Arsenal News 24/7Writer: Brice Coffer 
Date:Tuesday April 28 2009
Time: 10:19PM
UK time is: 08:17:22
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'If It's Football, It's Vital'
Manchester United vs. Arsenal
Old Trafford
29/4/09
19:45
On Sky
United v. Arsenal
Arsenal face Manchester United in the Champions League for the first time tomorrow. The old, fiery rivalry has diminished into nothing but a slight smolder in recent years. Thanks to fixture makers though, the matchup has been drenched with gasoline and set ablaze once again. The two English giants will face each other three times in the next three weeks. Manchester United are the current champions of England, Europe, and indeed the World, so it has to be said Arsenal are not the favourites here. I believe that is just the way Wenger's boys will want.
I'm currently watching the fascinating battle between Chelsea and Barcelona as I write this. It has to be said the difference in the two teams approach to the match is oh so interesting to watch. Tomorrow will be a different story though. Arsenal and United play a similar attacking style that promises to be a wide open affair.
It's Wenger versus Ferguson, Adebayor versus Vidic, Fabregas versus Ronaldo. It's Arsenal versus Manchester United!
Vital Quotes:
Arsene Wenger promises to go at the United defence at Old Trafford. 'The first target was to win the game, and that is the best preparation,' he said. 'If you go to Old Trafford without belief, you make it very difficult at the start for you.
'We will go there with belief and to enjoy it, and also will be faithful to the game we play and will go there like we do everywhere in Europe to try to score and win the game.'
Emmanuel Adebayor wants to continue his 5 game goal scoring streak in the knockout rounds of the Champions League. 'I know they do not like me there because I managed to get a goal, and you just feel like 'Okay, I will show you again how good I am.'
'In three games there I have scored two goals and I know it will not be easy to get another one, but I will give 100 per cent to do everything it takes to score or to help my team win the game.'
The 25-year-old added: 'We know how good they are and it is going to be an exciting game for English football.'
'It is going to be tough, but we just have to believe we can do it, that we can win this cup. That is why we are here.'
'What is important on Wednesday is that we are at our best - when we our best we can beat everybody, so let's focus on us to be at our best and not to speculate any weakness of Manchester United because they have experience.'
Toure has identified the defence being the deciding factor in this tie. 'United are the ones who won it last season, but for us we are going there to do the best we can playing free and passing the ball. We know when we play football against Manchester United, they struggle a lot.'
Toure continued: 'United are a really good team going forward, but, like us, at the back they have conceded a few goals.
'We have the same type of team - we both like to play, but sometimes you can be caught out at the back. The team that will win will be the one which defends the best. It is going to be a really big fight.'
Manchester United Team News:
Gary Neville joins long term absentee Hargreaves on the United treatment table. O'Shea, Rafeal, and Wes Brown are fighting for a place a right back, and it seems O'Shea might get the nod. Other than that there is no news for United.
Predicted Starting XI: Van der Sar, O'Shea, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra, Carrick, Giggs, Anderson, Rooney, Berbatov, Ronaldo
Player to watch: Wayne Rooney
The Ogre has always been a pain in our side, and I don't expect that throbbing ache to go away in the next three weeks. If he doesn't bag at least two goals over the trio of games, I will very much surprised.
Arsenal Team News:
As you can tell from the quotes above and many others from the Arsene and the players this week, believing in themselves is the central theme. There is no doubt our young players have the talent. On our day we can beat anyone, like Wenger said.
Again, defence is the main injury worry coming into this match. Silvestre went off with back spasms against Middlesbrough, while Djourou made his return. Gibbs has a slight problem and will have a fitness test tomorrow. After being quarantined in his house due to suspicions of the dreaded Swine Flu, Mexican, Carlos Vela, has been allowed to join up with the squad. Bacary Sagna and Adebayor will return to the team after being rested over the weekend, while van Persie is out until the second leg. Eduardo may be involved, but nobody really knows what is going on with his injury situation at the moment. Gallas and Rosicky are definitely out, and Arshavin is cup tied of course.
Predicted Starting XI: Almunia, Sagna, Djourou, Toure, Gibbs, Walcott, Song, Denilson, Nasri, Fabregas, Adebayor
Player to watch: Kolo Toure
After the defensive horror show at Anfield from the Arsenal, how we will defend must be a concern for every Arsenal fan. Toure is our leader back there, and in the end, it will be mostly his job to organize our inexperienced back five.
Match Facts & Stats
van Persie, Song, Diaby, and Nasri are all one booking away from a suspension for Arsenal.
Rooney and Evra are the only two on yellow card watch for the Mancs.
Giggs will be making his 800th United appearance. Very impressive
Arsenal can win their 100th European match and our 50th Champions League game tomorrow.
Arsenal have never lost a European semi-final. (1970, 1980, 1994, 1995, 2000 and 2006)
Ref Watch:
Danish referee Claus Bo Larsen will be the head official for this match. He was the official in Milan for Arsenal's 2-0 win over AC, and he also was the ref who sent off Paul Scholes for pretending to be a volleyball player against Zenit. He also took charge of Arsenal's recent game against Roma where Toure was booked for entering the field without permission.
Match Prediction:
Tough one to call here. Both teams know each other very well, so one would expect an evenly matched affair. I will go with an adventurous 2-2 draw, which will delight Wenger. Adebayor, Toure, Ronaldo, and Rooney to score the goals.
Next Fixtures:
2/5 (Sat) - Portsmouth (A) - Premier League
5/5 (Tue) - Manchester United (H)- Champions League
10/5 (Sun) - Chelsea (H) - Premier League
Here's a quick video to get you in the mood.
Seconds Out! Vital Boxing is here!
Vital F1 Prediction League - Join now for Monaco
Your Comments
Arsenal have never lost a European semi final, Manchester United have never won a game at Ashburton Grove ...... cue a right royal spanking for the Gunners (overall). I have an awful feeling about this one. This is a ridiculously large game on a scale I can't really get my head round. Needless to say .... I'm not really looking forward to it.
Rocky7
Arsenal have never lost a European semi final, Manchester United have never won a game at Ashburton Grove ...... cue a right royal spanking for the Gunners (overall). I have an awful feeling about this one. This is a ridiculously large game on a scale I can't really get my head round. Needless to say .... I'm not really looking forward to it.
Rocky7
Keep the faith Rocky.
alwaysgunner
Keep the faith Rocky.
alwaysgunner
I am trying AG, there's not even anything wrong with my beloved Gunners, I'm just not feeling like the footballing gods are on our side. Losing to Man Utd in the CL semi final? Pure agony ....... but as long as we get our away goal and are still in with a shout for the second leg I'll be happy. The home leg will be the biggest game in Ashburtons short history.
Rocky7
I am trying AG, there's not even anything wrong with my beloved Gunners, I'm just not feeling like the footballing gods are on our side. Losing to Man Utd in the CL semi final? Pure agony ....... but as long as we get our away goal and are still in with a shout for the second leg I'll be happy. The home leg will be the biggest game in Ashburtons short history.
