Another slow news day on the Arse front, but there’s enough fodder for stories elsewhere.
First, of course, there’s no news on the Hleb-ini affair, and as I said, I won’t say more until both decide on what the hell they want to do. Good at least, that at last, we've reached the deadline (today) for at least the "ini" part of the Hleb-ini affair.
There’s a great piece from the Times, which is rightfully flattering for Cesc. The man (Cesc) hit the nail on the head with regard to our failings this season. Instead of going on about the Derby win, he recognized that there were still some painfully symptomatic ills:
“But there are still things to correct, to get better for next season. We can still improve a lot. We did well, but we conceded a goal from a set-piece again.
“And then, controlling the game as we were doing, we conceded the second goal. I don't think that we can allow teams to score these kinds of goals when we are having the ball 90 per cent of the game."
He has basically described our downfall in more than one game, and especially the key games: Man U at Old Trafford, and Pool in the Champions League.
Le Boss himself has his own take on our season:
"I feel we were one game away in this championship. If we win at Old Trafford, we are champions. It's just one game, and in that game we were 1-0 up and we had two or three chances to score the second goal, so you cannot say we had a bad season. We have 77 points and we have won championships with 78."
I’d say it’s not just one game. Those stupid draws – if we’d won just two, that would make the four bloody points that we’re behind right now. And we’d still have the luxury of losses against Man U and Chelsea as buffer. So I’d say the key points lost would be: Birmingham and Wigan or Middlesbrough.
But enough analysis of this for now. On to other things...
First, there’s of course Man U’s win over Barca. All I can really say are: Damn, good for Scholes. I must admit that he’s the sort of professional the game has been losing for a long time. Last of a breed, I would say. We had ours, the long-standing loyal rocks behind the team. Adams, Parlour, Keown, etc. These days, WTF. The EPL has nothing in the form of loyalty. It’s sad that we’re talking about Flamini leaving because he feels undervalued. Wonder if Adams ever felt undervalued at Highbury.
Rijkaard can also start packing his bags. Damn cock comments he made about the implications of Ronaldo’s missed penalty, and he must feel like an even bigger limp one right now. Wonder if Henry’s going to stick around as well. Hmm. If there’s any team which was a bigger let down than Barca this season, I haven’t found it. People talk about Arse’s season, but it makes me smile to think of Barca’s own really cock season. For all the talk about the Galaticocks, well, so there. Don’t waste our time anymore, please. AC Milan and Barca can go and suck eggs for all their money, and ability to buy everything on the planet.
Methinks Man U will soon be European Champions. Don’t really care what happens in the next semi. Both ways, it’ll suck. Both don’t deserve to go through. Either will lose to Man U. But in some perverse way, hope Chelski gets through. Both Man U and Chelski could do with some distraction from their last two games. Haha!
Some of the funnier stories: There’s this one about Ronaldo (the fat Brazilian one), getting caught out with transvestite prostitutes. Holy cow. Hilarious man. It seems he didn’t really know that they were transvestites when he first brought them back to the hotel. Suppose it was only in the light of the room that he realized. But looking at the photos, maybe he just likes women who look like men then. If I were the trans (not that I would ever be), I'd consider framing him too, for even considering sleeping with someone as ugly as meself.
Another not-so-funny story: seems Thaksin has had enough of Sven. Some cock implications: (a) Sven’s gonna get another fat pay-out for doing nothing. Shit. Wish I was an old fart Swede (he seems to get the chicks too); (b) This is so gonna piss off the fans. Give it 6 months, and they’re gonna start burning Thaksin effigies. (c) This is so gonna piss off the managers’ union, and drive even more reactions against foreign ownership. (d) Thaksin will soon start talking to Rijkaard.
WTF does Thaksin want from City, I really do not know. But if I could figure out what went wrong, maybe (a) he’s colour blind, and couldn’t tell blue from red, (b) he thought he was buying Manchester United, and (c) the stadium restaurants/stands refused to sell tom yam soup at half time.
So, here’s to next season, when Thaksin will single-handedly reunite Rijkaard and Ronaldinho at City. Foreign ownership is fine, but moron owners can be slightly problematic.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Review: Derby 2 - Arsenal 6
So we scored six, when we really could’ve scored eight or nine in the second half alone. At times, particularly after we went up 3-1, it got a tad irritating, as a mixture of 80% arrogance, taking it too easy and 20% horrendous finishing allowed Derby a second goal. I must admit I was expecting it, and god forbid, willing it – as that would have been the only way to wake Arse from their over-confidence. That it was Theo who then scored (a brilliant goal) barely 90 seconds after the restart was all the more gratifying. The rest, was all Ade, as his class showed, with clinical finishing will all his three goals.
A word too for RVP, who had a brilliant finish close to half time, after a first half where we were admittedly still half asleep. Speaking of RVP, I sure hope his departure at half time was more precautionary. If it’s a thigh strain, what can I say: Lemon van Persie? Damn. I’ve always thought highly of him, and methinks he’s just starting to get back into his pre-injury form and fitness.
Denilson had a good run out too, and at times, reminded me that we’ve got a Flamster departure well covered. The boy’s got as much drive, and a little bit more Brazilian flair. His goals in the Carling Cup would attest to that. A few more run outs, and he should do just fine.All in all, good performances by just about everybody. If Kolo had his shooting boots on, he could’ve got himself a fair share of goals as well. (Though I must add, for about that 10 minutes when we were most wasteful, Bendtner had me tearing my hair out).
I’m looking forward to Sunday and Everton already. Anything less than victory for MU at home to West Ham on Saturday would make it really interesting. And my money is on Newcastle taking at least one point on Monday against Chelski. Asked to comment on the Arsewiper's premonition, Cesc had this to say:
"Nothing is impossible. We have to win the last two games and then we'll see. We are not the favourites, but you never know."
The margin of victory has also put something else into perspective: that we’ve got at least that one advantage over Chelski in our goal difference. Who knows what it will turn out useful for: second or even top spot. One more big picture thought, which sorta corroborates why we’ve ultimately got four chaps in the EPL players’ “dream team”: we’ve now lost just three all season, two less than Man U. Unbeaten at home too, a record shared by Chelski alone.
Looking ahead beyond this season, I have reason for optimism. Despite all that has happened, we are experiencing one of our better seasons for a while. We finished a massive 24 and 21 points behind the champs the last two seasons. Even when we finished second to Chelski in 2004/5, we were ultimately 12 points behind. With two games to go this time, we’re already at 77 points, and 4 behind the leaders. So for a season where we were written off, I think the year should be seen as an omen for good things to come. We’ve got just a few gaps to plug. Once done, next season will no doubt bring success.
Looking at the stats for the last couple of seasons, it’s clear we’ve also missed a midfielder in Pires. He regularly got us the goals, averaging in the mid-teens. For all of Hleb’s endeavour, he’s really never been great on the goals and assists. So maybe it won’t be so bad if he leaves. I’m confident that Le Boss has a Pires look-a-like in the horizon.
A word too for RVP, who had a brilliant finish close to half time, after a first half where we were admittedly still half asleep. Speaking of RVP, I sure hope his departure at half time was more precautionary. If it’s a thigh strain, what can I say: Lemon van Persie? Damn. I’ve always thought highly of him, and methinks he’s just starting to get back into his pre-injury form and fitness.
Denilson had a good run out too, and at times, reminded me that we’ve got a Flamster departure well covered. The boy’s got as much drive, and a little bit more Brazilian flair. His goals in the Carling Cup would attest to that. A few more run outs, and he should do just fine.All in all, good performances by just about everybody. If Kolo had his shooting boots on, he could’ve got himself a fair share of goals as well. (Though I must add, for about that 10 minutes when we were most wasteful, Bendtner had me tearing my hair out).
I’m looking forward to Sunday and Everton already. Anything less than victory for MU at home to West Ham on Saturday would make it really interesting. And my money is on Newcastle taking at least one point on Monday against Chelski. Asked to comment on the Arsewiper's premonition, Cesc had this to say:
"Nothing is impossible. We have to win the last two games and then we'll see. We are not the favourites, but you never know."
The margin of victory has also put something else into perspective: that we’ve got at least that one advantage over Chelski in our goal difference. Who knows what it will turn out useful for: second or even top spot. One more big picture thought, which sorta corroborates why we’ve ultimately got four chaps in the EPL players’ “dream team”: we’ve now lost just three all season, two less than Man U. Unbeaten at home too, a record shared by Chelski alone.
Looking ahead beyond this season, I have reason for optimism. Despite all that has happened, we are experiencing one of our better seasons for a while. We finished a massive 24 and 21 points behind the champs the last two seasons. Even when we finished second to Chelski in 2004/5, we were ultimately 12 points behind. With two games to go this time, we’re already at 77 points, and 4 behind the leaders. So for a season where we were written off, I think the year should be seen as an omen for good things to come. We’ve got just a few gaps to plug. Once done, next season will no doubt bring success.
