Van Persie - The Goal Of A Generation?

There are goals that stick in the memory and provide memorable links to different generations. For me, the one's that leap to the forefront of the memory begin with Charlie George's Wembley winner in 1971. Next in line is my all-time favourite, Liam Brady's left foot curler at White Hart Lane in 1978. The hair still stands on the back of my neck when I think of Mickey Thomas at Anfield in '89. Alan Smith scored THE 'one-nil to the Arsenal' goal at Copenhagen in '94. Tony Adams' wonderful effort from Bouldy's astute chip against Everton in '98.

So many great goals have been scored in the Wenger era, yet it was fitting that the tenth anniversary of his leadership was celebrated with a very special effort indeed from Robin Van Persie. The importance of his magnificent flying volley is yet to be determined. After leaking early season points at the Grove the three points were certainly welcome, especially as news of Chelsea's home draw with Villa came through.

Lady Luck is an important ally if a title challenge is to be maintained, and for sure there could have been few complaints if a penalty had been awarded for the ball that struck William Gallas on the arm. She is a fickle companion though, as we discovered in the opening games of the season and it is starting to look as though she will not smile on Dowie's Charlton too much.

And so we head into another of those infernal international breaks. These always seem to happen just as we are beginning to put together a run of form, and invariably involve a poor display immediately afterwards. I think it unlikely that Gallas would have been risked yesterday if it were not immediately before he joins up with the French squad. I hope they do not take a risk with him if he feels any tweak in the hamstring during the coming week, as he has clearly become a significant component in our improved performances of late.