.
Steve Martin
April 16, 2005
Richard Keys before the Game, Arsenals only hope of winning silverware this season... Would you just not love it if Cheslea collapsed and we won the double... I still believe if we beat cheslea we will win the league... 50 years will make the panic, the run in they will give it up...
Wengerknows
April 16, 2005
There is being bad at your job and there is being a clueless twat in life. Steve Dunn today was a clueless twat, end of! Abominable refereeing. Before the break, Dickov tries to end Senderos' career - almost a carbon copy of RVN's foul on Cole last season - and absolutely no foul, no card, zip. Some other twat leaves his studs up on Lehman nothing. Savage leaves his stud marks on Cesc's shinpads - nothing. Van Persie damn near got his head taken off by a blatant elbow, no caution, nada?#@*@*!!! Where do they find these joke referres? Really, it was WWE standard today. Well, still E*G Blackburn got what they deserved in the end - nothing! Well done Van Persie. Sure made the most of his opportunity today. That's the way to get ahead.
US Martin
still using other PCs when I can
April 16, 2005
No need to leave anything on thre pitch Wednesday now. A win and with Chelsea resting players ahead of the semis for three or even four matches, they will drop points for sure. The re-arranged fixture with the scum mancs might be their best bet for a win, as if the mancs go through to the final Ferguscum will play reserves against the romans, and with Mike riley reffing now, the betting houses are paying out all ManUre bets already. Our toughest matches left are home to s***s and Liverpool. the scum s***s have been VERY cooperative with us actually on these occasions(Our clinching at s***e hart lane in 71 and 04, as well as huge wins late in 99 and 02)and Liverpool will still either be looking to the Champions League Final(good on Liverpool for whatever they achieve but it is not the European Cup if you fininsh fourth in your League, sorry) or drained from the semi-final. If we win Wednesday we CAN still WIN the League. Long odds, but hardly impossible IF we win. I suspect Wenger still believes that privately, too. I believe we CAN if not WILL. It's down to Wednesday and I never bet against Arsene Wenger even if I'm not always happy with his tactics...Come on Double(I'll say it till they pry the trophy from my cold, dead hands...)...COME ON ARSENAL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
** Please Note **
April 16, 2005
Rivals wanted for Tupperware FC (Roman Fc )
Anyone need apply - We're desperate
Danny
April 16, 2005
Tom Dean: Champions Leauge might be chelsea's but the champions league is AC Milans. Watch your boys confidence peel away after we beat you on wednesday, i wouldn;t be too surprised to see Fulham take a point off you and then its wobbly bum time. Still if you win the title you will only be one behind huddersfield town so don't get too excited eh Tom.
Steve Martin
April 16, 2005
From the BBC web Site report A poor semi-final saw more bookings than goalscoring chances in front of a disappointing below-capacity crowd" sorry I saw the Arsenal end packed to the refters, and Arsenal tried to play football... Perhaps the way Blackburn play has a lot to do with why they had only 15.000 fans there...
Young Gunner
April 16, 2005
Well I gues you are right that THIS season Chelsea is onto a greater glory but that's most likely because u've got unlimited cash(a little unfair to the competition but that's life..just don't get too conceited bcoz of that) to snap up players at premium price and flaunt them at ur opponents..and their players alike ^^..bt we'll be back next season!!
david.d
April 16, 2005
YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS......what a cameo by van persie. the first was a absolute beauty...fantastic skill and clinical finish. the 2nd a lovely measured strike. the boy has talent , no doubt about that. lets go back and take that cup!!!
Andy Green
April 16, 2005
Two great goals by RVP.Todd was out of order.Roll on Wednesday
Young Gunner
April 16, 2005
Seems like Van Persie is gonna be a good player for Arsenal with good movement and finishing ability...what a sweet left foot he has, and someone who's not afraid to take 1st time pot shots...just what we needed in the team that's occasionally a little too addicted to over-elaborate passing ^^..
RobbensGoodRobbensGoodRunningDownTheWing
April 16, 2005
Congrats 8-)
Richie
April 16, 2005
3-0 Final score. Pires and VP with 2. A solid performance. Blackburn tried to kick us off the park but the quality shone through in the end. Another final to look forward to. Well done Arsenal.
Richie
April 16, 2005
3-0 Great build up and shot by Van Persie. Collided into Todd after scoring. It was accidental but looked a bit nasty.
Richie
April 16, 2005
2-0 Sublime piece of skill by Van Persie (on for DB10). A few mins left.
Richie
April 16, 2005
After a bright start after half time, we have have gone off the boil a bit. Really need to put this game to bed and get that 2nd goal. Blackburn are sensing an equaliser. We look comfortable at the back but one mistake could cost us. Savage by name, Savage by nature. Tosser.
Steve Martin
April 16, 2005
We have three bookings to Blackburnms four, and Blackburn are deliberatley kicking lumps out of us...
MEA
April 16, 2005
Kiwipete - Try the audio on the bbc. Normally you can only get it if in UK, but it seems to be working today!
Steve Martin
April 16, 2005
Andy Gray says as Arsenal have free kick right and end of first half "this will be a kick in the teeth if Arsenal score here" Why Andy? either you just don't like Arsenal winning or your a fan of ultra boring rough house tactics football... There are fouls and fouls, all Blackburns deserve bookings... Football will be the winner if Arsenal win as Blackburn would not change their style for the final, whats the point in winning if you have to play like Blackburn are, surely, even the players must want to actually play...
Richie
April 16, 2005
1-0 Pires from a tap in. Good work by Toure. The ref is has lost the plot. Far too lenient on Blackburn. Some of the challenges have been shocking. We knew it wasn't going to be pretty but Blackburn are just taking the piss with some of the tackles. First 30 mins or so very stop start and little fluency. Full marks to the team for keeping their cool, especially Vieira who has taken the brunt of the fouls. Blackburn are a F disgrace. Now they have to try and play some football. Reyes has had one or two bright moments but really should have scored just before we did take the lead. Some neat passing let Reyes in with just the gk to beat but there was no conviction in the shot. Would keep the team as it is but can see Fab coming on at some point. The FA really must re-think this idea of having all the semi's at Wembley from next year. It's farcical.
kiwipete
April 16, 2005
Changed from the boring mundane BBC to the Sporting LIfe and we scored.
Steve Martin
April 16, 2005
Just heard we scored, seems like no more than Blackburn deserve, play football like they are and you get everything you deserve... Thompson should be off the pitch, refs got no bottle... I hate this 4-5-1 tactic, it's ruining the game...
RobbensGoodRobbensGoodRunningDownTheWing
April 16, 2005
40mins in and blackburn have made 15 fouls !
kiwipete
April 16, 2005
Reading the BBC text doesn't seem much excitement. Overview of the match anyone?
Steve Martin
April 16, 2005
Well almost 30 minutes gone, glad I never paid to go to Cardiff... If that is the future of football that Blackburn are playing then it can no longer claim to be the beautiful game... We may win, but another 60 minutes of watching them defend, maybe 90 minutes, it's just not worth my time... If it goes to pens, they will have 8 men on the line...
robbensgoodrobbensgoodrunningdownthewing
April 16, 2005
Yes that is exactly what i mean.
Juliano
April 16, 2005
Robben...-whatch your ankles... you mean, like Xabi Alonso should have done when Lampard broke it?
Cannon Balls
April 16, 2005
If the days of 'major' Fa Cup upsets are over then how come Millwall got to the Final last season???. Another piece of bombastic clap-trap from the king of gunge, Nigel Knowall Gungunge-Gunfire and this that and the other. I have told you before pal try engaging your tiny brain before casting your words of wisdom(sic) before us. Blackburn are a Premiershipp side anyway not a lower division one, so if they do win the match it would not be a giant killing feat,you do post some nonsense give it a rest a you silly littleman. Leicster when O'Neil was there beat us on a penalty shoot-out a few years back, i know i was there; stick to posting about defending at least we can all have a laugh out of reading that nonsense.Come on you Gunners!!!
RobbensGoodRobbensGoodRunningDownTheWing
April 16, 2005
Lookin forward to todays game , being honest i hope BBurn turn you over but think you are too good !
Watch ya ankles though as BBurn are Dirty as **** !
Good luck 8-)
GunGun
April 16, 2005
Lets face it...the days of major Cup upsets seem to be over.
The big boys are too professional. Of course, this is the biggest day in the lives of the Blackburn players so we must expect passion from them but nothing else. I daresay it must be difficult for Vieira, Gilberto and some others to get overly excited about the cup. Afterall, they are World Cup winners and the FA Cup seems pretty trivial theses days. But we must still be grateful this season if we win it. Not bad to win only the Cup in an off season and the PL and CL when you are having a good season. Which we will next season!
Ray
raymondlyc@yahoo.com.hk
April 16, 2005
HAPPY BIRTHDAY! GOOD LUCK LJUNGBERG.
Maurice
April 16, 2005
The lads are better focused now, and should not let us down. I think we should win this one easily. Blackburn, try as they might, is still an also-ran team. I foresee a Viera and Gilberto led centre midfield that will boss them around. Senderos would stand out again to marshall the defence. My guess is a 2-0 first half lead. We might sneak one more in the second, or get into the final at 2-0.
AmericanGooner
April 16, 2005
GunGun, its not a very exciting story. I was working overseas in a company with a few expat Brits in Asia about a decade ago, starving for gridiron and basketball. Went with them to the pub (they were Chelsea fans, west London public school guys mostly, I almost became....gulp..a Blue because of them!!!) and over the months got into the sport (as my understanding of it got better). Anyway, to this day, and I can't recall the exact game but Arsenal were playing, losing 1-0, had a man sent off but still fought on bravely. I admired the fight in them. I also thought the red card was not a red card and they were cheated. They lost that game but I found my club. I didn't know a thing about Arsenal (I was still fairly new to the sport) and I thought we were some small club in the English countryside. I found about our rich tradition later on. When I came back to the states I found I missed watching them and footie in general and found a pub near me. I was and am the same about my childhood teams here in the states. I may not always be right, but I am always passionate, whether its a passion for life, love or Arsenal (and I wouldn't say the aforementioned were exclusive of each other...lol..;-).
Cannon Balls
April 16, 2005
I saw the interview with Wenger on Sky this afternoon and his comments that Henry would miss the Semi and perhaps the Chelsea one also were ambigious. He said that a scan would be done on the thigh strain and it could need a few days treatment. Nothing in the statement that Henry would definitely miss the Chelsea game or Sol either. So i would not rule them out it could be a slight problem and AW might not in what will be a somewhat physical game want to risk agrovating the injury. Henry to my recollection always misses or never starts in semi- finals and never plays in the earlier rounds either. We will beat Blackburn if we match their agression early doors and then get our passing game going like in the away Premiership at Ewood Park. Wengers challenged Reyes to step into Henrys place and produce,he must be fully fit by now and rested, so there can be no excuses, i don't even mind him scoring first even though i have backed Freddie to do that, well it's only money!. And getting to the final is the main thing.
GunGun
April 16, 2005
American Gooner. How did you become a Gunners fan? Have you ever told the story? It must be interesting. I admire how you manage to keep the passion so far away and in a non-footballing environment. Well done. I think Arsenal can only win against Blackburn. All Rovers will have to offer is the boot and if the ref likes that....well that is their only chance. Football-wise they have not got the smallest chance and they know it. There were some ugly scenes in the final minutes when we played them at Ewood Park a couple of weeks ago and I am sure we will see more trouble on the pitch. Arsenal to cruise. It is just an anti-climax that it is in Cardiff. It is like playing the CL home games at Wembley.
Brazil 70
April 16, 2005
If we are as good as we think we are, Arsenal should be confident & determined that we will do what it takes to WIN tomorrow.It is now our Champs league final,the biggest single game of the season & we have the incredible good fortune to be playing a bunch of hardworking journeymen who lose more than they win.If we match them for effort then there can only be one winner (unlike other big teams who have work ethic & skillful players).If however we lose,then there is something seriously lacking in this team's mental make up.In my view there would be no acceptable excuses for us not getting to the final (especially as Mike Riley is reffing the other semi).
AmericanGooner
April 16, 2005
I saw Inter's sanctions. I don't think its harsh. Had that been an English club in an English stadium, the hammer would have fallen a lot worse. If it was a one off type of situation in Italy, I'd be okay with the sanction but its not. Its pervasive and chronic and the Italian authorities don't seem to have the stones or desire to do anything about it, so you have to hit them where it hurts. The wallet. Roma and Lazio had the same type of things happen in their derby. Inter should have been hit with a 1 year ban that would commence if/when they qualify again, which would probably be next season. That would send a message to the other Italian clubs to get it sorted. **** Everyone says tapping up players happens and always has and always will happen, the penalties dont seem to stop it. I'd send a message by making Chelsea ineligible to go after Ash for the duration of his contract and no other Arsenal player 1 season and a fine as well.