Looking at the stats for the last couple of seasons, it’s clear we’ve also missed a midfielder in Pires. He regularly got us the goals, averaging in the mid-teens. For all of Hleb’s endeavour, he’s really never been great on the goals and assists. So maybe it won’t be so bad if he leaves. I’m confident that Le Boss has a Pires look-a-like in the horizon.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Arse: Team of the Year
How nice. Cesc picks up PFA Young Player of the Year. No doubt, he deserves it. But even more interesting in the whole awards thing: We've got four players in the PFA Team of the Year: Cesc, Sagna, Clichy and Ade. Wow. That's more than any other team. Even Man U had just three, in Vidic, Ferdinand and that twat Ronaldo. And most amusingly of all, Chelski had none. C'mon. For all that money, they've got none up there with the best of the EPL? Well, given that the awards are voted by the players for the players, I shouldn't be surprised. Everyone hates those @!#$! twats.
Some nice comments from Cesc on receiving the award:
"But, I have to pay tribute to my teammates because without them, it would not have been possible. Someone just told me I am the first Spanish player to win this award, so I am proud of that."
Now, which mum out there won't have a nice little sniff for such a nice young man?
Seems like the Guardian is buying into my little premonition of a spectacular Man U collapse. Nice little amusing piece here. Finally, so too does the Sun. Nice piece too, but I must say, he kinda steals a few of me ideas about Sir's hypocrisy/retardedness/patheticness, etc etc. haha!
Finally, finally: here's to the last evening kick-off of the season. Over in our part of the world, that basically means the last time until August that I'm going to have to wake up at 3 in the morning...
I just had a thought: wonder when the new kit for 2008/2009's gonna make an appearance.
[UPDATE/BREAKING NEWS: Funniest goddamn story of the year so far. Chelski's tour of Malaysia is cooking up a storm, with the Orc and Tal Ben Haim being the target of Malaysia's current rules against Israelis entering the country. It seems their Home Affairs Minister is a Chelski supporter, which explains a lot. To the Muslim groups cooking up the storm, I say this. First, yes, ban the Orc. Not because he's Israeli, but because he's so goddamn ugly. And, he won't conduct a proper press conference anyway, so why bother?!? But let Tal Ben Haim in man. He's played barely a minute since moving from Bolton, and bless his soul, he played with a veritable UN team in Bolton. It'd be interesting to see how this whole thing plays out though...hey, isn't Romano-bloody-bitch a Russian Jew too? Wonder what the Malaysians think, and what he thinks about this damn thing.]
Some nice comments from Cesc on receiving the award:
"But, I have to pay tribute to my teammates because without them, it would not have been possible. Someone just told me I am the first Spanish player to win this award, so I am proud of that."
Now, which mum out there won't have a nice little sniff for such a nice young man?
Seems like the Guardian is buying into my little premonition of a spectacular Man U collapse. Nice little amusing piece here. Finally, so too does the Sun. Nice piece too, but I must say, he kinda steals a few of me ideas about Sir's hypocrisy/retardedness/patheticness, etc etc. haha!
Finally, finally: here's to the last evening kick-off of the season. Over in our part of the world, that basically means the last time until August that I'm going to have to wake up at 3 in the morning...
I just had a thought: wonder when the new kit for 2008/2009's gonna make an appearance.
[UPDATE/BREAKING NEWS: Funniest goddamn story of the year so far. Chelski's tour of Malaysia is cooking up a storm, with the Orc and Tal Ben Haim being the target of Malaysia's current rules against Israelis entering the country. It seems their Home Affairs Minister is a Chelski supporter, which explains a lot. To the Muslim groups cooking up the storm, I say this. First, yes, ban the Orc. Not because he's Israeli, but because he's so goddamn ugly. And, he won't conduct a proper press conference anyway, so why bother?!? But let Tal Ben Haim in man. He's played barely a minute since moving from Bolton, and bless his soul, he played with a veritable UN team in Bolton. It'd be interesting to see how this whole thing plays out though...hey, isn't Romano-bloody-bitch a Russian Jew too? Wonder what the Malaysians think, and what he thinks about this damn thing.]
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Funny, innit?
Well, well. What a Saturday. What a game, what a few games…all once again reminding us of all that we love and hate in this game.
First, Chelski-MU. Hilarious on several fronts. Man U’s utterly inept performance in the first half, the “diabolical” back pass by Carvalho, Rooney’s pleas to his team mates not to jump on him, Ballack and Frogba urguing over a goddamn free kick, the “diabolical” penalty decision, and the fisticuffs after the game. What a bunch of fools.
But the “diabolical” comments made by Sir and his assistant after the game take the bloody cake. First, Sir on the penalty:
“Absolutely diabolical…it's a major decision. Granted it hit his hand. He's not
lifted his hand above his shoulders, above his head, anything like that. The
ball is going straight to Rio Ferdinand. The referee should have seen that
rather than the linesman. If it goes down to decisions like those we're in
trouble. If we're not getting decisions we deserve then we're going to have to
perform really well."
WTF is that old bleeding fart talking about. Let’s see him say that about the Gallas decision then. “Please, Mr Ref, that was not a penalty. We don’t want it. It would be diabolical to give us a penalty just for that.”
What is it with these people and their 30-second memories. And this takes the cake. Mr Assistant Carols Queer-ass:
"It must be necessary for a player to bring a gun and shoot one of our men in the box for us to get a penalty."
Er, I don’t think so, you absolutely diabolical twat. All you need are Gallas, his hand and a ball. Moron.
But here we are. If Arse win on Monday, we’ll only be four behind the leaders. Amazing. You can only imagine all the what-ifs, should’ve-beens. But as I said, we’re still in it! Part One of my little premonition is in place.
On the relegation front, wow. Fulham sure pulled one out of the hat there, and it’s great Sunderland are safe with their last minute winner as well. I wouldn’t want to face them on the last day having to win it to stay in the league.
Big game tonight as Everton face Villa. That would be huge for both in the fight for the European place. Villa are on fire, and Everton, well, are Everton. My bet is that they’re again going to be limp right when it counts.
First, Chelski-MU. Hilarious on several fronts. Man U’s utterly inept performance in the first half, the “diabolical” back pass by Carvalho, Rooney’s pleas to his team mates not to jump on him, Ballack and Frogba urguing over a goddamn free kick, the “diabolical” penalty decision, and the fisticuffs after the game. What a bunch of fools.
But the “diabolical” comments made by Sir and his assistant after the game take the bloody cake. First, Sir on the penalty:
“Absolutely diabolical…it's a major decision. Granted it hit his hand. He's not
lifted his hand above his shoulders, above his head, anything like that. The
ball is going straight to Rio Ferdinand. The referee should have seen that
rather than the linesman. If it goes down to decisions like those we're in
trouble. If we're not getting decisions we deserve then we're going to have to
perform really well."
WTF is that old bleeding fart talking about. Let’s see him say that about the Gallas decision then. “Please, Mr Ref, that was not a penalty. We don’t want it. It would be diabolical to give us a penalty just for that.”
What is it with these people and their 30-second memories. And this takes the cake. Mr Assistant Carols Queer-ass:
"It must be necessary for a player to bring a gun and shoot one of our men in the box for us to get a penalty."
Er, I don’t think so, you absolutely diabolical twat. All you need are Gallas, his hand and a ball. Moron.
But here we are. If Arse win on Monday, we’ll only be four behind the leaders. Amazing. You can only imagine all the what-ifs, should’ve-beens. But as I said, we’re still in it! Part One of my little premonition is in place.
On the relegation front, wow. Fulham sure pulled one out of the hat there, and it’s great Sunderland are safe with their last minute winner as well. I wouldn’t want to face them on the last day having to win it to stay in the league.
Big game tonight as Everton face Villa. That would be huge for both in the fight for the European place. Villa are on fire, and Everton, well, are Everton. My bet is that they’re again going to be limp right when it counts.
Saturday, April 26, 2008
A win-win-win Saturday
A really slow news day for us. Except of course, of the little matter of the Chelsea-Man U game in about 5 minutes. The way I see it, whatever happens, I'm pretty cool with.
Man U win: Well, then, that screws Chelski, and apart from Arse winning, there's no better feeling in football. Also gives us a good chance for second then.
Draw: Cool too. Helps nobody, and when Arse win at Derby, then theoretically, we're still in it with 2 games left. No denying that that would be a pretty good season.
Chelsea win: Good as well, given my earlier "prediction". heh heh.
Can't wait. Here we go!
Small bit of irrelevant news: Seems like Luka Modric has signed for Spurs, spurning amongst others, Arse. I don't really think Le Boss was seriously in the market. In any case, anybody who chooses Spurs over Arse is either (a) an utter moron, or (b) someone who knows he really isn't good enough to hold down a place at a top team. So there. Fool.
Man U win: Well, then, that screws Chelski, and apart from Arse winning, there's no better feeling in football. Also gives us a good chance for second then.
Draw: Cool too. Helps nobody, and when Arse win at Derby, then theoretically, we're still in it with 2 games left. No denying that that would be a pretty good season.
Chelsea win: Good as well, given my earlier "prediction". heh heh.
Can't wait. Here we go!
Small bit of irrelevant news: Seems like Luka Modric has signed for Spurs, spurning amongst others, Arse. I don't really think Le Boss was seriously in the market. In any case, anybody who chooses Spurs over Arse is either (a) an utter moron, or (b) someone who knows he really isn't good enough to hold down a place at a top team. So there. Fool.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Titi Toon?
