Lets be fair. This was not the most exciting game that we have seen at the Emirates this season. Manchester City came with a plan that was designed to get them a point and they played Roberto Mancini defensive game plan to perfection.
Man City are not the first team to come to the Emirates and packed a bus in front of the goal to paraphrase Jose Mourinho. But they are probably the biggest club to do it, and that was disappointing to see
The highlight of the game for Arsenal fans was seeing Robin van Persie back in the starting line-up for the first time since November 7th. He is obviously well short of match fitness, but van Persie did almost grab all three points for Arsenal late in the game when his free-kick hit the outside of the post.
The win mathematically ended Arsenal’s title dreams for this season, but that was not on Arsene Wenger’s mind after the game. It was the negative approach of City.
“It was an afternoon I must say I’m not used to,” said Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger. “We created very few chances and Manchester City didn’t create anything. They were highly focused on defending well and we could not find the opener. And, as long as we couldn’t do that, it was a locked game.”
What did you think of the game and performance of Campbell and Silvestre, who I thought were both terrific?
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Given their attacking options & stated ambition I was expecting fireworks from City but was treated instead as you said to a parked bus. They parked it extremely well but given our second choice pairing in central defence I expected them to at least have a go. 3 shots in 90 minutes (one on, one off, & one blocked) is shameful!! It may well be the point that gets them fourth place but if they don’t beat Spurs at Eastlands it’ll be the possible 2 dropped points that’ll seal their place in 5th place.
By far the best performance by Silvestre in an Arsenal shirt (maybe he’s needed a run of games..Ha ha) & Sol was magstic again. What has happened to Diaby though???
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