Rocky7
I prefer to be the underdog, in the past we were hot favorites against English competition in the latter stages of the CL but lost; we are due for a win. Agree re the away goal, but it would have to be a better match than the crap served up by Chelski tonight.
alwaysgunner
I prefer to be the underdog, in the past we were hot favorites against English competition in the latter stages of the CL but lost; we are due for a win. Agree re the away goal, but it would have to be a better match than the crap served up by Chelski tonight.
alwaysgunner
rocky7 as much as i hate it i agree with u. i just dont think the footballing gods are on our side. i am preparing for the worst. sorry guys if i killed the buzz but im not feeling good on this game. BUT that doesnt mean that i wont be supporting the gunners.
akenyangunner
rocky7 as much as i hate it i agree with u. i just dont think the footballing gods are on our side. i am preparing for the worst. sorry guys if i killed the buzz but im not feeling good on this game. BUT that doesnt mean that i wont be supporting the gunners.
akenyangunner
ye of little faith, we will put the devils to the sword. utd's champions league progress will halt tonite. our boys are hungry for this one, and they desperately want to win CL. we have better stamina, watch for late goals.
supersof
ye of little faith, we will put the devils to the sword. utd's champions league progress will halt tonite. our boys are hungry for this one, and they desperately want to win CL. we have better stamina, watch for late goals.
supersof
Fab will proof his worth tonight ! i am sure we will nick a win just like we did in 2006-2007, as long as we score tonight we will go through, if we dont win, 2-2 would be great result, COM'N YOU GOONERS
Gooner SA
Fab will proof his worth tonight ! i am sure we will nick a win just like we did in 2006-2007, as long as we score tonight we will go through, if we dont win, 2-2 would be great result, COM'N YOU GOONERS
Gooner SA
Why all the negativity Gooners? It's a huge test but I believe that we will be just fine. I think Arsene should go with a lineup of: Almunia; Eboue, Toure, Djourou, Sagna; Walcott, Fabregas, Song, Nasri; Diaby; Adebayor. Yes, Diaby. I've got a feeling that he will be the difference tonight. He has to play in the hole though, not on the left. Enjoy the game Gooners! VICTORIA CONCORDIA CRESCIT
Patresc Vieiragas
Why all the negativity Gooners? It's a huge test but I believe that we will be just fine. I think Arsene should go with a lineup of: Almunia; Eboue, Toure, Djourou, Sagna; Walcott, Fabregas, Song, Nasri; Diaby; Adebayor. Yes, Diaby. I've got a feeling that he will be the difference tonight. He has to play in the hole though, not on the left. Enjoy the game Gooners! VICTORIA CONCORDIA CRESCIT
Patresc Vieiragas
I'm with Rocky on this one, I also can't get my head around how huge this is. (Though at least if we lost to United we wouldn't have to bear the unbearable scenario of losing to Chelsea in the final). Still, I think we've just got to go for it tonight, we aren't keeping a clean sheet with that defence. Let's go for it and if we lose 3-2 on the night that would be a half decent outcome. I think Walcott could be our key here, Evra has looked suspect in recent weeks and Theo could be the key to whether we score or not.
Little Dutch
I'm with Rocky on this one, I also can't get my head around how huge this is. (Though at least if we lost to United we wouldn't have to bear the unbearable scenario of losing to Chelsea in the final). Still, I think we've just got to go for it tonight, we aren't keeping a clean sheet with that defence. Let's go for it and if we lose 3-2 on the night that would be a half decent outcome. I think Walcott could be our key here, Evra has looked suspect in recent weeks and Theo could be the key to whether we score or not.
Little Dutch
LD - I think my brain is just trying to protect me, I keep telling it "Man United, our biggest rivals in the modern era in a fight for a place in the Champions League final" and it just tells me, "yeah? so what!" No doubt it will realise when the players take to the pitch and send some urgent messages to my bowls.
Rocky7
LD - I think my brain is just trying to protect me, I keep telling it "Man United, our biggest rivals in the modern era in a fight for a place in the Champions League final" and it just tells me, "yeah? so what!" No doubt it will realise when the players take to the pitch and send some urgent messages to my bowls.
Rocky7
I recall just how fast we were written off by all the pundits against Real Madrid, Milan and others in recent times, and I remember how we eventually did our talking on the pitch. Manure seems a scarier proposition, but I've learnt to believe in these boys and Arsene. There are too many unknown variables in this equation and I doubt if Ol' red nose himself would go into these games believing his team will come out top. Manure fans are just as worried as we are and I'll rather be underestimated and whup some arse, than be overconfident and fall flat. C'mon you gooners!
deledudu
I recall just how fast we were written off by all the pundits against Real Madrid, Milan and others in recent times, and I remember how we eventually did our talking on the pitch. Manure seems a scarier proposition, but I've learnt to believe in these boys and Arsene. There are too many unknown variables in this equation and I doubt if Ol' red nose himself would go into these games believing his team will come out top. Manure fans are just as worried as we are and I'll rather be underestimated and whup some arse, than be overconfident and fall flat. C'mon you gooners!
deledudu
Just imperative that we keep the tie alive for the second leg coz Ashburton Grove will be absolutely rocking that night and I believe the atmosphere will have a bearing on us winning the tie - as long as it's not dead after tonight.
Gooner_Vin
Just imperative that we keep the tie alive for the second leg coz Ashburton Grove will be absolutely rocking that night and I believe the atmosphere will have a bearing on us winning the tie - as long as it's not dead after tonight.
Gooner_Vin
Our recent record against Man United suggests we are a match for them, it also suggests it's going to be an incredibly close and tense battle. I'm going to ne a lot of beer, and possibly take up smoking again!!
Rocky7
Our recent record against Man United suggests we are a match for them, it also suggests it's going to be an incredibly close and tense battle. I'm going to ne a lot of beer, and possibly take up smoking again!!
Rocky7
Im gonna stop thinking about this match because everytime I do i get a sickly feeling
ajwb
Im gonna stop thinking about this match because everytime I do i get a sickly feeling
ajwb
From what I've read from AW so far we are going to play positively and try to win the game. I hope this is indeed AW's tactic tonite cos if we set up by focusing on containing Man U and nullify their attack (like we did in FA s/f), I fear we're in for a difficult time as our less-Gallas cum Clichy defence would be overworked and likely succumb to relentless pressure. Playing positively will not only raise our chance to get the precious away goals but ease the pressure of our defence (attack is the best form of defence in this instance maybe?). I know this may sound weird but I'd rather we lose 1-2, 2-3 then to come away with a goalless stalemate
Temasek
From what I've read from AW so far we are going to play positively and try to win the game. I hope this is indeed AW's tactic tonite cos if we set up by focusing on containing Man U and nullify their attack (like we did in FA s/f), I fear we're in for a difficult time as our less-Gallas cum Clichy defence would be overworked and likely succumb to relentless pressure. Playing positively will not only raise our chance to get the precious away goals but ease the pressure of our defence (attack is the best form of defence in this instance maybe?). I know this may sound weird but I'd rather we lose 1-2, 2-3 then to come away with a goalless stalemate
Temasek
Agree with GV. All I want from Arsenal tonight is for them to give a good account and come away with a scoreline that keeps the tie alive and at least leaves us an even chance of getting through next Wednesday. Just play it smart tonight Arsene and warn them about cards!
julieloveshenry4ever
Agree with GV. All I want from Arsenal tonight is for them to give a good account and come away with a scoreline that keeps the tie alive and at least leaves us an even chance of getting through next Wednesday. Just play it smart tonight Arsene and warn them about cards!
julieloveshenry4ever
i hope you win at the swamp tonight lads and then beat them in the other leg and in the league to stop em winning anything..good luck from all us city fans.
bluemooner_mcfc
i hope you win at the swamp tonight lads and then beat them in the other leg and in the league to stop em winning anything..good luck from all us city fans.
bluemooner_mcfc
I agree with most of you - a narrow defeat or even a draw with goal(s) from us would keep the tie alive and that's all fine by me given the injury circumstances at the back. Strangely, I'm less nervous than before the Villarreal 2nd leg. A score draw would be great, a scoring defeat acceptable tbph.
