ARSENE WENGER - NO MORE HICCUPS

PORTSMOUTH manager Avram Grant believe his side need to keep going and make use of their home ground advantage at Fratton Park  a fortress in their coming games starting against Arsenal tomorrow night.

He said, the Blues must start to make up ground in order for them to survive and playing against team in the likes of Arsenal they must make full use every opportunity even a half chance or  they will severely punished.  

Meanwhile Arsene Wenger is likely to miss the services of their captain Cesc Fabregas for the trip but hopes the injury will not be serious one.So is Denilson he is still doubtful with his back injury.

GREAT STUFF BY FABREGAS

ARSENAL captain's Cesc Fabregas gave a splendid performance by scoring two goals in their 3-0 win against rivals Aston Villa at the Emirates Stadium to stay on course for the Premier League Title with league leaders Chelsea and title holders Manchester United.

Aston Villa working very hard indeed without the ball to force Arsenal making unforced error looks like to continue extending  their fine run from seven matches after  a scoreless first half.

But once Arsenal favourite son's came in. It took him just 27 minutes for the midfielder to stamp his authority in the Arsenal engine room, from then on Martin O'neill  side were made to look second best, torn apart by the young Spaniard that brought Villa superb run came to an end.

Cesc Fabregas introduction by Wenger  in 55th minute was an inspiration for the home side to set the Emirates Stadium alive with his deft touches and stringing the passes  in the central midfield to dictate the play in great fashion.

First he was brought down heavily by Richard Dunne just outside the box. From the free-kick he bend the ball perfectly over the wall to give Villa's keeper Brad Friedel absolute no chance in the 65th minute. The Emirates Stadium then erupted when he burst through the visitor defence to finish off Theo Walcott through pass with simplicity and precission  much to stun the visitor. 

Despite the two goals, the Spaniard was immediately taken off  by Arsene Wenger as for precaution measure  for any further damage when he was caught limping after scoring the second goal with Welsh international, Aaron Ramsey taking over . Late in the match, midfielder Abou Diaby  continued his fine form against Hull completed Aston Villa misery to seal the match with a stunning strike just outside the box. It was his second goal in two games

Less but no least also need to mention hats of for Thomas Vermalaen who combines well with Gallas at the back made a great effort in keeping Aston Villa two frontman Gabriel Agbonlahor and Emile Heskey at bay. 

With the win, Arsenal are in third spot with 38 points, four behind Chelsea (42) and three points behind Manchester United (40) who also registered a 3-1 win over Hull City in second place. With a game in hand the Gunners could squeeze in between the two to set a pulsating finish come into the new year.Job well done ..Arsenal is coming.   

 

ARSENAL- A MUST-WIN AGAINST VILLA GREAT CHANCE TO CLOSE THE GAP

ARSENE Wenger and every Gunners fans should know it - a must-win against Villa at the Emirates tonight would be Arsenal best Christmas present to put them just four points behind but with a game in hand before they moved into the new year after pacesetters Chelsea drew 0-0 against Bimingham on Saturday.

With title holders Manchester United playing a bit late against Hull City tonight , Arsenal cannot afford  to have another slip up cause they way things are going rights on path they way the would have wanted it to be.But it easy to say than done cause Martin O'neil men are no pushover. They are currently lying fourth with the same number of points with Arsenal and this season they could pose a serious threat against the Big Four.

Manchester United defeat at home against Villa should be given a real thought what they are capable off not to remind Arsenal home 2-0 defeat at the Emirates last season with Agbonlahor scoring two goals. So if Arsenal win tonight then it will be a quite interesting quest for the league title to confirm that they ready to battle for the prestigous trophy.

With or without captain Cesc Fabregas you must do it. No more excuses without Robin Van Persie and Fabregas Arsenal looks pale shadow and not the team they used to be be. Showed them you can beat the odd.  

So come on U Gunners grab the chance... its now or never... show your stuff.. long live beautiful football..who dare to say beautiful football can't win titles.

ARSENAL STILL IN THE HUNT

ARSENAL edge Hull City 3-0 to move back in contention for the Premier League Title after league leader Chelsea drew 1-1 against West Ham while title holders Manchester United suffered a shocked 3-0 defeat to Fulham.

Visiting Hull, hopes to repeat their feat in their historic 2-1 win at the Emirates last season resort to the same tactical approach-tight at the back and rely more on physical contact  which did made a huge impact early in the fist half.  

Arsenal playing without their captain Cesc Fabregas in midfield struggle throughout the match. Their free flowing football were totally nowhere to see. The home team got a lucky break when they were generously rewarded a late free-kick by the referee, Steve Bennet just before half-time.  Brazilian born Denilson quick to capitalise and scored.