AmericanGooner
April 16, 2005
We must have Bergkamp. For a few reasons at least. One, he's got the big game experience, second he's got the skills to unlock a 5 player wide midfield and third, Blackburn will probably kick us to death and Aliadiere is injury prone, van Persie still has some anger management issues and it will take a level head to do the job. I'd partner Bergkamp with Reyes up front, Pires on the left to start with. **** I could almost hear the collective sounds of glee from Chelsea fans and pseudo Chelsea fans after news went out about Henry possibly missing Wednesday's game.
DaveM
April 16, 2005
Henry isn't being saved - why would we do that? The league has obviously gone, and there is a four day gap between the games. It won't surprise you to know that I think Aliadiere and VP should be tried together (6 goals in the last 2 reserve games, with VP setting up Aliadiere on, I think, four occasions). VP seems to be becoming more creative, which is a good sign if we want him to genuinely replace Bergkamp.
Wirral Gooner
April 16, 2005
I also experienced that small brick yard before the turnstiles at WHL. It was a game at the end of the 1984 - 1985 season. we won after greame roberts missed a pen. It was only a small Arsenal crowd at that game but the crush in that yard before the turnstiles has always stayed with me.by the way i must thank the gooner, who on that night dragged me away from an area in our end under attack from coins thrown from the shelf. i was young and a bit green, did not know what all these things zinging about my ears were. when i turned around there was not a gooner within 10 yards of me, just a hand grabbing my arm and dragging me to safety.
DaveM
April 16, 2005
Still pretty worried about tomorrow. Blackburn will play 5 tacklers in midfield, who will press us for most of the game. In response Ljungberg, Gilberto, Vieira, Pires only boasts 1 tackler. I'm not convinced that midfield is a great passing unit either. Bergkamp and Reyes have disappeared in plenty of games, so it could be really tough. On the other hand we have the talent, the pitch is big, and Lauren shouldn't be exposed for once. I'll take any win though. Style would be a welcome bonus.
Wirral Gooner
April 16, 2005
I heard on R5L that Th14 would miss wednesday as well. so Gun Gun,you may be correcton this one. The reliance on TH14 is crazy. I believe he has played more games this season than A smith and rooney combined.but even without him we can win tomorrow.Come on you reds.
Wirral Gooner
April 16, 2005
Exiled, just read your post about modern. you could be right. but what if your memory includes history told to you first hand by a loving relative (also a gooner), does that not remain modern even though it was many years before a person was born. The teams of HC, GA and TW are all history but still immediate. They mean as much to me as those of BM and GG. I still contend it is our history that makes us special. by the way as much wishful thinking as possible will still not allow us to catch chavski. so if TH14 and Sol are in any way fit they should play in the semi. but they wont because Aw thinks we can beat them without our best player. we are not a one man team but neither was the great HC team that rested players and lost at Walsall in the 1930's. It is a semi, you must put out your best team.
GunGun
April 16, 2005
I doubt Henry is being saved for Wednesday. And I`m not looking forward to Aliadiere ...that game against ManU has too many frustrating memories. I cannot remember him going past the defender once. ***Why did Kluivert go to Newcastle and not to a proper club where he could be put to some use?
AmericanGooner
April 16, 2005
According to some of the posts, it appears the consensus is Henry is being saved for Wednesday or are the posts just joking? Seeing that this is our only chance for trophies I'd think we'd play our strongest XI. A draw at the Bridge will still leave us in 2nd and Man Yoo still has to play Chelsea as well.
Phil
April 16, 2005
well spotted last night Ben, Moutinho is being touted as the next great thing in Portugal and along with the kid manuel Fernades at benfica would be two great signings, my only concern about Moutinho is his lack of goals, his creativity and skill is incredible though - and anyone who compares Portugal to Scotland doesn't know what they are talking about - when was the last time a Scottish club won the Champions League and anyone watching week in week out as I do becaus eof my family connections will realise how skillful the players at Sporting, Benfica and Porto are along with Braga, Boavista, Guimarense there are at least 6 clubs who are capable of turning over the top three and it has happened quite a few times this season, Sporting also gave Newcastle a football lesson last night and also won at a canter against Middlesborough.
Romford Gooner
April 16, 2005
I too was at Highbury on the day of Hillsboro and the early rumours were that the Forest fans had charged at the scousers resulting in the tragedy that followed. I recall watching the news that night saying that I would never go to another match again, this lasted for about a week. It's a desperately sad subject and I've always felt that the copper in charge was very lucky to get away without a custodial sentence. Even though it was clear what was happening in front of him he wouldn't open the gates because he thought they were hooligans. Pathetic. Somebody mentioned a crush at the Lane and I recall a few occasions standing in the potential death trap that was the Park Lane and thinking my god this is it. I wonder if a similar tragedy happens in an all seater stadium what the Government will do?? Can you imagine everybody having to get out of all seating areas in a hurry, I can and it isn't pretty.
James - Copenhagen
April 16, 2005
Hillsboro: I was in the North Bank and we were playing Newcastle, I think we won but when the anoraks with their tranies started whispering that there was trouble at Hillsboro, things blur. I don't remember any booing but a nodding respect that there but for the grace of God, go I/we. I was in Landsdowne Road when Ireland won their first Triple Crown of recent times (my generation) and regards the push, I don't honestly know how there were no casualities. I was also at Dalymount when Italy visited and that was utter kaos, with the FAI having grossly under estimated the interest in seeing the Italians with a resultant push where the Guards ordered the gates be opened to ease the congestion. Typically Irish, the wits relaid the game to those who couldn't see with flowery language but again the potential of a nightmare, with hindsight, defies belief. Enjoy each day and give thanks.
Roast Beef
April 16, 2005
So AW is resting Tel for the game at the bridge then. Can't say I blame him, it's just a bit unusual that he released it so early. Don't we normally find that tel isn't playing the day of the semi ?
Roast Beef
April 16, 2005
EEG the Arse game is on at 4:00 AM (residential cable and PPV), the Manc game is on Sunday 6:00 AM on PPV only at pubs (cock and bull etc.) Pity you couldn't drive south down the 5 freeway for 90 mins Sunday, as at "Roasty Mansions" I have the game on with a full english and lagers a plenty via dodgy canadian satellite. Safe trip.
AmericanGooner
April 16, 2005
It won't be easy but I certainly think we can win the tie and should still be considered favorites. I'm expecting someone to step up. My fear is Blackburn packing the midfield and we'll need our flair players to find space. This may be a game in which Pires, Bergkamp (if he's healthy?) and Fabregas become most important. If we have gone an hour or so without a score, I'd expect to see Fabregas substituted on to carve out a pass. I'd also keep Quincy on the bench. Guile and creative passing may be what will ultimately win us this game. **** I don't think its a plot to keep Henry fresh for Wednesday. In my humble opinion Wenger has sacrificed the FA cup in the past. Not often but he has. The most notable being the quarter final at Old Trafford in '03. We left Henry and Bergkamp and I think Silva at home as well. We got out of it with a 2-0 win (Edu and Wiltord), I recall Giggs missing an open sitter that would have changed the game. The Chelsea ame is big but only for belief purposes. We can win it and it won't change the league standings at the end of the season. If it was Man Yoo this many points ahead we'd all have crowned them champions but since Chelsea haven't done it before there is that little bit of hope. I certainly hope they collapse but its not likely. I thought once they got past February it would be basically theirs. Hope springs eternal though.
Decaf
April 16, 2005
Exiled, don't think I have anything against hoofing it. Campbell is an exponent of the non-science. But I think Terry is better at it. I also approve of the occasional hoick in the general direction of goal, either with direct intent or vaguely hoped as a "pass". There is nothing like a complete fluke, with our without deflection, to warm the cockles; and if Henry were't back defending, he would get on the end of quite a few hopeful long balls. I'm all for a bit of plan B.
Exiled In Newcastle
April 16, 2005
EEG - you'll have to put that down to bad phrasing by me. I meant 'why' in the broader social context rather than specific to Hillsborough.
AmericanGooner
soi_eight@yahoo.com
April 16, 2005
East End Gooner, I've been to both Cock 'N Bull and Fox & Hounds. Your hotel is closest to Fox & Hounds. Very short cab drive. Should take 5-10 minutes tops. Fox & Hounds is owned by a Gooner, Gary, he used to play for QPR. Cock 'N Bull are owned by scousers, its where I usually go as I live very close to there. Must warn you, the game is on at 4AM!! 7am is Eastern Standard Time and we are in the Pacific, which is 3 hours earlier. The game is on cable television for free on Fox Soccer Channel (Murdoch's footie channel). You may be better off going to Fox & Hounds by taxi. You can e mail me if you wish and I will be more than happy to help in any way that I can. My cel (mobile) to you guys is being serviced but should be up and running in the afternoon. Welcome to LA!
Bernard
April 16, 2005
EEG, what time are you leaving tomorrow? Sensibly later than my 5.00am no doubt.
East End Gooner
April 16, 2005
Agreed. Now come on Arsenal. Dont make me regret the efforts of tomorrow!
Exiled In Newcastle
April 16, 2005
EEG - couldn't agree more about it being an emotive subject. I'll leave their site to do the talking for me, but I would like to make it clear in case anyone misunderstands that I am not trying to defend, excuse, or condone hooliganism in any way what so ever. One thing we'll no doubt agree on is that they are absolute scum.
East End Gooner
April 16, 2005
Sorry one more thing that is puzzling me - if "why it happened" is not the point then what are we talking about, what is the website about and why would anyone be looking for justice? Makes no sense. No-one disagrees on what happened.
East End Gooner
April 16, 2005
Exiled - my final comment on this as it is an emotive issue and one that I dont really want to get caught up on. I studied it some time after the event and some time after the inquiry though it was a while ago. I'd have to check exactly when but as I said I dont know everything. I am not sure my view would change as it is more about the fundamentals. I know there were significant individual errors, piss poor attitudes, conduct based on prejudice and general mismanagement. I also accept there were attempts to cover this though I would expect this. Perhaps my language was slanted in seeming that I was blaming hooliganism exclusively but I think the acceptance of the fans and authorities of the situation and the development of the inherant conflict between fans and the police created the conditions where the things I mentioned above (which are present in pretty much all conduct of public office) were able to result in an incident that killed 96 innocent people.
Exiled In Newcastle
April 16, 2005
EEG - it's naive to say hooliganism was the root cause, or as you put it 'However, for me, those whow carry the biggest blame are those that perpetuated the situation that built up to it over the previous 20 years or so.'. Also, I deliberately said 'probably' ignorant of the real facts, because I think you are. As for 'writing a paper', well when? I ask that because even Lord Justice Taylor was later interviewed and said quite clearly he would have come up with a different set of findings if facts hadn't been witheld from him. Have a look at the site when you can, I don't think you'll have the same opinion after to be honest. And it happening at a football match IS irrelevent in one important way - where and why it happened isn't the point, it's WHAT happened that matters. Please check the site when you can.
East End Gooner
April 16, 2005
What happened there is entirely BECAUSE it was a football match. You have admitted that your views were the same as most at Highbury on hearing the news. So on experiencing a surge or a rush of fans why do you think your reaction would have suddenly been different and more controlled? A duty of care is to act as the reasonable person in the relevant situation i.e. the reasonable police officer etc. Of course there were significant individual errors but I'd say it would be unusual if people DIDNT try to cover up their errors, especially if people die, and I still find it hard that the real trouble makers have excused themselves over the years and portrayed it as an authorities against fans issue rather than look at what caused the conflict in the first place. I'd day to a police officer looking at a camera, Hillsborough and Heysel probably looked almost identical at the start.
tenbob
April 16, 2005
blackburn will have the same game plan even without henry playing.hurry,niggle and annoy for as long as the ref allows it.if we score in the first half the games over.would not be surprised if they have less than eleven players on at full time.
East End Gooner
April 16, 2005
Exiled - After I posted I was minded to qualify what I had said as I hadn't been able to see the site (bloked for some reason) and I dont want to be an apologist for people I feel no desire to apologise for. And of course I do not know everything and only have my opinion. However, it is in itself naive and ill-informed to call my comments "naive and ill-informed". I studied the tragedy for a paper running right through the incidents to the media reporting to the inquiry to its causes. Any comment will have its bias but the thought you can ignore it was a football match is utterly ludicrous. Where else but a football match do you have thousands of people crammed standing into a small space? A nightclub maybe - and there have been similar tragedies in nightclubs throughout the World. Where else do you have the police controlling the event as an opposing force? A political rally maybe? Look at the record of problems some of those have experienced.
Exiled In Newcastle
April 16, 2005
EEG - link works for me - maybe it's blocked by your work or something? I don't think it's my place to say what these people are campaigning for in any detail when it's all there. However, I think you're comments are naive and (probably) ignorant of the facts. Forget it happened at a football match because that's irrelevent to (what I believe to be) the manslaughter of 96people that day. The phrase 'duty of care' comes to mind. And yes, I was at Highbury that day and probably sang along. I don't think many were aware of the unfolding events until half time and as you say the obvious assumption was hooliganism (it wasn't that long before that we'd had a bit of a run-in with the mickies). But none of that excuses the total disregard for human life that was shown at Hillsborough. I mean, if there wasn't guilt then why did the authorities attempt to cover up a lot of what happened (including the camera that they claimed 'wasn't working' until the film from it showed up some years later. The whole thing stinks, and blaming hooliganism is just plain wrong.
