Aston Villa 0 Arsenal 0
Mid-week premier league fixture tonight as Arsenal were away to Aston Villa. First one of a number of difficult and important fixtures for Arsenal.
Early pressure from Aston Villa as Petrov does well to win the ball from Cesc Fabregas with a strong challenge but he failed to impress with his resulting shot as he sent his effort well wide.
5 minutes in and Agbonlahor took control of Heskey’s through ball and his driven effort was turned past his left hand post by Almunia. Good save!
11 minutes in and a corner from the left fell to Denilson on the edge of the box and the midfielder saw his low effort turned behind by Friedel’s smart save. The resulting corner was cleared by Villa.
13 minute mark and Aston Villa won a free-kick on the edge of the box after Vermaelen’s challenge. Young sent the free-kick from 20 yards narrowly over the top of the bar.
20 minutes in and Clichy tried to get Arsenal on the front foot as his cross from the left is headed away from Arshavin at the far post by Luke Young. Both sides were looking dangerous from wide areas.
25 Arsenal work the resulting corner short and Fabregas sees his driven effort from a tight angle deflected behind for another flag-kick, which Villa clear.
29 Villa find space with Vermaelen off the field as Heskey fires a wild half-volley high over the top of the bar from 25 yards. Not the best shot of the Villa striker’s career.
33 Ashley Young continues to dominate against Clichy as he beats the left-back and sends a cross to the far post. Downing meets it on the volley but he sends his effort high over the bar. Villa need to start testing Almunia.
34 minutes in and Vermaelen was struggling with an injury. Sol Campbell soon made his return to the premier league!
40 minutes and Arsenal finally enjoyed a sustained spell of possession that resulted in a free-kick in a dangerous position. Cesc’s free-kick from 25 yards was not one of his best as he striked the foot of the Villa wall.
Almunia looked uncomfortable from a Villa corner as Milner’s effort from the right was cleared by Ramsey after 44 minutes of play.
45 minute mark and Cesc stormed forward. His low effort from the edge of the box striked the foot of Friedel’s left hand post. The rebound fell to Rosicky who collided with Ramsey and scuffed his shot. So close!
Half-time score: Aston Villa 0 Arsenal 0.
Arsenal managed to keep the ball early on in the second half. 4 minutes into the half and Villa failed to deal with Clichy’s cross from the left as Friedel and Collins got in a muddle. The loose ball almost fell to Cecs but Dunne managed to produce a block. Close again!
1 minute later and on the other side of the pitch Young’s cross from the right fell to Downing at the far post. The Villa winger sent his header wide from two yards.
59 minutes in and as Milner’s corner from the right was headed wide of the far post by Dunne.
61 minutes and Cesc easily headed Downing’s corner from the left away from the near post. Eduardo pulled up as he collected the loose ball and was soon replaced by Bendtner.
63 minutes and Arshavin stormed forward from the halfway line and beat Cuellar and Collins for pace to run through one-on-one with Friedel. The Villa goalie blocked the low shot but the rebound fell to Cesc and he slid a low pass to Rosicky. The Czech fired a powerful effort against the underside of the bar and the ball was cleared after bouncing back away from the goal. So so so close!
75 minutes in and after an all Aston Villa attack since the last Arsenal chance Young won a free-kick after being challenged by Clichy.
78 minutes in and Milner’s free-kick from the left caused panic in the Arsenal but Gallas cleared the danger under pressure from Dunne.
86 minutes in and Arshavin won a free-kick on the edge of the Villa box as he fell under Delph’s late trip. Cesc stepped up but sent the ball crashing into the Villa wall again.
Arsenal won a late corner into stoppage time. Campbell found himself in space from Cesc’s corner from the left but the effort was blocked by the Villa defence.
Villa in respond won a free-kick after pushing forward, Arsenal were able to clear and see the game out.
Full-time score Aston Villa 0 Arsenal 0. Full match report here.
Disappointing once again! I thought we were very poor in the first half, possession was terrible compared to usual and something was definitely missing. Argh and I hate hitting the woodwork, I would rather it go over! We needed the points as next up we have Manchester United on Sunday! Also, more injuries to add to the list!
Would love to know your thoughts and comments. Also any predictions for Sunday??
Stoke City 3 Arsenal 1
Arsenal faced Stoke today in the fourth round of the FA Cup. Changes for Arsenal as Cesc Fabregas and Denilson the only two who started against Bolton in mid-week. Sol Campbell made his return today!