The goal did brought relief to the Arsenal side who was under tremendous pressure in the first half. They began to look more confident in the second period. Injury prone Abou Diaby then showed he is back in business play his part in the build up for Arsenal two goals. First he set up for Eduardo  to tap in and later  put his name on the scoresheet when he struck a powerful drive into the net for Arsenal's third.

But it was Arsenal goalkeeper, Manuel Almunia performance was the turning point when he made a splendid save to deny Geovanni spot kick (pix left) after Mikael Sylvestre alleged bringing down Hull's striker Craig Fagan in the box. If the Brazilian spot kick had gone in, it would have certainly a different story with the tie still level at 1-1.

With the win, Arsenal still remain in the third spot on 35 points the same number of points with Aston Villa in fourth place after they secured a  precious 1-0 win against Stoke City. 

ARSENAL BLEW UP

ARSENAL blew their chances to stay close on Premier League leaders Chelsea and Manchester United when they drew 1-1 against Burnley at Turf Moor last night. A below par performance by Arsenal saw them level on points with Aston Villa but still remain in third place with better goal difference.

The Gunners made two changes from the side in their 2-1 win against Liverpool. Denilson replace by Abou Diaby and Armand Traore with Mikael Slyvestre but once again Arsene Wenger's side looks pale shadow of themselves from the previous game.

Only captain's Cesc Fabregas did showed some zest in the side. The  Spaniard put  Arsenal infront as early in the 10th minute but once the Spaniard went off it was totally different Arsenal and this time they must thank the men in black, the bar and post from suffering a shock defeat.

It was an intriguing Burnley side as they always try  to win at home in which they nearly did. Despite going down early in the first half by Ces Fabregas goal they claw back and won a penalty which Alexander easily finished it off to level the score.

In the second half Arsenal's without Fabregas in midfield the Gunners always look second best. His replacement Aaron Ramsey find some difficulties in holding the much more physical contest against the home side.

Theo Walcott still lack of confidence struggling to stamp his mark on the right flank not suprisingly he was taken off by Wenger for Eduardo whom did not do much better either than his replacement. Burnley shoud have taken the lead when Alexander burst on the right rifled a shot past Almunia but was deny by the post.

Arsenal was lucky, a mistake by Almunia saw hardworking Fletcher sneak in from behind to tuck home but the striker was flag for offside by the linesman. 

Deep into injury time William Gallas had a golden opportunity to score but the defender headed it straight into the diving arms of Brian Jensen. Surely it must be a frustrating night for Arsene Wenger to watch his side fails in their attempt to win the match with such unpredictable kind of performance. Come on guys..u lot seems like to do the hard way rather than simple way.

ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE RESULTS

16TH DECEMBER

SUNDERLAND               (0)     VS         ASTON VILLA                           (2)

BRIMINGHAM CITY        (2)     VS         BLACKBURN ROVERS                (1)

BOLTON WANDERERS   (3)     VS         WEST HAM UNITED                   (1)

MANCHESTER UNITED   (3)     VS         WOLVEHAMPTON WANDERERS  (0)  

MANCHESTER UNITED defeated Wolves 3-0, drew level on points with Premier League leaders Chelsea while Aston Villa moved up to third above Arsenal with 32 points. United goalscorers Wayne Rooney, Nemanja Vidic and Antonio Valencia while Aston Villa's Emile Heskey and James Milner.

Meanwhile high riding Birmingham City climb up to six spot when they edged Blackburn 2-1. Cameron Jerome scored two goals for City and Blackburn's Ryan Nelsen got the consolation. In another match Bolton send trouble West Ham packing with a 3-1 win. Ivan Klasnic scored two goals and Gary Cahill for Bolton while Alessandro Diamanti scored for West Ham.        

SUPER ASHA-NAL

TRIUMPHANT Arsenal moved up step closer to close the gap on Premier League leaders Chelsea and Manchester United with a hard fought 2-1 away win against Liverpool at Anfield yesterday, to throw the race for the Premier League title wide open. The Gunners trailing by a goal in the first half stormed back after the break with two goals to secure a famous win in front of the Kops fans.

Russian's Andre Arshavin who scored an incredible four goals in their premier league encounter at Anfield in their 4-4 draw last season got the winner for Arsenal with an absolute stunner sending Liverpool further down the league table to distrupt Rafael Benitez's title challenge and their ticket to Europe.

Liverpool lead by Fernando Torres upfront in his first league appearance after injury started strongly right up from the kick-off. With captain Steven Gerard in sublime form combines well with Torres as they both were all over the Arsenal defence and looks certain to score.

In the fifth minute, Liverpool had a glorious opportunity to take the lead when Gerard laid a perfect pass for Torres but the Spaniard on one against one situation with Manuel Almunia saw his effort was well saved by the Arsenal keeper.

