Good Morning Fellow Holics

This will have to be a real quickie. There is a pint calling out to me as I prepare to hit the train to the match.

The last twenty-four hours have brought about a slight amendment to yesterdays preview, in as much as Baptista has failed to recover in time for the contest. No drama as far as I'm concerned. It just means that Spurs will now face the full force of Adebayor, who has a more confident first touch and should aid the passing game in the final third, as well as giving us a hold-the-ball option to bring the advanced midfielders into the game.

Elsewhere I can recommend Arseblog's take on the contest, if you haven't already read him this morning. Arsenal-Land help to take your mind of the imminent derby with a piece on George Graham. It would be interesting to know your take on George, so please leave your comments. A kind of straw poll, if you like.

I'll finish with something completely out of left-field for you mac users out there. Looking through my stats I notice a number of you are still using the Safari browser. Personal experience tells me this once caused me some issues. Have you tried using Firefox, which appears to be more versatile and less memory-hungry on my set-up. I know I wasn't unique in that respect, so again, you're observations would be welcome.

(If you are leaving comments today they won't appear until tomorrow. Sorry, I have to be somewhere for an important appointment tonight. COME ON YOU GUNNERS!)

Great Expectations

The chances of me being able to pen a column prior to setting of for the Grove tomorrow are slim, so it’s preview time on Goonerholic this morning.

The injury situation appears to have improved according to reports yesterday, with Eboue, Djourou, Aliadiere, and Baptista apparently fit to play. Tottenham are not so fortunate, with King and Berbatov definitely out, and question marks hang over the availability of Mido.

The key decisions for Arsene appear to centre around the full-back and midfield berths. Eboue may be preferred to Hoyte after his impressive cameo at the Lane last week. Given Lennon’s performance last week ‘Le Boss’ must also be tempted to start the ‘experienced’ twenty-one year old Clichy rather than seventeen year old Traore.

In the centre of the park I would expect to see Gilberto return after suspension and Cesc Fabregas given a breather. The Brazilian could be partnered by Denilson in the centre, with Diaby on the left, or vice-versa.

Theo Walcott will, I’m sure, be given another chance to provide the ammunition for Aliadiere and Baptista. I’ve got a sneaky feeling this could be Theo’s night, but don’t ask me why. Call it Holics intuition!

Arsene has already promised there will be a strong bench, just in case. That means Henry and Rosicky for sure, and probably Fabregas. Let’s hope they’re not needed.

We cannot ignore the fact that Tottenham will be fired up for this one. Like Bolton they will work hard at closing down, but if Mido doesn’t make it they will lack the holding player up front and will need to take the young Gunners on in a passing contest. That should be in our favour.

So the scene is set. I’m looking forward to the pre-match pint and taking my place in the Grove for what should be the most ‘atmospheric’ contest it has yet witnessed. Good luck boys, grasp the opportunity to test yourselves against Chelsea in Cardiff.. The alternative does not bear contemplating.

St Valentines Day Massacre!

The art of negotiation isn’t dead, but my skills are slipping a bit these days. Take this transcript of my discussion with Mrs Holic last night as an example of how not to do it!

Holic ‘Sweetheart, do you remember when we went to visit the boy when he lived up north?’

Mrs H ‘What’s brought this on then?’

Holic ‘I was just thinking about that little break on the end in Blackpool’

Mrs H ‘How could I forget. Cheap little B&B as I recall, you tight sod’

Holic ‘Oh come on, it wasn’t that bad. The lights, the big dipper, the Rovers Return’

Mrs H ‘I’m still a bit baffled about where this is going’

Holic ‘Well we’ve got a few years under our belt now, I was just thinking maybe we should celebrate Valentines Day with another little break’

Mrs H ‘Not another poxy B&B?’

Holic ‘No, no. We’ll grab a bit of luxury this time. Nice room, decent nosh, bottle of wine?’

Mrs H ‘You old smoothie, where were you thinking of going?’

Holic ‘Well how about a return to Lancashire?’

Mrs H ‘Not Blackpool again?’

Holic ‘Ok then, somewhere else up there beginning with B. How about Bolton?’

Mrs H ‘BOLTON! What the hell is in Bolton? If this is anything to do with Arsenal you’d better get some protection bucko, because you are just about to wish you were never born’

Holic ‘Calm down woman, Tell you what, we’ll just book into the local De Vere instead. Have a bit of comfort, not too far to travel, watch a bit of big screen TV?’

Mrs H ‘De Vere is good, but no TV mister. You are going to wine, dine, and romance me ok………OK?’

Holic ‘Yes dear’

As a result I am looking for one of my kind readers to provide a match report for the replay, which it would appear I will now miss. I should be able to cut and paste it in with my remaining arm, if I can hop into the office on my remaining leg.

Women truly are from Mars!

Oops, They Nearly Did It Again!

In order that I can go on Wednesday, I struck a deal with the dearly delightful to watch todays contest in the local. It's sometimes a blessing in disguise to watch games in the pub. The level of noise means you have to concentrate on the football a little more because the commentary is drowned out. This was one of those occasions.

Thus my take on the contest may differ from whoever was the resident expert, but then that doesn't always require me to be out of his range!

I'm no lover of Bolton, it must be said, but I had to sit there squirming as they came out of the blocks in a far more determined mode than the Gunners. The first corner set the tone for a nervy afternoon as Davies, with no great craft, evaded the attention of Toure, and should have scored.