Virtually the first attack of the game and Stoke had a throw-in. Just 68 seconds into the match Delap’s long throw saw Fuller beat Fabianski to the ball and head into the roof of the net. 1-0 to Stoke.
5 minutes in and another long throw from Delap but this time Fabianski comes out to claim the ball.
12 minutes in and after a slow start Arsenal were starting to settle and werecontrolling the bulk of the possession. However, not looking too dangerous.
15 minutes gone and Walcott laid the ball off to Vela, but a defender managed to clear the ball before the Mexican was able to pull the trigger. It should have been a corner, but the referee gave a goal kick.
20 Another decent move by Arsenal. Vela has time and space out wide on the left, but his cross is far too strong for Fabregas in the middle.
32 minutes in and not much happening in the game. Arsenal were seeing a lot of the ball but Stoke were happy getting men behind the ball and keeping their shape.
35 minute mark and penalty claim for Stoke as Silvestre looked to foul Fuller in the area. Fuller stayed on his feet. Nothing given!
42 minutes in and Arsenal were awarded a free0kick in a dangerous position after a handball. Cesc rolled the ball into the path of Denilson, who took a long-range drive, which may have taken a slight deflection on its way into the back of the net!! All level at 1-1. Game on!
Late pressure from Arsenal after the goal which seemed to have got them going. They won five corners in a row but nothing comes of them.
Half-time score Stoke City 1 Arsenal 1.
Arsenal won an early corner in the second half. Campbell got his head on Febregas’ corner, but his effort floated over.
49 minutes in and Fabianski flapped at another Delap’s throw-in but wins a free-kick to save himself.
2 minutes later and Cesc took a pot at goal with a well-struck effort from distance which was tipped over the bar by Sorensen.
Untidy play from both sides as Arsenal are unable to clear their lines, although Delap’s header was too soft and easily claimed by Fabianski.
57 minutes and Fuller tried his luck from distance which was well over.
63 minutes and nearly an own-goal from Coquelin. His clearance rolls just past Fabianski’s far post! Phew!
Arshavin, Ramsey and Eduardo were brought on after 68 minutes.
79 minutes in and Sidibe broke away down the right and crossed to Fuller who nodded home in the middle. 2-1 to Stoke.
A minute later and could never have been a leveller for Arsenal. Cesc’s free-kick fizzed across the face of Stoke’s goal. Appeals for a corner were turned down.
85 minutes and chance for Ramsey, but he skied his left-footer over the bar from 12-yards out. Disappointing!
1 minute later and game over as Stoke score their third. Etherington crossed and Whitehead was unmarked in the middle to side-foot home from close range. 3-1 to Stoke.
88 minute mark and Tuncay has the ball in the net for a fourth, but was disallowed for handball.
Something extra special was needed for Arsenal to come-back from this and nothing came. Full time score Stoke City 3 Arsenal 1. Full match report here.
We are out of the FA Cup! : ( Disappointing match as I thought we were extremely slow in terms of getting into the game after the equaliser I thought we were beginning to get into our groove but that did not last!
Question for you! Do you think Arsene Wenger was right to start so many “new†players, especially against a premier league side? Thoughts on Sol Campbell’s return as well.
Arsenal 4 Bolton 2
Bolton again today but this time at home! A chance to go top of the premier league tonight, could it be?
Slow start from both teams as they looked to find their feet.
Two early tame efforts from Arsenal as Diaby and Arshavin both shoot from the edge of the box and Jaaskelainen easily saved both.
6 minutes in and Bolton took a surprise lead. Cahill scored with his left foot from eight yards after a knock down from Davies after Arsenal failed to clear. 1-0 to Bolton.
11 minutes in and nearly an equaliser for Arsenal as Rosicky played the ball through on goal for Cesc Fabregas but his shot from five yards to the left of goal was saved by Jaaskelainen.
2 minutes later and Eduardo made a terrific run and took a shot from over 25 yards, which was just over. So close!
21 minutes in and Bolton win a free-kick. 21 Taylor takes the free-kick and it looked to be going into the bottom right corner but Almunia made great save to push the ball out.
In quick succession, Arsenal are awarded a free-kick of their own. Cesc delivered, Vermaelen met the ball with his head but Bolton were able to clear.
