We keep winning and we keep smiling
We had an entertaining but daunting fixture against Greek champions, Olympiacos who got demoted to the Europa League after finishing third in the Champions League group. The Greek side has gone 24 games unbeaten as they sit on top of the division and have been largely resolute for most of the season. This game was going to be anything but easy and represents one of the toughest fixtures of Arteta's time in charge at Arsenal because first of all, our opponents are no pushovers and then, of course, it is a high stakes situation because of how important the Europa League is for our season.
The game started at a fast pace with the Greek side taking the initiative in front of their 29,000 plus fans watching at their home ground. They really should have been a goal ahead after 8 minutes but fluffed a guilt-edged chance. That sparked a reaction in the gunners and we also made a few forrays forward, with Lacazette missing the opportunity of a tap a few minutes after. The rest of the scoreless first half was filled with chances, half chances and resolute defending.
One thing that has been lacking so far this season is confidence and on the day, we had a lot of it showing. The players were not afraid of trying things and seemed more fluid. There was also a distinct improvement in our energy levels, accentuated by Willock's constant running and pressuring opponents defenders.
It was very nice to see Lacazette being amongst the goals after missing a wonderful opportunity crafted by Martinelli early in the second half. The French striker has been under a lot of pressure lately but I reckon scoring back to back goals will do his confidence a world of good.
The real stars of the show were our backline, with Leno, in particular, pulling off some glorious reflex saves that kept us in the game. In the not so distant past, games like these would have ended in a stalemate but things seem to have drastically improved under Mikel, with the team keeping back to back clean sheets for the first time in Donkey years.
We're still not across the line yet but getting an away victory is a step in the right direction. We have to make sure we finish the job in the reverse fixture at the Emirates in two weeks time. Our next game is the resurgent Everton currently managed by the very experienced Carlo Ancelotti. If we play to our strengths and keep our heads down, we can come out with a positive result in that game. Until we meet again, up the Arsenal
It wasn't the most enjoyable game to watch the team could hardly hold on to the ball for a few passes a midfield of Guendouzi, Willock and Xhaka is not something I'm keen on lol what an bunch headless chickens just running around and giving the ball away, looked much better when Cebellos came on. Defending seems to be improving but they need to move to ball ALOT quicker as a team, sometimes its far too pedestrian
yeah they look so slow in attack for every game, and every time they get to it a bit faster something is created.
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Those brain farts have become part and parcel of our game in midfield 😄. Guendouzi is still learning the trade, Granit is always close to one fuck up and I have no clue what willock even does in the side. However, we always find a way to squeeze out a positive result and I'll take that.
Our transition from defence to attack is something that I'm pretty sure is on Arteta's mind. He's focused on the athleticism of our game and not much about tactics. I think we'll get to see his idea of the game by next season.
I’m glad I’m not the only one who thinks what does willock actually do besides get fouled and then you notice he is on the pitch! Send his ass out on loan to prove himself along with Matteo!
Oh I agree Arteta has done a great job getting their lead out of arsenal players asses and what a difference it has made! Can’t wait to see what he does with some time for tactics and some recruitment support from Edu