East End Gooner
April 16, 2005
I was once in a crush where I thought people were going to be killed at the Lane and there is nothing like the fright of realising there are just too many people in a space and it is getting difficult to breathe. It could have been the Littlewoods semi but something tells me it was a League game. Anyway the police hearded all the Arsenal fans in to a number of turnstiles enclosed in small brick courtyard just off the road. There were about six or seven turnstiles but instead of controlling the numbers entering the courtyard and allowing the queues for the turnstiles they just kept letting people flow in until there were no more queues, just a mass of people with more people squeezing in from the back. Towards the front it was a nightmare and you just had to hope you could get towards a turnstyle and not just crushed against the wall. People were shouting and kids and women were crying. And then we got in and watched the game. Weird really.
Bernard
April 16, 2005
I was at Highbury that day. I'm pretty certain we won, but can't remember who against. Don't remember the scum chant EEG mentioned either, but there again that's not too surprising as I would have been in the East Upper.
East End Gooner
April 16, 2005
I was at Highbury that day and anyone else who was will remember the chants of "scum, scum, scum" when news came over the public address of a serious incident at the Hillsborough semi. Reprehensible given the later information but the fact that it was the first reaction of proper football supporters shows how, understandably, supporters were perceived at that time. If the authorities involved at Hillsborough were wrong (as they were) then so were so many others, even the fellow supporters, and many would have made the same decisions in the circumstances. That is not to excuse it in any way and those who tragically lost there lives can be seen as nothing but entirely innocent victims. However, for me, those whow carry the biggest blame are those that perpetuated the situation that built up to it over the previous 20 years or so.
East End Gooner
April 16, 2005
Exiled - I can access the link. I didn't mean to suggest there is a time limit to it, I am just trying to understand what would be seen to be justice? I am no defender of the police at all nor any other authority really but to me this was an instance where society in general and football fans in particular bore the greatest blame. If it were not for the spiralling hooligan problem then perhaps football wouldn't have been in the financial situation it was, stadiums would have been better and police, clubs and other authorities wouldn't have to treat fans like **** culminating in the problems that arose. Of course there were mistakes made but I cant ascribe to those individuals either the required intent nor even uncaring negligence to hold them primarily liable for the final outcome.
bubblechris
April 16, 2005
Hey wats with all the conspiracy theories ;-) My feling is that AW rates 2nd place way above the FA Cup and with this in mind and remembering what happened last season he will be rested. However here's where i disagree with everyone else I think the other reason for this is to give Aliadierre a game alongside RVP. First it wil stop him thinking about leaving, second it will provide us with a Plan B and third do you realise how many goals they have scored between them for the reserves? I cant be bothered to look or check but everytime i look at the reserves results JA has scored a brace or more and RVP was playing alongside him. The only negative to my theory is that I wont get to see them playing against Spuds reserves on Monday night I was looking forward to another hatchet job by our Second team, note i said Second not Reserves. We have a team for the future with some excellent players coming through that haven't cost an arm and a leg. The future is looking good for all the doubters.
steve martin
April 16, 2005
Apert from that Arsene sees second place as more important thatn the FA CUP
steve martin
April 16, 2005
We can beat Blackburn without Henry... We beat Chelsea 8 points in it 5 to go... They Have Fulham, Charlton, Man Utd, Newcastle and Bolton, the last three away... I reckon we beat them and with Liverpool in tow Champs League semi's their bums will be flapping in the wind, we can win it, but we HAVE to beat CHELSEA...
Mee
April 16, 2005
EEG: Surely ‘Arsene Knows’ the title has gone? Either he underestimates Blackburn or he feels the FAC is not the priority that the fans believe it to be. This has got Wrexham written all over it.
Exiled In Newcastle
April 16, 2005
EEG - the thing about justice is their isn't really a time limit on it. www.contrast.org/hillsborough Juliano - fair enough - but we're not going to agree.
East End Gooner
April 16, 2005
Mee - I think he may have a slight niggle but I dont reckon Wenger sees this as the huge game that I agree with you it is. I reckon he will play Wednesday. I agree the league is gone but I am not certain Wenger does and I am sure he reckons we can beat Blackburn without him comfortably. If it was a European game or a game for the title, he would play as we all know. It is another occasion when his "injury" springs up just before the cup game.
Danny
April 16, 2005
MEE.. Never underestimate the power of denial.
Hope to see Reyes have a blinder tomorrow and since when did we become a one man team?
Hong Kong Gooner
April 16, 2005
Thierry missing is a blow but it's still difficult to see Blackburn scoring, let alone beating us.Thought Reyes was our best player against Boro in the first half last week and it seems that he was substituted because he was injured, rather than for any other reason.He seems to me to be working hard to play himself back into form and he makes mistakes but is not hiding at all, which is a positive.PSV and Liverpool getting to the semi finals highlights the obvious point that the Champion's League cup format works against establishing who are the best teams in Europe.However, I'm not sure that a 16 team league format over a season has much appeal.Imagine how it will be for the teams who know after half a dozen games that they haven't got a chance of winning it.A meaningless home game against Lyons or PSV in February would not have much appeal.On another matter - anyone who thought Chelsea defended well against Bayern must have been watching a different game to me.I thought Bayern were still in with a shout at half time, when they needed to score three goals.
Mee
April 16, 2005
EEG: If you think Henry is not ‘properly injured’ are you suggesting that he is being rested for the Chelsea game? Some posters here are still suggesting that if we beat Chelsea (and thats a big ‘if’) their form will crumble and we might still win the league. I know love is blind, but didn’t realise the myopia extended to football fans. Forget the title, tommorow is our big game.
Cannon Balls
April 16, 2005
One interesting slant on the possible Arsenal v United FA Cup final given on Sky Sports News by a bookmaker is that it will be more popular with the public than the impending Chavs v Car-Thives encounter. Arsenal are 4/7 to beat Blackburn with allegations that the impending game next Wednsday against Palace being more important to Old Sparky than tomorows,so he will not play Savage but Flintcloff who's got 8 sticthes in a leg wound.Talk about walking wounded.Maybe old Sparky is not the only one resting players for a game next week?.Ljunbergs 11/2 to score the first goal,that will do for me. Blackburn are 14-1 out-siders to win the cup.United surprisingly being quoted at only 8/11 ON to beat the Bar-codes. You can get any price you want on Spuds winning the Premiership Title next season, there is more chance of Aliens from outer space landing or Elvis being found alive and working in a Burger-Bar in Cardiff.
tenbob
April 16, 2005
spot on ben,if kluivert had not shown what a lazy dont give a f*** player he is at newcastle,i would have suggested him as bergys replacement
East End Gooner
April 16, 2005
Agree Bernard but that is not really the point. If I am getting up before even my lunatic sleep-shunning daughter and driving (or rather being driven) however many miles it is and paying £50-odd quid, I want to see the best players playing the best football. Henry has been on fire lately and while I still think we should win, I cant see us flowing in the same way with the others. And I dont believe he is properly injured either.
Ben
April 16, 2005
Although I think that Reyes long term position will be on the left, when he does play upfront he is definately more of a threat when Henry is not playing. The reason for this could be that he feels less pressure when someone isn't giving him the eyes when he does something poorly, it could be that two fast converted wingers who both like to run at people from deeper positions can not work as a pairing or maybe its something else completely. If you think about the partnerships that Henry has been involved in Wiltord, Van Persie, Reyes, Jeffers, Trezeguet, Cisse, I am open to correction but I would suggest that the only one that worked was with Bergkamp and his success with France came when they played with one main striker and Zidane supporting from infront of two holding midfield players. The manor in which Henry plays makes it very hard to develop a understanding with him, Bergkamp is unique and I think this is the problem with which we now find ourselves, we have set our team up in such a way that we need to find a replacement for Bergkamp and its a near impossible task. Totti is probably the closest thing around but would cost a fortune and I really don't see him living in London, people have suggested Cesc long term which is probably more likely, incidently I watched Newcastle the other night and Moutinho looks like an oustanding prospect as well.
GunGun
April 16, 2005
Gunfire, Cannon Balls is convinced we are the same poster.
How can we help him? He also thinks I am a load of other posters. He also is afraid at night that Abramovic is under his bed. He thinks I am a Chelsea fanatic because I said they had a couple of good defenders. He says a lot of stuff which is rather weird and comes to conclusions which are emotionally-induced. He needs help. I am beginning to feel sorry for this guy.
Juliano
April 16, 2005
Henry out has to be a real blow. We don't have any proper hitman, maybe Reyès or Van Persie, but I see them more as creators than out and out strikers. Same for Bergy. The only one who fits the description is Aliadière but he is so made of glass it's unbelieavable. And he hasn't played top flight football for a while anyway. It will probably be Pirès on the left, Ljungberg on the right, José and Dennis up front then, with Robin replacing his fellow countryman in the 72nd minute :) I remember the old IRC chat days with Steve as Nobby the Moose, everyone was screaming for a substitution and some of the regulars would add "wait 'till the 72nd, we're not there yet".
Bernard
April 16, 2005
I think Henry is the world's best player currently and I accept Blackburn will be tough, rugged opponents. But if we're not capable of beating them tomorrow without him, we can't be half as good as some of us think we are.
tenbob
April 16, 2005
one less head shaking at him when he tries something that doesn't work will benefit him.
Gunfire
April 16, 2005
Cannonbull are you really 52 years of age? I never knew adolesence could last that long or is it a case of severe regression?
East End Gooner
April 16, 2005
"has has good"??? What is that all about. Has a good game I suppose I meant. He owes it and Cardiff is the kind of space for him.
Juliano
April 16, 2005
I'm very interested in the new stadium, that is a fact, even though I'd have prefered another design. I find it fascinating to be able to follow the various steps of the construction process. How the buid the cores, the upper tiers, and will probably build the lower ones only when everything else in in place, because they needed the space inside the stadium to put cranes, etc. And anyway, I haven't had any power to change the design so I'd better try to warm up to! I'd still have prefered something less of a bowl, and a unique design, because to be honest though this design seems very efficient, it seems to be a bit of the flavour of the month. The Benfica, Jose Alvalade, Stade de France, even the Reebok and from what I have seen, New Anfield, are all looking like members of the same family. A bit more of Arsenal personality would have been better, with more straight lines, and an up to date redesign of the famous art deco Highbury's East Stand facade would have been top notch.
East End Gooner
April 16, 2005
Thanks again Wengerknows - if you are on one of your "missions" there - let me know.
East End Gooner
April 16, 2005
Agree - I dont think Aliadiere will start it is just my nightmare. Just like last year. No football for ages and lo and behold he pops up in one of the biggest games of the season. Also agree about Reyes and I really hope he has has good.
david.d
April 16, 2005
EEG im as p***** off as you . in semi finals you need some one who you can rely on to give you that bit of inspiration. someone the opposition dont like facing and henry is that man. we will just have to beat blackburn without him just as we did a few weeks ago when van persie netted the winner. i think you're wrong about alidiare starting though, think it will be bergkamp and reyes up front. dont know about you about reyes seems to play with more freedom when thierry is missing. line up looks like it will be lehmann lauren toure senderos cole , lgungeberg viera gilberto pires bergkamp reyes. we'll need lynching if we lose even without thierry. COME ON ARSENAL!!!!
Wengerknows
April 16, 2005
EEG, Studio City is separated from Universal City by North Hollywood, 5-10 minutes on the 101/134 Fwy. Santa Monica will be about a 30 minute drive from Universal City, but early on a Saturday/Sunday morning traffic should be light. Good luck. I actually spend less than half the year in L.A. nowadays (I could tell you why, but then I'd have to kill you ^_^) or else I'd be honored to watch with you. Good luck.
Mee
April 16, 2005
The latest developments to new stadium sound good, unfortunately because I work on a AppleMac I can’t get access to Arsenal Plus (video lounge say they have no plans for apple access) and the webcam thing never sems to have the right sort of filter of software for me - is anybody else out there on an Mac?
tenbob
April 16, 2005
agree with eeg about henry being injured for cup games,time for reyes to step up,one less frenchman for him to worry about upsetting.
East End Gooner
April 16, 2005
Wengerknows - Very helpful thanks. I will be spending Friday night at the Hilton in Universal City but then going to see my cousin in Santa Monica so if the timing works out, and I know kick off will be at 7.00 am, I will try the Cock and Bull. Isn't Santa Monica where all the English ex-pats end up? If so, it would be good to watch it with a load of faux Mancs (making assumptions I know). If getting to Santa Monica in time will be a pain I assume Studio City is near Universal City?
Noregian Gooner
April 15, 2005
R.I.P Steve, you did some good work in here! my condolences to the family and everyone who loved Steve!