Most shocking thing from The Sun (and it’s on the back pages, not page 3): Henry to go to Newcastle??? Holy Mary Mother of God. However you look at it, it sucks for Henry. That Keegan can even think of bringing Henry to St James’ Park just goes to show how far he has fallen in international regard.
How sad. The story is that he may go, simply to be closer to his daughter Tea. But er, Newcastle’s a little bit as far as you can get from London, without crossing the border. He may do better to just go to Rangers. At least he’d get proper Champions League Football, and take part in a proper local derby. Don’t think he’d get his kicks in a Newcastle-Sunderland derby.
As to why Henry has so badly fallen from grace, the BBC I think explains it best. Now looks like a damn solid piece of business from Le Boss to jettison Henry when he did. Injuries alone will almost certainly not allow Henry any more than half a productive season, wherever he goes.
But, but, but...(little bit of an update here). Henry himself has come out in respons to the silly suggestion of moving to Newcastle:
'There's only one team in England for me. Everybody knows the love and affection I have for Arsenal. I was so into it, I became a fan.
'There has been since I arrived here a lot of speculation from day one but, hey, go back where? There's only one team for me in my heart. It took me a while to understand what that club, Arsenal, meant.'
Aw, shucks. You the man, man. Okay then, it's settled. Kev, you can go fug yourself. Dream on. Titi would rather just continue doing Nike ads then play for you losers.
Away from this, there’s new injury news. Goddamn, yet another injury prone, legs of glass midfielder in Abou Diaby. Fancy tearing a tendon in a reserves game. Sheesh. Funny too is the news that we may be “finally” considering selling Senderos. As I’d said before, I don’t really mind having him around, but if we’re selling, it means either (a) we’ve got someone in the wings to step up, or (b) the Boss has to buy. Hope it’s the latter.
Looking forward to Derby, Le Boss says he may rest some of the EURO players. What the #@$%! man. That’s crap. I don’t see national bosses resting their players (from irrelevant friendlies) for key league games. Anyways, with our injuries, who the hell is he going to play then? Vic Akers? Gary Lewin? Don’t mind seeing more of Denilson, Theo, Gilberto though.
Nothing else new on the transfer speculation, except this little bit of fuel for the Kranjcar flame. As for Hleb/Flamini – cross my heart, I’ll write nothing more until they go or stay for sure.
How sad. The story is that he may go, simply to be closer to his daughter Tea. But er, Newcastle’s a little bit as far as you can get from London, without crossing the border. He may do better to just go to Rangers. At least he’d get proper Champions League Football, and take part in a proper local derby. Don’t think he’d get his kicks in a Newcastle-Sunderland derby.
As to why Henry has so badly fallen from grace, the BBC I think explains it best. Now looks like a damn solid piece of business from Le Boss to jettison Henry when he did. Injuries alone will almost certainly not allow Henry any more than half a productive season, wherever he goes.
But, but, but...(little bit of an update here). Henry himself has come out in respons to the silly suggestion of moving to Newcastle:
'There's only one team in England for me. Everybody knows the love and affection I have for Arsenal. I was so into it, I became a fan.
'There has been since I arrived here a lot of speculation from day one but, hey, go back where? There's only one team for me in my heart. It took me a while to understand what that club, Arsenal, meant.'
Aw, shucks. You the man, man. Okay then, it's settled. Kev, you can go fug yourself. Dream on. Titi would rather just continue doing Nike ads then play for you losers.
Away from this, there’s new injury news. Goddamn, yet another injury prone, legs of glass midfielder in Abou Diaby. Fancy tearing a tendon in a reserves game. Sheesh. Funny too is the news that we may be “finally” considering selling Senderos. As I’d said before, I don’t really mind having him around, but if we’re selling, it means either (a) we’ve got someone in the wings to step up, or (b) the Boss has to buy. Hope it’s the latter.
Looking forward to Derby, Le Boss says he may rest some of the EURO players. What the #@$%! man. That’s crap. I don’t see national bosses resting their players (from irrelevant friendlies) for key league games. Anyways, with our injuries, who the hell is he going to play then? Vic Akers? Gary Lewin? Don’t mind seeing more of Denilson, Theo, Gilberto though.
Nothing else new on the transfer speculation, except this little bit of fuel for the Kranjcar flame. As for Hleb/Flamini – cross my heart, I’ll write nothing more until they go or stay for sure.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Shite transfer news
But first: Ronaldo misses penalty! What a laugh, good for the twit. As I had earlier predicted, the rot is in place. His confidence will now collapse, and MU will struggle to get their 1 point from the remaining three games. heh heh heh.... Great too that Chelski have got an extra day to get over their mid-week game for the early kick-off on Saturday. It's all falling into place.
The news is that Flamini is as good as gone. The same old shite is that he reaally wants to stay, but the most we can offer is £50,000, and Juve's prepared to up it to £60,000. Wow. So the geezer's prepared to leave for an extra £10,000? Hmmmm.....
Peter Hill-Wood's got it right:
Que sera sera. Let's focus on the last three games. No Hleb and no Flamini. Which is good anyway, since they must already be mentally gone.
The news is that Flamini is as good as gone. The same old shite is that he reaally wants to stay, but the most we can offer is £50,000, and Juve's prepared to up it to £60,000. Wow. So the geezer's prepared to leave for an extra £10,000? Hmmmm.....
Peter Hill-Wood's got it right:
It would have been great to keep him. But we will survive, and the Boss will just have to make another good signing. What's made this slightly more interesting is that news that Pool and Chelski are falling over themselves for Bentley. Fools. He's valued at £15 million, and Chelski would be willing to pay him £60,000 a week. Seems like Abramo-bloody-bitch is willing to pay more per week for Bentley than we are for the Flamster. It's the fuckers like him who raise the bars of salaries to outright unrealistic levels. If he's willing to pay that much for a dude to sit on the bench, then so be it. But I suspect these things work on the minds of players all round the EPL. (And especially with their fucking agents)."You just don't know nowadays. You think players have a pretty good
life, but, somehow, someone persuades them the grass might be greener
somewhere else. So I don't know the answer, all I know is we think we have
pushed the boat out."
Que sera sera. Let's focus on the last three games. No Hleb and no Flamini. Which is good anyway, since they must already be mentally gone.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Why We'll be Champs!
Thought about this. Here's what I think. First, the remaining fixtures and results:
Chelski v Man U: Chelski win
Derby v Arse: Arse win
Man U v West Ham: Draw (see what happened at Upton Park...)
Arse v Everton: Arse win
Newcastle v Chelski: Newcastle win (Owen to score again!)
Chelski v Bolton: Draw (mmm, yes. Those damn Trotters are definitely staying up)
Sunderland v Arse: Arse win
Wigan v Man U: Wigan win (of course. Heskey to net the winner with 2 mins remaining)
Final haul from the last three games:
Chelski: 4 points
Man U: 1 point (yes, it's a little bit of a slump, unfortunately)
Arse: 9 points
Final Standing:
Arse: 83 points
Man U: 82 points
Chelski: 82 points
Bring out the champagne, woman! But...if we are only win the League next season, this great piece sums up why we should be very optimistic.
Chelski v Man U: Chelski win
Derby v Arse: Arse win
Man U v West Ham: Draw (see what happened at Upton Park...)
Arse v Everton: Arse win
Newcastle v Chelski: Newcastle win (Owen to score again!)
Chelski v Bolton: Draw (mmm, yes. Those damn Trotters are definitely staying up)
Sunderland v Arse: Arse win
Wigan v Man U: Wigan win (of course. Heskey to net the winner with 2 mins remaining)
Final haul from the last three games:
Chelski: 4 points
Man U: 1 point (yes, it's a little bit of a slump, unfortunately)
Arse: 9 points
Final Standing:
Arse: 83 points
Man U: 82 points
Chelski: 82 points
Bring out the champagne, woman! But...if we are only win the League next season, this great piece sums up why we should be very optimistic.
The gods, the gods, they have a sense of humour
Ah, isn’t life just the funniest thing. Liverpool get slapped with a last second own goal – which while I haven’t actually seen it yet – sounds like the greatest howler ever. So, let’s see: Pool, of all people, getting hammered by a needless, last second, dreadfully painful self-inflicted injury? Heh. And looks like they’ll come away from their first leg – at home – with an ill-deserved 1-1 draw. Not sure, but that does sound vaguely familiar? Wonder what’s going to happen at Stamford Bridge… do I hear soft penalty in the 89th minute with the game at 2-2?
But it was Riise who made the mistake. I think we can put it down to inexperience.
We all hate Chelsea. So even if Pool muck this one up – which I am ambivalent about – I’m sure Man U would have them for supper. (Or Barca…)
A few other things though. First, looks like Hleb’s going to be slapped (pun intended) with a 3 match ban for his bitch slap on Murty. A few things worth pointing out there. First, did his parents leave out the “h” intentionally? Or is he of like Arab or Indian descent? Moorthy? Second, why was he so super upset after the incident? That he got slapped, and not punched? Was it the indignity of getting bitch slapped? By an ugly Belarussian with an 80s hair-do? Damn, if I got slapped on the pitch, I’d rather it be with the Ladies’ team. Third, if video evidence is taken when a referee misses something like that, well then…why can’t video evidence be taken for something vaguely more important? Like, let’s see…a goal over the line, a stupid penalty decision? A blatant penalty missed? Funny how things work. My proposal: for all key decisions within the penalty box, referees can blow the whistle, and ask for an immediate video replay.