26 minutes in and penalty to Bolton after Denilson fouled Lee in the box. Taylor stepped up to take it, Almunia managed to get a hand to the ball but failed to keep it out. Unfortunate! 2-0 to Bolton!
Arsenal looked to find their way to goal but no luck as Bolton pulled their men back time and time again.
34 minutes in and Cesc made a great mazy run to the edge of the Bolton box before feeding the ball into Eduardo in the box. He shot from ten yards but Jaaskelainen gathered.
37 minutes in and free-kick to Arsenal as Eduardo was fouled. He took the free-kick which hit the wall and then was clear. Poor free-kick! Another missed opportunity!
4 minutes later and another free-kick to Arsenal which was floated in by Cesc and Bolton player Davies headed it onto his own crossbar from 10 yards out. Nearly an own goal!
43 minutes and GOAL. Cesc fed the ball beautifully to Rosicky to the right of goal. He shoots from 20 yards and it flew into the net to the left of Jaaskelainen. Great finish!!! 2-1 to Bolton.
1 minute later and it could be all equal as Arshavin feeds the ball into Cesc to the left of goal. He took the shot from 15 yards but Jaaskelainen made a great save to his left.
Half time score. Arsenal 1 Bolton 2.
The game restarted with some early movement form Arsenal but nothing comes of it.
50 minutes in and Cohen ran at the Arsenal box and took a shot from 20 yards but Sagna blocked.
2 minutes later and GOAL. Arshavin’s pass was deflected into the path of Cesc who ran into a tight angle on the right before nut-megging Jaaskelainen!! Game on! All equal at 2-2.
59 minutes in and Arshavin feeds the ball to Cesc. He cut inside before shooting from 20 yards but Jaaskelainen pushed the ball over. Close!
Rosicky passed to Eduardo on the edge of the box but he scuffed his shot and Jaaskelainen easily gathered.
No worries as 4 minutes later Arsenal won a corner. Cesc took the corner, Diaby nods it down to Vermaelen who scored with an effort into the corner from ten yards!! 3-2 to Arsenal!
74 minutes and after being awarded a free-kick, Cesc hit the wall. The ball rebounded to Denilson who shoots from 25 yards out on the right but Jaaskelainen gathered at his second attempt.
82 minutes in and Denilson played a great ball over the top and Cesc latched onto it in the box and went down under a challenge from Jaaskelainen. Replays showed that Cesc got a touch and it should have been a penalty.
84 Taylor has a shot from the left but it goes across goal. Bolton are not out of this yet.
86 minutes and GOAL. Arshavin tried to play a one-two with Eduardo but got the ball back from a Bolton player before slotting home from ten yards on the right. 4-2 to Arsenal. Is this the goal that takes Arsenal top of the premier league?
Could have been five as a stoppage time Eduardo pass to Arshavin who turned Robinson on the halfway line before running at goal and forcing Jaaskelainen to push the ball out for a corner from a close range shot. Wrong decision to go alone as Walcott was clear on the right!
Arsenal see it out! Full-time score Arsenal 4 Bolton 2. Full match report here.
YAY!!! Top of the table!! 
Congratulations to Arsenal!! Fabulous comeback! We always make it hard for ourselves, but glad the job was done. Thought Cesc was superb, he’s in supreme form!
Let me know your thoughts guys!!!!
Cesc on Bolton game + Video link
Captain Cesc Fabregas made his come-back from a hamstrong injury today to face Bolton in the Premier League, in which he scored his fourth goal in three games, helping Arsenal beat Bolton 2-0.
Talking after the match, Cesc said: “Maybe scoring more goals is just luck because when I was younger I had so many opportunities and they weren’t going in.
“But this year they are and it’s important that they keep coming. I have been training for a few years in front of goal and I feel stronger and that helps in the last yards.”
The 22-year-old was also proud of the effort his side put in to claim the three points.
He said: “It is always difficult to come to Bolton and we are proud to win. They are a difficult team to play against and we respect every team, it is important to win again on Wednesday for the title race.”
Arsenal are now only three points behind from leaders Chelsea, and could go top in mid-week if they overcome Bolton once again.
Here is a link to Cesc’s post match interview.Thanks to Taylor for the heads up.
Bolton 0 Arsenal 2
Cesc’s return from injury today, as Arsenal faced Bolton away from home.
Fiery start to the game from Bolton under their new manager. Davies nearly gave Bolton a shock lead inside 40 seconds but he failed to control a low cross from Chung-Yong Lee. 1 minute later and Klasnic has the ball in the back of the net with a rasping finish but he was offside.