Bernard
April 15, 2005
Juliano, you're right, you can see the last truss lying on the floor. Correct me if I'm wrong, but weren't you not too keen on the stadium design when it was first released? Because it certainly looks like it has grown on you, considering the interest you now show in it now.
Wengerknows
April 15, 2005
EEG. Tons of places to see football in L.A. though a lot of it Latin American. For the Cup Final, if you'll be on the westside try the Cock & Bull at 2947 Lincoln Blvd in Santa Monica (310-399-9696) . In the valley, Fox & Hounds Restaurant, 11100 Ventura Blvd in Studio City (818-763-7976. On the eastside in Pasadena there's Lucky Baldwin's, 17 So. Raymond Ave. (626-795-0652) And there's always the option of watching it at a mate's place, cause it will be on either regular Fox Soccer Channel or pay-per-view which is usually about $20.
JamesLT
Arsenal Live
April 15, 2005
Arsenal Vs Blackburn is live on the German DSF channel for any other gooners exiled in Germany. Come on you Gunners!
East End Gooner
April 15, 2005
Henry out is proper b*****ks. I dont believe it. Is there something in his contract that he doesn't play semis? Nothing wrong with him in the last two games, a nice week's rest and suddenly he is out. I have only ever seen that with Henry and only for cup games. That has ****ing pissed me off big time. In fact, I may just lie in bed tomorrow nursing my injured hamstring. So will we have to endure Aliadiere's annual practice match in an FA Cup semi? By the way - for any West Coast Gooners can you tell me where in LA I can watch Blackburn v United in the final?
Juliano
April 15, 2005
Exiled-Well I admit the use of the word "practice" was probably not spot on. That said, you reckon Vieira doesn't have a great shot, I reckon he has. In my opinion the problem is that he is too reluctant to use it, he will always look at other options first. Someone also posted that Wenger doesn't like his player to practice shooting too much, which could also explain why we rarely hit the target from range in games. Let's face it, the more you try, the more you improve, there is no secret, and I don't have the feeling we're trying enough. That said, I have absolutely no certainties about it. Now my favourite topic, the new stadium : that's it, the primary trusses are all up! Now for the last secondary truss, which can be seen lying on the ground!
Bernard
April 15, 2005
Newcastle must be thrilled that Mike Riley's taking over.
Cannon Balls
April 15, 2005
Newcastle have seven firrst teamers out and Graham Polls pulled an hamstring so Mike Riley takes over!.You couldn't make it up.
Bernard
April 15, 2005
Mee, though our record in them is good, we did lose last year's. Still think it's a shame about the goalscoring record, he deserves it so much.
Mee
April 15, 2005
Bernard: The goalscoring record can wait, very disappointed to think he’ll miss the Chelsea game, things seem to conspire against him in semi-finals if he’a fit Wenger plays a weakened team and brings him on a sub, and if he is selected he picks up an injury. Tell me I’m wrong but I’ve got a horrible feeling about tommorow, we cant keep winning semi finals.....
Bernard
April 15, 2005
Mee, Arsenal.com also says he may not be able to play at Chelsea either. Could even be out for a few weeks. If so, it seems he might not break Wright's goalscoring record this season then?
Lord Trumpetblower
April 15, 2005
I too was an excellent footballer. I could score, dribble, defend, take 60 yd throw ins, score from corners and was told by everybody I could have been an international keeper. I got my 100m swimming badge and a cub scout badge for making a cup of tea. Some people in life are born with talent, and some poor souls are not.
steve martin
April 15, 2005
Cannonballs, nice to see your on the ball, your points regarding Terry, Tactics deployed by Jose the way they paly says it all... It does not mean Terry is a bad player, just that the Chelsea tactics suit him more than they would if he played for Arsenal or another attack minded side...
Mee
April 15, 2005
Henry out of the semi - I didn’t know about that!
steve martin
April 15, 2005
Clockend, see where your coming from, but we could have ahd, Rooney, Shearer, Defoe, Totti and RVN on the bench to bring on with 20 mins left against Bayern, does not mean they would have scored, your post suggests bring on a forward and HE WILL score the goal you need, if only it were that simple...
Cannon Balls
April 15, 2005
Vince,i made my comparasions on 'best form' betweeen Vieria v Lampard,Sol v Terry and on that basis not just recent form,which is unfair because both Sol and Pat missed pre-season through bad injuries and have never been 100% where has the other pair have been lucky in that regard. Altough it appears that Terry is injured now after the clash with Scheiwnsteiger when trying to clear under pressure from the German, he made a right pigs ear of it too.You also have to take account of the way that the two sides go about their business in these player v player assements. Terry is not the quickests thing on two legs but he is aided and abetted in this by the defensive tactics employed by Boreinho in that he tries never to leave his defenders exposed sometimes even using two GKS!or so it seems. Would Terry do as well at Highbury under AW's more cavalier and flamboyant approach where he would have to cover more ground against rampaging forwards?. I suggest not. Also Sven uses pragmatic tactics and that also suits Terry, stick him in the Brazilian side and see how he would do there!. Anyway let's see a good display from the team tomorrow,which will set us up for the annual taking of points at the Bridge - where we have not lost since Harold Wilson was Prime Minister.
ClockEndGinger
April 15, 2005
I am not down on our team just now. We have brought on some good young players who will be even stronger next season. But Europe is turning into Wenger's Iraq.
The lack of Campbell, should have come second in the group and then we'd be in the semi argument does makes a certain amount of sense but at the same time smacks of desperation: we have had 7 years of CL failure..We do not seize our opportunities when they are presented to us. Against Bayern we were in a great position with 25 minutes to go and Senderos was dominating at the back. It wasn't Sol we missed, it was a player to step up and get that second goal, as Lampard has been doing for Chelsea. Someone to say, this is MY game. Henry did his bit with a wicked strike so he cannot be blamed; where were the others? It was if, I remember, a fairly uneventful exit. Lee Dixon got it right in this weeks Islington Gazette, when he said we need a striker more than anyother position apart from goalkeeper, somebody bloody minded who will crash in a scrappy goal from four yards because there is only 5 minutes left, like Wright used to do for us, and someone to give that strangely fragile team some belief.
david.d
April 15, 2005
ive read somewhere that we have had nine players out injured all at once. i know we have had campbell , viera , gilberto edu and senderos and to a lesser extent bergkamp out for long periods but nine? can anyone shed some light who else. has it really been nine at once? and not counting suspensions either.
Mee
April 15, 2005
Steve Martin: An excellent point steve and one which is often overlooked. It may be somewhat fanciful to compare the skills, speed etc of amateur football to PL football, but its all relative.
East End Gooner
April 15, 2005
I have criticised our European performances as much as any and I think we would find it tough against Chelsea and even more so Milan but had we lost the group as we should of done we would have been in the semi and had Campbell been fit, and I mean fully fit, we would have beaten Munich over two legs. Small things make the difference. Given the amount of work and blocks he got through, had Terry missed just one leg of the Barcelona or Munich games, Chelsea would have gone out.
Cannon Balls
April 15, 2005
GG,i am waiting until after Newcastle turn him over on Sunday!.That though after watching the game last night migh be wisful thinking.Anyway i have come around to the school of thoughts way of thinking that says us beating them in the final will more satisfying.i WWill still be rooting for the Magpies though,i just cannot get myself to suport the drunken jock, old habits diehard .
steve martin
April 15, 2005
A little lesson here… I sued to play a lot of football, a very lot of football, played up to Southern Olympian standard, not that high, but quite good… I also played for some poorer teams… Right from playing for my first club as an adult, I learnt that the better the players around you the better you were… I was a very good passer of the ball, dribble well when on the wing and scored hatfuls… I would look up and see the pass, hit it 30 yards into the path of the player I was aiming for, if he was in one of the poorer sides, the likely hood was he would either be too slow or just not realise what a ball was coming his way, yet in the better teams the player you were passing the ball too, was sharp, new it was coming, looking for it, made the ball you were playing easy… When scoring, having players ready to give you the ball, when you had made space was easy in the good sides, but frustrating in the poorer sides… This is why Lampard and Terry are much better this season, Chelsea are much better...
goonerguru
April 15, 2005
Cannon,I noticed in the Sun the headline "Fergies week of hell",Sat,humiliated at Norwich,Sun,Rooney slaps his slapper,Mon,United legends(Macari,Greenhoff Ha Ha)take a swipe at their 4-5-1 formation,Tues,Keane blasts slackers in team,Wed,players blame Queiroz for slump,havent you sent off the Thursday and Friday stories yet.
Bernard
April 15, 2005
Vince, think you've opened the floor for Wirral Gooner.
Vince Ordinaire
April 15, 2005
Sadly, based on this season's form I would pick Lampard before Vieira, and that's something I could not have imagined writing two years ago. Some credit must go to Lampard who has worked very hard to make the most of his abilities and has become a more consistently effective player than I thought possible. It's also got a lot to do with Vieira not being at his best recently, because at his peak he was still miles ahead of any contemporary midfielders. Also, trying to be objective, we can't pretend that Sol has had a good season either, certainly not relative to Terry. On the other hand the omission of Fabregas from the Young Player shortlist is ridiculous and suggests blinkered thinking from the selectors. Someone recently posted that our defensive woes were mainly down to Campbell and Toure's problems this season, then wondered if that was too simple. I don't think it is. Our two main CB's have been palpably weaker than last year. Throw in the keeper issue and the lengthy absence of our most defensive first-choice midfielder and that's got to be enough to explain a great deal of the maiaise. Side-issues such as confidence, team-play, luck and other circumstances cannot be dismissed, but remain side-issues for me when you consider the impact of our woes in four key defensive spots. How could question marks over your goalie and centre-backs plus defensive weakness in midfield not cause enormous problems? Like many others, I am beginning to come to terms with the disappointments and see this season as perhaps a small triumph over adversity, in the way that previous seasons have also represented larger or smaller triumphs. I am also greatly looking forward to next season, whilst holding out strong hope for the Cup and an insane optimism that the league may still somehow land in our lap. Most important to me now is to put Chelsea in their place at the Bridge, and hopefully stuff Manure in Cardiff. If we manage that, perhaps others will agree it would be sweeter to recapture the league in our last season at THOF, than to retain it this season, but say goodbye to Highbury as also-rans. Regarding other teams, I share the general loathing of Manure, Chelscum and S***s and also the slight affection for the likes of City and Charlton. Liverpool are an unusual case for me, because although they are also a big, successful club, I quite like them too. I suspect it's partly because their record shows that they are really the top dogs here rather than the arriviste Mancs and I have a lot of respect for that, but also because of their fans. Unlike the so-called Toon army, who I have found to be completely over-rated muppets on the whole, the Liverpool fans do seem to appreciate good football and have the true spirit of the game at heart. Massive generalisation obviously, but of all the other team's fans the Liverpool ones are the ones that I find admit when they are beaten fair and square, and are always ready to applaud a good goal scored by the opposition. They may be barely intelligible, scally dole-scum, but they have a quality of class that fans of most other teams could not dream of. It's probably just my perception, but I even find their banter to be more just about having a laugh, than other fans whose banter is just a cover for bitterness, hypocrisy and xenophobia. Cue a post from a gooner who's been living in Merseyside for 20 years to tell me that they all really hate Arsenal and I should hate them too.
Cannon Balls
April 15, 2005
babu, another thing that stands out in the inane ramblings of mad-Nigel-GunGunge-Gunfire, etc, is that all of the preaching and know-all advice about defending, the last one about Greece being a prime-example, coincides with the tactics and way that the Irish National Team Play. What a coincidence, it makes Kenyons ones of running into footballers pale into insignificance by comparasion!.
Bernard
April 15, 2005
Bad news for Eskimo, as reports suggest Birmingham have agreed a deal with Arsenal to take Pennant on a permanent transfer. http://skysports.planetfootball.com/list.asp?hlid=270179&cpid=8&CLID=3&lid=&title=Blues+agree+Pennant+deal&channel=Premiership
Cannon Balls
April 15, 2005
Babu,yes i knew it was only a matter of time before Gungunge and Gunfire started to agree great minds and all thator is it just the 'orish in them?> Nigel will be along next after he gets back from running errands for mummy.
Bernard
April 15, 2005
Wirral, you mention the recent disappearance of Chocolate, but have you noted that Daz disappeared around the same time? Perhaps they've gone on holdiday together for a break?
babu
April 15, 2005
Cannon Balls...great posts, and did you notice that gunfire has just posted agreeing with gungunge, and giving him credit for his views. It's more than funny to read this forum, as there are obviously people out there that know and people that have no idea. On to matters Arsenal, we can still win the league, and after the sadness felt about the chavs going through, I hope that they will be stuffed by the scum in the semi, who will in turn be shown up in the final, and of course manure getting the beating they deserve in the FA Cup. It's still going to be a great season. Come on you Gooooners !!!!