There are some who say that the slap was the last act for Hleb in Arsenal colours. Whatever. Kinda sick of those stories. If so, besides the fact that his dribbling and close control was everything that his shooting never was, then I should say that he should at least have given Murty a right old sock and broken his nose. What the hell, 3 match ban for a slap.
Second bit of news – and shocking piece at that. Rumour (probably baseless, given the source) of a Pompey player coming our way, other than the other way round! Kranjcar it seems. I just think Redknapp should give him to us for free. I mean, WTF…he’s got Sol, Lauren, Adams all sitting with him. They’re exactly the people we could do with right now. Adams would make a good second string coach for our defenders.
But I digress. If ever Le Boss makes a big purchase, methinks he won't be making any advance indications. Much less from best mate Harry Redknapp. Let's just write this off for now.
But it was Riise who made the mistake. I think we can put it down to inexperience.
We all hate Chelsea. So even if Pool muck this one up – which I am ambivalent about – I’m sure Man U would have them for supper. (Or Barca…)
A few other things though. First, looks like Hleb’s going to be slapped (pun intended) with a 3 match ban for his bitch slap on Murty. A few things worth pointing out there. First, did his parents leave out the “h” intentionally? Or is he of like Arab or Indian descent? Moorthy? Second, why was he so super upset after the incident? That he got slapped, and not punched? Was it the indignity of getting bitch slapped? By an ugly Belarussian with an 80s hair-do? Damn, if I got slapped on the pitch, I’d rather it be with the Ladies’ team. Third, if video evidence is taken when a referee misses something like that, well then…why can’t video evidence be taken for something vaguely more important? Like, let’s see…a goal over the line, a stupid penalty decision? A blatant penalty missed? Funny how things work. My proposal: for all key decisions within the penalty box, referees can blow the whistle, and ask for an immediate video replay.
There are some who say that the slap was the last act for Hleb in Arsenal colours. Whatever. Kinda sick of those stories. If so, besides the fact that his dribbling and close control was everything that his shooting never was, then I should say that he should at least have given Murty a right old sock and broken his nose. What the hell, 3 match ban for a slap.
Second bit of news – and shocking piece at that. Rumour (probably baseless, given the source) of a Pompey player coming our way, other than the other way round! Kranjcar it seems. I just think Redknapp should give him to us for free. I mean, WTF…he’s got Sol, Lauren, Adams all sitting with him. They’re exactly the people we could do with right now. Adams would make a good second string coach for our defenders.
But I digress. If ever Le Boss makes a big purchase, methinks he won't be making any advance indications. Much less from best mate Harry Redknapp. Let's just write this off for now.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Wanted: Adedayor (hair optional)
Adebayor is now a wanted man. Why is this not a surprise. The way this particular story is written, however, methinks it’s just a case of his bastard agent angling for an improved contract and wages. Fine. Whatever. I’ll leave it entirely to the boss’ best judgment to deal with this.
The Flamini saga continues to roll on, with new suggestions that he has turned down the club’s offer of a new contract, and that talks with Juve are on track. Fuck it. Whatever too. If it’s all about the money, then so be it. The Boss has had a great record of bringing players out of the peripheries of professional football onto the world stage. This is the price that has to be paid. I’m only upset that he will be able to leave on a free. That’d be our fault for not giving him a new contract before the start of this season. If Hleb goes, however, then let’s at least make some good money. Boss’ comments on Hleb leaving are right here. I agree. Not sure which team these days can guarantee trophies. So…does that mean that they’ll be leaving for…money?
My view: More likely Hleb leaves than the Flamster.
I should remind Mr Agent of Ade's comments not too long ago, to the Daily Mirror, wherefrom the lovely pic came:
"He (Wenger) asked me if I would come and play for Arsenal and I said I'd play for free. It was like moving from hell to paradise and, for the faith he showed in me then, I will for ever be trying to repay him."
So in Ade's new contract, he should take a 100% pay cut. All this must be great for Ade’s ego though, after what was admittedly a spotty first season. So far, despite his obvious dip in form, he no doubt has still produced the goals in the big games.
The Flamini saga continues to roll on, with new suggestions that he has turned down the club’s offer of a new contract, and that talks with Juve are on track. Fuck it. Whatever too. If it’s all about the money, then so be it. The Boss has had a great record of bringing players out of the peripheries of professional football onto the world stage. This is the price that has to be paid. I’m only upset that he will be able to leave on a free. That’d be our fault for not giving him a new contract before the start of this season. If Hleb goes, however, then let’s at least make some good money. Boss’ comments on Hleb leaving are right here. I agree. Not sure which team these days can guarantee trophies. So…does that mean that they’ll be leaving for…money?
My view: More likely Hleb leaves than the Flamster.
Some funny comments from Le Boss about Theo the Monster. Heh heh. Funny. I think he’s just created a new football figurine: Monster Theo.
There are also little stories about Gilberto wanting to stay. Some his comments have been outright tear inducing:
There are also little stories about Gilberto wanting to stay. Some his comments have been outright tear inducing:
"I will always do my best as a professional but then, at the end of the season, I will see when I speak to Arsene…of course, I'm upset that I've not played much this season because last year I played the whole season and this year has been really frustrating.
"But you need to be professional, respect the manager's point of view and help the other players to the maximum that I possibly can."
Right on dude. If the Flamster stays though, I suspect he will have to deal with more time on the bench. Even if Mathieu goes, one of Arsene’s top priorities must be to get some new steel into the heart of midfield. Gilberto will probably still play second fiddle. You can’t argue with having him as back-up for the odd league or FA Cup game, so let’s see what happens.
A word on the weekend’s games. Goddamn, Aston Villa are on fire. 15 goals in 3 games. Sheesh. Ashley Young so needs to put on an Arsenal shirt. But I can only imagine the truly ridiculous figures that are going to be put on good English meat like Young and Agbonlahor. Let them take Romano-bloody-bitch to the cleaners. Happy for Owen too. Wonder when he’s going to stub his foot in the kitchen though. Looks like a 12 week injury right there.
Monday, April 21, 2008
Panini EURO 2008 Sticker Collection
OK, OK, OK...I admit it. The time for men to be boys has returned. Once every few years, (usually 2 to 4) men inexplicably start doing things like pasting stickers onto albums, reliving those halcyon days of the 80's when such things were reeaaally only done by boys. God forbid if any of our dads were caught dead with Panini stickers.
Click, to start sticking. C'mon...just do it. I'm sure our manhoods won't be compromised by the honest, sin-free act of tearing open those sticker packets, and getting that long-lost feeling of got, got, yay! got, got, yay! got, got... Nobody (except your wives) will laugh. Muwahahahaha!
Click, to start sticking. C'mon...just do it. I'm sure our manhoods won't be compromised by the honest, sin-free act of tearing open those sticker packets, and getting that long-lost feeling of got, got, yay! got, got, yay! got, got... Nobody (except your wives) will laugh. Muwahahahaha!
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Review: Arsenal 2 - Reading 0
All in all, a pretty victory. Full of the nice stuff we’ve gotten used to. Not that we hadn’t played well earlier. Games at Anfield and Old Trafford also gave us intermittent glimpses (usually lasting no more than 45 minutes) of such joyous football. But this time, we played well from about minute 20 till the end.
It was great to see Walcott start, and again, we are left wondering why on earth didn’t the boss give him more time earlier. Admittedly, when Eboue did come on for 20 minutes, he put in a good professional performance. Nothing wasteful, nothing too dramatic. Perhaps maybe it was because he'd replaced Kolo, and had Theo in front of him.
Nice too was Gilberto scoring. With everything he has gone through, good for him. One wonders though, whether it’s one of his last goals for us.
Nonetheless, despite all the pretty stuff, I was left wondering. Against a better team, they would have at least punished us for all the profligacy. 2-0 should really have been seven (or six at least). I know we’ve already had our customary 7-0 win against Sparta this season, but I really had good money on a big win tonight. It should've been. As I was saying, at 2-0 in the second half, who knows what could have happened. Our hitting the bar twice, Cesc’s goal cleared off the line…damn. If Reading had scored one to keep it interesting, I’d have slit my wrists.
I’d say therefore, that things aren’t looking that bad. Theo will surely start more next season, what with the boss’ nice words after the game. News also is that Carlos Vela will be in the squad for next season, and that is encouraging. It was great too to see Denilson back on earth, and he showed a few glimpses of things to look forward to. Hopefully, with RVP fit, Adebayor still scoring, Bendtner finally standing up to it, and Eduardo fit, things should be comfortable up front.
What happens in the middle is still up front grabs. Let’s wait till the end of the month to see what the Flamster decides. It’d be a blow in the solar plexus to see him leave for free.
Ultimately, what is needed for next season is leadership. A nice little piece in the Independent on this, and on Gallas’ failings. Let’s see. For now, I’ll put a couple of bucks on Flamster staying and given the captaincy next season. Haha.
Eight more days to Derby. C’mon. Let’s have another Everton-esque, Boro-esque 7-0 victory this season.
Oh yeah, one final thing. Looks like Man U has lost some ground. We’re still in it!! A mathematical chance. We’re going to be champions!!!