To their credit, Bolton were not just giving it route one, although their hand may have been forced a little when Davies was forced into a lengthy absence to attend to a foot injury. Walcott created for himself the first real opportunity for Arsenal, but the finish lacked the guile and determination of the approach.

Prior to the game I had read the Bolton fans' desire to see Faye 'nullify' Fabregas. The fact that the Trotters hard-man featured in a back four role delayed the clash, but in 28 minutes the expected clog arrived and earned him a booking.

Arsenal finally got a grip on proceedings in the final ten minutes of the opening half, and on forty minutes a breathtaking Henry backheel was the closest the hosts came to breaking the deadlock.

The second period was but five minutes old when Kevin Nolan grabbed the goal we had all feared. The Bolton hoodoo was alive and well. Shortly afterwards he had the opportunity to bury the tie, but Almunia produced a save out of the top drawer.

Not surprisingly the rest of the contest was a siege. Arsenal introduced first Baptista, then Aliadiere, and once again featured a four man attack, as they sought their third successive come-from-behind performance.

The equaliser duly arrived from the head of Kolo Toure, but try as they may, the Gunners could not find a winner. The replay was not desired, but in the end it was probably about the correct outcome.

If you are looking for positives, then look no further than the central midfield pairing. Fabregas and Flamini sweated blood for the cause. Gilberto will doubtless be preferred to Matty for the return, and that is only correct, but the often unappreciated Frenchman put in a full shift, and then some, against experienced and hard-working opponents.

So, in the words of the cliche, we'll focus on one match at a time. That means Tottenham on Wednesday in the Carling Cup semi-final, second leg. I'm rather pleased we can put bloody Bolton to the back of our minds for a couple of weeks.

A Classic Cup Tie?

Lots to do today, so it's just a quickie this morning (how Mrs Holic hates those words!). I have been trawling some of the Bolton sites to get an idea of how they are approaching this afternoon, and shock, horror, they are human, just like us!

There is an equal mixture of confidence and nervousness, and the plea of the persecuted that whatever happens the game does not end up being labelled by the press as 'beauty versus the beast'. Strange then that one of the themes to run through their thinking involves the brutalisation of Fabregas by Faye.

On both sides of the divide we all know what to expect from them. They will be bursting lungs to close us down in packs of two and three as fast as possible all over the pitch. The 4-5-1 when they defend will switch quickly to 4-3-3 when they have the ball. They will mix and match trying to get runners down the flanks to cross, with the dear old HOOF, battle for that one boys!

If both sides are playing well it could actually make for pretty good viewing. I've said before I think this is more of a test of our current good form than was Wednesday's encounter. Goonerholic fancies a bit of a heart-fluttering triumph, maybe 3-2. I won't be backing that fancy with cold hard cash, however. William Hill has seen too much of my wedge of late.

Have a good Sunday people.

Farewell My Lovely!

Cast your mind back to the late seventies and early eighties. Do you remember singing 'You are my Arsenal' to the tune of 'You are my sunshine'? The last line was 'Please don't take my Arsenal away'. Did you ever imagine you would see Highbury looking anything like it does in the snap above?

I'm indebted to another Gooner, Dave, for the photo. Last Sunday I couldn't bring myself to walk round and look at what was left of the old girl. It's become too distressing an experience. The emotional attachment is still too strong.

So what is the point of this almost painful look at the past. It's just that. Highbury is in the past now. Only the bare bones of the art deco architecture to east and west of the site remains. The North Bank and Clock End are gone for ever. It's time for us oldies to move on.

We are the lucky ones, we knew what a stadium it was on big match days, we can remember that first view when our dads/uncles/older brothers first took us. My grandkids first experience will be in the twenty-first century arena that has now sprung up across the road. Ashburton Grove will be as spiritual and fantastic to them as Highbury was to us.

Fittingly, some have suggested that last Sunday's contest was the first big match memory that will live in the minds of those who were there. I'm not so sure that is necessarily the case, but every time we go to the Grove it looks and feels a little bit more like home. It's a ground fitting for the Arsenal, grand and spectacular with first class facilities.

No, they haven't taken my Arsenal away. We've just moved from our fabulous little terrace, to a luxurious new palace, and we're just taking a little time to settle ito the grandeur of our new abode. I'm rather glad I'll have memories of both.

Trotters Next On The Menu

So after the caviar that was the two goal comebacks against Manchester United at home and Tottenham away we are back to far more basic fare against Bolton Wanderers on Sunday.

The team selection will be fascinating. Has ‘the Beast’, after notching six goals (make that seven!) in two tough Carling Cup ties in enemy territory, earned the right to a rare start alongside the skipper? Possibly not, but if he should strike again next Wednesday it is hard to see how ‘Le Boss’ cannot give him a run.

At a time when injuries are starting once again to restrict our selection options we could probably do with facing a side that will be somewhat less physical. The loss of Hleb on Wednesday will probably open the door for Theo Walcott to build up his confidence.

Sam Allardyce warrants some grudging respect for the work he has done with his collection of bargain basement misfits, but surely this time it is our turn to put the upstarts in their place? Strangely this could be seen as a fairer barometer of our recent good run than the youth-fuelled draw at White Hart Lane.

The incredible Sulk returns to the club that put him on the footballing map. Anelka produced the inevitable goals against his former employers when we came unstuck at the Reebok in the Premiership encounter a couple of months ago. Defeat that day was not entirely surprising, but it would be at the Grove this weekend. The current post-Christmas run is rekindling memories of 1971 and 1998. Could it be?