The home team furiously claim for a penalty after Gerard twice was brought down by William Gallas followed by Song but referee Howard Webb stood firm to ignore the ferocious calls from the Liverpool bench. Despite the setback, Liverpool continued to pile up more pressure causing massive problem in the Arsenal defence. Five minutes before the break, Liverpool were rewarded a goal through Mr. Reliable, Dirk Kuyt.

The goal came in through Fabio Aurelio free-kick, Manuel Almunia fails to grasp hold the ball cleanly drop perfectly for Kuyt to stab home past the crowded defence into the empty net.

In the second half, with Arsene Wenger reported screaming at his men in the dressing room for their poor first half display began to dictate the play early in the game and must thanks their lucky star. The Gunners got a lucky break when Samir Nasri cross from the right caught the Liverpool defence in a mess struck Glen Johnson left foot rolls over into the empty net for the  visitor important equaliser.

The goal did gave a rude awakening to Rafael Benitez's side but for Arsenal they began to grow confidence in search for their second goal and which they did. Arsenal's captain Cesc Fabregas finds his way on the right, send in a teasing cross into the box. Arshavin lurking just behind Johnson quick to reacts and blast an unstoppable shot past Reina struck the post first before going in.

Late in the match, Arshavin muffed the chance for his second goal on the night when he miskick and injured himself and later was replaced by Aaron Ramsey. Liverpool did try to save the match but it was already too late for them. Job well done Arsenal. Ohh...what a night. 

ARSENAL - GET THEIR ACT TOGETHER

ARSENE Wenger remain calm and prefer his side performance at Anfield will do the talking for him when Arsenal meet Liverpool in the Premier League on Sunday. With both team suffered defeat in their last Champions League Group match, Arsenal is still in knock-out stages whereas Liverpool  is already out of the competition for good.

Only good showing by Rafael Benitez's men at Anfield  this weekend against Arsenal will surely boost their confidence to stay in sight for the prestigous Premier League title. For Arsenal, they must start showing their mental strenght and to collect as much points as they could to close on the gap league leaders Chelsea and former Premier League title holder Manchester United. Arsenal newly found striker Andre Arshavin is likely to be given the job to spearhead the attack after his fine display in their 2-0 win against Stoke City.

Meanwhile Liverpool's manager Rafael Benitez need some fresh air to ease up the pressure after crashing out of the Champions League. Their 2-1 defeat to Fiorentina in their last group match show signs that the Reds are suffering indifferent of form lately despite Fernando Torres presence after injury in the match.

Both teams going for points  it would be an extremely high tempo match. Liverpool will be banking on captain Steven Gerrard and Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas to supply the ammunition
needed upfront.

With last season emphatic display in the 4-4 draw at Anfield still fresh in mind which saw Andre Arshavin scored an incredible four goals. Argentine's Javier Mascherano believes the Russian will not able to repeat the feat or even to score when come on Sunday.

ARSENAL PLAYERS SHORTEST IN PREMIER LEAGUE

CESC Fabregas admits his Arsenal side face a tall order against Premier League's big guns - because they are too small.

Arsenal average height is just 1.71m -5ft 10 in. Chelsea third highest is 184.5m - 6ft 1in while Stoke City second highest with an average height 6ft 2ins - Sun UK

ARSENE WENGER GAMBLE PAID OFF

ARSENAL back in the groove with a convincing 2-0 win against Stoke City at the Emirates Stadium after suffering back to back defeat earlier in the Premier League to ease off momentarily dark clouds looming over the club for the past two weeks.

Arsene Wenger made a tactical changes on his team line-up by playing Russian's international Andre Arshavin as a lone striker upfront instead of Eduardo or Carlos Vela. The Russian despite of his height looks menacing and effective to continously trouble the Stoke defence with his darting runs around the box.

The striker had a glorious opportunity to put Arsenal ahead when captain's Cesc Fabregas put the him through just inside the box but his first touch was too hard which saw his effort blocked by a defender. 

The home team then were awarded a penalty by referee Mark Clattenburg when Rory Delap brought down Arshavin inside the box. Fabregas step up to take the spot kick but was well read and push away magnificently by Sorensen.

Arsenal maintained the pressure and they were rewarded when Arshavin great effort  to work his way in the box slot in a shot past Sorensen for his seventh Premier League goal.

With the lead, Arsenal grews more confidence and began to create series of chances but fail to find the second goal which they should. For Stoke City the game is still much alive despite the home team total domination. 

Fabregas should have scored Arsenal second goal but to his horror his shot was block not by a Stoke defender but by his team mates Emanuel Eboue on the goal line.

In the second half Arsenal continued to press hard on looking fo the second goal. Arshavin had two golden scoring chances but Sorensen sterling performance between the post deny the Russian for his second.