It was great to see Walcott start, and again, we are left wondering why on earth didn’t the boss give him more time earlier. Admittedly, when Eboue did come on for 20 minutes, he put in a good professional performance. Nothing wasteful, nothing too dramatic. Perhaps maybe it was because he'd replaced Kolo, and had Theo in front of him.
Nice too was Gilberto scoring. With everything he has gone through, good for him. One wonders though, whether it’s one of his last goals for us.
Nonetheless, despite all the pretty stuff, I was left wondering. Against a better team, they would have at least punished us for all the profligacy. 2-0 should really have been seven (or six at least). I know we’ve already had our customary 7-0 win against Sparta this season, but I really had good money on a big win tonight. It should've been. As I was saying, at 2-0 in the second half, who knows what could have happened. Our hitting the bar twice, Cesc’s goal cleared off the line…damn. If Reading had scored one to keep it interesting, I’d have slit my wrists.
I’d say therefore, that things aren’t looking that bad. Theo will surely start more next season, what with the boss’ nice words after the game. News also is that Carlos Vela will be in the squad for next season, and that is encouraging. It was great too to see Denilson back on earth, and he showed a few glimpses of things to look forward to. Hopefully, with RVP fit, Adebayor still scoring, Bendtner finally standing up to it, and Eduardo fit, things should be comfortable up front.
What happens in the middle is still up front grabs. Let’s wait till the end of the month to see what the Flamster decides. It’d be a blow in the solar plexus to see him leave for free.
Ultimately, what is needed for next season is leadership. A nice little piece in the Independent on this, and on Gallas’ failings. Let’s see. For now, I’ll put a couple of bucks on Flamster staying and given the captaincy next season. Haha.
Eight more days to Derby. C’mon. Let’s have another Everton-esque, Boro-esque 7-0 victory this season.
Oh yeah, one final thing. Looks like Man U has lost some ground. We’re still in it!! A mathematical chance. We’re going to be champions!!!
Friday, April 18, 2008
The Orc Returns
Well, Chelsea's had another plodding 1-0 win, over an Everton I had higher expectations of. Oh well. At least they're capable of winning games they should lose, rather than losing games they should win. But funniest thing is the Orc's response after the game.
Haven't seen anything so hilarious in so long.
Media: Can you hear me?
Orc: Snort. Snort.
Media: Are you really non-human?
Orc: Grunt, grunt.
Media: Why are you so bloody ugly?
Orc: (silent salivation)... sniff sniff, grunt grunt
I suppose Orc is angry that the media dissed him after the draw with Wigan. So much for the manager of a team hoping to be Champions of Europe. Nice...
Little news otherwise, except for the following headline:
ALMUNIA REALLY INJURED; MAD JENS INCLUSION AT OLD TRAFFORD NOT RESULT OF JUST CHARITY FROM THE BOSS
Wow. I suppose even if Manuel's well for Saturday, the boss should give the old dude one last run out at the Emirates. He joined up for the Invincibles season, brought us to the Stade de France in 2006, pushed a few guys over in the box, fallen over like a girl a few times, given away a penalty for fighting in the schoolyard, had quite a few retard moments, and has started to lose hair at the top. Thanks for the memories, but time to move on.
Also in that Arse preview is the fact that Denilson is back from injury! Damn. So he had an injury. Thought he had been abducted with aliens. Maybe he was, and he's now back with superhuman abilities.
The rumours of David Villa joining us in the summer are heating up. Am going to ignore it until he puts on the.......mmmm.....number 14 shirt. haha.
Tomorrow's Saturday! Early kick-off! (Just after dinner over here). Let's hope there's more news for the game.
Haven't seen anything so hilarious in so long.
Media: Can you hear me?
Orc: Snort. Snort.
Media: Are you really non-human?
Orc: Grunt, grunt.
Media: Why are you so bloody ugly?
Orc: (silent salivation)... sniff sniff, grunt grunt
I suppose Orc is angry that the media dissed him after the draw with Wigan. So much for the manager of a team hoping to be Champions of Europe. Nice...
Little news otherwise, except for the following headline:
ALMUNIA REALLY INJURED; MAD JENS INCLUSION AT OLD TRAFFORD NOT RESULT OF JUST CHARITY FROM THE BOSS
Wow. I suppose even if Manuel's well for Saturday, the boss should give the old dude one last run out at the Emirates. He joined up for the Invincibles season, brought us to the Stade de France in 2006, pushed a few guys over in the box, fallen over like a girl a few times, given away a penalty for fighting in the schoolyard, had quite a few retard moments, and has started to lose hair at the top. Thanks for the memories, but time to move on.
Also in that Arse preview is the fact that Denilson is back from injury! Damn. So he had an injury. Thought he had been abducted with aliens. Maybe he was, and he's now back with superhuman abilities.
The rumours of David Villa joining us in the summer are heating up. Am going to ignore it until he puts on the.......mmmm.....number 14 shirt. haha.
Tomorrow's Saturday! Early kick-off! (Just after dinner over here). Let's hope there's more news for the game.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Midweek: Something on Nothing
Four games still to go, and the scapegoating has begun. Besides that, not much else in the news.
Oh yes, except though, some twit who thinks that Reading could be the first team to beat Arsenal at the Emirates this season:
"We seem to do well against Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea - usually running them close - but unfortunately for us we haven't done that against Arsenal.
"If there is ever a time to do that it's now because we badly need to."
I don’t even know who he is, and he may be right, but I’d say that odds are slightly against him.
Let’s see…Reading’s games after ours are with Wigan, Spurs (at home) and Derby. Reading realistically need 3 or 4 points to stay up. If Coppell had any sense, he would see that his points are elsewhere. Reading will therefore go into the game intent on defending as far as possible, with some small hope of a lucky draw. By doing so, though, I think they’d put themselves in the position of a comfortable 4-0 win for us.
Back to the scapegoating. Lee Dixon suggests we ditch Mohawk Billy. I must say I agree with him. Look at it this way. I don’t think Billy has another good season left in him. Wenger could go a long way injecting some new (and stronger) blood in the team. His gum chewing and crying are getting tiresome. Mum would’ve given him a time-out for his little fit at St Andrews. So out he goes.
There’s also this piece on Gilberto. Kinda sharp, to the point, and to some degree, some truth therein. He’s been patient on the sidelines, but for the games he started, he has not done the deeds. The two worst games of the season could’ve been our whippings at Old Trafford (FA Cup) and White Hart Lane (Carling Cup). Who started in the middle of the park? Gilberto. Precisely the games for him to stand up and provide the spine. (Come to think of it, was Denilson’s last game for us the one with Spurs, and where he got substituted early?)
So there again, I think I would have to agree too. Gilberto will probably go, and largely by his own volition.
Finally, poor Senderos is reportedly in need of therapy. I don’t blame him. He really did slip on Hyypia’s goal, and while Torres was great, it was sad that Senderos again was in the wrong place at the wrong time. The main beef on him has been his inconsistency. Yes. But I’d argue that he’s a pretty good squad player to have in reserve, for the odd FA Cup and Carling Cup game. Or the league game where we can rest Toure. For the Champions’ League, sadly, despite his great service in 2006, he may not be up to it.
As of now, then, it seems we may/should lose the services of Gallas, Gilberto, and if the press is right, Flamini and Hleb. If so, and considering Rosicky’s chronic issues, then we’ve got some real issues to be looked into in midfield. Add to that Eboue’s chronic retardedness, then we reeeaaally have to start thinking. Methinks Eboue would fit right in for a Carling Cup third round game against Rotherham or something.
So, that’s it for today. Why can’t Saturday just come quick??? But before that, let’s see what happens at Goodison on Thursday. *snigger* *snigger*
Oh yes, except though, some twit who thinks that Reading could be the first team to beat Arsenal at the Emirates this season:
"We seem to do well against Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea - usually running them close - but unfortunately for us we haven't done that against Arsenal.
"If there is ever a time to do that it's now because we badly need to."
I don’t even know who he is, and he may be right, but I’d say that odds are slightly against him.
Let’s see…Reading’s games after ours are with Wigan, Spurs (at home) and Derby. Reading realistically need 3 or 4 points to stay up. If Coppell had any sense, he would see that his points are elsewhere. Reading will therefore go into the game intent on defending as far as possible, with some small hope of a lucky draw. By doing so, though, I think they’d put themselves in the position of a comfortable 4-0 win for us.
Back to the scapegoating. Lee Dixon suggests we ditch Mohawk Billy. I must say I agree with him. Look at it this way. I don’t think Billy has another good season left in him. Wenger could go a long way injecting some new (and stronger) blood in the team. His gum chewing and crying are getting tiresome. Mum would’ve given him a time-out for his little fit at St Andrews. So out he goes.
There’s also this piece on Gilberto. Kinda sharp, to the point, and to some degree, some truth therein. He’s been patient on the sidelines, but for the games he started, he has not done the deeds. The two worst games of the season could’ve been our whippings at Old Trafford (FA Cup) and White Hart Lane (Carling Cup). Who started in the middle of the park? Gilberto. Precisely the games for him to stand up and provide the spine. (Come to think of it, was Denilson’s last game for us the one with Spurs, and where he got substituted early?)
So there again, I think I would have to agree too. Gilberto will probably go, and largely by his own volition.