Arsenal are soon to get their passing game into effect. Cesc showed some neat control before unleashing a fierce shot across the face of goal. No one can get to the end of it.
7 minutes in and Cesc played a superb through-ball to Eduardo, but Bolton keeper Jaaskelainen was alert to the danger.
12 minutes in and a penalty shout for Arsenal as Eduardo sent in a low cross from the left for Cesc, who seemed to be clipped by Jaaskelainen. Nothing given!
A bit of a sticky moment for Almunia, 16 minutes in, as he failed to catch a floated cross from Cohen to give away a needless corner but made up for it by catching the cross.
19 minutes in and Arshavin showed some great skill in the area, but his left-footed shot was blocked.
At the 22 minute mark, Klasnic got the ball stuck under his feet and squeezed in a shot from just outside the box which Almunia gathered.
25 Arshavin starting to boss the game, cuts inside and his goalbound shot is deflected by Steinsson for a corner which comes to nothing.
28 minues and GOAL! Cesc played a lovely one-two with Eduardo before he drove his shot low into Jaaskelainen’s bottom right-hand corner. 1-0 to Arsenal.
4 minutes later and Eastmond nearly scored on his debut! Cesc sent in the corner and Eastmond volleyed it towards goal but Jaaskelainen made a decent save.
34 minutes in and Cesc goes down in the area under a challenge from Knight. Taylor then sits on top of Cesc and there are some afters but nothing awarded.
Some more afters as Robinson was given a yellow card for clipping Cesc. Rosicky soon followed into the book for body checking one of the Bolton players.
40 minutes and Bolton have another attempt at goal. Lee showed some great control in chesting the ball down and fired in a half-volley from the edge of the area, but his effort was well held by Almunia.
It so easily could have been 2 for Arsenal after 43 minutes. Arshavin got behind the defence and cut the ball back for Eduardo, who fluffed his lines. Cesc ran on to the ball but shot wide of the post.
Half-time score Bolton 0 Arsenal 1.
Bolton got the second half under way and they also had the first chance of the second half as Steinsson released Lee down the right and the South Korean delivered a brilliant cross for Taylor, who couldn’t reach the ball as he crashed into Almunia.
51 minutes in and Cesc curled a free-kick to the far post where Gallas jumped above the defence but headed over.
Bolton seemed to be getting a lot of joy down the right. Some good link-up play again as Lee sent in a cross which Gallas deflected towards the near post, where Almunia saved.
59 minutes in and a good chance for the Gunners as Arshavin cut the ball back for Diaby who flashed his effort well wide.
On the counter, Klasnic sent Taylor clear, but the midfielder shot over when well placed inside the box. Bolton’s best chance of the game!
65 minutes and substitute Merida got in on the action played the ball out wide for Rosicky, whose cross was cleared from the head of Eduardo by Cahill.
70 minute mark and Klasnic beat the offside trap from Steinsson’s pass but he took a shot far too early when he had plenty of time. Just missed the post with a shot across the face of goal.
Arsenal are awarded a free-kick after 75 minutes after Merida was brought down. Vermaelen stepped up to curl it left-footed over the bar. Very close!
In quick succession, Bolton were awarded a free-kick after handball from Vermaelen, which was poor as it hit the wall.
78 minutes and finally the second goal! Cesc surged forward and layed the ball off to Eduardo, who crossed from near the left by-line. Knight headed the ball straight into the path of Merida and he steered it in off the far post with a cool finish. 2-0 to Arsenal.
83 minutes in and another chance for Bolton after Lee set up Taylor on the edge of the box, but again the midfielder couldn’t keep the ball down.
Stoppage time and Arsenal were awarded a free-kick. No more goals as Vela’s shot went straight to the Bolton goalkeeper.
Full-time score Bolton 0 Arsenal 2. Full match report here.
Congratulations to the Gunners!! Welcome back Cesc!! A vital 3 points as the next couple of premier-league fixtures are anything but easy.
I have added some photos of Cesc in the match in the latest photos section!!
Let me know your thoughts on the match as usual.
Cesc: I am only thinking about Arsenal
Cesc still insists he is happy at Arsenal and that there there is still alot for him to do in the Premier League.
