Pool V's Arsenal

[weasel]

Well Spoons what did you think?

I think a draw was probably a fair result on balance. Although I felt Liverpool deserved a bit more having played with 10 men for 45-50 mins and having denied Arsenal any real clear cut chances, bar Rosicky's one (which he shoulda scored). Saying that Arsenal were the better team in teh first half and had most possession, so a draw was probably fair. Albeit a better result for Arsenal than Liverpool.

Thought both red cards were harsh. Joe Cole's was the kinda tackle that you see week in week out and players don't always get sent off for it. Look at Jody Craddock's one on Kenwyn Jones yesterday the ref didn't even give Stoke a free for it. Letter of the law Cole has to go, but I think a bit of common sense, it's right on half time, deep in Arsenal's half and a genuine attempt to block the ball so yellow card, bollocking and half time whistle woulda been fairer.
As for what's his name the Arsenal centre back, I can't remember his first booking, but I think it was a reasonable enough yellow, but his hand ball was a bit harsh too. Again, a bollocking and a free kick would probably have sufficed. Especially as Ngog got away with a more blatant hand ball only 20 mins before, and I don't think Torres was gonna get far with the ball, he was 50 yards from goal and there were covering players.

Still, I think both teams would have taken a draw before kick off.

 

[spoons]

Still, I think both teams would have taken a draw before kick off.

indeed

I sort of agree with you on the cards, but Cole's could have gone either way. I thought Gerrard could have gone too. His first half challenge on Eboue should have seen him on a yellow before he picked up a later one - but he is protected by refs :wink:

disappointed with Arsenal's lack of chances, but pleased the defence looked more solid than I feared. I think Clichy's days are numbered, he's looked off the pace a while now.

What can i say about Reina :lol: Liverpool should have won, an impressive display with only 9 men

 

[plantman]

A fair result, and a good one for both teams really, Liverpool can take confidence that with 10 men and a goal keeper gaffe they should have won the game.

Didnt play too well but would have beaten a top 4 team at home....wouldnt have happened last year lol.

 

[weasel]

I've a funny feeling you might get a few more chances in your next game! (Blackpool)
After their result on Saturday they are gonna be full of confidence, I just hope they don't turn up thinking they can actually play the game, as your lot will tear them to bits!

 

[spoons]

I've a funny feeling you might get a few more chances in your next game! (Blackpool)
After their result on Saturday they are gonna be full of confidence, I just hope they don't turn up thinking they can actually play the game, as your lot will tear them to bits!

I think they might be another Hull in their first season - what money would I get on Blackpool 1 Arsenal 0?

 

[weasel]

Nha your forward line will take them apart.
Wait until they get a few injuries. Their squad is tiny and not good enough. I'd love to see them do well, but I just don't think it'll happen.

 

[spoons]

I'm pleased that Liverpool look better than last season - Gerrard looks hungry again. Hopefully we can all keep out the Spuds and City , but I think the title is Chelsea's to lose.

 

[weasel]

Not sure, I can pick faults/flaws in every teams title ambitions.

1) Chelsea's squad is still a tad on the old side IMO.
Plus a lot of their players played in the WC so that will take an extra toll on auld legs.
2) I think Spurs will struggle to come to terms with playing mid week and every saturday. The CL takes a fair bit out of players and with their incredible lack of European experience (I think Milwall have a better UEFA co-efficient) it'll be double shock to the system.
3) City will struggle due to the sheer number of players, no way they can keep them ALL happy, and the ridiculous expectations from the owners.
4) Arsenal will struggle because most of their players will be injured most of the time (will they EVER stop rushing players back before they are fit, the number of muscle injuries is unreal), and they refuse to play with a goalkeeper.
5) Liverpool, whilst having a first eleven that can match/beat any of the others have very little below that.
6) United, still rely a lot on Rooney (ok he was dung last night, but so were Newcastle) and can Giggs and Scholes carry on indefinitely?

Basically Blackpool are gonna win the league and we may as well give up now!

 

[plantman]

Liverpool will get top 4 this year, squad isnt too bad, a little thin but if hodgeson can get the best out of Babal he has a good squad to play with, i think either Lucas or Aquilani are next out of the door though with poulsen coming in.