Finally, poor Senderos is reportedly in need of therapy. I don’t blame him. He really did slip on Hyypia’s goal, and while Torres was great, it was sad that Senderos again was in the wrong place at the wrong time. The main beef on him has been his inconsistency. Yes. But I’d argue that he’s a pretty good squad player to have in reserve, for the odd FA Cup and Carling Cup game. Or the league game where we can rest Toure. For the Champions’ League, sadly, despite his great service in 2006, he may not be up to it.
As of now, then, it seems we may/should lose the services of Gallas, Gilberto, and if the press is right, Flamini and Hleb. If so, and considering Rosicky’s chronic issues, then we’ve got some real issues to be looked into in midfield. Add to that Eboue’s chronic retardedness, then we reeeaaally have to start thinking. Methinks Eboue would fit right in for a Carling Cup third round game against Rotherham or something.
So, that’s it for today. Why can’t Saturday just come quick??? But before that, let’s see what happens at Goodison on Thursday. *snigger* *snigger*
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
*snigger* *snigger*
First things first. Some order has returned to the world. The English Premier League does offer some beautiful poetry – who’d imagine, the hitman himself, Emile Heskey, single-handedly putting Chelsea’s entire season’s aspirations to bed. One more draw at Goodison, and as I said, Chelsea will end up with fuck all. Hmmm…maybe we’ll still have second to fight for.
More importantly, I am still reminded of why Arsenal are ultimately still the Arsenal, and why we love them so.
Reason one: We aren’t owned by a footballing moron from Thailand who seems convinced that just because he has money, he would be able to bring Ronaldinho to Manchester City. I know Thailand is quite a bit away from England, but seriously, what planet is he from? (But then again, why Ronaldinho would go to Milan and NOT play Champions League football is another question).
Reportedly, the same Thaksin is now beginning to think that Sven’s not good enough for Citeh’s grand aspirations.
If Thaksin had any sense, he should have just bought a Championship team, brought them to the EPL and be treated like God in a small town. (Preston and North End maybe?). C’mon…what on earth was he ever to go with Citeh? Let’s see him get conned by Mourinho’s agents now.
Reason two: a short one: Hicks, Gillett, the best a man can get? Who the hell cares. Losers.
Reason three: Arsene is way cooler than Avram. (okay, okay, bad reason, but I’d rather Arsene than the orc in the dressing room with me…)
Reason four: all in all, winning a Championship is made up two things: how much you spend, and how long you’ve got your core team together. It’s a fine balance. Chelski has obviously and unashamedly gone the route of how much. Man U seems to have the perfect balance right now, with the experience of Giggs, Scholes, etc with the money spent on Ronaldo, Ferdinand and Rooney for example. Hat's off to Fergie. I don't think Chelski will ever put together a similar run of Fergie's years at Old Trafford, or even Arsene's at Arsenal.
The way Arsene’s going about it though, is ultimately the most sustainable. He’s got a great balance going, and it’s a balance that will in the long term be best for the club. Kudos to him for thinking long term for Arsenal, unlike elsewhere, where managers are now simply concentrating on keeping their jobs in the off-season. You gotta love a club like that, and a management that has complete trust in the manager. Our guys have overachieved this season, with the squad as is. If everyone keeps their heads on, good things will come in good time.
More importantly, I am still reminded of why Arsenal are ultimately still the Arsenal, and why we love them so.
Reason one: We aren’t owned by a footballing moron from Thailand who seems convinced that just because he has money, he would be able to bring Ronaldinho to Manchester City. I know Thailand is quite a bit away from England, but seriously, what planet is he from? (But then again, why Ronaldinho would go to Milan and NOT play Champions League football is another question).
Reportedly, the same Thaksin is now beginning to think that Sven’s not good enough for Citeh’s grand aspirations.
If Thaksin had any sense, he should have just bought a Championship team, brought them to the EPL and be treated like God in a small town. (Preston and North End maybe?). C’mon…what on earth was he ever to go with Citeh? Let’s see him get conned by Mourinho’s agents now.
Reason two: a short one: Hicks, Gillett, the best a man can get? Who the hell cares. Losers.
Reason three: Arsene is way cooler than Avram. (okay, okay, bad reason, but I’d rather Arsene than the orc in the dressing room with me…)
Reason four: all in all, winning a Championship is made up two things: how much you spend, and how long you’ve got your core team together. It’s a fine balance. Chelski has obviously and unashamedly gone the route of how much. Man U seems to have the perfect balance right now, with the experience of Giggs, Scholes, etc with the money spent on Ronaldo, Ferdinand and Rooney for example. Hat's off to Fergie. I don't think Chelski will ever put together a similar run of Fergie's years at Old Trafford, or even Arsene's at Arsenal.
The way Arsene’s going about it though, is ultimately the most sustainable. He’s got a great balance going, and it’s a balance that will in the long term be best for the club. Kudos to him for thinking long term for Arsenal, unlike elsewhere, where managers are now simply concentrating on keeping their jobs in the off-season. You gotta love a club like that, and a management that has complete trust in the manager. Our guys have overachieved this season, with the squad as is. If everyone keeps their heads on, good things will come in good time.
Monday, April 14, 2008
Review: Manchester United 2 - Arsenal 1
So there it is. Our season in a nutshell. We start well, much better than expected really. No signs of hangover, fatigue, disillusionment, whatever. But what’s the point of starting well, with nothing to show for it. At the start of the home stretch, we still play well. We even go in front, and threaten a second. According to Sir:
"They were the better team in the first-half. I thought we were very nervous and our passing was poor and I couldn't wait to get to half-time."
Even Hargreaves too: "Arsenal were the better team in the first half..."
Then, another incomprehensible turn. A soft soft soft penalty, totally unnecessary, and poetic that it came from Fat Billy (aka Mohawk Billy), who last complained about the team’s inexperience leading to the Liverpool penalty. Rio was magnanimous too: "We were maybe fortunate with the penalty..."
That a second goal came, and not from us, was sadly only according to script. Doesn't really matter what the reality was, in terms of luck, who played better, or what. The key ultimately, is who scored, and who didn't.
It’s strange, but there were positives. First, Song did pretty well, apart from an early case of nerves. Second, Lehmann too put in a pretty good show, with a few crucial stops. Good for the old man. Perhaps the boss should put him in for the rest of the season. What, Reading, Derby, Everton and Sunderland is it? He should be fine, and Manuel can go for a longer holiday. Give the old man the last few games of his career. Hell, I thought it was freakin' cool that Mad Jens got a yellow card being his usual self. Third, despite all the talk of fatigue, the team impressed with their spirit and energy. God knows where Clichy and Hleb get it from.
In footballing terms, I agree with the boss that there’s little he needs to do in the summer. Even with substantial changes, our team on Sunday generally managed to mix it in there with Man U’s best. Ronaldo was generally quiet, and Rooney for the most part seemed more intent on throwing his usual pissy fits. Our passing was more crisp, fewer stray passes, and we played with higher energy. In terms of bottle, nerves, and just being just a tad more clinical, the team has got some work to do this summer. Not sure how Arsene’s going to do it, but he has to. It just seems like it doesn’t take too much to destabilise this team – be it a bad injury, a series of injuries, one bad result, a bad call from the ref etc etc etc.
So if the Boss is talking about just one more experienced player, I say let’s look at defence. Gallas just doesn’t give me much confidence, and I hope Kolo can get back to his pre-African Cup best. Man, what I would do to get Tony Adams back. We’ve been losing and drawing games we should have won, and most times, the defence looks to be the weak link.
As for the rest of the season, let’s win our last few games, go out with some confidence, and keep our third place. Hell, that would be an improvement over last.
Here's my list for the final reckoning:
Champions' League: Barcelona (with Henry scoring a hat-trick against Pool in the final. But I suppose with his record of never having scored in a cup final...)
Premier League: 1st, Man U; 2nd, Arsenal
Chelsea: Fuck All (just like us), and Avram the Orc gets banished to Sibiersk
"They were the better team in the first-half. I thought we were very nervous and our passing was poor and I couldn't wait to get to half-time."
Even Hargreaves too: "Arsenal were the better team in the first half..."
Then, another incomprehensible turn. A soft soft soft penalty, totally unnecessary, and poetic that it came from Fat Billy (aka Mohawk Billy), who last complained about the team’s inexperience leading to the Liverpool penalty. Rio was magnanimous too: "We were maybe fortunate with the penalty..."
That a second goal came, and not from us, was sadly only according to script. Doesn't really matter what the reality was, in terms of luck, who played better, or what. The key ultimately, is who scored, and who didn't.
It’s strange, but there were positives. First, Song did pretty well, apart from an early case of nerves. Second, Lehmann too put in a pretty good show, with a few crucial stops. Good for the old man. Perhaps the boss should put him in for the rest of the season. What, Reading, Derby, Everton and Sunderland is it? He should be fine, and Manuel can go for a longer holiday. Give the old man the last few games of his career. Hell, I thought it was freakin' cool that Mad Jens got a yellow card being his usual self. Third, despite all the talk of fatigue, the team impressed with their spirit and energy. God knows where Clichy and Hleb get it from.