Cesc is currently Arsenal’s top scorer with 12 goals. His last appearance was a cameo against Aston Villa, in which he netted two goals. However, the goals and win over Villa was overshadowed as Cesc aggravated his hamstring problem, which he had just returned from.
“There has been talk about Real and Barça since the summer and the only thing I am doing is thinking about my club, Arsenal, and seeing how I can help my team mates,” Cesc said.
“The only thing that concerns me right now is this injury. I want to get over this little muscle problem I have at the moment as soon as possible.”
“I have a cool head, I am very happy at Arsenal and in England and there is still a lot for me to do,” he said. “That’s all I can say. I am not thinking about anything else. I am very content and have a good deal still to do in the Premier League.” Full article here.
I have added a picture of Cesc from Arsenal’s Christmas party which took place earlier on in December at Hakkasan in London.
ALSO, just wanted to take a moment to wish everyone on the site a HAPPY NEW YEAR, thanks for all the support! Here’s hoping 2010 is a great year for Cesc with Arsenal and with Spain in the World Cup.
West Ham 1 Arsenal 2
Arsenal took on West Ham tonight in the 3rd round of the FA Cup at Upton Park. No Cesc Fabregas once again.
Arsenal started the game off with some early keep-ball. However West Ham are soon to get in on the action with some decent possession.
5 minutes in and Arsenal were awarded a free-kick after a challenge on Wiltshere. However Merida’s low free-was poor and Nouble was able to clear the danger.
7 minutes in Diamanti’s corner from the right was punched to the edge of the box by Fabianski. Behrami took control of the ball but his resulting effort was easily blocked.
Some good work from West Ham as they looked strong, early on in the game.
However, Arsenal were quick to recover with s succession of opportunities. 13 minutes in and Vela provides a low cross which is scrambled clear. 1 minute later Merida found space on the edge of the box and drove his goal at goal but it was easily gathered by Green.
15 minutes in and Sagna looked to open scoring with a low cross but Green again gathered easily. 1 minute later and Ramsey drives into the area but runs out of the space. Arsenal were starting to dominate possession at this point.
21 minutes in and Eduardo intercepted a poor pass and drove his effort which was turned behind for a corner.
26 Decent effort from Stanislas as he sends his free-kick narrowly wide of Fabianski’s right hand post.
29 minute mark and Diamanti’s curling effort from the edge of the box was turned behind for a corner by Fabianski.
36 minutes in and Stanislas ran out of space in the Arsenal box but the Gunners were able to clear. 1 minute later Stanislas looked dangerous as he fired a shot wide.
At the 40 minute mark, Vela sent in a driven effort but it was straight at Green.
Extra time in the first half and goal for West Ham. Diamanti ran through one-on-one with Fabianski and he slotted a low effort away from the Arsenal goalkeeper and in off his left hand post. West Ham lead 1-0.
Half-time score West Ham 1 Arsenal 0.
The second half started off with an early attempt to add another to the score-sheet when Nouble fired a low effort narrowly wide of Fabianski’s left hand post.
49 minutes in and Stanislas charged forward to see his driven effort from the edge of the box superbly saved by Fabianski.
51 in and Merida had some space for a shot on the edge of the West Ham box but he sent an attempted pass out of play for a goal-kick. Poor decision.
54 in Sagna’s cross from the right fell to Eduardo in the West Ham box and the striker’s volley was deflected behind.
4 minutes later and Ramsey made himself some space for a shot but he sent a poor effort from 25 yards high over the top of the bar.
62 minutes in and Fabianski does well to claim the ball ahead of Daprela as West Ham’s full-backs continued to offer an attacking threat.
64 minutes in and Diamanti’s free-kick from the left flank was gathered by Fabianski on the edge of his six-yard box. A minute later and Stanislas’ effort from the edge of the box took a deflection to take the pace off the ball and Fabianski easily saved.
69 minutes in and Sagna’s cross from the right is headed clear by Upson. Arsenal were starting to look more dangerous after their double change (Nasri and Diaby).
At the 72 minute mark, Diaby found himself through one-on-one with Green but the goalkeeper stood tall and blocked the shot. The loose ball fell to Song but his effort was deflected behind by another save from Green.
75 minutes in and Nasri’s corner from the left washeaded on by Diaby but Green was aware of the danger and grabbed the ball.
Nasri again had the chance to test Green from the edge of the box but somehow scuffs his volley wide.