The much agony and frustrating wait at last came through when subsitute Welsh's midfielder 

Aaron Ramsey save the evening for Arsene Wenger who came in for  Eboue struck a grounder with his outside foot past Sorensen for Arsenal second goal. The goal brought  real sense of relief around the stadium

CITY SEND YOUNG GUNNERS PACKING

CITY SEND YOUNG GUNNERS PACKING

Manchester City book their place into the Carling Cup semi-final when they outclass the Young Gunners 3-0 in the quarter-final at the Eastland yesterday. Carlos Tevez, Shawn Wright Philip and Weiss were their goalscorers after a scoreless first half.

Arsenal young guns led by Mikael Silvestre partnering Alexander Song in the heart of the defence was busy right from the kick-off. The home side fielding their full strenght side fail to create clear  scoring opportunities in the early part of the match. But Craig Bellamy miss a glorious chance from Shawn Wright Philips cross just few centimeters of target.

In the second half, City start to looks more dangerous and they did when Carlos Tevez robbed the ball from Tomas Rosicky. The former Manchester United work his way in the box and hit a stunning shot struck under the crossbar and went into the net.

The goal did stun the visitor and they were punished once again when City best player of the night Shawn Wright Philips struck a powerful drive past Lukasz Fabianski to give Mark Hughes side a comfortable 2-0 lead.

Subsitutes Weiss put the result beyond doubt when he cleanly connected Bellamy cross from the left. Arsenal's nearly got their consolation goal but Fran Merida shot hit the crossbar.

ARSENAL WORST NIGHTMARE JUST BEGUN

Hopes      Prolific striker          Weakness            New Players



ARSENAL hopes to challenge Chelsea or Manchester United for the Premier League title were torn apart by the ruthless Didier Drogba who seems to be able to score whenever Chelsea played against Arsenal. 

The striker have the knack of scoring goals when its does matter most  when his side were under tremendous pressure and lift off the pressure back to their opponent.

Prolific striker

Not to say Arsene Wenger's side is not good but to win trophies or titles Arsenal must have a real prolific striker who has the venom and deadly in the box with both feet and strong in the air in the likes of former Wigan striker Amir Zaki (pic left). Nicklas Bendtner fits the bill but he is still in learning process to become a complete striker Since the Dane is still injured Wenger cannot afford to just sit and think.

Weakness

Arsenal glaring weakness is upfront  (a central striker). Once this problem is solve Eduardo or Carlos Vela easily can link with the striker and either Sagna or Traore with  no second thought easily can direct their crosses toward the target without holding back looking for support.

In midfiled, the Gunners have vast talents such as Fabregas, Denilson, Samir Nasri, Walcott and Andre Arshavin, Rosicky, Song, Ramsey and Eboue. This bunch of players surely will be able to perform much better moving the ball around at ease.

In the defence Thomas Vermalaen is already at home doing very well partnering William Gallas. Still Almunia must change his attitude he looks pale shadow of himself not aggresive enough. Like Vito he may lack experience buts he looks much more muscular and confidence.

New players

Rumours buzzing around that Ruud Van Nisltroy (left) is ready to return back in the Premier League and Bordeaux's Maroune Chamakh (left) also seems to be available together with a few names has been mention. Such as Wolfsburg's striker Edin Dzeko (bottom left) current Bosnian international. So just keep your finger cross if Arsene Wenger really go for it.

Latest news Arsene Wenger has confimed that he is going in the transfer market to buy a striker when January transfers window reopen.

CHELSEA CRUSH-ED ARSENAL 3-0

CHELSEA continued to head top of the Premier League when they demolished Arsenal 3-0 to end the Gunners unbeaten home record at the Emirates yesterday. Didier Drogba once again was on target when he struck twice and an own goal by Thomas Vermalaen add on Arsenal misery for their fourth defeat in their league campaign.

Arsenal were much the better team in the early part of the match. The Gunners raise glimpse of hope for their fans that they will likely stand a good chance of scoring which it never did. But Chelsea were never in serious trouble with their solid defending superiority stood firm at whatever the home team could throw at them.

Then came the opener. Against the run of play  Chelsea captain's John Terry  paved the way for  Ashley Cole on the left. The former Arsenal send in a teasing cross into the goalmouth find Drogba who cleanly connected the ball past Almunia into the right hand corner of the post.

The first goal did not dampen the home team spirit but the second goal was a real shocker. In a similar situation Ashley Cole deliver another fine cross which Gallas trying to clear the ball but he miss and to his horror the ball struck Vermalaen leg and went  straight  in to give Chelsea a formidable two-goal advantage just before the break.

In the second half Arsenal send in Theo Walcott for Song but the striker fail to show any real threat for Chelsea. He was later join in by Carlos Vela replacing Eduardo but the Mexican  too much either fail to give any impact upfront.