The build-up is suffering from the distraction being provided by transfer speculation. Arsene assured us we would not be going into the market during this window. Nonetheless we are now, according to reports, about to reinforce the youngsters by snapping up Ryan Babel and Gareth Bale.

Life is good!

Boys To Men!

Oh my thumping head, my churning stomach. Last night it hurt with laughter, this morning the distillers finest is definitely extracting full revenge for the way I glugged back the Glenmorangie, rather than savouring it.

Yesterday I thought we might be good enough to get a draw at the Lane, and after a shaky start I thought we played some tremendous football. Fair play to the hosts, who played their part in a ding-dong first-half, which developed into a jumpers for goalposts, end to end feast.

After the break we took over, so much so that when Eboue was added to the mix it looked as though we would not only claw back the two goal deficit, but overhaul it.

The plaudits, understandably, are being hogged by ‘the Beast’, but there were other heroes. Fabregas and his sorcerer’s apprentice, Denilson, put a stranglehold on the midfield. Young Traore survived a torrid opening that would have destroyed a lesser character and grew into the game, and for an hour we were treated to the sight of Diaby back in the fold. This guy is going to be some player.

Martin Jol admitted they could do nothing to stop us taking control of the second-half, and Wenger had a glint in his eye as he spoke of sticking with the kids for next weeks second leg. The momentum may be with the Gunners, but now next Wednesday’s clash is an out-and-out cup tie, winner takes all. Where’s my ticket?

Third Time Lucky For Young Guns?

Well, the day has arrived. Once again the young Gunners have reached a Carling Cup semi-final, but this time, with all due respect to Middlesbrough and Wigan, the opposition provides some added spice.

Tottenham, for all the ridicule we heap upon them, are developing. There has been a predictability about them in the last decade or so that has meant easy pickings for the big clubs.

There is now a new found fluidity to them. Huddlestone has a good range of passing, Malbranque gives them an unpredictable presence on the left or down the channels. For me though the key match-up could be Lennon against Armand Traore, assuming the young left back starts tonight.

There is a feeling that Arsenal will go with the same side that won so impressively in the quarter-final at Anfield. I have to confess I’m not so sure that Cesc Fabregas will be risked with so much at stake in the Premiership, Champions League, and FA Cup.

That could mean the return of Diaby for his first appearance since his horror injury at Sunderland. He was just starting to look another special signing by Wenger before breaking his ankle, and if Le Boss thinks he is ready then I’m sure he will play.

Aliadiere and Baptista were a revelation at Anfield and should be given the chance to repeat their heroics. If Tottenham do have an achilles heel it is the inconsistency at the back, possibly the result of Paul Robinson not being at his best this term. Jeremie and the Beast are just the pairing to take full advantage.

Spurs confidence is fragile at best, as we saw at the Grove in December. Their strong line-up will feel the added pressure of expectation. The faithful at the Lane will not react well if they are not able to impose themselves on youthful opponents.

It is indeed a fascinating contest in prospect. Logic says that the hosts should be too strong, I’m not so sure. I rather fancy that Arsenal could leave with a share of the spoils tonight. The Gunners have momentum, regardless of the eleven who will start, and they have developed a winning habit in recent weeks. Come on you reds!

Happy Daze At The Lane

It’s a mixed blessing being a Gooner of advancing years. The downside is I can remember, all those years ago, when we used to go to White Hart Lane thinking we could be beaten, and sometimes having those worst fears confirmed.

For the main part though there have been many great memories at the home of our neighbours. The first time I can remember being there when we won was THAT night in May 1971 when we lifted the first championship of my lifetime. The sight of thousands of Arsenal fans dancing on the pitch afterwards must have hurt the locals more than anything.

The match in December 1978 will always live in the memory too. Five unanswered goals included my favourite Arsenal strike of all time. The video clip of Liam Brady’s fabulous left foot swerver into the top corner gets a regular airing on my mac, and the celebration afterwards, as he ran the length of the shelf milking the bile. Never before, or since, have I seen three quarters of a ground empty so long before the final whistle.

The following season I was back there again to see a young bunch of Arsenal kids stroll to a 3-1 triumph. Hopefully an omen for tomorrow night? The Gunners were in the middle of a pair of semi-finals in the FA and European Cup-Winners Cups, and rested most of the seniors. Oh how we laughed!

Fast forward to the League Cup semi-final of 1987 and Tottenham lead the replay 1-0 at the Lane. The stadium announcer tells Spurs fans how to apply for tickets for the final at half-time. Cue Ian Allinson and Rocky. 1-0 down, 2-1 up, that is how we won the cup!

Sadly in recent years our allocation means I have not been a witness to some more superb triumphs. A second title success in N17 was witnessed in a pub (no surprise there for those of you that know me!) The team celebrating with that inflatable Premiership trophy. You just have to love moments like that.

I’ll look at the game in greater detail tomorrow, but for now I’m lost in wonderful memories. Kennedy, Sunderland, Brady, Nicholas, Rocky, Wrighty, Paddy, Bobby. Ooh to be a Gooner!

The Late Late Show Sinks United

Want to see the view from the top tier when Manchester United come to town. Here it is. I have to report though that the climb up the stairs should be avoided if you are carrying a few extra pounds of Guinness with you!