Cannon Balls
April 15, 2005
Rob,at last some sanity on our players v Chelseas, Sol was twice voted into a world eleven after the WC and Euro 04 tournaments.Terry is a good defender but will never make a world eleven, his lack of pace is also an handicap which the Germans exploited the other night only poor finishing not rewarding thei efforts. Lampard again a good MF having his best ever spell, better than Vieria?,only at long-range shooting and a lot of his goals have come courtesy of deflections this season. That may not always be the case because the element of luck is involved. I thought Alsonso was very good the other nigh and would sooner have him than Lampard.A rumour that is doing the rounds is that SWP is a target for the Chavs with Duff heading off the other way to City as a makeweight in the deal and to appease the City fans,thouh how they will feel about it should it transpire is anyones guess.
East End Gooner
April 15, 2005
On the timing of the semi - sorry to bang on but I really do hate early kick-offs. Especially for something like this. One of my most painful memories was the 91 semi against Spurs when afterwards there was a feeling like the day had barely begun and you'd barely woken up and yet we were out. These things should have a certain build up and should not be over by lunch. Then again, I suppose when you have to get up at the crack of dawn it might feel a bit later anyway.
East End Gooner
April 15, 2005
Exiled - Very poigniant seeing the names. But what would be justice now?
East End Gooner
April 15, 2005
Seems most on here aren't sharing my excitement at having a semi. There may come a time in the future when even achieving a semi is beyond us so you shouldn't take them for granted. I am really looking forward to it and it is made all the more pleasant by the very helpful Harlow sorting me out a parking space round the corner. Question is what time do the Cardiff pubs open on Saturdays? I am reckoning about 11 or so by which time we will most likely be heading into the ground. Why does it have to be 12.15? You make everyone travel hundreds of miles and spend loads of money and then arrange it so they cant even make a proper day of it!
Exiled In Newcastle
Hillsborough
April 15, 2005
16 years ago today and still no justice. In Memory of
John Alfred Anderson (62 )
Colin Mark Ashcroft (19 )
James Gary Aspinall (18 )
Kester Roger Marcus Ball (16 )
Gerard Bernard Patrick Baron (67 )
Simon Bell (17 )
Barry Sidney Bennett (26 )
David John Benson (22 )
David William Birtle (22 )
Tony Bland (22 )
Paul David Brady (21 )
Andrew Mark Brookes (26 )
Carl Brown (18 )
David Steven Brown (25 )
Henry Thomas Burke (47 )
Peter Andrew Burkett (24 )
Paul William Carlile (19 )
Raymond Thomas Chapman (50 )
Gary Christopher Church (19 )
Joseph Clark (29 )
Paul Clark (18 )
Gary Collins (22 )
Stephen Paul Copoc (20 )
Tracey Elizabeth Cox (23 )
James Philip Delaney (19 )
Christopher Barry Devonside (18 )
Christopher Edwards (29 )
Vincent Michael Fitzsimmons (34 )
Thomas Steven Fox (21 )
Jon-Paul Gilhooley (10 )
Barry Glover (27 )
Ian Thomas Glover (20 )
Derrick George Godwin (24 )
Roy Harry Hamilton (34 )
Philip Hammond (14 )
Eric Hankin (33 )
Gary Harrison (27 )
Stephen Francis Harrison (31 )
Peter Andrew Harrison (15 )
David Hawley (39 )
James Robert Hennessy (29 )
Paul Anthony Hewitson (26 )
Carl Darren Hewitt (17 )
Nicholas Michael Hewitt (16 )
Sarah Louise Hicks (19 )
Victoria Jane Hicks (15 )
Gordon Rodney Horn (20 )
Arthur Horrocks (41 )
Thomas Howard (39 )
Thomas Anthony Howard (14 )
Eric George Hughes (42 )
Alan Johnston (29 )
Christine Anne Jones (27 )
Gary Philip Jones (18 )
Richard Jones (25 )
Nicholas Peter Joynes (27 )
Anthony Peter Kelly (29 )
Michael David Kelly (38 )
Carl David Lewis (18 )
David William Mather (19 )
Brian Christopher Mathews (38 )
Francis Joseph McAllister (27 )
John McBrien (18 )
Marion Hazel McCabe (21 )
Joseph Daniel McCarthy (21 )
Peter McDonnell (21 )
Alan McGlone (28 )
Keith McGrath (17 )
Paul Brian Murray (14 )
Lee Nicol (14 )
Stephen Francis O'Neill (17 )
Jonathon Owens (18 )
William Roy Pemberton (23 )
Carl William Rimmer (21 )
David George Rimmer (38 )
Graham John Roberts (24 )
Steven Joseph Robinson (17 )
Henry Charles Rogers (17 )
Colin Andrew Hugh William Sefton (23 )
Inger Shah (38 )
Paula Ann Smith (26 )
Adam Edward Spearritt (14 )
Philip John Steele (15 )
David Leonard Thomas (23 )
Patrik John Thompson (35 )
Peter Reuben Thompson (30 )
Stuart Paul William Thompson (17 )
Peter Francis Tootle (21 )
Christopher James Traynor (26 )
Martin Kevin Traynor (16 )
Kevin Tyrrell (15 )
Colin Wafer (19 )
Ian David Whelan (19 )
Martin Kenneth Wild (29 )
Kevin Daniel Williams (15 )
Graham John Wright (17 )
Cannon Balls
April 15, 2005
Well, Nigel-GunGunge you stop using different names and i will stop calling you by them . So MR Know-all you believe that prior to the two late goals conceded against BM that Chelsea were defending well!. Again you obviously know more than the experts, i quote Claude Makelle commenting on Chelseas defending in that and recent matches,clean sheets now but a distant memory. Makelle who won the CL with Real Madrid and i believe knows rather more about it than you do; which again admittedly would not be very difficult. The capital letters are mine: "If we are to get to the final we have to stop being so slack and tighten up COMPLETELY.Our coach has got his work cut out. Chelsea need to LEARN to be more cold-headed and cold-blooded. He goes on to say that Mourinhos: "Got a lot of work to do if we are to take the next step and reach the final." Rather a differemt slant on things there than in your nonsensical ramblings eh Nigel?. Your prognastications that the moment Chelsea scored in Munich the tie was over is a nonsense, the defending from Chelsea was very poor and only a fool like you would try to claim otherwise. That post on here from you just after the match ended read like the ravings of a half-wit,which of course it was. You claimed and don't try and deny it, that Chelsea had just produced a rock solid defensive performance to see them through !!!. Another man who makes sense is Xabi Alonso who says that in his view the Chavs are not such favorites as everyone thinks.I agree though its all academic because i cannot see either of these pair of long-ball merchants upsetting the AC Milan side, a team that can really move the ball around, unlike the Chavs who only do that in your infantile imagination.In reality they just use old Diddy the targetman heading on the hoofs directed up field by Cech towards his bonce to be chased like a pack of crazed dogs after a fox. Or Lamposts 35 yard speculative shots flying in off of some defenders arse. So you don't find my posts amusing Nigel?, well i must confess to finding your own ones hilarious..
Mee
April 15, 2005
I see Lady Nina Bracewell-Smith has been appointed to the board. I wouldn’t imagine she would have too much in common with Abramovich and Kenyon if they were to meet for after game in the Marble Halls.
Nouveau Soccer
April 15, 2005
And a final entry...Did you hear about the guy in Paris who almost got away with stealing several paintings from the Louvre? After planning the crime, getting in and out past security, he was captured only two blocks away when his Econoline ran out of gas. When asked how he could mastermind such a crime and then make such an obvious error, he replied: "Monsieur, I had no Monet to buy Degas to make the Van Gogh." And you thought I lacked De Gaulle to tell a such a story.
Exiled In Newcastle
April 15, 2005
Juliano - "He has a fearsome shot that he doesn't practice enough." That's what you said (and others to be fair). Thing is he hasn't got a great shot, he has just occasionaly hit the sweet spot. If he was more willing to shoot he'd have a reputation like good old John Jensen. He doesn't shoot (when there are any options) because he's no good at it.
Nouveau Soccer
April 15, 2005
This is a story about a popular young Rabbi, who on Sabbath eve announces to his congregation that he will not renew his contract. He explains that he is moving on to a larger congregation that will pay him more. There is a hush. No one wants him to leave. Sol Epstein, who owns several car dealerships, stands up and proclaims, "If the Rabbi stays, I will provide him with a new Cadillac every year and his wife with a mini-van to transport their children!" The congregation sighs in appreciation, and applauds. Sam Goldstein, the entrepreneur and investor, stands and says, "If the Rabbi will stay on here, I'll personally double his salary, and also establish a foundation to guarantee the college educations of their children!!" More sighs and loud applause. Sadie Goldfarb, age 70, stands and announces with a smile, "If the Rabbi stays, I'll give him sex!" There is total silence. The Rabbi, blushing, asks her, "Mrs. Goldfarb, whatever possessed you to say that?" Sadie answers, "I just asked my husband how we could help, and he said, "**** the Rabbi."
Nouveau Soccer
April 15, 2005
I can't help but feel that it was better to have been beaten by Bayern than suffer another at Chelsea's hands in the European Cup....Here's a couple for old man of hoy: Two women were playing golf. One teed off and watched in horror as her ball headed directly toward a foursome of men playing the next hole. The ball hit one of the men. He immediately clasped his hands together at his groin, fell to the ground and proceeded to roll around in agony. "Please allow me to help, I'm a physical therapist and I know I could ease your pain if you'd allow me." she told him. "Oh no, I'll be alright in a few minutes," he replied. He was in obvious agony, lying in the fetal position, still clasping his hands together at his groin. At her persistence, however, he finally allowed her to help him. She gently took his hands away and laid them to the side, loosened his pants and put her hands inside. She administered tender and artful massage for several long moments asked, "How does that feel?" He replied, "It feels great, but my thumb still hurts like hell."
Rob K
April 15, 2005
In this Chelsea/AFC team - its absurd to put Terry ahead of Campbell. Campbell is head & shoulders better a player than JT. Would also not consider Lampard ahead of Vieira - would you swap Vieira for Lampard?
Gunfire
April 15, 2005
Gungun correct call on the car thieves. You don't need superstars to defend. Greece are the finest example. A team that can defend well and work hard will beat a team with more talent but has less organisation and less desire.
george
April 15, 2005
Arsenal appoints 17 pct shareholder Nina Bracewell-Smith as non-exec director
AFX
LONDON (AFX) - Arsenal Holdings PLC, the Ofex-traded Premier League club, said it appointed Lady Nina Bracewell-Smith as a non-executive director with immediate effect.
Bracewell-Smith is one of the major shareholders in the football club with a stake of 16.8 pct.
There has been consistent speculation that the club may seek a listing on the London Stock Exchange.
The other leading shareholders are Danny Fiszman and David Dein.
Juliano
April 15, 2005
That's it! The last half of the primary trusses is being pulled up as I type. (a quarter to 10 am UK time)
Juliano
April 15, 2005
Exiled-re Vieira's shooting. I don't know wether he practices his shooting or not, what I know is that he often doesn't take the chance when in good position. We've seen him score screamers (one with France against South Korea, hitting a 25 yards half volley after a clearance was as good as it gets) and well placed low shots from outside the box, so the potential is there. The difference with Ray is that Ray wasn't shy with taking shots, granted most of them most have made Jonny Wilkinson's envy but some were really class. Lampard takes lots of shots, he misses a fair few but he hits loads of them, deflected or not. Vieira is simply too reluctant to have a go and I think it's a pity.
GunGun
April 15, 2005
Wrong as usual Cannon Balls...wrong as usual...you must not only use stats as they can be very misleading. The whole defensivee play of Liverpool and Chelsea in midweek was laudible. They defended as a team. The whole team moved backwards and forwards together. Liverpool were never in serious danger in Turin (unlike their supporters) and Chelsea were through the moment Drogba scored. The two goals conceded in additional time do not count as an indicator of their defensive display because they were through and the Germans knew it. Admit that defensively these two performances have been one of the more mature displays of British sides in Europe.I cannot see many teams getting a draw in Turin. Of course, and I think you disagree with me out of principle, it is down to the foreign coaches in the PL. Best example, simpleton, is the bar-codes naive display or even worse Middlesbrough`s wobbly display against the mediocre Austrians in the previous round. Each time they were attacked it looked as if they would concede. Talk football Cannon Balls, try and use your brain and not your emotions so much. Stop calling me different names, half-wit. If somebody else disagrees with you, it does not automatically mean it is me. Nit!
old man of hoy
April 15, 2005
On the shooting from distance theme in a recent article on TH, our maestro indicated that Le Boss did not like the players to overdo long range shooting in practice because it puts undue strain on the thigh muscles. Suggested Le Boss was worried it might reduce their running speed. So it may be down to coaching rather than inability because otherwise it is a natural thing for a footballer to want to shoot at the goal. Neither Rooney or Lampard have had that natural inclination coached out of them. One other thing - if Totti joins us he will be virtually playing in a Roma kit during his first season. London calling - its cool and grey again - Big Eyed Beans from Venus - oh my, oh my.