78 minutes in Ramsey took control of the ball on the left hand edge of the West Ham box and beat Green at his far post with a powerful effort. Great finish from the Arsenal midfielder. Game on! West Ham 1 Arsenal 1.
83 minutes in and goal for Arsenal! Eduardo beat Green at his left hand post with a fantastic header as he was first to Vela’s cross from the right. Superb header! Arsenal lead 2-1.
It could have been more for Arsenal as 86 Nasri’s corner from the right falls to Song on the edge of the box and he sends a powerful effort narrowly over the top of the bar. Arsenal are on top.
88 minutes in and Nasri’s corner from the right was headed narrowly over the top of the bar by Eduardo. Another good effort!
2 minutes later and Arsenal go close again as Vela’s low effort was bundled off the line by Upson. The Gunners were at this point in complete control of this game.
Extra time and Ramsey could have had himself a second but Green saved his effort. A few fouls were coming in from West Ham and Arsenal were able to see the game out.
Full-time score: West Ham 1 Arsenal 2. Full match report here.
Congratulations to Arsenal! Some scary moments with Arsenal not managing to play their usual game during much of the match but a superb come-back, help thoroughly coming from bringing Nasri and Diaby on.
ARSENAL will now face STOKE CITY in the 4th round and they will be away.
Let me know your comments on the game and the 4th round draw.
Portsmouth 1 Arsenal 4
Arsenal faced Portsmouth on Wednesday, away from home. Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas was missing as he injured himself against the win over Aston Villa, where he scored two goals. Denilson also missing!
The game started off pretty even with both teams playing well.
First save of the match came from Almunia after 10 minutes of play when r, Piquionne’s low effort was easily saved. However Arsenal had no reason to worry the whistle was blown for off-side. Boateng soon added to the chances by sending a driven effort towards the Arsenal goal, however Almunia saved it one again.
13 minutes in and chance for Arsenal. Yebda played a sloppy pass to Arshavin, who nearly took advantage by sending a looping effort over the bar from 20 yards.
Arsenal seemed to be getting into the groove of the game after some early chances for Portsmouth.
20 minutes in and Arsenal were awarded a corner. Nasri delivered from the left and Sagna sent a driven effort towards goal which was saved by Begovic, Diaby looked to reach the rebound but slipped in the process.
27 minutes in and Ramsey did well to win a free-kick on the edge of the Portsmouth box. Eduardo stopped up to take the free-kick, which took a deflection off Kaboul to beat the keeper. Great goal. Arsenal lead 1 goals to nil!!!
33 minutes in and Portsmouth broke forward, Belhadj drove a powerful shot wide of Almunia’s goal.
Arsenal were dominating possession and looked dangerous in their build-up play with some nice passing movements in quick succession.
38 minutes in and Portsmouth seem to have broken Arsenal’s passing flow, however Portsmouth fail to build on their decent possession as Arsenal are quick to win back possession and push Portsmouth back into their own half.
42 minutes in and Arsenal extend their lead as some neat passing led to Nasri powering in a driven effort from inside the box. Arsenal lead 2-0.
The Gunners are in complete control of the game. Half-time score Portsmouth 0 Arsenal 2.
The first chance of the second half fell to Arshavin, whose effort is blocked. 52 minutes in and Eduardo sent a wild half-volley well over the top of the bar.
However, Portsmouth still looked to create some chances when 54 minutes in Belhadj drove a solid effort wide of Almunia’s post.
Diaby looked strong once-again as he looped an effort from the left-hand side, but it went wide.
69 minutes in and Arsenal add a third to the score sheet. Ramsey made space or himself on the edge of the Portsmouth box and fired a powerful shot toward goal. A great finish from the Welsh star! Arsenal lead 3-0.
Both teams continued to work the ball. 74 minutes in and Belhadj takes a shot at goal from 12 yards. Good move from Portsmouth as they bagged their first goal. Portsmouth 1 Arsenal 3.
79 minutes in and Rosicky sent a looping effort over the top of the bar. Not to worry as 2 minutes later, Nasri crossed from the right, Song, who was unmarked headed the ball home for Arsenal’s fourth goal. Arsenal lead 4-1!!!
Late scare for Arsenal when Portsmouth nearly bagged a goal when Borre’s cross nearly met Piquionne.
Arsenal see the game out. Final score Portsmouth 1 Arsenal 4. Full match report here.