Surprisingly though the memory has survived the pre-match refreshments with Paul and Tim, and the post match celebration with Wiltshire's finest. Actually that's not quite true. The train journey home is something of a mystery to me.

The match itself was one of those wonderful contests that will be remembered by all who witnessed it, I'm sure. United started the stronger, yet the Gunners soon found there feet and the status quo was maintained only by two fabulous saves by mad Jens, and the moment when referee Bennett did his best Mr Magoo impersonation as Henry was felled in the box by Neville. No penalty my arse!

The second half was in its infancy when Rooney swooped to head home Evra's cross and the prospect of a first defeat at the Grove loomed large. All credit though to Arsenal who intensified their efforts with Adebayor a willing leader of the line, some wonderful prompting by Fabregas, and the best of Eboue on the right.

The substitutions of van Persie for Hleb, and Baptista for Flamini, showed the hosts intent and the reward was thrilling. Rosicky's cross evaded Henry and van Persie finished ferociously at the far post. Then as time was running out Eboue played the perfect cross and Henry climbed to plant a firm header past the flailing arms of van der Sar.

This is the latest in a string of perfomances that suggests that this young side, in all its guises, is beginning to gel quite nicely. Confidence looks higher than it has been for a couple of years, although it is a fickle ally.

The only cloud on the horizon was the broken bone suffered by van Persie as he celebrated his strike. He is likely to miss six weeks, which will give Adebayor a chance to cement his partnership with the skipper.

Bring on Tottenham!

GoonerhoLinks

Time is a little tight this morning. Mrs. Goonerholic has decreed since I will be at Arsenal, or the pubs in the environ of the Grove, for most of tomorrow, I have a large number of tasks to perform today. This pennance lark isn't all it's cracked up to be. So I'm being decidedly lazy and looking at what my fellow bloggers are reporting this morning.

I can kill two birds with one stone, so to speak, as the first-class arseblogger quotes Gunnerblog in his preview of the big match. Adebayor, it would appear, has been offered a new contract. The timing perhaps suggests that he will start tomorrow (my assumption, not theirs). If you are not listening to arsebloggers brilliant 'arsecast' get yourself over there and do it.

The very readable 'A cultured left foot' also discusses Adebayor, and has an interesting look at Muamba's plight at Birmingham. Apparently they have first refusal on the lad if they are promoted. I'm not so sure they haven't left a little 'if' clause out of the reports there!

Then there is 'east lower', and a look at the mellowing relationship between Le Boss and dear old Fergie, and looks forward to a 'sizzling' atmosphere at the game tomorrow. I'm with you there.

Allgoonerdup also comments on the unlikely praise flowing between the aptly named red devils and those in the Gunners camp. Cesc, fancy praising Scholes! I'll also have to have a go at the free tee-shirt competition. See what I mean when I talk in my profile about others doing these things far more professionally than I. Time methinks to get off my backside and pester some potential partners for a supply of goodies!

It's always worth a visit to Arsenal News Review. This morning Myles seems to be interviewing himself, and includes a view on the 'should Petr Cech be allowed to play in a headguard' debate. Love him or not, Myles always manages to stimulate a debate.

All of these excellent sites, and more, can be found in my GoonerhoLinks on the right hand side of the page. Go visit them, you won't be disappointed.

A final plea, my ticket tomorrow is in the upper tier, so if just before kick-off you are climbing the stairs and catch a grey-haired old boy puffing and wheezing away, give me a lift! Thanks.

Matty, Robin, Ralph, And Them!

Some interesting news stories broke yesterday so the last instalment of our previous clashes with United can go on the back burner until we draw them in the FA Cup!

Talking of the United game Le Boss strongly hinted that Matty Flamini would get the nod to replace the suspended Gilberto on Sunday. That makes good sense. The Frenchman has shown some similar qualities to Bert this season, including a willingness to get forward on occasion and provide the extra body in the opposition box.

Robin Van Persie was out of contention, then possibly available. That will keep Fergie guessing who will partner, or play behind, Thierry Henry, and can only be a good thing. I think a fully fit Robin would probably have got the nod, but Adebayor may now get the opportunity to add to his Old Trafford winner earlier in the season. I’m comfortable with either.

The key to the outcome may well be how well we can support the young full-backs in their handling of Ronaldo and Giggs. Hleb and Rosicky will need to show considerable discipline, of which they are eminently capable.

Talking of full-backs, it was sad to see Lauren move to Portsmouth Ex-Gunners yesterday. His comeback will have been assessed by the staff and one could assume that they believe he is unlikely to regain his pre-injury levels. I would prefer to think he knew at thirty that he would only be offered a one year deal by Arsenal in the summer and took the opportunity to grab the extra security of a thirty-month offer from Pompey. The truth may be a combination of the two, but Arsenal have certainly acted in the best interests of the player. Thanks for the one hundred percent you gave us fella, we’ll miss you.

That just leaves the unseemly little squabble over Carling Cup tickets for the Tottenham matches. Neither club has covered itself in glory as this little spat has rumbled on. The upshot is we have fewer tickets for the away leg at the dive, but more for the home leg. Sadly those home tickets will cost the fans more as Tottenham’s determination to fleece even their own fans means the match will be a cat B fixture. I suspect, having picked up the tab for the damage at the league fixture at the Emirates, the Tottenham board are not sorry that they will not have nine thousand fans at the Grove. Equally they will be delighted to restrict our allocation at the Lane to just three thousand.