A woman was out golfing one day when she hit the ball into the woods. She went into the woods to look for it and found a frog in a trap. The frog said to her, "If you release me from this trap, I will grant you three 3 wishes."
The woman freed the frog. The frog said, "Thank you, but I failed to mention that there was a condition to your wishes-that whatever you wish for, your husband will get ten times more or better!"
The woman said, "That would be okay." For her first wish, she wanted to be the most beautiful woman in the world. The frog warned her, "You do realize that this wish will also make your husband the most handsome man in the world, an Adonis that women will flock to. The woman replied, "That will be okay because I will be the most beautiful woman and he will only have eyes for me." So, KAZAM-she's the most beautiful woman in the world.
For her second wish, she wanted to be the richest woman in the world. The frog said, "That will make your husband the richest man in the world and he will be ten times richer than you." The woman said, "That will be okay because what's mine is his and what's his is mine." So, KAZAM-she's the richest woman in the world!
The frog then inquired about her third wish,.......And she answered, "I'd like a mild heart attack"
Cannon Balls
April 15, 2005
Nigel-Gungunge you really are a little irratating know-nothing, with your preaching and condescending patronizing posts on here.You know more then Brady and Wenger who according to you have learnt nothing from their experiences in football abroad. Souness he knows nothing, the jocks got no idea at OT, hang on that can't be right though, did he not win one Euro trophy with Aberdeen?, right, then there was the ECWC also with United back in the mid-90s and of course he won the CL in '99!. So how did he manage those achievements then Nigel knowall?.Your the one who has no idea pal. Your constant banging on about Brit teams as you describe our ones in your own inimitable cluless style being unable to defend for being the reason for their lack of success in Europe, apart from Chelsea and now Liverpool,who have not proven that yet by actually winning anything, is rather like your own self,too simple. I have already pointed out to you that Chelsea despite conceding more goals than Arsenal did against Bayern Munich won the tie not by scoring goals not good defending they lost one of the games 3-2 and conceded 2 also in the win at home. Arsenal kept a clean sheet in the home leg, so overall defended better than Chelsea did. Now whatever arguments you can put forth you cannot argue with known results, so your argument is a nonsense. Chelsea won by scoring more goals 6 against Bayerns 5, there was no great defending or goalkeeping from what i saw by either side, the tie being decided by one goal. Which was also the scenario in the Arsenal tie, except it went the other way in favour of the Germans. AC Milan are the only team that are defending well not conceding goals but also scoring them. A team that concedes 5 goals in a Cup-tie cannot have been said to have defended well, even you with your obviously limited intelligence can surely grasp that fact?. Newcastle who you were using for your argument actually conceded less goals in their tie than did Chelsea in theirs. Their defending was no worse than the Chavs but they scored less goals and is why they are out - spot the difference Nigel Gungunnge???.
Mee
April 15, 2005
Dormouse: I think Graham bought Kiwomya from Ipswich at the same time.
Dormouse
April 15, 2005
Thanks also to Exiled for pointing out my mistake with Hartson. It's strange what memory can do. When it was pointed out, I was able to remember that the transfer was under the GG regime & remember it being done, but somehow had it down as done by AW on the surface of my mind. Maybe I was confusing it with the Upson transfer since that was an AW transfer, also from Luton.
Dormouse
April 15, 2005
Richie - you're right about GG signing Hartson, though AW did give him a long-term contract before his sale to West Ham. But the point I was making was that AW i s happy to buy & to play players who have different strengths & that he will adjust the team's style to the players he has. The biggest problem we have with corners & free kicks is that we don't have players whose strengths would take advantage of them. Buying one would displace another player; if we are looking for a header of the ball then that probably means a CF or CB - that's Henry or one of the CBs to be replaced. We wouldn't want to replace Henry, so who could we buy as a CB who would score goals & would that be a good use of our limited money? Even Terry has only scored 8 goals in his 47 games - & that's with the help of team mates obstructing the GK. I think we have to accept that one of the downsides of Henry is that he won't score many headers, & that a lot of the team style is built around his talents.
Exiled In Newcastle
April 15, 2005
Dormouse - I do agree with you but Hartson was bought by Graham.
GunGun
April 15, 2005
The bar codes performance in Lisbon reminded me of the true quality of defending that PL sides often put on display in European competitions. Dyer said their defense lost it. Bright boy, they conceded 4 goals and it once more shows the lack of quality British coaches have. You see, when Souness came back after years in Italy I was sure that he and Chippy Brady would have learnt a thing or two about the art of defense. The result: very little. It is like they never played abroad. Now the Pl`s big four have fortunately
improved somewhat defensively and this is mostly down to the fact that they have foreign coaches except the Old Jock.
Cannon Ball, I have not changed my approach at all. I still find you humourless. bitter, uncharming, all in all not very pleasant company on this forum. Who am I today then, Balls? Maybe Cannon Balls himself? You poor obsessed sod. I was amazed to hear you are an old man of 52. You should have slightly better manners. But then, yobs will be yobs.
Richie
April 15, 2005
Hartson was purchased by GG. Fair point about the passing game but that shouldn't stop us from being productive at corners and in-direct free kicks.
Dormouse
April 15, 2005
On scoring from long range (by deflection or straight in), it seems to me that the number of players who are good at blasting these balls is small. Lampard is one of them, van Bommel is another. I don't think we have anyone who is good at it. the players we have who can score from range do it by curling & placing the ball & they are not likely to score by deflection. I am sure, if we had a player who was good at it, that AW would be encouraging them to have a go quite often. I don't think his tactics are as limited as some make out. He works to the talents of the players he has - IWWW was a different game to both Anelka & Henry; he bought Hartson & was, therefore, happy with the idea of a traditional centre-forward (if he had been good enough at the time); he bought Jeffers to be a fox in the box. He clearly prefers teams that have a fast, free-flowing, passing style, but he builds his tactics around the players he has, & he buys the best players he can for the money available.
Exiled In Newcastle
April 15, 2005
Wiral (or Wirral) - modern is anything since a couple of years before you become 'aware' because as soon as you really see it all the talk is of recent stuff that you can't help picking up if you've got the bug. I've spoken to a lot of people and their 'memory' of football in a what happened type way always seems to start a couple of years before their actual memory. Just wondered what you (and others) thought about that hypothesis personally.
Exiled In Newcastle
April 15, 2005
Decaf - "gum boots and science". I'll use that one day and I hope I credit you. Mind you, one of my favourite passes in football is a big defender putting it into row z so nippy bloke doesn't get it. Europe. It's a strange one. Firstly you've got to put everything into context. You've got to start with where the teams come from. Like with like, er, if you like. So how have we done against the other English teams that exist under similar (playing) constraints. Well Since English teams were back in Europe we've got one final appearance. I'm not sure to be honest whether the mancs got to another semi (hey, who remembers losing semi finalists!) but Leeds did (somehow) and the chavs did last year. So that's three (maybe four - and feel free to remind me of any I've forgotten) semi-final appearances by English teams in 15 years. UEFA cup - we got to the final and Leeds to the semi's in 2000, but apart from that I can't think of any off hand (again feel free to add any). So (and I'm leaving the ECWC out not because there are two wins there but because it's not there anymore) in 15 years back in Europe there's 6 semi final appearances (+?) but only one trophy. So the problem could be with English football and not with Arsene Wenger. And before the chav invasion we're suffering on this site start bleating about the borrowers of cars playing the borrowers of football I'm not a betting man. If I'm in the ground early boredom leads me to a ladbrokes and a fiver spent on five x quid combinations but tomorrow I'm going to stick a pony (might have been here for 7 years but I still talk proper like) on PSV to win the tournament.
Wiral Gooner
April 15, 2005
It all counts though. without wanting to awaken the old history debate, those wins by LFC in the 70's and 80's still seem like the modern era to me, just like our 3 - 1 and 1-0 wins at Anfield in the mid 1970's that iwent to with my dad.
AmericanGooner
April 15, 2005
As usual, our game will be the scum's cup final. Winning at the Lane was a good feeling, I'd love to spank them at Highbury.
AmericanGooner
April 15, 2005
Wirral, I should say, most successful in the modern era. I am well aware of LFC's success and Forest as well. I should have said most successful in the CL format and not the old European Cup.
Wirral Gooner
April 15, 2005
Also liked Sol vs Pompey. Have not heard from Chocolate on the forum for a while. i do so enjoy his tirades. What has happened to him?
Chippys Chislers
April 15, 2005
Just on the long range goals, my favourite was Freddie against the scum last year with the deflected effot. Love to win with a fluke, it makes it so much harder for them to bear. Also liked Campbell against Pompey this year. Not many CB's have done that this season
Richie
April 15, 2005
See the bar codes have been spanked 4-1 by Sporting Lisbon. It will be interesting to see how they react on Sunday.
Wirral Gooner
April 15, 2005
American. it will take a very long time before we can claim to be the most successful english club in Europe.L'pool have won 4 european cups , maybe 5 with this year but I doubt it.they have also won 2 UEFA cups and maybe a ECWC but not too sure on this last one.They make the mancs look like johnny come latelys to europe. and our Fairs cup and ECWC look frankly pathetic.
AmericanGooner
April 15, 2005
USMartin, I don't think the Chelsea players are worried about the league..at least not yet. I think they are very confident its over. If we beat them and they draw or lose to Fulham, then they'll get worried but not yet. I think they are building belief for a CL right now. Our game with them, I think they see it as a measuring stick and a game of the 'changing of the guard'. We are the last domestic hurdle for them. **** If Liverpool get to the final I will not be cheering for them. This may sound selfish but I want us to be the most successful Englsih club in Europe. I want us to win multiple European titles. **** Add Reyes and van Persie to those who can shoot from distance. **** Finally, I will have to congratulate the forumites on here for the board progressing since Steve's passing. Also, must acknowledge Niall, Roger and Rob K, for the things they have done and more importantly for the things they haven't done. You've made good changes without changing the culture of the forum. Lets keep it going.
AmericanGooner
April 15, 2005
Our defensive form this season can be attributed to the personnel we had in at the time. Toure` is having a bad year. Sol as well. Or he's not playing as well as he has been, whether due to injuries or whatever. So our two starting CBs are underperforming for various reasons and we dropped points as a result of it. Our form picked up when we had Senderos in and a few people coming back from injuries in the middle of the pitch (Silva, Vieira). Its seems fairly simple, maybe too simple. Maybe there is more to it than that, if so, I haven't figured it out. **** Regarding the annual awards. The Chelsea contingent may end up taking votes from each other. If Lampard was the only Chelsea player on there he'd win handily. Everyone views it as Chelsea's year and Lampard is seen as the epitome of it. I would recognize Henry as my PFA but I wouldn't object to someone saying it was a slightly biased viewpoint. If Robben is on there, so should Fabregas. Robben has been injured for a large chunk of the season. This is a guess but I'd say Fabregas has probably played more games in all domestic competitions and maybe more than 14 in the league. Defoe has been more valuable to the scum than Ronaldo to the Mancs in my humble opinion. SWP's injury may have shaded it for Defoe. Was Toure` on the short list last season? **** SW1905, for me, Cech and Terry and probably Robben on the bench because he can't stay healthy. Gudjohnsen on the bench. I'd take an inform Bergkamp over an inform Gudjohnsen, even at his age. And that's it.
Niall
April 15, 2005
After you over Rooney the Manc granny shagger Cannon. Still think he's the new Pele? Or is that Joe Cole? Nevermind.
Cannon Balls
April 15, 2005
Nigel-Gungunge, you have been banging on on about Chelsea having a :"Rock solid defense". And that was the reason why they and not Arsenal were 'successful' in the CL - your now trying desperately to change tact - but fooling no one. I have told you before, and will repeat my advice, you know ****all about football - so go and play with your Gameboy and get it off over your Damien Duff poster.
Alex E
April 15, 2005
Have you seen the rumour on Del Piero or Jermaine Defoe signing for us in the summer
Decaf
April 15, 2005
Exiled, my impression is that Paddy is to shooting what John Terry is to the fine are of clearing the ball--the victory of the gum boot over all known arts and sciences. Paddy's shooting is sufficiently accurate to have a fair chance of passing between the two corner flags, and remaining in the stadium. Occasionally one does fly in the direction of goal. Remember THAT goal he scored against Manure years ago (I think he nearly broke his leg in the process)? Paddy was as suprised as anyone else.
North Bank Mural
April 15, 2005
Been away all week so had no forum fix, doesn't seem to be much on here re Saturday?!! Think we will get kicked all over, is that scumbag Savage playing? We must win. In London a.m. tomorrow and heading for Cardiff p.m. so just want to say "Come on you Gunners" and see you all Saturday!!! PTBAG
Wirral Gooner
April 15, 2005
I think that L'pool can defend. Hypia is an excellent CB. When he was unsettled earlier this year I hoped that we would buy him. Carragher has also played well. Though he is not in the same class. They just seemed to want it more at Juve than we did at BM. this is what gets to me. An Arsenal team that seems to lack desire. They have all the talent, but appear to bottle it at times. reading the earlier posts reminds me to say that i also wish that they would have more shots rather than try to craft the perfect goal.