Great game for the Gunners! Congratulations to the team! Some fantastic team football, now only 4 points away from League leaders Chelsea, we also have a game in-hand!!!
Let me know your thoughts on the game!!
Arsenal 3 Hull City 0
Arsenal took on Hull City tonight at home in their latest premier league fixture. Arsenal tonight a few regulars, added to Arsenal’s list of injured was Cesc Fabregas, who picked up a hamstring injury in the last game against Burnley.
Bright start for Arsenal with some nice display of their passing flair. However it was Hull City who had the first attempt directly at goal but the effort from Fagan is wide of the mark.
Some good possession for both teams but Arsenal had the best chance of the game so far at 14 minutes when they started to hit their straps. Nasri was set-up by Eduardo after some good play by Song but the Frenchman’s shot was straight at Myhill.
17 minutes in and Geovanni of Hull City won a free-kick in midfield after a scrappy period of play but luckily for the Gunners, the free-kick was taken too quickly and wasted.
23 minutes into the match and Eduardo was able to find some space on the fringes of the area thanks to a fine pass from Eboue. The Croatian striker attempted a curling shot that flashed just wide. So close!
29 minutes in and it was all Arsenal. Eduardo showed his body strength to hold off Boateng and drove the ball into the area. His give and go with Nasri almost gave him time and space for a shot but in the end the ball rolled through for Myhill to collect.
Hull countered through Geovanni whose cross for Dawson caused a moment of panic in the Arsenal ranks but Gallas made a timely intervention.
40 minutes in and with no luck on the way through to goal so they tried to go down the left. Arshavin’s perfectly-weighted cross found the head of Song who dived in to make a decent connection. There was a deflection off a Hull defender though and Arsenal were awarded a corner.
43 minutes and Arsenal won a free-kick, however there seemed to be a massive disagreement and scuffle between both sets of players. Nasri and Hunt are yellow carded.
48 minutes in and Arsenal were awarded another free-kick in a good area.
Denilson stepped up to take the free-kick. The Brazilian’s execution over the ball was sublime and his shot from some 30 yards beat Myhill who failed to make contact after diving to his right. Superb goal! 1-0 to Arsenal.
Half-time score Arsenal 1 Hull City 0
Fiery start to the second half. 47 minutes in and Arsenal had a chance to double their lead. Arshavin skipped past his marker and crossed into the middle. Eduardo picked up the ball but his shot was wide of the target.
Some strong, fast-paced attacks from both sides. The match seemed to have heated up in the second half.
55 minutes in and Hull City are awarded a penalty. It seemed to be a soft one after some mild shirt pulling by Silvestre.
Geovanni stepped up to take the penalty but Almunia saved it. The Hull players tried to get the rebound but failed.
Goal for Arsenal! 59 minutes in Arsenal scored a trademark goal after Song and Diaby toyed with Hull and pierced through the defence. Then Song pushed to the byline and knocked the ball across the face of goal and Eduardo stabbed the ball past Myhill. 2-0 to Arsenal.
Arsenal looked comfortable now, 70 minutes in. Song burst forward again and played the ball to Silvestre who in turn fed the ball to Arshavin. The Russian knocked the ball on for Silvestre but unluckily for the Gunners the ball trickled out for a goal-kick.
72 minutes in and Ramsey’s sloping pass caught Hull square and Eduardo ran in behind the defence. But instead of looking for Arshavin, he somewhat greedily took a shot. Wrong decision!
3rd goal for Arsenal! 79 minutes in and Walcott led a counter. The winger took his time on the ball though and just as it seemed the Tigers had re-organised, Diaby and Song shared passes and gave the ball to Arshavin. He played a beautiful ball through the centre for Diaby who continued his run and although found the back of the net to make it 3-0 to Arsenal.
Could easily have been 4, all but for Walcott’s lack of finish. 88 minutes in and Walcott timed his run perfectly and beat Gardener to the ball. Myhill was forced to rush off his line and Walcott lofted the ball over the Hull ‘keeper only to see theeffort bounce wide of the mark.
Beautiful movement from Arsenal! Vela’s wonderful backheel set Silvestre on his way and he laid the ball off to Ramsey. His lovely shot from range flew just wide of the mark, much to the relief of the Hull City keeper.
Full time score Arsenal 3 Hull City 0.
Congratulations to Arsenal for win and good display despite missing some key players! Special mention for the combination of Song and Diaby, I thought they played really well today. Let me know your thoughts as usual!