My, how football has changed!

1998 - Overmars Does The Business

The build-up to Sunday’s eagerly awaited clash continues with a look back to another double-winning season for the Gunners. The trip to Old Trafford in 1998 was a pivotal moment as Arsenal reeled in the reigning champions on their way to a first Premier League title.

From the beginning the Gunners most prominent forward was Marc Overmars, who tormented Curtis throughout. The Dutch winger was denied a penalty when the young defender clipped his standing foot , the best of three chances for Overmars in the first-half.

Ray Parlour's rising drive went close to breaking the deadlock, whilst at the other end Alex Manninger produced a fine save to deny former Gunner, Andy Cole.

The second –half followed the pattern of the first. Overmars narrowly missed the target from a superb chip by Manu Petit, but on eighty minutes he finally made the breakthrough, heading a flick from Anelka into his stride and finally getting the better of Schmeichel in the United goal.

Anelka and Garde also went close as Arsenal finished much the stronger, the only real scare provided by a Beckham free-kick which Manninger dealt with comfortably.

The final whistle brought with it scenes of joy from the travelling Gooners. Mathematically the title may have been claimed on the final day against Everton, but few doubt the significance of this particular result.

In his first full season Arsene Wenger had set out his stall. In the era that has followed Arsenal and United have traded titles, cups, and much more. In the autumn of their rivalry Wenger and Fergie appear to be mellowing in their attitude to each other. That may be the result of Chelsea’s rouble-funded intrusion into their dominance, but it will be fascinating to see the giants of the last decade locking horns again on Sunday.

We Won The League, In Manchester!

Time for the second look this week at a previous meeting of next Sunday's heavyweight opponents. I'm going back to May 2002 and the game that clinched Arsenal's third double. Could it have come anywhere better than the home of their greatest rivals of this era?

Arsenal were weakened by the absence of Thierry Henry, Dennis Bergkamp and Tony Adams, but the travelling fans were in confident mood, unveiling a flag reading 'Old Trafford - Champions Section'. That confidence was a hangover from four days previously, when Chelsea had been outplayed in the FA Cup Final.

The opening 45 minutes were played in a frantic atmosphere - and United were not afraid to put the foot in, as Scholes, Phil Neville, and Keane were shown considerable leniency by Paul Durkin after wild challenges.

Yet if United's intention was to disrupt the Gunners, the ploy definitely backfired. After comfortably negotiating the tempestuous first-half, Arsenal imposed their style on the contest in the second.

Three minutes after the interval Wiltord's cross almost found Edu, but the Brazilian's stretch was in vain, and a careless moment from Fabien Barthez almost let in Wiltord, but he was slow to take advantage of his fellow countryman's poor clearance.

After 55 minutes Wiltord scored the decisive goal. Mikael Silvestre carelessly gifted possession to Wiltord, who found Freddie Ljungberg on a trademark run from midfield. Higbury's favourite redhead beat Blanc before forcing a fine save from Barthez, but Wiltord was on hand to steer home the rebound.

Even the introduction of Van Nistelrooy as a late substitute failed to raise the attacking threat of the hosts, and the lucky travelling Gooners were soon celebrating the final whistle with the inevitable 'We won the league, in Manchester'.

Arsenal showed the resilience that complimented their silky style, and hopefully those traits will be in evidence again this weekend. I think we can safely assume that Mike Riley will be just as lenient as Durkin when the visitors 'mis-time their challenges'.

The Five Minute Final

This may, or may not, be a quiet news week. It doesn't stop the excitement from building though as we eagerly await the first visit of Manchester United to Ashburton Grove this coming Sunday. An apt time I thought to look back at previous meetings between the clubs, starting with one of the most astonishing games I ever experienced when the two sides met in the FA Cup Final in 1979.

Wembley was bathed in sunshine for the first ever Cup Final meeting of two of the games biggest clubs. European football the following season was up for grabs. Arsenal were able to put a stranglehold on the proceedings in only twelve minutes, Brian Talbot applying the finishing touch to a David Price cut-back. In the closing minute of the first half the lead was doubled as Liam Brady (who else) chipped perfectly to the unmarked Frank Stapleton at the far post.

As the minutes ticked away the Arsenal celebrations grew in volume, but they were premature. In the eighty-sixth minute Gordon McQueen swept the ball past the unsighted Pat Jennings. Less than two minutes later Sammy McIlroy skipped inside the challenges of David O’Leary and Steve Walford and slipped the ball under Jennings for the equaliser.

It's difficult to capture fully the feelings of those present. Suffice it to say my travelling companion on the day, Alan, a huge bear of a man, was at this point sitting on the terrace beside me, head in hands, crying and cursing in equal measure. He missed the final twist.

Stapleton fed Brady on the half way line, and the genius saw off four challenges before feeding Graham Rix on the left flank. The Yorkshireman's cross found Alan Sunderland on the far post who slotted home a most dramatic winner. In just a matter of minutes we had been through the whole gamut of emotions.

Looking back it is astonishing that the victory that day was the only trophy secured by that fabulous side. Winning captain Pat Rice will have an equally significant role to play on Sunday. For the sake of my poor old ticker, I hope it is not quite so close this time.

The Highbury Farewell

To round off the almost perfect weekend (Gilberto’s harsh sending-off apart) I sat down last night and put the dvd of the Highbury farewell on the box.