In footballing terms, I agree with the boss that there’s little he needs to do in the summer. Even with substantial changes, our team on Sunday generally managed to mix it in there with Man U’s best. Ronaldo was generally quiet, and Rooney for the most part seemed more intent on throwing his usual pissy fits. Our passing was more crisp, fewer stray passes, and we played with higher energy. In terms of bottle, nerves, and just being just a tad more clinical, the team has got some work to do this summer. Not sure how Arsene’s going to do it, but he has to. It just seems like it doesn’t take too much to destabilise this team – be it a bad injury, a series of injuries, one bad result, a bad call from the ref etc etc etc.
So if the Boss is talking about just one more experienced player, I say let’s look at defence. Gallas just doesn’t give me much confidence, and I hope Kolo can get back to his pre-African Cup best. Man, what I would do to get Tony Adams back. We’ve been losing and drawing games we should have won, and most times, the defence looks to be the weak link.
As for the rest of the season, let’s win our last few games, go out with some confidence, and keep our third place. Hell, that would be an improvement over last.
Here's my list for the final reckoning:
Champions' League: Barcelona (with Henry scoring a hat-trick against Pool in the final. But I suppose with his record of never having scored in a cup final...)
Premier League: 1st, Man U; 2nd, Arsenal
Chelsea: Fuck All (just like us), and Avram the Orc gets banished to Sibiersk
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Summer Holidays and Beyond
Well, well, well, well. Much talk (most shitty) of possible moves already.
First, the return of numero quartorze, #14. Of the many, here's a particularly funny one. Do we even want him? Particularly since he's now complaining about how he's being played out of position, getting confused as a result, when playing for France, and worrying about Euro 2008. Oh well. All he needs to do is concentrate on MU in the Champions League. He did leave Arse for more of Europe, non?
Second, there's yet more talk of Hleb moving to Inter. Yes, no, and yes again. I'm getting sick of this particular website. Who writes this shit. Even if it's true... Anyway, much as he can be reeeally good sometimes, I've never gotten used to how he wears his socks. Together with this hair, way too retro for me. Or at least that's how I'll make myself feel better once he goes.
And, according to the gospel, Wenger thinks he'll just like...buy...like ONE experienced player. Well, I suppose compared to last season, when he said he might not, and got Eduardo, maybe we've got less cause for concern. I think the boss knows what he's doing. The minute he says he'll buy, Roman Abramo-bloody-bitch will go out, buy even more, raise prices, and lo and behold, someone pays I-forget-how-much for Bent. So he may make a few buys. Just none of us will know anything about it.
First, the return of numero quartorze, #14. Of the many, here's a particularly funny one. Do we even want him? Particularly since he's now complaining about how he's being played out of position, getting confused as a result, when playing for France, and worrying about Euro 2008. Oh well. All he needs to do is concentrate on MU in the Champions League. He did leave Arse for more of Europe, non?
Second, there's yet more talk of Hleb moving to Inter. Yes, no, and yes again. I'm getting sick of this particular website. Who writes this shit. Even if it's true... Anyway, much as he can be reeeally good sometimes, I've never gotten used to how he wears his socks. Together with this hair, way too retro for me. Or at least that's how I'll make myself feel better once he goes.
And, according to the gospel, Wenger thinks he'll just like...buy...like ONE experienced player. Well, I suppose compared to last season, when he said he might not, and got Eduardo, maybe we've got less cause for concern. I think the boss knows what he's doing. The minute he says he'll buy, Roman Abramo-bloody-bitch will go out, buy even more, raise prices, and lo and behold, someone pays I-forget-how-much for Bent. So he may make a few buys. Just none of us will know anything about it.
Finally, some hope for the very distant future. Here's a thought: Dennis for manager! You saw it here first (probably not).
Preview: MU v Arsenal, Sunday, 13 April 2008
So the odds are stacked incredibly against us. Not that it surprises me. There’s a little story around that has John the f#@$ Terry saying that Arse are spineless, primarily because we lack English “spine”. Well, I won’t bother with linking it. Terry the f#@$ can go screw himself. I’m just glad the only thing Eboue did useful this season was putting his foot in the way of his clearance. Yum. I should put a video on to keep reminding us. Remind me to go check on Youtube.
Carrick has also issued the usual “let’s be wary of a wounded Arse” story. Thanks, that was nice, but it wasn’t really necessary, what with your boss writing us off. If you really want, you could score a nice own goal, you know.
All in all, I must say I really don’t know what’s going to happen tomorrow. We could implode (if we haven’t already imploded). We could limp to another listless draw, we could end up in little fisticuffs just to get our frustrations out, or we could make everything nice and interesting and just beat them at Old Trafford. If Sven and his crop could do it, then Arsene and his should be able too.
I’d like to see Arsene give Theo a full 90 minutes, and maybe give Ade a rest. It’d be interesting to see RVP and Theo start. Who knows what could happen. They’re our freshest legs upfront. I really can’t fathom Eboue playing, but with Bacary still out, the odds are that he will start. Oh well. Maybe he could look into Rooney’s metatarsals too, if not anything else. Whatever the case, there may be English spine out there, but I can’t say much more about the bones in their feet.
But here’s another interesting thought. Let’s say we whip MU (yes, yes, the statistical odds are way against that) – and Chelsea win both their upcoming games against Wigan and Everton. We could have new leaders by Thursday. I’d way rather MU win it, but just to make it interesting, why not. Wouldn’t mind the sight of Ronaldo crying too. But no, no way in hell would I want to see Lumpard and John the f#!@ Terry lifting that trophy.
Back to the game. We’ve done pretty well neutralizing key men this season. Kaka, Ronaldo in the first game at the Emirates, and even Torres for the most part recently. So I don’t see us falling over at the sight of Ronaldo. Maybe we should have Diaby on the left, just to keep him company. Hleb’s looked tired recently, and I’d like to give him a rest.
Finally, with all the talk (some justified) about our overall level of confidence, I must say that you never know. Remember last season? Our season was on the brink of collapse before it even started – much like the dreaded PE – when we headed off to Old Trafford and won!
Guys – this may just be our last meaningful game of the season, so let’s just go out there and make at least a meal of it. We’ve been able to produce good 30-45 minutes spells all through this crap last couple of weeks. All we need to do are: (a) make sure we score at least once during such a spell, (b) not let in a goal at the end of it, and (c) pray for the rest of the 90. Sounds easy enough. Let’s do it.
On other things, Mad Jens has missed his meds again, and gone off again on Manuel. Don’t see how he can claim that Arse would have won against Pool with him in the team. What? He was going to play defence? Stand next to Senderos? Get us a goal from a set piece?
Manuel has responded. Good for him. Methinks we should all just leave Jens alone (ie ignore him). Remember this could happen to us all as we get older. I suppose since he was forced to stay in London so his kids could go to school, he might be feeling a little bit hard done by. But then…how would you explain what happen between him and Oliver Kahn?
It’s sad when someone so dear to you, some who has saved us a few penalties (Scholes, Riquelme?) goes out like a damp squib. I suppose he's also one of the last remaining Invincibles. The boss has responded too. I like this line: “Team psychology is not the biggest strength in Germany.” You bet. They've had a bad historical record. Maybe what we should have done was just send him back to Germany after his little dalliance with Robbie Keane messed up our celebrations at White Hart Lane...so many years ago now.
So, as I said, the odds are against us. But what the heck, I may just go out, and do something I’ve said I would never do, and that is bet on an Arsenal game. I’ll go put some money on an Arse win. Why the hell not.
Carrick has also issued the usual “let’s be wary of a wounded Arse” story. Thanks, that was nice, but it wasn’t really necessary, what with your boss writing us off. If you really want, you could score a nice own goal, you know.
All in all, I must say I really don’t know what’s going to happen tomorrow. We could implode (if we haven’t already imploded). We could limp to another listless draw, we could end up in little fisticuffs just to get our frustrations out, or we could make everything nice and interesting and just beat them at Old Trafford. If Sven and his crop could do it, then Arsene and his should be able too.
I’d like to see Arsene give Theo a full 90 minutes, and maybe give Ade a rest. It’d be interesting to see RVP and Theo start. Who knows what could happen. They’re our freshest legs upfront. I really can’t fathom Eboue playing, but with Bacary still out, the odds are that he will start. Oh well. Maybe he could look into Rooney’s metatarsals too, if not anything else. Whatever the case, there may be English spine out there, but I can’t say much more about the bones in their feet.
But here’s another interesting thought. Let’s say we whip MU (yes, yes, the statistical odds are way against that) – and Chelsea win both their upcoming games against Wigan and Everton. We could have new leaders by Thursday. I’d way rather MU win it, but just to make it interesting, why not. Wouldn’t mind the sight of Ronaldo crying too. But no, no way in hell would I want to see Lumpard and John the f#!@ Terry lifting that trophy.
Back to the game. We’ve done pretty well neutralizing key men this season. Kaka, Ronaldo in the first game at the Emirates, and even Torres for the most part recently. So I don’t see us falling over at the sight of Ronaldo. Maybe we should have Diaby on the left, just to keep him company. Hleb’s looked tired recently, and I’d like to give him a rest.
Finally, with all the talk (some justified) about our overall level of confidence, I must say that you never know. Remember last season? Our season was on the brink of collapse before it even started – much like the dreaded PE – when we headed off to Old Trafford and won!