Burnley 1 Arsenal 1 + Injury update
A rare mid-week premier league fixture this evening as Arsenal took on Burnley. Arsenal, once again away from home, looking to close the gap between the teams at the top of the table.
A 1st minute chance fell to Arsenal when Burnley man Myers slipped, Cesc Fabregas stole the ball and was able to shoot but the shot was blocked off.
An early chance came with an early scare. Carlisle was able to head a free-kick towards goal, Vermaelen knocked it backwards, which looked to be heading goalwards but fortunately Almunia was able to get a hand on it to direct it onto the bar and off it for a corner. That was a close shave!
7 minutes and a goal! Burnley gave away the ball just outside the box, Cesc was able to dispossess and worked his way to find some space and slotted it in the bottom corner. 1-0 to Arsenal!
A succession of chances for Arsenal after the goal but nothing comes of them all. Cesc made another run into the box, taking a volley which hit the side netting. Then Nasri charged past the defence but his touch was a bit too heavy, leaving Jensen to collect. Vermaelen also took a shot but was well-wide.
15 minutes in and Burnley win a free-kick. Eagles delivered the ball, Caldwell leaped up well, with Almunia nowhere near the ball. Luckily for Arsenal the header was well over.
Arsenal attack again after Nasri and Arshavin combine, Arshavin took his shot, which rattled the left hand post. So close, yet again!
Well past the 20 minute mark and Burnley seem to keep giving the ball away. Arsenal looked to be happy in terms of possession, but the finish still was lacking.
30 minutes in and Burnley were awarded a penalty. Vermaelen left his foot in on a challenge on Bikey. Alexander stepped up to score his 100th penalty in league football. All equal at 1-1.
32 minutes in and Arshavin looked to help Arsenal take the lead once again, almost immediately but his shot was stopped by Jensen.
Another chance for Cesc after he skipped away from McDonald, he planted his shot over the bar though!
37 minutes in and Sagna, Walcott, Fabregas and Arshavin combined. Arshavin took a shot which found its way to the hands of Jensen.
44 minutes in and bad news for the Gunners. Cesc Fabregas was substituted for Ramsey. Cesc seemed to have picked up a knock.
A couple of chances for both sides but nothing of major substance. Vermaelen has a chance at the 45 minute mark to make up for his previous mistake when he leapt to head a corner, but it was well stopped by Jensen.
Half-time scoreline: Burnley 1 Arsenal 1
Early into the second half and Gallas had a pop at goal from a distance. It went straight into the stands.
51 minutes in and some sticky moments for Arsenal. Gallas played a not-so-good pass to Almunia, who did not make the best of clearances. The ball landed to Bikey who fortunately for the Gunners scuffed his shot.
56 minutes in and Walcott seemed to be finally finding the ball, although not too much luck with his decision-making after he chooses to go it alone when he really should have crossed.
60 minutes in and another scare for Arsenal. Eagles went on a run, passing Silvestre with ease. He approached the goal on an angle and fired it in – it rattled off the post.
Arsenal seem to have gone flat in the second half.
68 minutes and Burnley thought they had scored after Fletcher put the ball into the back of the net from a cross, but he was offside!
76 minutes in and Song delivered a good ball towards the path of Eduardo. The Croatian failed to commit and Jensen collected the ball.
78 minutes in and a display of typical Arsenal sharp passing but nothing comes of it. Arshavin got in the box and looked to cut it back, but the Burnley defence managed to clear from a threatening position.
Some nice passing from Arsenal but no way through to goal! 88 minutes in and Eduardo had a shot but once again saved by Jensen.
Closing minutes of the game and Gallas should have scored! A long ball was played in and Gallas could have headed it in. Not enough pace on the ball, so it land in Jensen’s hands.
Full-time score Burnley 1 Arsenal 1.
Full match report here.
Seriously! Very disappointed, even though we did not lose! I thought the first 5 minutes before the goal were shaky and then we had many chances but could not put them away. Then we lost Cesc, I hope he is alright. 
All down-hill from there!
On the bright side, 1 point is better than none.
I have added a number of pictures of Cesc from the match in the latest photos section.
What did you guys think of the match?
Injury update:
Cesc should be back in 10 days. Wenger said: “We’ve not had the scan result yet, the only sure thing is he won’t play on Saturday.
“If it is a tear it is a small one and the maximum would be 10 days. So it is not long-term.”