The memories came flooding back. On that remarkable day in May I was determined to take in as much of the day as possible. Getting to the ground in late morning I was staggered to see so many people had the same idea. There would be no mind numbing pre-match session in the pub today.

I negotiated the various barriers to walk all the way round the famous old stadium. I re-enacted the walk down from the top of Avenell Road I remembered from my childhood when dad used to park in Highbury Fields. That last view from the top of the hill is embedded in my mind (and thankfully the digital camera!) The snap of the East Stand in my profile was taken that day.

Who could believe that a mass of concrete and steel could be the cause of so many tears being shed long before kick-off? The gates opened one last time and I was in. I rushed to check out my seat in the East Lower, where for so many years dad had a season-ticket. There was my seat, row 1, ringside, and taped to it the farewell tee-shirt. What class Arsenal displayed that day.

I just stood there and looked around the place, clicked away like a lunatic. Time for one last Bovril and pie downstairs by the corner where as kids you could transfer from the schoolboys enclosure to the North Bank if you could persuade an adult to pretend to be your dad!

The emotions ebbed and flowed as news filtered through from Upton Park, and Arsenal gave us one last heart-fluttering roller coaster of a game. In the end we had won, Spurs had lost, and the Champions League place was secured.

Then the show I watched again transfixed last night. Constable Alex Morgan singing his lungs out, Over eighty players from past eras parading, Roger Daltrey singing ‘Highbury Highs’. Then the presentations with Thierry Henry joining the great and the good on the platform causing thirty-five thousand voices to chant in unison, ‘SIGN,SIGN,SIGN’. (Thank goodness he eventually did!)

Then it was over, and the time arrived for the farewell party to start in the Twelve Pins, after a slow walk up Blackstock road where it became apparent how many thousands, unable to get a ticket, had spent one last afternoon as close to the old lady as they could get.

Yes, we had to move. No, for us oldies the Grove will never have the unique character that just oozed out of Highbury’s walls. And yet for a whole new generation the new home of football will stand proud as the finest stadium around. The first step in building new memories is just around the corner, but our sixty thousand seater has some act to follow!

'We've Only Got Ten Men!'

For the second Saturday running the impressive Gunners have laid to rest the bogey that has affected them in 5.15 kick=offs in the north-west.

Arsenal overcame the early dismissal of Gilberto, and the incompetence of Rob Styles, to secure an impressive 2-0 victory over in-form Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park.

The visitors found themselves a man down in only twelve minutes when Gilberto was subjected to the odious Savage's double challenge and kicked out at the Welshman, who collapsed as if struck by a long range sniper.

Styles showed Gilberto a red card, yet brandished only a yellow in the direction of the original law-breaker. It was the most controversial, but not the only contentious decision made by the hapless Styles.

Lucas Neill nearly followed Gilberto down the tunnel when he hauled down Robin van Persie, but Styles deemed Rovers to have enough cover - ensuring Neill was not the last defender. One can only assume he felt that the lumbering Henchoz would have outsprinted Van Persie!

However, Arsenal made the most of the resulting free-kick and Henry's delightful chip into the box was met with a powerful header in off the near post by a determined Kolo Toure.

The second-half was lit up by a sensational Thierry Henry strike. The skipper carried the ball half the length of the pitch before exchanging passes with Fabregas and finishing with a superb curling shot into the top corner.

There was enough time left for Rovers substitute Tugay to commit an despicable assault on Fabregas, deemed worthy of only a yellow card. I would love to be a fly on the wall when Styles goes back over the video of his performance. It will make uncomfortable viewing.

Arsenal must now face three important matches without their ‘invisible wall’. Gilberto will be absent for the clashes with Manchester United, Tottenham, and Bolton.

For now though it’s time to soak up the winning feeling. Long may it last.

Goonerholic's Theory Of Evolution

I’m celebrating today, not just because I’ve racked up another year on this mortal coil, but I’m still drunk on the double cup triumphs at Anfield (and a liberal intake of IPA!).

It has got me thinking about the moans and groans when we come unstuck in those games we expect to win comfortably. More particularly the oft heard comparisons with Wenger teams mark one and two.

To relate the performances of the current squad, in its various forms, is I think extremely unfair. In 1998 Wenger inherited a defence from heaven, Parlour, Bergkamp, and Wright, and bolted onto it a powerful midfield pairing of Vieira and Petit and the pace and trickery of Overmars. An experienced and exciting side was enhanced.

By the early part of this century mark two was built around astute signings such as Campbell, Henry, and Pires. Yes, of course there was more to it than that, but essentially he was once again improving a strong side.

Wengerball mark three is being built from the roots up. The loss of Campbell, Cole, Pires, Vieira, and Bergkamp happened quickly, and the replacements were to be produced from the Arsenal academy with the exception of a couple of astute signings from the ‘bargain basement’.

The youthfulness of the current crop of Gunners should be more aptly compared perhaps to George Graham’s fledglings of the late eighties. Graham too found young players from the youth set-up, and clubs he had faced before in the lower divisions. He added the experience of Richardson, Marwood and Smith to create a superb blend.

It didn’t happen overnight, but Graham’s Arsenal developed into a real power for a while. The third Wenger incarnation has a similar blend of age and experience and looks capable of exceeding what Graham’s side achieved. It will require perhaps a little more patience, but I’m certain the future is red, Arsenal red that is!

Boring Boring Arsenal!

I try to keep my daily entries about the same length, so sadly no report on the Carling Cup quarter-final at Anfield. Space restricts me to a brief resume of the goals tonight and a proud observation. Well played lads!

