Arsenal America

This is your correspondent reporting live (well, almost) from the suburbs of North West London. I told the Rosenburg lad at the Tbird that we’d win 3-0. I had the right idea, but 5-1′ll do nicely. Not only the win, but as Rick said, top of the group. Not sure what that buys us though, since some pretty decent teams finished second in their groups. But at this stage of the competition there are no easy games.

A terrific display by the lads tonight and goals from Reyes (at last!), Henry, Fabregas, Pires and van Persie and solid performances from everyone. Van Persie caught the eye after coming on as a sub. Nevertheless, we should realize that there is still some work to do defensively. After making an utterly brilliant save, Almunia later didn’t distinguish himself with Rosenburg’s goal, for which the defensive marking was also pretty sloppy. Matters that I’m sure Mr. Wenger is well aware of and knows he must address.

Andrew showed up half asleep from his marathon flight from Hong Kong and added to the occasion. We met again at TBird and I think most of us were pretty upbeat as we entered the stadium. There’s no better tonic than an early goal to settle the nerves, and of course that’s exactly what we got. Other than Rosenburg’s goal, the tackling was crisp the marking was tight and the communication among the lads seemed to be exactly what is needed. In the end it was a pretty comfortable night out for the lads and they now have until Sunday to get ready for the Chelsea game. I personally think they’ll be ready.

Roll on Sunday when the biggest test so far this season awaits.

Signing off from beautiful downtown Pinner.

Dave Connick