So finally we see a win but in all fairness, is the tunnel now too dark to get out of? Seven points clear are United which we can cut short to four if we win our game in hand and of course, reduce it further to just a point if we beat them in our backyard.(assuming we win the other games)
However seeing the performance of the Gunners against Blackpool, it made me crystal clear about two things –
1. Our attack is certainly capable of winning us the title as long as Injuries are kept at bay
2. Our defense is at times shambolic and if we don’t get back at-least one of our injured defenders soon we can forget about the game at the Emirates (against United) as a crucial one because the title will be way beyond our reach by then.
From the Blackpool game, which we won in my opinion by grit and alot of luck ( I am referring to the Lehmann foul and the Kosher penalty incident) , let’s look at some of the positives. Diaby did really well in his attacking role , Van Persie scored a routine goal which means that his goals are going to come quicker because all he needs is that one proper goal and he’s off (touch-wood). Fabregas looked himself again since that horrific day in the Nou Camp. Theo ‘s back as well and I hear DJ and Szczesny are back in training- So in all, things are not looking all that grim at the Grove.
However let’s look at the reality of the title run in. We have a much tougher run in than United as we go away to Stoke which is an injury haven for us as well as difficult knowing the way the potters play, United at the Emirates whom we haven’t beaten since November 2008 , Fulham at the cottage and of course Liverpool at Home and the Spuds away. It is clear to any rational Gooner that our defence is not capable of winning the title for us, it is our attack.
In my opinion the only way we have a CHANCE AT THIS TITLE IS :
1. Wenger needs to change his formation aptly according to the games to get the best out of his players.
2. Our attack does enough so that our defence can limp through.
3. Eboue, though a wonderful personality for the dressing room and great attack wise, should never start against strong opponents as he completely losses track of his defensive responsibilities. Too many unnecessary fouls (then he picks his hands up to claim his innocence) and is out of position way too often.
4. Denilson shouldn’t play (even if Song is injured) unless we have a comfortable lead and there is about five minutes to go. Rather try Wilshere or Diaby for that role. Cesc even seems more responsible with his defensive duties.
5. Sczenzy and DJ need to be back because clearly our CB’s are not good enough and Lehmann, though top class, isn’t quite at his best, in terms of physical fitness (notice the way he was distributing the ball against the Tangerines?)
Our Title chances are slim to be honest. United have their main crop of players back , Rooney’s hit form and they seem to have a psychological advantage over us. They even have an easier run in my opinion.
Over these years we Gooners have become stronger among most fans as we have experienced the bittersweet experience way too often. Yes we have a mountain to climb and our manager can be infuriating at times but all we can do is be positive and take each game at a time, all the same mentally conditioning ourselves for… well you know what I am talking about. As for next season …
Let’s hope Mr.Kroenke’s is more magnanimous with his money than the others on our board.
Guns-out
Submitted by IKD from THE ARMOURY