(Lads being the operative word as six teenagers were in the starting line-up.)

26 minutes. Jeremie Aliadiere gets on the end of a through ball from Kolo Toure and slots it home from six yards.
Liverpool 0 Arsenal 1.

30 minutes. Robbie Fowler converts a Garcia cross to level the scores.
Liverpool 1 Arsenal 1.

39 minutes. Julio Baptista is fouled twenty-five yards out and takes the free-kick himself. His right footer screams into the bottom left-hand corner.
Liverpool 1 Arsenal 2.

45 minutes. A Cesc Fabregas corner finds its way to Alexandre Song and in it goes again!
Liverpool 1 Arsenal 3.

45 minutes. Moments later Aliadiere picks out Julio 'the beast' Baptista in the box and it's Liverpool 1 Arsenal 4 at half-time.

55 minutes. Hyppia pulls down Aliadiere and it's a penalty opportunity for 'the beast' to complete his hat-trick. Astonishingly Dudek saves a well struck spot-kick.

59 minutes. The reprieve was only temporary. Aliadiere finds Baptista twenty-five yards out and the Brazilian completes a memorable first hat-trick for the Gunners.
Liverpool 1 Arsenal 5.

67 minutes. Steve Gerrard strikes a magnificent volley. Surely it's just a consolation.
Liverpool 2 Arsenal 5.

79 minutes. From a cross by Gabriel Paletta it's Sami Hyypia who atones for giving away the penalty by heading home. Could they?
Liverpool 3 Arsenal 5.

83 minutes. It's the Aliadiere to Baptista show again, and Julio grabs his fourth goal from six yards out.
Liverpool 3 Arsenal 6.

As if the result with such a young side wasn't enough of a lift, there was also the happy sight of Abou Diaby coming on as a 74th minute substitute and his first appearance since having his ankle broken by a reckless tackle at Sunderland last season.

As Del Boy once said, 'Not a bad days work, I suppose!'

We Love You Freddie

Newspaper reports linking Freddie Ljungberg with a move in the January window are picking up pace. Depending on what you choose to believe he could be heading for anywhere from AC Milan to West Ham. What is now becoming apparent is that the stories would appear to have some grounding and one of the key components of Wenger’s reign is probably on his way.

Freddie arrived at Highbury from Halmstads for a reported £3 million shortly after playing a key role in a Swedish victory over England. His Arsenal debut set the tone for his stay in North London as he came off the bench to score against Manchester United.

Ljungberg spent his early years contesting a right midfield berth with Ray Parlour, and occasionally filling in across the midfield as required. In 2001-2 he profited from the unfortunate injury to Robert Pires. The Frenchman had been in imperious form as Arsenal swept all before them and his loss in March was thought to be a major headache for the Double winners elect.

The pundits had reckoned without the versatile Ljungberg, who struck up an almost telepathic understanding with Bergkamp and plundered the goals that cemented the Gunners grip on the Premiership trophy. The punk with the red streak in his hair then went on to score in the FA Cup Final defeat of Chelsea, and ‘We love you Freddie’ rang out around the Millenium.

In the last couple of seasons a persistent foot injury has restricted Freddie’s pace and the loss of Bergkamp has limited his effectiveness. That didn’t stop the Swede from producing two of his finest performances in last seasons Champions League as a box to box midfielder in Madrid, and again in the Final against Barcelona.

If Freddie does leave in the window there will be mixed feelings amongst the Arsenal faithful. Restricted or not, Freddie is now Arsenal’s longest serving player, and another experienced head would be lost to an exciting young squad. Whatever happens he will leave with the best wishes, and gratitude, of Arsenal supporters the world over.

Arsenal Triumph Up North In 5.15 Shocker!

Last week I came back from watching the game and ranted about Arsenal's performance at Bramall Lane before taking the time to cool down a little.. It's only fair I should do the same this week.

Hands up, who gave us a chance of returning from Anfield with a two goal winning margin given their home form, our away form in 5.15 kick-offs in the north, and the absence of Fabregas? Well fair play to you mate, because I certainly didn't.

And fair play also to Arsene Wenger. This was not a triumph for typical Arsenal flair. This was a tactical triumph by one leading coach over one of his major rivals. Flamini and Gilberto sat deep and provided protection for the back four. Hleb and Rosicky were given the task of working up and down the channels and providing the creative spark once they had covered their respective full-backs.

Rosicky it was who took his instructions to heart. Just when it seemed the game was drifting into a stalemate between two teams refusing to lose, up popped Tomas with a sumptuous curling strike from the inside-right berth. Before the half-time whistle blew, eight minutes later, 'Little Mozart' had a knocked in another twenty yarder, courtesy of Liverpool's biblical defending. They just parted in front of him!

The second period, perhaps not surprisingly, saw the Gunners falling back deeper and deeper. At one point they appeared to be defending the six yard line. Inevitably Liverpool pulled a goal back, as Kuyt was somehow left unmarked from a set piece to head beyond the despairing lunge of Almunia.

A word here for the second string keeper. He was understandably slaughtered for the late goals that saw Barcelona take the Champions League Final from our grasp last May. Tonight he was a giant, clawing crosses from the air with sure handling, spreading confidence to those in front of him. Well played Manuel.

