EPL 2011: Arsenal vs. Liverpool Match Preview

Arsenal entertain Liverpool in a crucial encounter that could determine the destination of the Premier League Trophy.

The match will take place at the Emirates Stadium today at 16:00 pm English time. Arsene Wenger's men know that anything but a win will make it virtually impossible to win the title, and this will leave Arsenal without a trophy for six years.

Liverpool are one point ahead of Everton in the table and am certain the Reds will not want their bitter rivals to finish above them in the table. However, the one dilemma for the fans is seeing Manchester United win another league title.

It would interesting to know what they think about this.

The home side have to push on for a win and take the initiative. Wojciech Szczesny is back in the Arsenal goal, with the possibility of Djourou and Sagna all coming back into the starting lineup. Djourou's presence is vital for the Gunners, as Liverpool's danger man, Andy Carroll, will look to inflict further damage at the Emirates. 

Carroll was the only scorer in the one-nil defeat to Newcastle, and his recent display against Manchester City will give Arsene Wenger some concern.

If that is not enough to worry about, then how about Luis Suarez? The young striker has been in prolific form for the Reds since signing and wearing the famous No. 7 shirt. It is certain that Arsenal will have to work very hard for a win.

To win the game, Arsenal will need to close Liverpool down quickly and stop any potential crosses. That means conceding no free kicks in dangerous areas, because you know for sure that the ball will be put into the box to test the Gunners' defence.

Arsene Wenger has admitted that anything but a win against Liverpool on Sunday and Tottenham on Wednesday will mean the end of the title race.

Prediction: Arsenal 2-1 Liverpool

Key Men: Nasri and Walcott. Both players will need to gun down the wing and push Liverpool back to win the game.