GoonerLou
I agree with most of you - a narrow defeat or even a draw with goal(s) from us would keep the tie alive and that's all fine by me given the injury circumstances at the back. Strangely, I'm less nervous than before the Villarreal 2nd leg. A score draw would be great, a scoring defeat acceptable tbph.
GoonerLou
You guy's are to negative, we have every chance of going through. When we went to anfield with more or less all our regular defenders missing we not only drew but with a bit of luck could have won. Utd defence has not been at it's best recently and IMO our midfield has mor creativity about it than utd plus Ade owe's us a good performance and will couse problem's for their CB's. I predict a score draw.
Armory
You guy's are to negative, we have every chance of going through. When we went to anfield with more or less all our regular defenders missing we not only drew but with a bit of luck could have won. Utd defence has not been at it's best recently and IMO our midfield has mor creativity about it than utd plus Ade owe's us a good performance and will couse problem's for their CB's. I predict a score draw.
Armory
What Armory says about the Utd defence is true... just this weekend I saw Darren Bent beat Rio in the air AND score!
TPowell
What Armory says about the Utd defence is true... just this weekend I saw Darren Bent beat Rio in the air AND score!
TPowell
"Manure fans are just as worried as we are" -- really? I figured they're all incredibly confident and smug about it, they view us with such disdain. Have to join in with the negative vibes here, sincere apologies for that. I'm a nervous wreck and I just want it all over. If Silvestre starts, I can't watch the game. Watching him try to contain ANY Utd player--let alone Cronaldo--will just make my heart palpitations worse. I fully expect Scholes or someone else to kick the crap out of Cesc or Theo, or try to. Thing is, even if we do surprise everyone and win this tie, the prospect of meeting Chelsea in the final is just too painful to think about. // As for last night's game...I guess I'm supposed to be impressed that Chelsea managed to suffocate Europe's most potent attack but to hell with that! It's ridiculous that a team that played like that can be rewarded in a competition meant to decide Europe's champions.
jaelle
"Manure fans are just as worried as we are" -- really? I figured they're all incredibly confident and smug about it, they view us with such disdain. Have to join in with the negative vibes here, sincere apologies for that. I'm a nervous wreck and I just want it all over. If Silvestre starts, I can't watch the game. Watching him try to contain ANY Utd player--let alone Cronaldo--will just make my heart palpitations worse. I fully expect Scholes or someone else to kick the crap out of Cesc or Theo, or try to. Thing is, even if we do surprise everyone and win this tie, the prospect of meeting Chelsea in the final is just too painful to think about. // As for last night's game...I guess I'm supposed to be impressed that Chelsea managed to suffocate Europe's most potent attack but to hell with that! It's ridiculous that a team that played like that can be rewarded in a competition meant to decide Europe's champions.
jaelle
Ok my brain has finally cught up with my heart and now I feel sick. I dread to think how nervous I will feel for the second leg!
Rocky7
Ok my brain has finally cught up with my heart and now I feel sick. I dread to think how nervous I will feel for the second leg!
Rocky7
Every gooner needing a good, rousing talk for this game, check out goodplaya's fantastic piece today: http://www.goodplaya.com/new/?p=178
jaelle
Every gooner needing a good, rousing talk for this game, check out goodplaya's fantastic piece today: http://www.goodplaya.com/new/?p=178
jaelle
They have plenty of weaknesses defensively that have been exposed recently. Aaron Lennon made Evra look a fool and he doesn't have half the talent of Theo. We just have to constantly attack- if we treat it as an exhibition match rather than a European away day, we'll be okay. If we try to keep it tight, this tie will be over before the return leg.
elbondo
They have plenty of weaknesses defensively that have been exposed recently. Aaron Lennon made Evra look a fool and he doesn't have half the talent of Theo. We just have to constantly attack- if we treat it as an exhibition match rather than a European away day, we'll be okay. If we try to keep it tight, this tie will be over before the return leg.
elbondo
Too many negatives on here.....I have been checking this site out for more than a year and I have never seen u guys soo nervous....
And it's Arsenal,
Arsenal FC,
We're by far the greatest team,
The world has ever seen....
Think positive we will GO THROUGH!!!!!
manal09
Too many negatives on here.....I have been checking this site out for more than a year and I have never seen u guys soo nervous....
And it's Arsenal,
Arsenal FC,
We're by far the greatest team,
The world has ever seen....
Think positive we will GO THROUGH!!!!!
manal09
As ridiculous as it may sound, this game feels even bigger than the final in 2006, obviously not in terms of prestige and trophies and whatnot, but this is Man Utd we're playing and semi-finals always make me more nervous than anything else. But there's not much time left till kick off, my beer is chilled and I'm ready to sit on the edge of my seat. COME ON YOU GUNNERS!!
Rocky7
As ridiculous as it may sound, this game feels even bigger than the final in 2006, obviously not in terms of prestige and trophies and whatnot, but this is Man Utd we're playing and semi-finals always make me more nervous than anything else. But there's not much time left till kick off, my beer is chilled and I'm ready to sit on the edge of my seat. COME ON YOU GUNNERS!!
Rocky7
C'mon Arsenal, gissa Champions League!!!
Gooner_Vin
C'mon Arsenal, gissa Champions League!!!
Gooner_Vin
I have this all worked out. you win the champions league, chelsea win the FA cup (ok, actually, everton can win that...but I can't see that happening) and liverpool win the league. YOU CAN'T LET ME DOWN NOW!
pompeycarpet
I have this all worked out. you win the champions league, chelsea win the FA cup (ok, actually, everton can win that...but I can't see that happening) and liverpool win the league. YOU CAN'T LET ME DOWN NOW!
pompeycarpet
Jaelle! Have some faith. I'm just as nervous as everyone else, but believe it or not, they're just as nervous as we are. Our recent record against them guarantees that. Even in the last few years when Wenger has been running his nursery experiment, we've been unexpectably successful against them, those boys are fast becoming men, and even if we get beat tonight, I'm sure the tie will still be alive when we host them at the Grove. Believe!
deledudu
Jaelle! Have some faith. I'm just as nervous as everyone else, but believe it or not, they're just as nervous as we are. Our recent record against them guarantees that. Even in the last few years when Wenger has been running his nursery experiment, we've been unexpectably successful against them, those boys are fast becoming men, and even if we get beat tonight, I'm sure the tie will still be alive when we host them at the Grove. Believe!
deledudu
deledudu: A voce of sanity amongst total hysteria.
Armory
deledudu: A voce of sanity amongst total hysteria.
