Morning all
Well wasn't that a delight to watch? Not a single fault from the 14 players involved. Top effort boys.
When the teamsheet was released, I was pleased to see both Sagna and Nasri start, and incidentally they were both on the score sheet. Both Arshavin and Bendtner flanked Chamakh and on the whole looked lively.
It took us 5 minutes, and 4 passes to split the Leeds defence open. Arshavin played the ball into Chamakh who dummied to let Nasri take over, and a couple of touches later, that little genius stroked the ball nicely into the bottom corner. Top goal from a top top player. We then dominated for the next half an hour or so. Twice two crosses were smashed along the 6 yard box and Arshavin and then Bendtner were a matter of inches away from connecting. I wonder if those two players were on top of their game those would of went in? More on them later though. It was Bendtner who forced the second goal, his forcing run opened up Leeds, and his heavy touch was cleared by the Leeds defender into the path of Bacary Sagna on the edge of the box. No danger there then, huh? Wrong. Because Sagna released an almighty rocket which flew past the impressive Kasper Schmeichel. Lovely goal and a goal he dedicated to his brother. In Sagna, we have a reliable defender, and he is important to our defence I feel. Great professional.
Then came the Leeds game. And wow. What an unbelievable hit. Arshavin lost out to a bit of strength, and the ball eventually found its way to Johnson. Before you know, top corner. Szczesny had absolutely no chance. I understand everyone loves an underdog, but if ITV could kindly keep their orgasms under wrap, it would make for a much more enjoyable game.
We could of got a third but for a smart stop by Schmeichel from Alex Song within 2 minutes of the second half restarting. Leeds went close a few times but nothing really to worry about. They brought on Somma for Paynter. We brought on Cesc and RvP. Highlights the gulf in quality. Straight away Cesc stamped his authority on the game. His touch, and this season in particular, his driving runs are a joy to see. Leeds had no way of handling him, and subjected him to a few rash kicks. No worries, our leader dusted himself off and got on with the game. Cesc then released Bendtner down the right, and played an absolute peach of a cross to the far post, where Robin van Persie rose to majestically head across goal. Really a stunning goal. That ended the contest. Fair play to Leeds, they contributed to a great cup game, but in the end we were far too classy for them.
Last night, the attitude was absolutely spot on. They all fought for each other, pressing high up the pitch and zipping the ball about. Bendtner and Arshavin, although far from back to their best, showed great signs of revival. Plenty of work rate from the both of them and Arshavin in the first half was much more confident. He also cracked a few smiles. Make no mistake, when he is fit and firing, Arshavin is one of the best in the team, if not the league. Bendtner tracked back the whole game and it was pleasing to see from him. He put himself about and the two players have an assist to show for their efforts. Admirable showing.
Gordon Strachan described Alex Song as the best defensive midfielder in the Premier League. And I agree. Alex Song has grown so much over the past two seasons, his skill and touch on the ball really shouldn't be over looked. Not only does he break up play, he joins in with our attacking play and I have no problem with him venturing forward as long as someone else is staying back. Another fine performance from him.
It is easy to see why Wenger spent money on Koscielny. What a classy defender. Would he look out of place in central midfield? I doubt it. His tackling and passing are so crisp and if he carries on building up his upper body strength, we will have an outstanding centre back. Djourou's presence on the ball is eerily calm. The two of them compliment each other so well.
Another thing that Strachan said was that the way this team have been brought up, our captain doesn't need a screamer or a shouter. Again, I'd have to agree. We need inspiration, and in the shape of Cesc Fabregas, we have a captain who leads by example. At the back, I am pleased by Szczesny's organisation skills and I think we're fine leadership wise.
I said yesterday we need to gain momentum, and that's what we're doing. A run of good performances at this stage is perfect timing. Next Wednesday we have a semi final, and getting a trip to Wembley will keep the momentum in full steam. Before then we have Wigan at home. Display the same attitude in recent weeks, and we will win.
A lengthy post today, but I felt pleased with the boys last night and enjoyed writing this. I hope you enjoy reading this too!
Thanks for your time.
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