Wirral Gooner
April 15, 2005
Not a problem talking about chavski on this site. We all hate them, so what? Mee thanks for the advice about posting. Mr EEG, not sure I could mnanage a beard and I onluy wear sandals with socks. You even got the left leaning bit wrong. So left wing make leaning left impossible.
GunGun
April 15, 2005
Hey Cannon Balls, I knew you wouldn`t get it.
I never said the Chavs and the car-thieves had found a new super system of how to defend. What I am saying is that they learned how to defend pretty quickly. And, as in Liverpools case, it seems you don`t need superstars to carry out strict disciplined defending. Liverpool have a bunch of ordinary defenders who have been taught how to defend seriously. I love Arsene by the way and would not want to swap him for any manager. I do however reserve the right to point out his shortcomings. How are you today, by the way Cannon Balls? The fit of rage under control? Good boy!
Decaf
April 15, 2005
Dial Square, bear in mind that [...] played a CL game the other night and it is fairly natural to talk about them. What is more, one day, perhaps in the not too distant future ARSENAL may just have to play the unmentionable [...].
US Martin
From a semi-dead PC
April 15, 2005
Chelsea are SCARED right now. The best possible scenario is now here IF we take advantage at Stamford Bridge. Win there and with Chelsea trying to rest players ahead of meeting Liverpool and during the tie, they could well drop another four to six points and maybe more WITHOUT the trip to OT. Much as if we go through I would love to stuff the scum mancs, maybe its best if all they have to play for is the chance to spoil Chelsea's season come May and Ferguscum has no reason to rest his players. IF we win next week we CAN still win the League or even put Chelsea out of Europe as they try to hang on here. Chelsea KNOW it and they are SCARED....
Decaf
April 15, 2005
Good points, Clock End Ginger, EEG and Juliano. Cannonballs, maybe if we took more shots we would get more lucky goals. I must say that Juve's cluelessness last night reminded me of Arsenal in Europe. I think they thought it was going to be easy! When they weren't lumping hopeless diagonal balls onto Hyppia's head, they were trying to pass it into the goal (and seldom getting into the box). With the clock ticking down there was a lovely incident which summed up the general lack of a plan. The mighty Buffon passed to a defender and the after a few passes it came back to the keeper who sliced it into touch under no pressure (I may be conflating two incident there), wasting about two minutes. 65% possession yielding as few shots as that was not just down to Liverpool's good defending.
Dazza107
April 15, 2005
I was told last week that Arsenal was still very interested in Owen Hargreaves, has anyone heard anything on this topic. I can't find anything online that is recent enough to believe, rumor has it that Utd was also interested but I think he would be best suited at Arsenal.
Bernard
April 15, 2005
Dial Square, it might be because Chelsea are very relevant to Arsenal's fortunes at the moment. If it wasn't for Abramovich throwing however much money he has at them, Arsenal would now be three points clear of Man Utd with not too many games left in the race for our second successive title. But Abramovich's untold billions mean that instead both those clubs are floundering some distance behind a corrupt Russian based franchise. It's only natural they're going to be discussed.
Cannon Balls
April 15, 2005
Is Dial Sq in Glasgow?.
Roger
April 15, 2005
Chelsea ? - Who ? ;-)
Dial Square
April 15, 2005
When you're entering a message on this board it states "Post Your Arsenal Views or Thoughts". Why then are 90% of the messages posted here in some way related to Chelsea? This is starting to border on obsession... Can we all try and go a whole day without mentioning the Chavs once? Is it possible do you think?
East End Gooner
April 15, 2005
And I would happily take the current Cole with Mourinho having done the work with him to be an improvement for us in one of two positions. Firstly down the right-hand-side or secondly in a freer role to replace Bergkamp - the role I think Cole would prosper best with in the longer term. Have you just not been watching football lately Niall?
East End Gooner
April 15, 2005
I take it you haven't seen much Chelsea lately then Niall? Apart from possibly Lampard and maybe Terry (though the defence has been a bit weaker all round) Cole has been far and away their outstanding player. One credit I will give to Mourinho is he has turned him into a footballer in quick time. His impact on Chelsea has been at least five or six times that of Duff over the last two or three months. Frankly, during Robben's injury Duff is only confirming the former belief that he contributes very little without Robben taking players away from him. He was piss poor on Tuesday while Cole was covering Huth's arse for most of the second half before playing the key part in the winning goal. It would take a spectacularly poor judge to do down Cole's contribution at the moment. Then again...he aint Irish is he?
boreinho
April 15, 2005
nah its because i think eidur is would suit playing in a deeper role with henry as main striker ..
Exiled In Newcastle
April 15, 2005
Sw- it doesn't work like that. Look at the selection you've posted, it's set out as a chav team formation. So you've picked a Boreinho team.
Mee
April 15, 2005
There are only a very few players that fans of other teams would choose to supplant their own. TH14 is the one example I can think of, that no matter how cynical opposition fans are, would be picked by every other club in the premiership to be in their team. His talent is so huge that it is beyond petty club rivalries. I can’t think of one other player this applies to - suggestions anybody?
sw1905
April 15, 2005
YOUR arsenal team not wengers or mourinhos chelsea.
Cannon Balls
April 15, 2005
SWI,it's an exercise in futilty to compare the Chelsea v Arsenal players on which would fit into each others teams, because both managers have very different ideas on how the game should be played. And thus employ very different tactics. Drogba would be wasting his time at Arsenalhanging around like someone waiting for a bus that never comes, he would never get the all hoofed up to him in the air. Henry would be only half the player at Chelsea no one player scores 25+ league goals a season under Mourinhos tactics,who wa the last one to get two consective hat-tricks or even onwe?. Henry would have to be helping out the much vaunted defense like Joe Cole, Gudjohnson, etc do to keep the goals against down and making a 1-0 win or draw more likely . You have to ask which team would you rather watch or the neutrals, the answer is written in the stars,or rather TV viewing figures; if i had to choose between watching Terry heading in goals from corners,Lampard blasting in shots that need a lucky deflection or Duff going on runs that end nowhere because there is no one to pass too so he has to try a futile shot from an angle,then i would sooner watch paint dry. Anyway we will show you again how the game should be played next week.Watch out for Thierry and Bobby now...
Niall
April 15, 2005
Joe Cole..you're having a larf.
East End Gooner
April 15, 2005
SW1905 - The Chelsea players who would get in are Cech (no brainer), Terry (though give Senderos a year or two and he should be better, much less of a hoof it man) (Gallas has gone backwards and the right backs are all crap so I'll keep ours because they are Gooners), Lampard at the top of his game (though I've never seen him have a good one against us), Robben and maybe Cole in the way he has developed now. Please dont make me laugh about Makalele and of all people Gudjohnssen!!! And did you put Carvalho ahead of Campbell in all seriousness??? Its funny how transitory these things are. Duff doesn't even come close to Pires even when Pires is off form.
Alex
April 15, 2005
Hleb seems more and more likely to me. Agree Bernard, don't see why a foreigner couldn't fill that TA6 role. Senderos and Flamini have patential to me. Anyway, Viera is supposed to be doing that like last year, but he's really out of form.
sw1905
April 15, 2005
amazed Fabregas isnt nominated for PFA young player of the year
Alex
April 15, 2005
No Fabregas! Has anyone seen Sky's video selection of the nominated players? It's like a 'Great Goals against the Arsenal' video!
Alex
April 15, 2005
Arsenal/Chelsea 11: Cech, Eboue, Gallas, Campbell, Cole, Ljungberg, Makelele, Viera, Robben, Gudjonsen, Henry.
Bernard
April 15, 2005
That's awful news Brett. Niall, think you'll find he's 29 this summer. Dave, funny how your experiences are so different to those of JamesLT. Seeing how much you drone on here about the evil Germans and you actually live in their country and perhaps earn your living there, to have such an ungrateful attitude perhaps means you have difficulty in hiding it. And if that's the case, I'm not surprised you get a hard time - maybe you deserve it?
Alex
April 15, 2005
I disagree about Juve. They're certainly not worse. Who scores more than Arsenal? Scoring is not even our problem in Europe. I'm dissapointed to hear so many regret the lack of 'screamers' scored by us. I always sigh when the 'goal of the month' on MOTD is inevitably a 30 yard 'screamer'. Do you have no class? More speculative shots from outside? Careful there. Sounds like the first step of many. Why not work on set pieces more, and buy some big strong players? Why not defend 1-0s, and play a few more long balls to target men? Bob's your uncle- Bolton in north london.
Exiled In Newcastle
April 15, 2005
Niall - I agree, but to be honest it was the number of people making the statement 'he doesn't practice enough' that got my goat (so to speak).
Niall
April 15, 2005
Just as we were getting away from Chelsea up pops that question. Gah. For me only the ones I would take and proabably get regular games are Cech, Terry or Gallas (only need one), Ferreira, Duff, Robben, Gudjohnsen and Lampard.
Niall
April 15, 2005
Yeah as I was pointing out below Exiled, a few exceptions from Paddy bereak the general rule that he is crap at long shots. Anyone who saw his miss for the French vs Switzerland as well would give up on him as a shooter. At 27 it's too late for him now, we have to face up to it that from range, Vieira is average to poor.
SW1905
April 15, 2005
Just a question ,, being honest .. based purely on their skills as a footballer ( no bias ) What players from chelsea would you have in your arsenal team .
Ive been on chelsea Forums and with our strongest 11 , Henry and Cole was the only ones , campbell made our bench and so did ljungberg but thats it ....
Chelsea and Arsenal 11 :
...........Cech.............
Ferreira..Carvalho..JT..Cole
.....Makelele..Lamps........
..Duff..Gudjonson..Robben...
..........Henry.............
Exiled In Newcastle
April 15, 2005
A few different people appear to think that Paddy has a wonderful shot but doesn't practice enough. So I guess you're all out on the training pitch every day checking up on what the players are practicing? Must be, to know what he does or doesn't practice. And all based on the fact that he's hit the odd screamer. I remember Parlour hitting the odd screamer in the corner, but I remember far far more of them going closer to the corner flag. Yes he hit the odd accurate one, but most were absolute rubbish. So for those that say he doesn't practice enough, how exactly do you know that he hasn't practised plenty and just can't do it? It does annoy me when people come on here with sweeping statements (as opposed to opinions) for which they have absolutely no substance what so ever.
Brett
April 15, 2005
It's great news to hear that Arsenal have started talks with Ljungberg to extend his contract. Just sign on the dotted line Freddie!
Dave
April 15, 2005
Glad the Germans are out. I remember all the stick I had to take when I lived in Benrath near Leverkusen. We had just stuffed Bayer 1-1 away (Parlour red card after some great German diving) and 4-1 in the return. Played them off the park. Though our own stupidity we still managed to lose that group and all I hear from the Germans even today is that Bayer knocked Arsenal out....Well they did not knock us out but still harp on about it. As for away games in Germany I had to really suffer except for the game in Bremen which we won 4-1 I believe. But we lost all the others (Bayern 2, Dortmund, Schalke). So, I for one was pleased that Chelski and Liverpool got through against Bundesliga teams. It makes my life here more bearable.
Viera
April 15, 2005
If madrid offers £20m in summer should Arsenal sell him
tom
April 15, 2005
I hope PV4 and the rest of the boys have seen the comments by Lampard and Gudjohnsen(sp?) about "wrapping up" the Prem in their next two games before the semi v Liverpool. Have the Chavs forgotten who they're playing next Wednesday? One game at a time and all that but I hope we emerge from Cardiff victorious and injury free so we can give the arrogant gits a lesson.
Cannon Balls
April 15, 2005
Mee,at OT these days it's just a business, and Glazer is not even there yet!. Former United Director Greg Dyke says ( his wife must get some funny looks!) that:"Glazer will endanger the clubs very existence if they get a few fallow years." Right let's start the ball rolling then!.
Juliano
April 14, 2005
Tottaly agree with you Richie re Vieira. He has a fearsome shot that he doesn't practice enough. It is him and Gilberto/Edu/Cesc/Flamini, any of the two CM who have to practice shooting. You are spot on about how he gets into excellent positions then sends a dummy and passes sideways. Sometimes he even tries to pick someone in the area with a through ball but the defenders seem to be so aware of the fact that he is not going to take the shoot that they are always anticipating his pass. That's the point I was making, if he was taking his chances more often he'd me more accurate, and it would make it more difficult for defenders to anticipate. As Vieira's screamer, I found it a mpeg file a couple of days ago with the greatest premiership goals, and there it was, as well as Bergy against Leicester 98 and Newcastle 02, Wrighty against Everton and Tezza against MU.