Armory
"the man running from an attacker should take solace in the knowledge that his pursuer is also human and will tire just as he tires" The foregoing is an ancient saying in my neck of the wood. Talk to your Manure friends, they are running just as scared as most of you, the pressure is on them, few people outside the gooners' family expect us to win and that suits us to a T. You guys need to take drags on the funny ciggies and calm the eff down!
deledudu
"the man running from an attacker should take solace in the knowledge that his pursuer is also human and will tire just as he tires" The foregoing is an ancient saying in my neck of the wood. Talk to your Manure friends, they are running just as scared as most of you, the pressure is on them, few people outside the gooners' family expect us to win and that suits us to a T. You guys need to take drags on the funny ciggies and calm the eff down!
deledudu
Armoury - I don't think a handful of very nervous Gooners amounts to "total hysteria"....lol
Rocky7
Armoury - I don't think a handful of very nervous Gooners amounts to "total hysteria"....lol
Rocky7
"I don't think a handful of very nervous Gooners amounts to "total hysteria" -- LOL! I'll cop to the hysteria. So, Armoury, yes, I'm hysterical! Yes, I know their weaknesses and I know we don't need to win yadayadayada, but I can't be rational today.
jaelle
"I don't think a handful of very nervous Gooners amounts to "total hysteria" -- LOL! I'll cop to the hysteria. So, Armoury, yes, I'm hysterical! Yes, I know their weaknesses and I know we don't need to win yadayadayada, but I can't be rational today.
jaelle
I'm actually getting excited now. All dressed up in mi Gooner shirt and cap, about to crack the first beer of the night ...... tonight is what football is all about. Let's try and enjoy it, aslong as the boys give it their all I can't ask for more!
Rocky7
I'm actually getting excited now. All dressed up in mi Gooner shirt and cap, about to crack the first beer of the night ...... tonight is what football is all about. Let's try and enjoy it, aslong as the boys give it their all I can't ask for more!
Rocky7
Ronnie gets sent off for diving, angry ant Wayne gets angry sent off. Come on Rocky, the football will be much better than last night and most of the pundits are against us and that could be the key. Go you gunners
alwaysgunner
Ronnie gets sent off for diving, angry ant Wayne gets angry sent off. Come on Rocky, the football will be much better than last night and most of the pundits are against us and that could be the key. Go you gunners
alwaysgunner
Almunia
Sagna Toure Silvestre Gibbs
Walcott Song Nasri Diaby
Fabregas
Adebayor
Tom14
Almunia
Sagna Toure Silvestre Gibbs
Walcott Song Nasri Diaby
Fabregas
Adebayor
Tom14
We just need a "wiiiiiiiiilllllllllltoooooooooooorrrrrrd!" moment, please!
iceman10
We just need a "wiiiiiiiiilllllllllltoooooooooooorrrrrrd!" moment, please!
iceman10
Diaby again?!?! Well at least he's not expected to be in a creative role... but seriously, Denilson is so much better at breaking up play... That said, IF he plays well then the rest of our midfield will too. Jesus, Silvestre too...
TPowell
Diaby again?!?! Well at least he's not expected to be in a creative role... but seriously, Denilson is so much better at breaking up play... That said, IF he plays well then the rest of our midfield will too. Jesus, Silvestre too...
TPowell
Where the hell is Djourou??? SILVESTRE is starting! That's it, I can't watch.
jaelle
Where the hell is Djourou??? SILVESTRE is starting! That's it, I can't watch.
jaelle
So you would trust Djourou after his jittery performance against Boro?
Tom14
So you would trust Djourou after his jittery performance against Boro?
Tom14
Feel much happier Gibbs is playing.
alwaysgunner
Feel much happier Gibbs is playing.
alwaysgunner
So you would trust Silvestre after his jittery performance against everyone? lol. Let's just give the chosen players a chance to show us what they can do tonight you never know, peanut head might bag the winner. COOOOMMMEEEE OOOONNNNNN YOOOOOUUUUU GUUUUUNNNNNEEERRRRRSSSSS!!!
Rocky7
So you would trust Silvestre after his jittery performance against everyone? lol. Let's just give the chosen players a chance to show us what they can do tonight you never know, peanut head might bag the winner. COOOOMMMEEEE OOOONNNNNN YOOOOOUUUUU GUUUUUNNNNNEEERRRRRSSSSS!!!
Rocky7
My confidence plunged when I saw Diaby in the starting 11. He's good maybe one out of five games so I hope this is one. Usually however, when he plays in a five man midfield he just gets in the way- Cesc is completely ineffective with him in there. This might sound odd but I think the only way we will get a result today is if Diaby is injured or sent off early.
elbondo
Weird ciggies lined up, enough XO consumed, everyone and everything looking all nice now. Bring it on!
deledudu
My confidence plunged when I saw Diaby in the starting 11. He's good maybe one out of five games so I hope this is one. Usually however, when he plays in a five man midfield he just gets in the way- Cesc is completely ineffective with him in there. This might sound odd but I think the only way we will get a result today is if Diaby is injured or sent off early.
elbondo
Weird ciggies lined up, enough XO consumed, everyone and everything looking all nice now. Bring it on!
deledudu
"Weird ciggies" ... lol ... so that's how you're so relaxed!!!
Rocky7
"Weird ciggies" ... lol ... so that's how you're so relaxed!!!
Rocky7
Er... Silvestre... Elbondo I hope this is that 1 game in 5 where Diaby plays well! And I'm also crossing my fingers and toes and everything - everyone please come through this came unscathed!! And we have to keep cool in view of the cards situation as well. COME ON YOU GUNNERSSSS!!!
GoonerLou
Er... Silvestre... Elbondo I hope this is that 1 game in 5 where Diaby plays well! And I'm also crossing my fingers and toes and everything - everyone please come through this came unscathed!! And we have to keep cool in view of the cards situation as well. COME ON YOU GUNNERSSSS!!!
GoonerLou
O'Shea at RB for them. I hope Nasri spends more time on the wing than Diaby and give him a tough time on that side!
GoonerLou
O'Shea at RB for them. I hope Nasri spends more time on the wing than Diaby and give him a tough time on that side!
GoonerLou
Here we go guys!! Good luck ..... speak to you at half time. Come on ARSENAL!!!!
Rocky7
Here we go guys!! Good luck ..... speak to you at half time. Come on ARSENAL!!!!
Rocky7
Good luck guys! We had a torried time last night but came thorugh okay. I want you to beat those Mancs! I am (ONLY AT THIS POINT) gunning for the gunners!
haigh_for_7
Good luck guys! We had a torried time last night but came thorugh okay. I want you to beat those Mancs! I am (ONLY AT THIS POINT) gunning for the gunners!
haigh_for_7
Humble pies for the Almunia haters!
deledudu
Humble pies for the Almunia haters!
deledudu
Their goal was coming, you could just feel it.
Gooner_Vin
Their goal was coming, you could just feel it.
Gooner_Vin
Pathetic - We are playing like rank amatuers, if something doesn't change, and quick, we'll be out of the tie before any manc sets foot in North London. FFS.
Rocky7
Pathetic - We are playing like rank amatuers, if something doesn't change, and quick, we'll be out of the tie before any manc sets foot in North London. FFS.
Rocky7
great, our guys are already starting to just walk around...
TPowell
We can't even get near the ball, they're completely outplaying us.
Gooner_Vin
great, our guys are already starting to just walk around...
TPowell
We can't even get near the ball, they're completely outplaying us.
Gooner_Vin
Yeah eff-ing predictable wasn't it. I didn't really like the lineup and I thought some of our players were taking too long to get into the game too. Let's get going NOW!!!
GoonerLou
Yeah eff-ing predictable wasn't it. I didn't really like the lineup and I thought some of our players were taking too long to get into the game too. Let's get going NOW!!!