Once Chelsea got their third, its game over for Arsene Wenger's men and the three points is  in the visitor bag which saw the Arsenal's fan leaving their seats. From a free-kick (pic below) Drogba calmly guided his shot easily past Almunia whom suprisingly seems unsure of his positioning guarding his goal by leaving a huge gap on his left. (a mistake he did in the Champion League semi-final against Manchester United letting in Cristiano Ronaldo free-kick)

With the win Chelsea lead the table with 36 points, Manchester United in the second spot with 31 points followed by Totenham Hotspurs with 26 points and Arsenal drop one rung below their London neighbours with 25 points.

With news that Robin Van Persie has confirmed to be ruled out for five months Arsene Wenger is definitely  desperate going into the transfer market finding a reliable striker when the transfer window opens in January.Come on Arsene Wenger get a really good one.

ARSENAL - FROM BOY'Z TO MEN

ARSENAL must gundown Chelsea if they need to become  `Boy'z to Men' against the current Premier League Leaders at the Emirates tomorrow. A must win for Arsene Wenger's side or else Arsenal will be trailing by 11 points if lose, 9 points if they draw, 5 points if they win with a game in hand.

Arsene Wenger described the match as the perfect stage for his side to prove their worth and  their true capabilities as genuine contender for the premier league title. Playing against good footballing sides with such great and experience players what more you need to have in the match. And the most importart of all that his side has to grew up to become men. This is the kind of game you need to test your own ability. You pass then surely everything will come into places. You fail it will backfire the whole team including the manager.That is how the outcome of the match means so much to Arsene Wenger.

Earlier in the season they suffered few setback two defeat in a row to Manchester City and Manchester United but they came back strongly and they drew 2-2 against West Ham bounce back but were brought down to earth by Sunderland. Coincidently all this four matches are played away from home. At the Emirates with proud home record, Arsenal is still remain unbeaten.

If you look at the team closely it shows that Arsenal is still lacking `consistency' in their game especially in away matches. But tomorrow clash could be vital for Arsenal fans to judge their team if they has the ingredient  to make it this season or it just a false dream. 

If Arsenal do beat Chelsea then it will be a different story and the team are on the right path for the elusive title. But to be honest against Chelsea, the home side will be competing against one of the best side in the league. Winning is one thing but the manner how they did it must be fair and square with no controversy overshadow the result as an excuse then the critics will have to eat back their words. 

So the home side need to produce one of their best performance of the season with all the ingredients that Arsene Wenger had laid down to them. Such to out manouvere Carlo Ancelotti's side in every department with the Italian already dreaming to become the next Sir Alex Ferguson. Who the hell he think he is. With the season is far from over the former AC Milan  manager dare to dream. The great Philipe Scolari fail to do it and comes Avram Grant and Guss Hiddink too. Warn ya the day Chelsea lose to Wigan 3-1 recently it was havoc in the Chelsea camp. Go Arsenal go..I believe Manchester United fan are also behind you.    

 

ARSENAL BACK ON TRACK

ARSENAL defy the odds to justify themselves that they are ready for the showdown against league leaders Chelsea at the Emirates in the Premier League this weekend when they brushed aside the Belgian outfit Standard Leige 2-0 in the Champions League Group H match last night.

Samir Nasri got them going with the opening goal  and Brazilian born Denilson who just came back from injury scored the second before the break for Arsenal to secure top spot of Group H and advance into the quarterfinal knockout stages.

Arsene Wenger started with Mexican's Carlos Vela to spearhead the attack instead the reliable Eduardo. Also in the line-up is Emanuele Eboue taking over Bacary Sagna at right back and Kieran Gibbs on the left together with Gallas and Vermalaen to tighten up the defence.

Both teams opt a far more open attacking approach compare to their previous meeting earlier to make it such  a lively encounter.


Arsenal had a first sight at goal with a pinball goal-shooting practice in the box then it was the visitor turn saw Dieudonne Mbokani strike flew past Almunia but was deny by the post. The match suddenly favour  towards the home team when a long through ball by Vermalaen was terribly misjudge by a Standard Leige defender Gohi Bi Cyriac, saw Samir Nasri who was lurking behind quick to sneak in and gleefully stabbed home.

The home team should have wrapped up the match in two quick succession when Andre Arshavin first time shot just few centimeter off target and Fabregas fails to guide his shot at the far post. 

But Denilson who just came back into the team after warming up the bench at the Stadium of Light did not make any mistake this time when he lets fly a scorcher into the roof of the net.


The visitor too had their chance to reduce the deficit when their striker final touch was just not hard enough to beat Almunia. Defender William Gallas suffered a knock with fellow Andre Arshavin due to lack of communication which saw both going for the same ball. 

Gallas had to be replace by Slyvestre while Arshavin needed a strapped in the head and to add woes to Arsenal injury list when Kieran Gibbs suffered a broken ankle and was replaced by Armand Traore.   





 

WOUNDED ARSENAL READY TO BOUNCE BACK

ARSENAL recent loss to Sunderland in the Premier League raised some eyebrows whether the Gunners are in their best shape to face Standard Leige in the Champions League match at the Emirates Stadium tonight.