Mee
April 14, 2005
One of the good things about this forum is that it allows you to indulge in thoughts and opinions, that outside of such an incestuous platform as this, would mark you out as a firm candidate for the funny farm. Carrying on with the ‘life-changing moments’ theme, At a party a friend of mine was asked by his wife what was the most memorable incident of their relationship - he gave the obligatory stock reply about birth of children, meeting spouse etc, but afterwards at the pub I challenged him about it again and he gave a slightly different story. He represented English Universities at football and got to the European University final against French Universities in a mid-week at Old Trafford. As he was walking out of the tunnel before the game, he passed Matt Busby who asked him what position he played and wished him good luck. Although not a United supporter he cites this as being the most memorable thing to happen to him during his entire life. How do you recount this sort of stuff to people who mistakenly remind you that ‘its only a game’?
Mee
April 14, 2005
Ritchie: I seem to remember PV4 scoring at home against Man U against Schmeical from distance a few seasons back - but I agree that part of the teams game is lacking (apart from Henry’s thrilling goal against Man U at home last year) If we could shift the emphasis during games from a short passing game to something more expansive, the opposition would not be so sure of what counter tactics to employ. You would also have the element of surprise, opposing teams do not expect us to let fly from 30yds. Talking of memorable goals, my favourite was scored by Merson at home against Leeds in the FAC. We were 2-0 down at half time, then we made it 2-1 and with time running out Merson got the ball on the left touchline, made a diagonal run beating defender after defender, and from the edge of the box curled an absolute beauty into the far top corner at the clock end to earn a draw. I’ve been present at all children’s births, but lets get a sense of proportion here - Merse’s goal beats the lot.
Niall
April 14, 2005
Yesh but lets not forget that Lampard is exceptional at long shots, Arsenal currently don't have that type of midfielder in their locker. Vieira doesn't shoot cos he can't on most occasions (odd exception granted), but even a poor long shot can be buggered up by a goalie giving the attacker a chance.
Bernard
April 14, 2005
Trouble with that Richie is that I'm not at all certain we'd have done any better in the premiership and Champions League if no first team players had played at all in the FA Cup, and as you say many were rested anyway. And if by having whole teams made up by kids we'd have got knocked out the FA Cup already, we'd now have a zero chance of winning anything at all this season (I don't think Chelsea will blow the league). I think Wenger gets his selections for the FA Cup mostly (so taking into account views on last season's semi) right, as his record in it seems to show. Pick not always the strongest side up to the final, but still a side he'd expect to get through the tie.
Richie
April 14, 2005
For what it's worth, here's my take on our failure in CL. As already mentioned on here it's a combination of bad luck, wrong tactics, injuries and individual mistakes. Also I think that with each season the pressure just gets more intense. The press and the media seem to obsessed about us winning the damn thing and it somehow filters down to the management and players. Next season will be no different. Some of the factors mentioned are out of our control but tactics is one we can do something about. The intricate passing game is fantastic when it comes off but all to often this season it's been our achilles heel. It's meat and drink for the top teams of Europe. If we are not prepared to take shots from outside the area, convert free kicks and corners then it's no wonder we don't get very far. PV4 has a shot on him but how many times does he get to the edge of the area with a clear sight of goal and then he passes it sideways? Yes, Chelsea have had the rub of the green with deflections but they are prepared to have a dig hence the goals they have scored. The fact is that 'ugly' football is sometimes required to win this thing. We can be remembered for playing the prettiest football but winning sod all in Europe or we can adapt accordingly and give ourselves a realistic chance. If AW is not prepared to mix it up next season then expect the same outcome. The record books don't say who the most attractive team was but who wins the silverware. I am not saying we abandon the passing game but we do need to be a bit more pragmatic. A goal is a goal is a goal as they say. Additionally, what if we sacrificed the FA Cup for next season as an experiment? I mean just play the youngsters come what may. I know AW does rest some players for these games but I mean play none of the first team squad. This will enable more rest for the first team and concentrate on the league and the CL only. It seems to have served Liverpool well this season (CL, I mean) after an early exit from the cup. Got to be worth a punt I think.
Juliano
April 14, 2005
Ralph-I totally subscribe to your point of view. Our lack of shooting from outside the area is really something I would like us to improve, but I fear Arsène considers it as too "random". Let's face it he seems to have an idea of football where you knock the ball a certain way to creat clear-cut chances, whereas a rocket from outside is a piece of individual brilliance. My point is (and sorry to repeat it because I think I have said the same thing each season for a good 5 years) that if we had accurate shooters taking their chances, it would bring more goals, not only directly from the shots, but also because the opposition know they have to close down faster, so it pushes a player up to try and prevent the shooter, and it frees up space around the area for a run behind the defence. We saw it against Chelsea last season in the cup, they were slow to close down on Reyès and he sent a screamer in the top corner. Minutes later they made amend and went fast on Dennis/Paddy (can't remember) so he could thread a great ball through to Reyès. Plus from a fan's point of view, there's nothing like a 30 yards screamer, Ray against Valencia is still my fave Arsenal goal!
Mee
April 14, 2005
Ralph: There is truth in what you say, but have you noticed how many times Lampard makes space for himself with clever positional play,so he often receives the ball on the edge of the box. He has been lucky with deflections, but to some extent this ‘luck’ is merely good spatial awareness of what’s around him.
Ralph (3/- Clock Ender)
April 14, 2005
Re: Passion in our game. The ‘Gerrard moment’ is rarely seen from an Arsenal team because they are continually striving for the perfect goal. How often have you seen us score goals from lucky deflections? Almost never! I challenge anyone to recall an Arsenal player in recent times who actually shoots on sight (or even on NO sight) as Lampard & Cole do for Chelsea. Shooting from distance is an art and often results in the seats way above the crossbar. The only Arsenal players who I can imagine shooting from outside the area is PIRES, FABREGAS, VIEIRA and HENRY. VIEIRA does not practice enough and almost always hits the cameramen. PIRES like DB10 shoot on the curve towards a far post so any deflections usually take the ball even further away for a corner. HENRY will only shoot when he scores. FABREGAS is the only player in my mind’s eye that shoots accurately between the posts through a ruck of players. Only his shooting would cause a deflected goal as a result. Perhaps Mr Wenger should give him encouragement to shoot more often. However, unlike Lampard & Chelsea, the ball during an Arsenal attack has probably gone through a complex web of passes and player movements and just shooting on the off chance of a goal or deflected goal would appear churlish and wasteful. I suggest if Lampard were to play the ‘beautiful game’ that is seen at Highbury, even he would not wish to spoil the patterns by just providing the final John Terry-style ‘HAVE IT!
Bernard
April 14, 2005
Mee, I think doing the type of things you want is irrelevant to nationality; not only English players have that quality. It needs a corresponding personality (leadership qualities, for example), status in the team, and respect from other players. I think being English is immaterial, and I fail to see why a Swiss player shouldn't be just as able to do it as an Englishman.
jeremy
jere_arsenal@yahoo.com
April 14, 2005
I thought i seen some says it's just bad luck that we din make it for 7 years in a row.I used to think that way too but 7 years in a row,we must have broken a mirror or something.Slowly,i realised that wasn't a sufficient excuse.For 7 years,we are always having hell lot difficulties scoring and beating a side that plays men-behind-ball.Anyone can remember the last time any of our players scored from set-piece apart from penalties?To be honest,i think we are only an average attacking side in CL.And our defence seems to be on the declining part of the slope ever since the Great Adams hung his boots.Real quality players,apart from Sol and Senderos,were never brought in to replace those who had retired.Make-shift were always a gamble esp with our limited budget.We can't really afford to have a trial and error.And we have this terrible habit of not buying to reinforce the squad after we win title.Weaknesses were rectified and were often exploited by opponents in the next season.And some of our players' mentality are just gone for the next season after winning the title,they seems to think they are all-conquering till they discover the bitter side of life.Though,like many of Gunners i respected AW,but surely he had to take some blame.We are a big club but sad to say,we have the mentality of the Div 1 Champion.There will a lot to do for the coming season,buying a few big-names can only solve the prob skin-deep.VPTBAG!!!
Mee
April 14, 2005
Bernard: Yes let’s hope Senderos continues to develop, although I can’t recall any foreign player fulfiling that role. It seemed perfectly logical for TA6
to assume the role because he was at the heart of a predominantly english team and was a local boy. I don’t know how easy it would be for a young Swiss player to remonstrate with his elder colleagues if things are not going too well?
steve martin
April 14, 2005
17 years old, 38 games for his club this season, how can the Prem players not have voted for him, it is just unbelievable...
Mee
April 14, 2005
Cesc Fabregas is clearly the young player of this or any other year and brings to mind other nominees from the past who were without any serious competition - The young Trevor Francis (was it 14 goals from 16 appearances in the then Div. 1) and of course the incomparable teenage Jimmy Greaves
Bernard
April 14, 2005
Mee, think Senderos may well have that quality. How quickly it develops into something tangible is another matter, I guess.
Mee
April 14, 2005
At the risk of going all xenophobic, what we need is a good old-fashioned, never over til its over, never say die, attitude when things aren’t running for us in the CL - an absolute refusal to take second best - Gerrard has it, Adams certainly had it, Terry has it - in short, a leader
setting an example. That sort of attitude sits perfectly comfortably within a team like ours based around skill, technique and artistry and doesn’t mean you end up playing like Bolton.
Bored
April 14, 2005
Complete joke that Fabregas didn't even make the shortlist but admitedly a not very funny one. Arsenal in the Champions League just look so uncomfortable as if they not 100% sure of their game plan. I think Wenger has to take a lot of the responsibility for that. Contrast that with Chelsea's 100% focused displays this season in the same competition.
Bernard
April 14, 2005
Couldn't help laughing when I saw Arseblog's comment about Jermaine Pennant. http://www.arseblog.com/index.php#April14
Cannon Balls
April 14, 2005
Ginger,i agree with much of what you say,we are often too intricate and there are times when an headed goal from a corner or even a'la Bould a brace would do. Also a Gerrard type leaderon the pitch,though the Car-Thieves managed without him last night,or yes even a Lampard- Joe Cole style deflection they all count. Putting everything down to not defending is a nonsense Chelseas defending in the CL is crap,they have lost their last three away games and conceded loads of goals, but they have somehow managed when it's been needed to pull something out of the hat,even resorting to cheating.I am not advocating that we don't wantto sink to their level. We need to mix our game up a little and force results at times instead of relying just on our passing game, we are not that far away if Liverpool or Chelsea can get to a final or some of the other teams that have recently then so can we.Benitez says diplomatically oday on SKY that Chelsea are a dificult team to beat they defend deep and and counter atack. What he really means is they are long-ball merchants,come to think about it rather like Liverpool themselves.
steve martin
April 14, 2005
Arjen Robben.
Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney Shaun-Wright Phillips Stewart Downing and Jermain Defoe make up the list of young player of the year award, Where is Cesc, 17 years old and been fantastic, I might be biased, but he has done far more than Downing this season...
Darren
April 14, 2005
No Fabregas in the PFA young player shortlist. E*ging joke!
Bernard
April 14, 2005
Just seen Gaz got in before me.
Bernard
April 14, 2005
Not looked myself yet as it's not working on my computer today but just had a text from Gaz who's looking at the webcam and following what Juliano said yesterday, it seems the second half of the roof is going up right now.
Gaz ( B/Wood )
April 14, 2005
Blimey! Wasnt expecting the second half of the roof to be going up so early! http://www.stadium.arsenal.servecast.net/arsenal/player.asp Come on Arsenal.
Clock End Ginger
April 14, 2005
The Champions League is not a joke competition as some are saying and its not just down to bad luck that we're not in the semis. I agree Juve were lethargic, and Liverpool may not be as consistent as us when they have to play second rate premiership teams like Birmingham or Southampton but this season, when they've needed to put in a big performance in Europe they have. Their Gerrard moment four minutes from time against the Greeks when he scored the winner from 30 yards was an inspiring moment of football: a great player finding some inspiration when his team needed it. Precisely what we we didn't do against Bayern in those depressing last 25 minutes at Highbury. There seemed to be no real belief in our team that we would get through. That is our problem. We have not won a big game for a long time now, about 14 months (Chelsea away in the league) and we are not good at coping with real pressure situations, witness our second half against Man Utd recently. I don't think we're that far off, and a top keeper would fill everyone with more belief, but its not down to luck that we have once again failed in Europe. We can't run through good defences so easily and quickly get frustrated. For all that people go on about Chelsea's deflections, and I hate seeing them in the last four, at least they have shots on goal. How many did we have in the whole 180 minutes against Bayern. Four, five? Not good enough.
Rich
April 14, 2005
Following on from my last post.....just checked the stats, Robben has only made 14 Premiership starts and Rooney has scored only 9 Premiership goals. Surely no matter how well Robben played he cant get nominated on just 14 games? and Rooney on 9 goals, there is 11 players with more than that! including 3 gooners. Earnshaw has scored more and Crouch, Cahill, Dickov have scored as many. Crouch being 23 so not too old to qualify by their rules! Baffling
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