GoonerLou
I can't even bring myself to look at the screen. I'm sat looking at the ball at my feet, this is excruciating :(
Rocky7
I can't even bring myself to look at the screen. I'm sat looking at the ball at my feet, this is excruciating :(
Rocky7
They want it FAR more than us
Gooner_Vin
They want it FAR more than us
Gooner_Vin
Almunia is the only player who can hold his head up high ......... as if I'm saying this s*** after only 30 minutes :(
Rocky7
Almunia is the only player who can hold his head up high ......... as if I'm saying this s*** after only 30 minutes :(
Rocky7
MANUEL ALMUNIA, MANUEL ALMUNIA, MANUEL ALMUNIA, MANUEL ALMUNIA!!! Well I need ******** something to cheer about.
Rocky7
this game is screaming for Arshavin...
los_angeles_villan
MANUEL ALMUNIA, MANUEL ALMUNIA, MANUEL ALMUNIA, MANUEL ALMUNIA!!! Well I need ******** something to cheer about.
Rocky7
this game is screaming for Arshavin...
los_angeles_villan
I have a stupid question - not that I'm most interested in blaming people now - was it Diaby or Egg Head who gave the ball back to a red shirt in front of goal which eventually led to O'Shea's shot?
GoonerLou
This game is screaming for some professional footballers ...... well in the yellow shirts anyway.
Rocky7
I have a stupid question - not that I'm most interested in blaming people now - was it Diaby or Egg Head who gave the ball back to a red shirt in front of goal which eventually led to O'Shea's shot?
GoonerLou
This game is screaming for some professional footballers ...... well in the yellow shirts anyway.
Rocky7
This game is screaming for Gallas and I'm sighing when I say this.
GoonerLou
This game is screaming for Gallas and I'm sighing when I say this.
GoonerLou
If ever there was a day for Wenger to let rip and realy go mental at these ********s, today is that day. What a load of *****.
Rocky7
If ever there was a day for Wenger to let rip and realy go mental at these ********s, today is that day. What a load of *****.
Rocky7
eduardo in for diaby (not that he's playing too bad or anything)... why have we gotten away for the 4-4-2. Also, I can safely say that ESPN has the worst announcers ever: they said, "Nasri is having a hard time making an influence down this left-hand side." Well that would be tough for him considering he didn't play on the left in the first half, you idiots.
TPowell
eduardo in for diaby (not that he's playing too bad or anything)... why have we gotten away for the 4-4-2. Also, I can safely say that ESPN has the worst announcers ever: they said, "Nasri is having a hard time making an influence down this left-hand side." Well that would be tough for him considering he didn't play on the left in the first half, you idiots.
TPowell
Cesc playing in this role cannot control the tempo of the game AGAIN. We are being mauled just like last week at Anfield, the only positive is this game should be over.
iceman10
Cesc playing in this role cannot control the tempo of the game AGAIN. We are being mauled just like last week at Anfield, the only positive is this game should be over.
iceman10
These guys owe the manager a hell of a lot and it was just unacceptable. There's improvement in the last 10 mins or so though to be fair. That's all I can say.
GoonerLou
These guys owe the manager a hell of a lot and it was just unacceptable. There's improvement in the last 10 mins or so though to be fair. That's all I can say.
GoonerLou
We just barely survived the opening half hour ,but the last 15 or so minutes we settled down. I think with a good halftime talking to we can push on. Song and Nasri have been good, while Gibbs and Silvestre have also done okay in my opinion. Thank god for Almunia.
Side note here, but when you watch Tevez, it is really hard to hate him, even though he's a United player. Such a great work ethic. I thought he was very unlucky to be booked.
gunnerkid107
We just barely survived the opening half hour ,but the last 15 or so minutes we settled down. I think with a good halftime talking to we can push on. Song and Nasri have been good, while Gibbs and Silvestre have also done okay in my opinion. Thank god for Almunia.
Side note here, but when you watch Tevez, it is really hard to hate him, even though he's a United player. Such a great work ethic. I thought he was very unlucky to be booked.
gunnerkid107
Hahah TPowell! I was screaming at the TV for the exact same thing!
gunnerkid107
Hahah TPowell! I was screaming at the TV for the exact same thing!
gunnerkid107
Yeah GK, Tommy Smyth is pure crap. I was so glad when Andy Gray came over to do the Euros for ESPN last summer.
TPowell
Yeah GK, Tommy Smyth is pure crap. I was so glad when Andy Gray came over to do the Euros for ESPN last summer.
TPowell
how is united making substitutions before us? what is this XI doing that indicates to Wenger that they'll score?
TPowell
how is united making substitutions before us? what is this XI doing that indicates to Wenger that they'll score?
TPowell
You know if I'd have drunk just a couple more beers, I reckon I could have been crying by now.
Rocky7
You know if I'd have drunk just a couple more beers, I reckon I could have been crying by now.
Rocky7
I've been watching Arsenal for 22 years, I've seen Arsenal play under George Graham, Bruce Rioch and even Stuart Houston and I don't ever remember being this outplayed or this frustrated. I'm at a loss.
Rocky7
I've been watching Arsenal for 22 years, I've seen Arsenal play under George Graham, Bruce Rioch and even Stuart Houston and I don't ever remember being this outplayed or this frustrated. I'm at a loss.
Rocky7
If we're lucky, Ferdinand will miss the next game, he didn't give Ade a sniff all night, in fact I bet Manu didn't win a single header.
Rocky7
If we're lucky, Ferdinand will miss the next game, he didn't give Ade a sniff all night, in fact I bet Manu didn't win a single header.
Rocky7
Did I say that it's not a good idea to change people's positions - or too many of them - before a big game? I didn't? Well I thought so. We got too many players unfamiliar with the system and their positions to play the fluent passing game. Maybe it's just an excuse from me. Don't know, can't think straight.
GoonerLou
Did I say that it's not a good idea to change people's positions - or too many of them - before a big game? I didn't? Well I thought so. We got too many players unfamiliar with the system and their positions to play the fluent passing game. Maybe it's just an excuse from me. Don't know, can't think straight.
GoonerLou
Well we're still in it. F**k knows how, but we still are. I'm off to get sh***ed and forget about that dross. Big up Manuel Almunia, the only reason we're still in it.
Rocky7
Well we're still in it. F**k knows how, but we still are. I'm off to get sh***ed and forget about that dross. Big up Manuel Almunia, the only reason we're still in it.
Rocky7
MotM = Manuel!!!!!! He and Gibbs are the relative bright spots.
GoonerLou
MotM = Manuel!!!!!! He and Gibbs are the relative bright spots.
GoonerLou
Adebayor was completely nullified by two world class centre backs today. In my opinion that is what separates us from the champions. We were showed tonight why Manchester United are the champions of everything.
gunnerkid107
Adebayor was completely nullified by two world class centre backs today. In my opinion that is what separates us from the champions. We were showed tonight why Manchester United are the champions of everything.
gunnerkid107
Is it me or is Diaby just absolutely useless? Him and Ade were atrocious, I don't care the fact he was up there on his own. We're going to have to win by 2 clear goals next week coz i can't see us not conceding.
Gooner_Vin
Is it me or is Diaby just absolutely useless? Him and Ade were atrocious, I don't care the fact he was up there on his own. We're going to have to win by 2 clear goals next week coz i can't see us not conceding.