Some praise too for Clichy, who restricted Pennant to a moaning, whingeing wreck of a player long before the end, and Senderos, who overcame the setback of a booking for his first mistimed challenge to withstand the aerial bombardment that an increasingly desperate home team launched.

Then there was Thierry. Aided, it has to be said, by some dreadful defending by Carragher, Henry produced a trademark goal to finally prise the holders fingers from the FA Cup. He was duly withdrawn to tumultuous applause from the visiting Gooners. This must have been the sweetest moment for him in an otherwise frustrating season thus far.

So against the odds we are in the hat for the fourth round draw. Liverpool will surely put out another strong side for Tuesdays Carling Cup quarter-final rematch. Wenger now will certainly be more comfortable with a selection of players from the fringes of the squad allied hopefully to one or two wise heads returning from injury.

Could lightening strike twice in such a short space of time? Let's hope so, eh?

All Present And Correct - Nearly!

Arsenal will be without suspended Cesc Fabregas for tomorrow’s FA Cup third-round tie at Liverpool. Good news though is the improving situation with regard to the injury list.

Full-back Emmanuel Eboue (knee) should return, while Julio Baptista (ankle) as well as fit-again veteran Lauren and centre-half Johan Djourou are also in contention.

Theo Walcott (back), Togo striker Adebayor (thigh), Freddie Ljungberg (hamstring) and William Gallas (thigh) remain unlikely to feature while Abou Diaby is now back in training following his recovery from a broken ankle.

We must be very close to having a full squad to choose from for the first time in nearly two years. That will tell us the answers to some important questions.

We will finally discover if Arsene Wenger will revert primarily to a 4-4-2 formation with all his options available to him. I think that is likely, but then which eleven will be considered his strongest.

There are some positions where there is no doubt. Lehmann, Toure, Gallas, Clichy would I believe form four of the back five. Will Lauren’s experience edge out Eboue’s enthusiasm for the right-back berth?

Ask ten fans about their preferred midfield quartet and you could get seven or eight options from Hleb/Ljungberg, Gilberto/Diaby, Cesc (surely an automatic choice), and Rosicky/Walcott. That list omits Baptista, Flamini, and the blossoming Denilson.

The main question up front could put Van Persie back in contention for the left-sided midfield berth if you believe Adebayor has earned the right to partner Henry in a front two.

So fabulous options await if the Gunners can avoid any new knocks in the next few weeks, just as we are getting to the sharp end of the season where the medals are up for grabs. It’s an exciting prospect to be sure.

Arsene Has The Last Laugh

The closing fixture of the holiday period yielded another three points and lifted the Gunners haul to nine points out of a possible twelve. More importantly the gloom of Sheffield was lifted by the return of a fit and refreshed Thierry Henry, who played a full part in the four goal cuffing of Charlton.

In truth the visitors arrived with limited ambition and the churlish would point out that Arsenal had the chances to net double figures. Sod the churlish! The performance was impressive and set up by the returning captains penalty strike and link-up with Justin Hoyte for the two first-half goals.

When a second penalty arrived Henry enjoyed a little joke with Van Persie before allowing the Dutchman to strike home the third. Thierry doesn’t take the penalty when he has been fouled, but that didn’t stop him placing the ball on the spot before giving way.

Van Persie capped his evening with an exquisite chip. Cue a little gentle taunting of Pardew who found himself on the losing side against Arsenal for the first time in his managerial career. Arsene managed a wry smile as the bosses exchanged handshakes.

If Gallas and Lauren are soon returned to the fold there may be a solidity about Arsenal that has been lacking on occasion this season. That is unlikely to be on Saturday, more’s the pity. The FA Cup would appear to be the most realistic target for this young squad, but a date with Liverpool at Anfield, minus the prompting of Fabregas, will be a tough first hurdle.

So we have closed the gap on Chelsea over the festive period, although United have strengthened their hold on the top berth. That is interesting in as much as there are doubts about United’s strength in depth if they start picking up injuries and suspensions. Chelsea may be able to field two teams of internationals but the loss of Cech and Terry have unexpectedly exposed a soft underbelly. They are hampered further by the opening of a slight rift, it would appear, between manager and chairman. Does this exasperating season yet have a sting in the tail? We can dare to dream.

Back To Work Today

The new year has arrived and brings with it a new sense of realism around Ashburton Grove. Stand-in skipper Gilberto is sounding the warning bells, pointing out the need to ensure Champions League qualification.

After eight years of finishing in the top two Arsenal had to content themselves with a last gasp fourth place last season, and this term is looking somewhat familiar.

Tonights clash with Charlton would normally be a home banker, but Pardew appears to have given the Addicks a new, if fragile, sense of belief, while the injury ravaged hosts need to bounce back from another horror show in the north.

Adebayor and Baptista are definitely out, Van Persie needs to shake off a knock inflicted at Bramall Lane, and a start for Aliadiere must be in doubt, so the possibility of a return for Thierry Henry is an enticing one. Hleb may also return. Fabregas will have a rest day on Saturday, courtesy of his fifth booking in Sheffield, and so must play.

Victory would take the Gunners back in the top four and give them a position to defend in the new year. There then follows two big cup dates at Anfield. Realistically, victory in either of those would be a bonus although the cup competitions would appear to be the best chance of bringing some silverware home this season.

Now, there are thirty buying (and selling!) days left in the January window. I don’t believe Arsene when he says we will not buy. I’m pretty sure if one or two of the players he has in his sights become available we will act rather than risk losing them to rival bidders.