EPL Review: 7 Things Fans Learned from Arsenal's 1-1 Draw with Liverpool
It was not the most thrilling and exciting match considering the recent history between these two English Premier League giants but none the less it was a dramatic match that ultimately concluded Arsenal's slim and fading EPL title challenge. Injuries, penalties, controversy and the always enjoyable sideline argument between rival managers ensured everyone was kept entertained as Arsenal's attack appeared lethargic and Liverpool's defending was brave.
Credit has to go to Kenny Daglish's men who were decimated by injury with Steven Gerrard, Glen Johnson and Daniel Agger already absent before full back Fabio Aureilo limped off after 20 minutes and captain Jamie Carragher was knocked unconscious after colliding with teammate John Flanagan in the 53rd minute.
The Englishman's serious injury halted play for eight minutes in the second half ensuring the late madness that materialized in the extended injury time. Arsenal had by far conveyed the more attacking approach with surprisingly set pieces Wenger's men biggest threat. Laurent Koscielny's powerful header was thwarted by the crossbar whilst Abou Diaby failed to adequately direct a neat flick.
Considering that their title threat was on the line, Arsene Wenger's men failed to exhibit their usual attacking prowess. This was despite PFA Young Player of the Year Jack Wilshere working tirelessly and French dynamo Samir Nasri showing the form and threat that engulfed him during the first half of the season.
Half chances emerged for the Gunners but neither side appeared destined to find a breakthrough. As the game wore on and Arsenal's possession dominance increased Liverpool's defensive tenacity also increased, continually thwarting the Gunner's attack.
But alas as the game seemed destined for a stalemate, it appeared Arsenal may have just snatched a victory and given life to their title hopes after a 98th minute Robin van Persie penalty. After Samir Nasri and Cesc Fabregas had exchanged passes, the Arsenal captain was fouled in the box by Jay Spearing. Van Persie had no problems slotting home.
It looked to be the final kick of the game but referee Andre Mariner allowed Liverpool to kick off despite the time reading 99 minutes. The Reds managed to find their way to the Arsenal box before a scramble resulted in a Liverpool free kick inches away from a penalty.
Luis Suarez's effort clashed against the nine man Arsenal wall before the ball eventually found Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva. Arsenal utility Emmanuel Eboue than made a clumsy yet soft push which resulted in an immediate penalty after Lucas went to ground.
Dirk Kuyt had no problems from the spot ending Arsenal's title challenge for good.
Here is seven things World Football learned from the thrilling draw.
7. Liverpool's Youngsters Are Extremely Ugly
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It may seem like a laughable topic but one must shed light in the wake of Arsenal's tragic demise. Not the most enthralling point but the comments that have flooded in have ensured the topic had to be put forward.
Liverpool had endured injury woes prior and during the game which resulted in a number of Liverpool youngsters featuring during the encounter. Jay Spearing, the 22-year-old midfielder, began in a defensive midfield role whilst teenager John Flanagan, whose Liverpool debut had come only a week earlier against Manchester City, both started for the Reds. Meanwhile Fabio Aurelio's injury resulted in 17-year-old Jack Robinson receiving his second Liverpool appearances whilst 19-year-old Jonjo Shelvey also featured late on.
What these youngsters lack in personal appearance they certainly make up in skill and calibre.
Spearing arouses links to a young troll, something Lord of the Rings like with his 5'6" stature and generally scary appearance. It ceased to matter as the Englishman was one of Liverpool's best performers against the Gunners.
Flanagan on the other hand looked slightly rat like and spotty despite a solid shift at right back against the ever present Samir Nasri. Jack Robinson looked slightly deranged whilst Jonjo Shelvey brought serious comparisions to Lord Voldemort from Harry Potter just looked down right dangerous, and his challenge on Laurent Koscielny complimented that.
None the less they hold Liverpool in good stead for the future as all convey huge potential and promise, performing solidly against one of the best sides in European and English football.
6. Wojciech Szczesny Presence Ensures Wenger Does Not Need to Sign a New Keeper
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The Liverpool clash saw Arsenal welcome the return of young goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny, who had been absent since March with a finger injury sustained against Barcelona. The Polish keeper had become Arsenal's number one in January after a season ending shoulder injury to predominant first choice Lukasz Fabianski.
Szczesny had been in sublime form prior to his injury and although replacements Manuel Almunia and Jens Lehman were gallant performers in the 20-year-old's absence, it was a welcome relief for Arsenal fans to have the Polish international reinstated.
Szczesny continued to up hold his high reputation with a strong performance against the Liverpool attack. Although it was not the busiest night for the Polish young gun, Szczesny repeatedly thwarted Liverpool's opportunities when called upon and also looked decisive from set pieces as the imposing Andy Carroll threatened.
At 20, the young star has a glistening future and looks to have effectively ended Arsenal's notorious keeper conundrum. In recent months there has been mass speculation surrounding Wenger with rumours stating the Frenchman is chasing the likes of the legendary Gianluigi Buffon, Wigan's Ali Al-Habsi and Ajax shot stopper Maarten Stekelenburg.
However Szczesny performances highlight Wenger has the opportunity to develop his young keeper into the next Iker Casillas whilst Lukasz Fabianski and Vito Mannone provide excellent depth.