Gooner_Vin
maybe if we gave them two strikers to deal with we could do something to them.... please go back the the 4-4-2 Wenger
TPowell
maybe if we gave them two strikers to deal with we could do something to them.... please go back the the 4-4-2 Wenger
TPowell
In the words of Mike Bassest, England manager, "We shall be playing four, four, f*****g two"
Rocky7
In the words of Mike Bassest, England manager, "We shall be playing four, four, f*****g two"
Rocky7
Adebayor needs two things to be a world class player. Cesc Fabregas and a striker up there with him. Today he received neither. I honestly can't think of a game where Cesc has contributed so little.
gunnerkid107
Adebayor needs two things to be a world class player. Cesc Fabregas and a striker up there with him. Today he received neither. I honestly can't think of a game where Cesc has contributed so little.
gunnerkid107
They're just analysing on Sky Sports, believe it or not, Ade is at fault for the first goal because he left the front post. So he's always offside, first touch is crap and now this? I'm sorry, don't care what people say, but Ade's head has got too big for Arsenal.
Gooner_Vin
They're just analysing on Sky Sports, believe it or not, Ade is at fault for the first goal because he left the front post. So he's always offside, first touch is crap and now this? I'm sorry, don't care what people say, but Ade's head has got too big for Arsenal.
Gooner_Vin
Cesc still looks to be finding top fitness to me.
Gooner_Vin
Cesc still looks to be finding top fitness to me.
Gooner_Vin
It's 1-0 at half-time. Back to OUR place next week. This tie is NOT over.
julieloveshenry4ever
It's 1-0 at half-time. Back to OUR place next week. This tie is NOT over.
julieloveshenry4ever
I've just about had enough of the whining from you lot tonight. We just played the champions of the world, europe and england in their own park, with them fielding a full strength team and us with a decimated team. They scrambled a goal and we we kept a 100 Million pounds attack quiet for most of the match and we still have 90 minutes to rescue the game at home, guys, get some perspectives and make no mistake about it, they were not unlucky to have scored only one, Wenger got his defensive tactics mostly right and we really can't blame him for Ade's ineffectiveness at this time, he has to go with what we have for now. We are Arsenal, we shall be back in our own fortress next week, we may even have some players back. It is anything but over. C'mon you goooneerssss!!!!
deledudu
I've just about had enough of the whining from you lot tonight. We just played the champions of the world, europe and england in their own park, with them fielding a full strength team and us with a decimated team. They scrambled a goal and we we kept a 100 Million pounds attack quiet for most of the match and we still have 90 minutes to rescue the game at home, guys, get some perspectives and make no mistake about it, they were not unlucky to have scored only one, Wenger got his defensive tactics mostly right and we really can't blame him for Ade's ineffectiveness at this time, he has to go with what we have for now. We are Arsenal, we shall be back in our own fortress next week, we may even have some players back. It is anything but over. C'mon you goooneerssss!!!!
deledudu
Disappointing game to be honest, although we should count ourselves lucky thats its only 1-0. Cesc was anonymous, Ade was poor, Diaby was poorer. Apart from that, great game from Almunia, and terrific work from Nasri. The lad has good work rate, and is also offensively involved in addition to tracking back. We were outplayed by a better team, and we didnt get enough shots on goal. Something for Wenger to think about.
prits
Disappointing game to be honest, although we should count ourselves lucky thats its only 1-0. Cesc was anonymous, Ade was poor, Diaby was poorer. Apart from that, great game from Almunia, and terrific work from Nasri. The lad has good work rate, and is also offensively involved in addition to tracking back. We were outplayed by a better team, and we didnt get enough shots on goal. Something for Wenger to think about.
prits
I admire you're optomism deledudu (maybe the "weird ciggies"? lol) This tie is FAR from over, but we didn't keep anyone quiet at all, we we've very lucky our keeper was played the best game of his Arsenal career. We can talk about injuries all we want, but the complete lack of desire was apparent to me. But we are still in this tie, and next week I fully expect a different Arsenal ..... we'll give em hell!
Rocky7
I admire you're optomism deledudu (maybe the "weird ciggies"? lol) This tie is FAR from over, but we didn't keep anyone quiet at all, we we've very lucky our keeper was played the best game of his Arsenal career. We can talk about injuries all we want, but the complete lack of desire was apparent to me. But we are still in this tie, and next week I fully expect a different Arsenal ..... we'll give em hell!
Rocky7
we should rest all the 11 guys we're gonna play in the second leg this weekend. the worrying thing was without Van Persie as an outlet on top, there was a real lack of creativity. we need him to be fit for the second leg & Eduardo should really start too. his movement and intelligent play will definetly give the united defenders a lot more problems than someone like Diaby or Adebayor. and Diaby should have been substituted in place of Walcott. Diaby gives us a physical presence, but loses the ball way too much in trying to do everything himself which totally negates the whole purpose of him being there. Theo will always give us an attacking threat even if he does disappear a bit at times in the game. Gibbs & Silvestre were good, but i'd still like to see Djourou & Clichy play instead..
luckys_10
we should rest all the 11 guys we're gonna play in the second leg this weekend. the worrying thing was without Van Persie as an outlet on top, there was a real lack of creativity. we need him to be fit for the second leg & Eduardo should really start too. his movement and intelligent play will definetly give the united defenders a lot more problems than someone like Diaby or Adebayor. and Diaby should have been substituted in place of Walcott. Diaby gives us a physical presence, but loses the ball way too much in trying to do everything himself which totally negates the whole purpose of him being there. Theo will always give us an attacking threat even if he does disappear a bit at times in the game. Gibbs & Silvestre were good, but i'd still like to see Djourou & Clichy play instead..
luckys_10
still five ******** more days to go. i can't wait for the second leg. lets play it right now. it's going to be like hell these five days, banchod..
luckys_10
Cesc is not a striker, Cesc is not a striker, Cesc is not a striker, Cesc is not a striker, Cesc is not a striker.
iceman10
still five ******** more days to go. i can't wait for the second leg. lets play it right now. it's going to be like hell these five days, banchod..
luckys_10
Cesc is not a striker, Cesc is not a striker, Cesc is not a striker, Cesc is not a striker, Cesc is not a striker.
iceman10
we could definetly learn a thing or two from Roma, the way they played against us in the second leg coming out of the blocks quickly. lets keep everyone fresh & go all out in the first half. we can definetly turn this one around. all those missed chances may come back to haunt United. i have all the faith in Arsene & he'll do all he can to get the lads focussed & committed to get the job done on tuesday..
luckys_10
we could definetly learn a thing or two from Roma, the way they played against us in the second leg coming out of the blocks quickly. lets keep everyone fresh & go all out in the first half. we can definetly turn this one around. all those missed chances may come back to haunt United. i have all the faith in Arsene & he'll do all he can to get the lads focussed & committed to get the job done on tuesday..
luckys_10
Weird ciggies worn off now Rocky, lol! Make no mistake about it, we were not lucky, Lucky. Manure got the one goal lead they deserved, playing against Gibbsy, Divingho hardly got a sniff, they did their best to put this game to bed but could not. They, not us, got lucky tonight, Almunia did his job, Diaby and Adebarndoor failed woefully at theirs. At this level you make your own luck, we both got what we deserved tonight, we have loads of room for improvement and may have key players returning before the return, I doubt if they can find another gear or get any better than tonight. And who knows, they may even have my weird ciggies mate out!! Believe.
deledudu
Weird ciggies worn off now Rocky, lol! Make no mistake about it, we were not lucky, Lucky. Manure got the one goal lead they deserved, playing against Gibbsy, Divingho hardly got a sniff, they did their best to put this game to bed but could not. They, not us, got lucky tonight, Almunia did his job, Diaby and Adebarndoor failed woefully at theirs. At this level you make your own luck, we both got what we deserved tonight, we have loads of room for improvement and may have key players returning before the return, I doubt if they can find another gear or get any better than tonight. And who knows, they may even have my weird ciggies mate out!! Believe.
deledudu
One thing for sure: Man U will get one hell of a test next week, both from the team and the fans, of that I'm absolutely sure. I think it will be our equivalent of the European Anfield experience and we can definitely be the 12th man, just like we were when we beat them in the league. They will be put under enormous pressure. Agree with luckys, we should rest the bulk of our team now. Man U have to go to Middlesborough and will have to play a full strength team to win. They will be beatable but it's going to call for one of our best ever performances.