Their sudden loss of form recently might give Standard Leige the advantage to exploits further more in the Arsenal armoury and hopes the home team still have not yet recovered from their unexpected defeat to the Black Cats.

But for Arsene Wenger, he described tonight match is very important for his men to show what are they capable and realy made off to justify the critics to eat their words on Arsenal quest for the Premier League Title this season.

Some might say Arsenal are not men enough and would not stand a chance to go through the whole Premier League matches after indifferent of form lately  but Arsene Wenger believes his side are still on course and heading towards the right direction.

It is still early to suggest and to write off Arsenal that they will not be among the teams that can challenge former champions  Manchester United and current league leaders Chelsea with the league is still not at the halfway mark.

For tonight match Arsenal who just needing a point to top the group while Standard Leige they need to win to boost their chances advancing into the next round. But for Arsenal playing infront of their own fans need to win to give the team glimpse of hope before facing Chelsea this weekend. For the record Arsenal is still unbeaten at home. So come on Fab and co. show your stuff and do what you can do best. Gunners will fly. Fly Robin Fly up up to the sky,

 

BENT D ESTROYER

HIGH-FLYING scoring Arsenal succumbed to their third defeat in the Premier League when they went down 0-1 against Sunderland at the Stadium Of Light yesterday with Darrent Bent scoring the winner in the 72nd minute to send the Gunners crashing on a wet slippery pitch.

Arsenal started strongly dominating the early part of the match creating a few good scoring opportunities but fail to find the net. Tomas Rosicky should have given Arsenal the lead but the Sunderland goalkeeper manage to block his powerful volley to safety.

The visitor best chance came in the 32nd minute with Song combines well with Eduardo before setting up for the Croatian but to his dismay his final touch just a few inches wide of target.

Sunderland's too had their chances to take the lead twice from Steve Malbranque but on both occassion the midfielder who was not under pressure balloon the ball sky high with the goal at his mercy.  

In the second-half, the home team began to look more dangerous and far more aggressive than their counterparts who seems lethargic after on international duty during midweek quick  to close down the visitor attacking play successfully and doing numerous counter-attack to unsettle the Arsenal defence and it prove frutile.

From a corner kick the ball struck subsitute Frazier Campbell on his shin in the goalmouth area bounce of perfectly for Bent who wasted no chance to stab home past Almunia for his 9th league goal. With the goal the 25 year old 10 million pound signing from Spurs have score a goal each against all the big four teams.

With 20 minutes left, Arsenal who were desperate searching for the equaliser made three quick subsitutions through Andre Arshavin, Carlos Vela and Theo Walcott but it did not materialise. Arsenal did claim for a penalty late in the match when Mexican's Carlos Vela was hacked down in the box but referee, Alan Wiley refused to respond.

 





 

ARSENAL WATCH OUT FOR BENT

CONSISTENCY is the key for Arsenal's men if they reckon to be consider as a genuine title contenders for the Premier League Title this seasons.

That's the message by the Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger towards his team before they take on Steve Bruce's Black Cats at the Stadium Of Light today. 

Wenger believes if his side able to maintain the `magic word' weekend-weekout then everything will come into places. To be champions we need to have a strong squad to rely on. Injury to first team players is part and parcel of the gam e and we need back-up whom we believed is just good enough to shoulder the responsibilty.

Who knows this players might turn out to be our trump card to deliver and provide morale-booster for the squad to achieve greater heights lifting our game to a level which we dream and hoping for.

With Robin Van Persie ruled out, Croatian's striker Eduardo Da Silva will spearhead the attack pairing with Mexican, Carlos Vela upfront in which the combination prove lethal in the Carling Cup fine run.Without the injured Gael Clichy and Kieran Gibbs out either experience Mikael Slyvestre or young Armand Traore will step up fill in the gap. In the previous outing Arsenal drew 1-1 at the same venue last season.

Meanwhile, Sunderland top marksman in the Premier League, Darrent Bent 25, with eight goals under his belt with no doubt hope to impress Fabio Capello his all round capability for a place in the England World Cup squad next year.

Sunderland currently lying eight in the table recorded 4 wins, 1 draw and lost one in their 6 home matches might gave Steve Bruce's side the confidence to put on the brakes on the high-flying-scoring Gunners. Arsenal wins then we are game on with Chelsea.

GOOD NEWS AND BAD NEWS ARSENAL'S PLAYERS ON INTERNATIONAL DUTY

ARSENE Wenger find himself in an unfamiliar situation after his top hit-man Robin Van Persie confirmed to be ruled out for at least 6 weeks suffering partially torn ankle ligament in a friendly international match 0-0 draw against Italy as he prepare his side before the English Premier League resume this weekend.