5. Johan Djourou and Laurent Koscielny Can Form a Formidable Partnership
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Alongside Wojciech Szczesny return, Arsene Wenger also welcomed key defender Johan Djourou, who had been absent since March with a dislocated shoulder and was expected to miss the remainder of the season.
The Swiss has rose to promise this season as the key Arsenal defender, particularly in Thomas Vermaelen's absence, the Belgium centre half suffered a season ending Achilles injury in August. Despite a disrupted season with previous injuries, Djourou missed the entire 2009-10 season bar the final game, the 24-year-old has shown he has the ability to become one of the best defenders in the EPL.
Djourou's central defensive partner Laurent Koscielny also has the potential to achieve defensive success. The Frenchman has been highly impressive in his first season in World Football's toughest league after arriving from French outfit Lorient FC for £10 million in the Summer.
During Arsenal's successful December, January and February streak, the pair formed a strong partnership claiming numerous praises. Reunited against Liverpool, the pair enjoyed a solid game, thwarting Andy Carroll and Luis Suarez despite some nervous moments and lack of communication.
Overall both provided impressive performances arousing the potential that the duo can eradicate the defensive woes that have tainted Arsenal's previous seasons. The return of Thomas Vermaelen next season coupled with the destine defensive signing Wenger is set to make can ensure Arsenal boast a stunning central defensive roster.
4. Samir Nasri Needs More Involvement, Possibly a Consistent Central Role
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Samir Nasri has arguably been one of the best players not only for Arsenal but in the entire English Premier League. Recently announced in the PFA Team of the Year, the Frenchman has finally enhanced his under lying potential and gradually become a consistent attacking threat.
The Frenchman's form in the first half of the season was superb, which saw the 23-year-old secure 14 goals, including two stunning efforts against Fulham which secured the match for the Gunners. However minor injuries have seen Nasri's efforts curtail in recent months.
The former Marseille dynamo has still conveyed his devastating attacking prowess but it has not resulted in the same effect with Nasri often drifting in and out of games. Primarily utilized as a winger by Wenger, the French international occasionally becomes anonymous when out wide, a predominant fault in his earlier Arsenal years.
Nasri was one of Arsenal's best players against Liverpool with a number of threatening runs and incisive passes. However the Frenchman still lacked a consistent involvement and it raised the question whether the play maker should be gifted a more second striker of central role in order to thrive.
3. Emmanuel Eboue May Have Just Pushed His Way out of Arsenal
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With Bacary Sagna suffering a knee injury, deputy right back Emmanuel Eboue was forced to start against Liverpool. The Ivorian has received limited opportunities due to the immense consistency of Sagna, who also recieved honours in the PFA Team of the Year.
Eboue had performed impressively in Arsenal's recent 3-1 victory over Blackpool and continued his strong form against the Reds. However his moment of madness may have ultimately cost him his place in the Arsenal squad as fans begin to voice their frustration.
The Ivorian's challenge was not reckless but it was clumsy and although Lucas Leiva showed intelligence to somewhat con the referee, an experienced full back in Emmanuel Eboue should of dealt with the situation better. The 27-year-old is regarded as one of the most loved members in the Arsenal squad but fans haven't always shared the same view.
Eboue was infamously booed off the Emirates ground after a horrid display against Wigan Athletic in December 2008. Furthermore Wenger is rumoured to be chasing highly touted Croatian right back Šime Vrsaljko whilst Dutch sensation Gregory van der Wiel is also on Wenger's books.
Eboue's error could be the last straw for Wenger who is set to offload a number of squad members during the upcoming Summer transfer window.
2. Arsenal Have Never Fully Recovered from Birmingham City and Barcelona
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Just under two months ago, Arsenal were breathing down the neck of Manchester United at the top of the English Premier League ladder, the Gunners encountered Birmingham City in the Carling Cup Final, a match they were huge favourites to conquer, alongside still present in the UEFA Champions League and FA Cup.
Arsene Wenger stated his side were strong enough to triumph in every competition, securing the undisputed "Quadruple". Now where are they?
A shock 2-1 loss the Birmingham City mentally drained the young Arsenal squad before a 3-1 trouncing by Barcelona in the second leg of the UEFA Champions League , in which the Gunners failed to record a single shot on goal, really opened up the wound.
The North London giants haven't been the same since. Three Successive Premier League draws saw Arsenal lose ground on Manchester United whilst also enduring elimination from United in the FA Cup quarter finals. Arsenal's attack has diminished considerably and although injuries to key players has played a role, Wenger's men have never fully recovered from their Carling Cup defeat or the Barcelona humiliation.
1. It Would Be Unjust If Arsenal Won the English Premier League
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Had Arsenal managed to secure victory against Liverpool and then some how go on to win the English Premier League, it would quite frankly be unjust as Manchester United are the sole deserving winners of the 2010-11 Premier League crown.
Arsenal have had more than enough opportunities to maintain a strangle hold on the EPL and surge in front of their rivals. However their poor home form, lack of depth and general inconsistency has been the catalyst in their inability to secure the trophy.
Sir Alex Ferguson's United on the other hand have not been the most impressive team but consistently achieve the correct result alongside advancing to the UEFA Champions League semi final and FA Cup semi final.