Guys – this may just be our last meaningful game of the season, so let’s just go out there and make at least a meal of it. We’ve been able to produce good 30-45 minutes spells all through this crap last couple of weeks. All we need to do are: (a) make sure we score at least once during such a spell, (b) not let in a goal at the end of it, and (c) pray for the rest of the 90. Sounds easy enough. Let’s do it.
On other things, Mad Jens has missed his meds again, and gone off again on Manuel. Don’t see how he can claim that Arse would have won against Pool with him in the team. What? He was going to play defence? Stand next to Senderos? Get us a goal from a set piece?
Manuel has responded. Good for him. Methinks we should all just leave Jens alone (ie ignore him). Remember this could happen to us all as we get older. I suppose since he was forced to stay in London so his kids could go to school, he might be feeling a little bit hard done by. But then…how would you explain what happen between him and Oliver Kahn?
It’s sad when someone so dear to you, some who has saved us a few penalties (Scholes, Riquelme?) goes out like a damp squib. I suppose he's also one of the last remaining Invincibles. The boss has responded too. I like this line: “Team psychology is not the biggest strength in Germany.” You bet. They've had a bad historical record. Maybe what we should have done was just send him back to Germany after his little dalliance with Robbie Keane messed up our celebrations at White Hart Lane...so many years ago now.
So, as I said, the odds are against us. But what the heck, I may just go out, and do something I’ve said I would never do, and that is bet on an Arsenal game. I’ll go put some money on an Arse win. Why the hell not.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Liverpool 4 – Arsenal 2: Where did it all go wrong? (Part I)
I suppose it all went wrong on many fronts even before the game. The writing was on the wall for quite a while. The writing that was our lack of resilience, that led to capitulations at White Hart Lane, Old Trafford, St Andrews and Stamford Bridge.
Through the season, our defensive frailty has been what has tripped us up. We still have lost only two games, while MU, Chelski and Pool all have lost more. In sum, much as we have won games in the last minutes, we have also given games and goals away. Much as we have lost the fewest games, we have also shipped in the most goals of the top four. Toure-Gallas pre-African Cup of Nations was strong, and Senderos was more than up to it in Kolo’s absence. Ironically, since Kolo’s return, we’ve been sadly lacking. In the final analysis, Gallas cannot remain captain, not for next season. His stupid fit at St Andrews, his retard comments following Anfield…
Remember the rumours of Woodgate signing for Arse? Hmmm…
But Billy, just fuck off. You’re 30, you’ve given us key goals sneaking at the back of corners, but really, being captain is more than that. Arsene, you’ve got Cesc, Kolo, Gilberto and even the Flamster ready to take on the armband.
Our top 11, fit and able, can and will beat the top 11 of any of the top 3. Switch that to the top 20, and we’ll falter. Cover for Sagna and Clichy: Traore and Hoye. God bless them, they just aren’t up to it. We had Eduardo, and we had RVP. But God bless him, and I love him, RVP’s made of glass. Arsene needs to play Theo as a striker as soon as possible, and we need more firepower upfront. Ade’s still improving, but he’s best served with balls coming in front the flanks, when we’ve got both Gael and Bacary fit. He’s still not the best with this back to the goal as the lone striker, methinks. He’s never going to break the off-side trap as Thierry used to. (How many damn times did he get caught off-side at Anfield Tuesday night??)
Which reminds me: another start to our downfall…was when Ade starting spouting nonsense at the peak of his scoring…that he would score more for Henry. What the fuck was that? Why’s he scoring for Thierry? For himself? For Arsene? For Arsenal? Sheesh. Then, as the footballing Gods would have it, he stopped scoring in the League altogether.
So we now start thinking of what next - which ain't too helpful since we do have a game at Old Trafford on Sunday. But really, what next? Much has already been said. Ade's made his view known, and I can't say I disagree with what he's said. But yes, there will be moves this summer, and sadly, Senderos may just go. He's served us well from time to time. Who would begrudge his mammoth performances in the run-up to Champions League final? But he has been inconsistent, and for us, he does not quite stand up to the task week in, week out.
Another question is Denilson. Why doesn't Arsene give him a run out? Sure, he may have to keep Gilberto happy on the side, but I don't think the (older) Brazilian has another season in him. Hopefully, we'll see more of Denilson soon. He's started a couple of Carling Cup games, and came up with two great goals against Newcastle and Sheffield United. There's this piece on Denilson (and Flamster's worth), and it's worth reading. Somehow, apart from Cesc and the Flamster, our midfield doesn't seem too settled, especially with Rosicky's continued absence. Eboue needs a transfer to Pompey, and Diaby needs more early-season performances.
Gallas should be stuck on the bench, and with it, the captaincy. But before that, he may just decide that he's better off at Pompey too. Kolo needs at least two new partners.
More on the MU game tomorrow, as we look forward to Sunday. Saturday’s going to be a slow day. Who cares about the games going on. My hunches on the game at Old Trafford: as Arsenal fan: 3-0 to us. As punter (and best for Chelsea): 1-1. But fuck, I’d rather us lose than give Chelski a leg up before their game with Wigan on Monday.
Through the season, our defensive frailty has been what has tripped us up. We still have lost only two games, while MU, Chelski and Pool all have lost more. In sum, much as we have won games in the last minutes, we have also given games and goals away. Much as we have lost the fewest games, we have also shipped in the most goals of the top four. Toure-Gallas pre-African Cup of Nations was strong, and Senderos was more than up to it in Kolo’s absence. Ironically, since Kolo’s return, we’ve been sadly lacking. In the final analysis, Gallas cannot remain captain, not for next season. His stupid fit at St Andrews, his retard comments following Anfield…
Remember the rumours of Woodgate signing for Arse? Hmmm…
But Billy, just fuck off. You’re 30, you’ve given us key goals sneaking at the back of corners, but really, being captain is more than that. Arsene, you’ve got Cesc, Kolo, Gilberto and even the Flamster ready to take on the armband.
Our top 11, fit and able, can and will beat the top 11 of any of the top 3. Switch that to the top 20, and we’ll falter. Cover for Sagna and Clichy: Traore and Hoye. God bless them, they just aren’t up to it. We had Eduardo, and we had RVP. But God bless him, and I love him, RVP’s made of glass. Arsene needs to play Theo as a striker as soon as possible, and we need more firepower upfront. Ade’s still improving, but he’s best served with balls coming in front the flanks, when we’ve got both Gael and Bacary fit. He’s still not the best with this back to the goal as the lone striker, methinks. He’s never going to break the off-side trap as Thierry used to. (How many damn times did he get caught off-side at Anfield Tuesday night??)
Which reminds me: another start to our downfall…was when Ade starting spouting nonsense at the peak of his scoring…that he would score more for Henry. What the fuck was that? Why’s he scoring for Thierry? For himself? For Arsene? For Arsenal? Sheesh. Then, as the footballing Gods would have it, he stopped scoring in the League altogether.
So we now start thinking of what next - which ain't too helpful since we do have a game at Old Trafford on Sunday. But really, what next? Much has already been said. Ade's made his view known, and I can't say I disagree with what he's said. But yes, there will be moves this summer, and sadly, Senderos may just go. He's served us well from time to time. Who would begrudge his mammoth performances in the run-up to Champions League final? But he has been inconsistent, and for us, he does not quite stand up to the task week in, week out.
Another question is Denilson. Why doesn't Arsene give him a run out? Sure, he may have to keep Gilberto happy on the side, but I don't think the (older) Brazilian has another season in him. Hopefully, we'll see more of Denilson soon. He's started a couple of Carling Cup games, and came up with two great goals against Newcastle and Sheffield United. There's this piece on Denilson (and Flamster's worth), and it's worth reading. Somehow, apart from Cesc and the Flamster, our midfield doesn't seem too settled, especially with Rosicky's continued absence. Eboue needs a transfer to Pompey, and Diaby needs more early-season performances.
Gallas should be stuck on the bench, and with it, the captaincy. But before that, he may just decide that he's better off at Pompey too. Kolo needs at least two new partners.
More on the MU game tomorrow, as we look forward to Sunday. Saturday’s going to be a slow day. Who cares about the games going on. My hunches on the game at Old Trafford: as Arsenal fan: 3-0 to us. As punter (and best for Chelsea): 1-1. But fuck, I’d rather us lose than give Chelski a leg up before their game with Wigan on Monday.
The Start of Arsewiping
It has been three days since that loss at Anfield. I've gone through several stages of depression. From the earliest stages of disbelief, suspension of belief, incomprehension and insomnia, I am now at a more stable stage of looking forward (unbelievably) to Old Trafford on Sunday.
I decided to start this blog as catharsis. I need it. This season has been an unprecedented roller coaster of emotions, from the heights of elation (1-0 Chelsea? 7-0 Slavia Prague?) to the nausea at Birmingham. Thank god for fellow Arse mates who have shared my despair. I hope this blog will replace those weeping emails, angry SMSs and incomprehensible grunts to my wife. Perhaps, the world will now understand.
I decided to start this blog as catharsis. I need it. This season has been an unprecedented roller coaster of emotions, from the heights of elation (1-0 Chelsea? 7-0 Slavia Prague?) to the nausea at Birmingham. Thank god for fellow Arse mates who have shared my despair. I hope this blog will replace those weeping emails, angry SMSs and incomprehensible grunts to my wife. Perhaps, the world will now understand.
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