The Arsenal boss cannot afford to lose any more key players and  praying hard for another 90 minutes starting tonight against those who are on international duty for the South Africa World Cup play-off second-leg and friendly's international match comeback unscathed.

Robin Van Persie will join the band of Arsenal's croc lists including Theo Walcott, Nicklas Bendtner, Gael Clichy, Johan Djourou, Denilson, Carlos Vela, Lukas Fabianski  and Jack Wilshere. Latest news, Abou Diaby has been ruled out for France vs Ireland World Cup play-off match and was back in London for further treatment on his ankle injury suffered in the first leg match. The midfielder looks doubtful for the Sunderland match.

With Van Persie not available until January, Wenger is certain to go on shopping list buying one or two new players when the  transfers window opens next month. Rumours heard that Spanish giant Barcelona are still in hot pursuit for the Arsenal's captain, Cesc Fabregas to Nou Camp offering huge cash close to 50 million pound plus players Yaya Toure and Bojan Krkic in the package.

Both Yaya (younger brother of Kolo Toure) and Bojan Krkic have been on Wenger mind early in the season might change the Frenchman thought to hang on to his captain's Fabregas at the Emirates. Well for Arsenal fans keep your finger cross but we still believes Arsene Wenger will not back up on his words. 

FABREGAS WARNS -STOP THE ROT NOW OR NEVER

ARSENAL captain's Cesc Fabregas is not amuse when Wolves got their  consolation goal through Jody Craddock from a corner kick late in the match which Arsenal won 4-1 win at Molineux Stadium on Saturday. The Wolves defender whom earlier presented Arsenal second goal scored with a free header unchallenge from a corner kick.

Fabregas who have just being named as Arsenal player of the month (October) added by right an Arsenal defender or goalkeeper Manuel Almunia should have come out and challenge Craddock for the ball instead off ball watching.

.

Despite the wins, The Spaniard agrees that is not kind of performance he prefers to be involve cause he believes Arsenal should have done much much better than that. He said the team must stop the rot now or never cause in coming weeks they got pacesetters Chelsea heading to the Emirates.

The Arsenal captain is aware that Chelsea side are in great form and they got quality players whom are really good on deadball situation and it shows in their 1-0 win against former champion's Manchester United. He said Arsenal cannot afford to produce that kind of display if they are going to have any chance to overcome Carlo Ancelotti's side for the prestigous title.

Fabregas believes after 11 matches, the best of Arsenal have stiill yet to come. Starting with Sunderland a win will give the Gunners a morale booster and hope against John Terry led side Chelsea, the team will be in top shape for top of the table clash. So a must win against Sunderland will set the Emirates alight for the much awaited explosive encounter.  

ARSENAL MOVE UP TO SECOND SPOT ENGLISH PREMIER LEAGUE

  FAB-ULOUS-GAS



 ARSENAL steadily climb up to second place in the English Premier League pipping former champions Manchester United on goal difference with an emphatic 4-1 victory against Wolves at the Molineux Stadium, yesterday.

As expected, Wolves did gave Arsene Wenger men under tremendous pressure in the first 20 minutes with hardworking Doyle and Ebanks causing havoc in the Arsenal defence. The home team looks certain to find the net after creating a few good scoring chances but did not take them.

Playing against team like Arsenal, Wolves should not squandered any scoring opportunities cause they will paid heavy price and the 4-1 defeat demonstrated to that. They did start brightly but when Arsenal took the lead everything began to fall apart.

Direct from a corner-kick by captain's Cesc Fabregas, Wolves defender Zubar who was under pressure by Eduardo deflected the ball into his own net.

Wolves manager Mick McCarthy may thought it just a normal  hiccup for his team but was profoundedly tightlips when Arsenal got their second eight minutes later. From a quick counter-attack Fabregas through pass ran straight into Aaron Ramsey path. The young Welsh international finds unmarked Eduardo, later chip in struck Craddock head's flew past Hennessy.

With a two goal lead, the visitor are in cruise control. Not to force anything they gradually absorbing the pressure well waiting for the right moment to launch another Arsenal trademark quick counter attack for their third goal.

The young Spaniard started and finished off another fine breathtaking move combines with Robin Van Persie and Sagna, cooly stuck in the ball into the net with simpilicity and yet so lethal to frustrated the home crowd.

In the second half, Andre Arshavin got his name on the scoresheet. The Russian cooly slot home first time on the volley with great technique. Wolves then got their consolation through Craddock from a corner kick late in the match. The goal may trigger Arsene Wenger to find a solution to overcome their weakness in his side giving in late late goal in a match before the take on big teams like Chelsea, Manchester United or Liverpool.

With Arsenal currently in great form, there might be a trophy just around the corner after four years barren spell.   

NEGERI SEMBILAN CROWN AS MALAYSIA CUP CHAMPION 2009

After long long awaited years dated back since 1948 Negeri Sembilan last won the HMS Malaya Cup (now known as the Malaysian Cup) 61 years later they were crown as the new Malaysian Cup champion in 2009 when they defeated Kelantan 3-1 at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil, last night.