Gooner_Vin
One thing for sure: Man U will get one hell of a test next week, both from the team and the fans, of that I'm absolutely sure. I think it will be our equivalent of the European Anfield experience and we can definitely be the 12th man, just like we were when we beat them in the league. They will be put under enormous pressure. Agree with luckys, we should rest the bulk of our team now. Man U have to go to Middlesborough and will have to play a full strength team to win. They will be beatable but it's going to call for one of our best ever performances.
Gooner_Vin
That should have read "Prits" not Lucky. M
deledudu
That should have read "Prits" not Lucky. M
deledudu
deledudu - I admire your optimism but we could have been out of this tie by half-time. Do we think Wenger has got his tactics/formation/team wrong for the second semi-final in a row?
Gooner_Vin
deledudu - I admire your optimism but we could have been out of this tie by half-time. Do we think Wenger has got his tactics/formation/team wrong for the second semi-final in a row?
Gooner_Vin
I think the criticism of Fabregas is a little harsh. I've never heard anyone ever suggest he would be effective in the whole with the type of players we have. The man is best when he is deeper setting the pace of things. I'm far from a Diaby fan but he would have been more effective there with Cesc deep and Nasri on the left. I don't get this line up at all. As for Adebayor... I don't get it. I understand he was playing against two of the best CB's in the world, but he just plain didn't work. He certainly doesn't have the hustle that made him so effective last year. Anyway, Almunia saved the team from real humiliation tonight so we have a chance in the second leg.
smithdj74
I think the criticism of Fabregas is a little harsh. I've never heard anyone ever suggest he would be effective in the whole with the type of players we have. The man is best when he is deeper setting the pace of things. I'm far from a Diaby fan but he would have been more effective there with Cesc deep and Nasri on the left. I don't get this line up at all. As for Adebayor... I don't get it. I understand he was playing against two of the best CB's in the world, but he just plain didn't work. He certainly doesn't have the hustle that made him so effective last year. Anyway, Almunia saved the team from real humiliation tonight so we have a chance in the second leg.
smithdj74
Hi everyone . When I heard the line up i thought we would have been battered tonight. We all should be glad that we are still in the tie. I believe in this team and we all need to show our support even when they have played below par. We have just played one of the best teams in the world and came out with glimmer of hope. That ticket i have bought has just become priceless.
King Kolo
Hi everyone . When I heard the line up i thought we would have been battered tonight. We all should be glad that we are still in the tie. I believe in this team and we all need to show our support even when they have played below par. We have just played one of the best teams in the world and came out with glimmer of hope. That ticket i have bought has just become priceless.
King Kolo
gees ye were shocking lucky to be only 1-0 ye were worse the us, cesc as a support stricker what next
123spurs
gees ye were shocking lucky to be only 1-0 ye were worse the us, cesc as a support stricker what next
123spurs
123 spurs what was the score last Saturday? I think a village is missing an idiot. Go to bed mate and rest that one brain cell .
King Kolo
123 spurs what was the score last Saturday? I think a village is missing an idiot. Go to bed mate and rest that one brain cell .
King Kolo
big task now to be honest, we had them in first half last week with lennon hugging the wing theo must do that, it wud be hard for man u not to score as yer back line is not full strenght but if ye can manage to win an go to final ye deserve it
123spurs
big task now to be honest, we had them in first half last week with lennon hugging the wing theo must do that, it wud be hard for man u not to score as yer back line is not full strenght but if ye can manage to win an go to final ye deserve it
123spurs
yes i no the score but at end of day we both lost for very diff reasons.
123spurs
yes i no the score but at end of day we both lost for very diff reasons.
123spurs
One more thing guys. The boy Gibbs is a class act. He faced Rooney and Ronaldo and proved he is no mug. I'm glad we have such a fantastic bunch of players coming through the ranks. We should be very proud of our team . They kept us in the tie against the world champions.
King Kolo
One more thing guys. The boy Gibbs is a class act. He faced Rooney and Ronaldo and proved he is no mug. I'm glad we have such a fantastic bunch of players coming through the ranks. We should be very proud of our team . They kept us in the tie against the world champions.
King Kolo
agree gibbs is a very promising left back
123spurs
agree gibbs is a very promising left back
123spurs
Despite the shocking display I'm certain we will put the hebiejeebies up them next week. 1-0 is just no such score line for them. If they sit back then they will be punished, if the push forward then they play right into our hands. SAF has a HUGE task of coming to terms with what he needs to do next week ... and if he dies it, then fair play. But we;re still in this f******.
Rocky7
Despite the shocking display I'm certain we will put the hebiejeebies up them next week. 1-0 is just no such score line for them. If they sit back then they will be punished, if the push forward then they play right into our hands. SAF has a HUGE task of coming to terms with what he needs to do next week ... and if he dies it, then fair play. But we;re still in this f******.
Rocky7
I'm dissapointed with the performance more than the result. At 1-0 we are definately still in it, but not if we play the way we did tonight. The most frustrating aspect is that Arsene insists playing Cesc in the hole, and Nasri deeper. Nasri's pace and skill on the ball is much more suited to playing in behind the striker and Cesc needs to be deeper to dictate our tempo and play more. I'm getting annoyed just thinking about it :<
NoFitState
I'm dissapointed with the performance more than the result. At 1-0 we are definately still in it, but not if we play the way we did tonight. The most frustrating aspect is that Arsene insists playing Cesc in the hole, and Nasri deeper. Nasri's pace and skill on the ball is much more suited to playing in behind the striker and Cesc needs to be deeper to dictate our tempo and play more. I'm getting annoyed just thinking about it :<
NoFitState
Well... How the hell did we not lose that by 3-4 goals?! SAF must be gutted, as they outplayed us for most of the game! ALMUNIA was our MAN of the MATCH, that double save was 1st class! So thanks to Almunia and the Crossbar, we left Man utd with only a 1 nil scoreline. And we gifted them the goal they scored! Why, Oh Why did we allow 3 Man utd players to go toatlly unmarked into the box, who was suppose to be on O'shea and the other two?! (That moan over) Now the plus, for me was Gibbs, he put in a Man's Performance last night, at 19 yrs old,in CL semi-final at OT, he was certainly not out of his depth. Well Done Kieran!
So Tues night at The Grove, the Fans must be the 12th Man.
Arsene will hopefully play 4-4-2, and we will score.
hackneyval
Well... How the hell did we not lose that by 3-4 goals?! SAF must be gutted, as they outplayed us for most of the game! ALMUNIA was our MAN of the MATCH, that double save was 1st class! So thanks to Almunia and the Crossbar, we left Man utd with only a 1 nil scoreline. And we gifted them the goal they scored! Why, Oh Why did we allow 3 Man utd players to go toatlly unmarked into the box, who was suppose to be on O'shea and the other two?! (That moan over) Now the plus, for me was Gibbs, he put in a Man's Performance last night, at 19 yrs old,in CL semi-final at OT, he was certainly not out of his depth. Well Done Kieran!
