post match (vs boro)

It was a test that proves too hard for Arsenal to take, emerging from its first loss of the season. Finally, some dosage of down-to-earth reality seems to set in. It is not totally surprising, judging from the loss of much creative flair and moving-forward seen in the Boro match. Flamini, Fabregas and Helb were absent with injuries, who are, otherwise in normal circumstances, the catalysts who will get the squad engine going to create the spaces and provide supply to Adebayor; if not taking it upon themselves to score. Despite the return of Giberto and Denilson at midfield, it is obvious that they need time to re-adjust and accustomed to the team. To be fair, Sagna, Gallas and Clichy did double-up as attack but there is a limit as to how much their fitness can carry them through. It does not help when they have to play such a tight schedule of matches back-to-back in this crucial month.

The resilience of Arsenal will continue to be tested in the new year despite Wenger’s insistence of re-deployment of his players instead of getting new players. The plus point of the post-Henry squad has been so far, characterized by consolidated teamwork and not relying on star individuals to get the job done. Yet, this poses an increasing hindrance as the season is played on, piling injuries and everyone’s role gets stretched, blurred and not defined. A fit-again Van Persie could anchor its attack and leave the other players to major on the major. The January transfer window provides an opportunity to persevere Wenger’s work, to cover in defence as both Toure and Eboue will be on African Cup duty. A better way of staying at the top might be very well lies in playing smartly and scoring early, less on beautiful football philosophy. These ingredients of pragmatism and effective scoring will ensure that the title race is still within sight for the club.