What a wait and what a coincidence it happens when Negeri Sembilan is still celebrating the pronouncing of their new ruler Tuanku Munawir as the new Yang DiPertuan Besar. His Royal Highness recieved his biggest present from the Negri Sembilan Football Association (NSFA) by winning the cup  for him who was the guest of honour watching the match. Also it was a memorable night as the ruler himself presented the trophy to the winners.

Watch by more than 100,000 football fans, Negri Sembilan drew first blood when Shuhairain Abu Samah who scored the winning goal in the SUKMA final once again did a favour for Negri broke the deadlock in the 19th minute.

Shuhairain who was unmarked punished a mistake by one of the Kelantan's defender just outside the box hits it first time which gave Kelantan's goalkeeper Halim Napi no chance for Wan Jamak's side to take a 1-0 lead. The match fails to live the crowd expectation and its make much worse with heavy downpour before the break.

In the second half, B.Sathianathan made two changes by bringing in Khalid Jamlus and Cik Hishamuddin to beef up the attack. But they found themselves trailing by 2-0 a minute after the kick-off when Hairuddin Omar scored a free-header which flew over Halim Napi.

The game start to looks more lively with the east coast began to launch attacks and tried to get back into the match hoping to reduce the deficit but the Negri defence marshall by experience Shukor Adan and Aidil Abd Razak stood firm. With two goals already in the bag, Negri began to dominate the match and looks certain to score another goal.

And it did when Shuhairain ran past a Kelantan defender but was brought down in the box with referee Mohd Yusof did not hesitate pointing to the penalty spot. Striker Zaquan Abd Razak step up and cleanly sending Halim Napi the wrong way for Negri third goal. To mark this special night Negri truly deserved to take the trophy by creating perfect winning record in their run up to the final.

It was too much for the 60,000 travelling Kelantan's fans and they start to empty the stadium for their long journey home. Kelantan's captain Indera Putera Mahyuddin scored a beauty into the right corner direct from a free-kick in injury time but it was already too late to save the match. When the final whistle blew Negri fans roars in delight celebrating their team triumph in winning the cup for the first time.

 

ARSENAL - NO MORE SLIPS UP

ARSENAL need to struts their stuff against Wolves tonight if they really means business to go for the Premier League title this season. They can't afford any slip up this time around and must get their act together to prove their worth as title contenders.

Nothing more less than a win against Wolves and with a game in hand will reduce the gap at the top. After suffering two defeats in a row against Manchester United and Manchester City, Arsene Wenger men bounce back to remain unbeaten in 12 matches.

But Wolves manager Mick McCarthy responded that his men do not fear to face Arsenal and there are determined to top the headlines by defeating the Gunners tonight. McCarthy said Arsenal defence are not that stable especially in handling from set-pieces. So tonight, that is what they are going to do - create the damage from set-pieces.

McCarthy did agree Arsenal are in good shape and in fine form of lately but it doesn't mean they can't be defeated. West Ham proved that in their 2-2 draw against Arsenal. So why can't we.

Meanwhile Arsenal goalkeeper, Manuel Almunia will have the chance to redeem himself taking over as  the Gunners number one goalkeeper from Italian, Vito Mannone after suffering from chest pain recently. Go Arsenal go.    

 

                                                                                                               

TAKEN FROM MY PREVIEW: LAST YEAR MALAYSIA CUP FINAL 2009 - KELANTAN VS NEGERI SEMBILAN

AS a true blue football fan, before as a player and now as coach. I never gave up on this game. I've sacrifice my studies with hope and dream to be a successfull footballer one day but that never came by. Yes indeed I'm an Arsenal fan and enjoy watching the EPL but it doesn't mean I have no interest in our local football.

ARSENAL BLAST AZ ALKMAR

ARSENAL show signs of becoming a new major force in European football when they blast AZ Alkmaar 4-1 in UEFA Champion League Group H match at the Emirates Stadium yesterday.

Cesc Fabregas who is in tremendous form lately once again proved why Arsene Wenger handed  over the captain's armband to the young Spaniard to lead the team this season. The midfielder repaid the faith by scoring a double, Samir  Nasri and Abou Diaby with one goal-a-piece completed the rout. Alkmaar got their consolation through subsitute, Jeremien Lens late in the match.

With the win, Arsenal head Group H with 10 points from 3 wins and a draw. With two games left  Arsene Wenger can afford to field his young Carling's Cup side a run for both matches before they face Manchester City in the quarterfinals.

After the match, Wenger described the present team look mature and capable enough to match The Invincibles Thiery Henry's side. He said, technically Arsenal dominated the match and tactically solid at the back.

Long live beautiful football - Arsenal way