So Tues night at The Grove, the Fans must be the 12th Man.
Arsene will hopefully play 4-4-2, and we will score.
hackneyval
Agree Hackneyval, but no-one seems to say anything about diving Ronnie. He laid down on the edge of the penalty area. It was so deliberate, and should have been given a straight red. We live to fight another day, with a few changes we can do it. Very happy to come away with just one goal against us. Seem obverse to me that Trevez pull out players out of position, and left the right and left flanks open. Bad mistake on Fergies part in bringing him on to start with, suspect he will be brought on later in the match at God's ground.
alwaysgunner
Agree Hackneyval, but no-one seems to say anything about diving Ronnie. He laid down on the edge of the penalty area. It was so deliberate, and should have been given a straight red. We live to fight another day, with a few changes we can do it. Very happy to come away with just one goal against us. Seem obverse to me that Trevez pull out players out of position, and left the right and left flanks open. Bad mistake on Fergies part in bringing him on to start with, suspect he will be brought on later in the match at God's ground.
alwaysgunner
I'm normally defiantly bullish about our chances in key matches but this time round I can't help but feel pessimistic. Other than losing by 2 or more goals (which will effectively render the second leg irrelevant), 0-1 is the worst possible result. Without a precious away goal (not that we looked capable of getting it last nite), and considering the unlikely possibility of us keeping a clean sheet, it means that we need to win by a 2-goal margin at the emirates. Winning the tie 2-1, 3-2 (which is what I feel will happen) etc. and we'll still not make the trip to rome. Even if we win 1-0, we'll have to endure the agony of the roulette of penalty kicks (like our win agst Roma). Such is my pessimism that even if we managed to lead 2-0 with 5 mins left on the clock next week, I can't help but feel that we'll succumb to a last moment sucker punch from Man U. I've been sadly proven wrong before when I firmly expect us to emerge victor against illustrious opponents. For a change though, I'll be happy to be proven wrong this time round.
Temasek
I'm normally defiantly bullish about our chances in key matches but this time round I can't help but feel pessimistic. Other than losing by 2 or more goals (which will effectively render the second leg irrelevant), 0-1 is the worst possible result. Without a precious away goal (not that we looked capable of getting it last nite), and considering the unlikely possibility of us keeping a clean sheet, it means that we need to win by a 2-goal margin at the emirates. Winning the tie 2-1, 3-2 (which is what I feel will happen) etc. and we'll still not make the trip to rome. Even if we win 1-0, we'll have to endure the agony of the roulette of penalty kicks (like our win agst Roma). Such is my pessimism that even if we managed to lead 2-0 with 5 mins left on the clock next week, I can't help but feel that we'll succumb to a last moment sucker punch from Man U. I've been sadly proven wrong before when I firmly expect us to emerge victor against illustrious opponents. For a change though, I'll be happy to be proven wrong this time round.
Temasek
I hope we start like men possessed next week, chasing every ball, pressing the game and keeping a high tempo throughout. We've to seize the initiative and not let go. For that to happen, I hope both Adebayor and Diaby are not involved in the match. Adebayor had infuriated me far too much this season. Again, I don't see a sense of urgency, desire or hunger in him last night. He can trade these off with a goal or two like before, but his performance of late does not warrant him a starting place at the expense of others who are more willing to try. Diaby put up a better display than the FA Cup s/f last nite, but he too does not deserve a starting place next week. Diaby when he plays to his full potential is an absolute asset to the team but unfortunately, the frequency of that kind of display can be described as sporadic at best.
Temasek
I hope we start like men possessed next week, chasing every ball, pressing the game and keeping a high tempo throughout. We've to seize the initiative and not let go. For that to happen, I hope both Adebayor and Diaby are not involved in the match. Adebayor had infuriated me far too much this season. Again, I don't see a sense of urgency, desire or hunger in him last night. He can trade these off with a goal or two like before, but his performance of late does not warrant him a starting place at the expense of others who are more willing to try. Diaby put up a better display than the FA Cup s/f last nite, but he too does not deserve a starting place next week. Diaby when he plays to his full potential is an absolute asset to the team but unfortunately, the frequency of that kind of display can be described as sporadic at best.
Temasek
Was 2003 (FA cup) the last time we beat man u by a 2-goal margin?
Temasek
Was 2003 (FA cup) the last time we beat man u by a 2-goal margin?
Temasek
Hopefully Adebayor gets injured on Sat and we never see the ********* again, that paycheque's obviously weighing him down.
shewore
Hopefully Adebayor gets injured on Sat and we never see the ********* again, that paycheque's obviously weighing him down.
shewore
Two further points: (i) You can see the point/key attributes of most players - Eduardo's finishing, Clichy's pace and desire, van Persie's technical prowess, Theo's pace, Sagna's consistency. What is the point of Diaby?? (ii) Contrast the desire and workrate of Tevez last night compared to Adebayor.
Gooner_Vin
Two further points: (i) You can see the point/key attributes of most players - Eduardo's finishing, Clichy's pace and desire, van Persie's technical prowess, Theo's pace, Sagna's consistency. What is the point of Diaby?? (ii) Contrast the desire and workrate of Tevez last night compared to Adebayor.
Gooner_Vin
Vin - exactly. Although i think Gibbs now deserves his chance
shewore
Vin - exactly. Although i think Gibbs now deserves his chance
shewore
I feel we will need to win this one on penalties to get to the final. We're pretty well equiped to beat United .... but I just can't see us doing it by two goals.
Rocky7
I feel we will need to win this one on penalties to get to the final. We're pretty well equiped to beat United .... but I just can't see us doing it by two goals.
Rocky7
It's going to be a very hard task beating Man utd by 2 clear goals, but we are at home, and hopefully RvP will be able to play and he will show Adebayor how to score against Man utd. I think we had 1 shot on target last night, that's just not good enough for a team in the semi-finals of CL.
Like mention above we need to get at them next Tues play the way they did against just score 2 goals b4 half-time, then another 1 b4 they get 1. Yes, maybe I've lost it, but that's what football will do to you. At least we can rest players on Sat, whereas Man utd are still going for the Premiership.
hackneyval
It's going to be a very hard task beating Man utd by 2 clear goals, but we are at home, and hopefully RvP will be able to play and he will show Adebayor how to score against Man utd. I think we had 1 shot on target last night, that's just not good enough for a team in the semi-finals of CL.
Like mention above we need to get at them next Tues play the way they did against just score 2 goals b4 half-time, then another 1 b4 they get 1. Yes, maybe I've lost it, but that's what football will do to you. At least we can rest players on Sat, whereas Man utd are still going for the Premiership.
hackneyval
We were sheee-it, frankly. "Audacious" my aching bumhole.
Moorish
We were sheee-it, frankly. "Audacious" my aching bumhole.
Moorish
Brice Coffer, i have one request mate. please please please dun give a prediction when yu do the pre match for the second leg. trust me we'll go thru to the finals if yu dun make a prediction..
luckys_10
Brice Coffer, i have one request mate. please please please dun give a prediction when yu do the pre match for the second leg. trust me we'll go thru to the finals if yu dun make a prediction..
luckys_10
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