Post Match: Arsenal vs. West Ham (2-0)

By: Dan | January 1st, 2008

A very nice win. Eduardo scored within the first two minutes with the most clinical of strikes. Fabregas played a flawless cross into the area, and Eduardo cushioned the ball with his chest before hitting the far side netting. Fantastic goal, and one unusual in this team of missed chances. Adebayor showed his ability to make impossible shots more often then easy ones as he scored from the touchline, curving the ball around the defender before bouncing off the post into the net after a flawless Clichy long ball. A great win on a day that Manchester United struggled to beat Birmingham.

Match Highlights:
http://www.d1g.com/video/show/1651881

The game was a great way to start the year. Fabregas seems to have finally recovered from his injury and began to push forward and dictate the game by his own terms. The midfield which was so weak against Everton regained its composure, and this was the best game Arsenal has played in quite a few games. Clichy would take my Man of the Match however, as he was honestly flawless. He oozes confidence and though his forays to the attack were toned down, every cross he made was perfect. He delivered another assist with a long ball, and his defensive play is stunning. I can’t thank Ashley Cole enough for leaving and letting Clichy take his spot.

This was also the final game by Eboue and Toure before they leave for the African Cup of Nations. Eboue’s absence will allow younger players more playing time, but Kolo “The Rock” Toure will be missed. He and Gallas have formed a capable partnership in the back, and I am a little nervous about the alternatives (Senderos, Song and Djourou). But, I don’t think a panic buy over the transfer window is really necessary. The January schedule isn’t the most difficult, and I think if Senderos has a consistent run of games he could impress. I do have confidence in Wenger to decide though, and I’m not too worried.

Today could also have been the last appearance of Lehmann (he was actually laughing on the bench, a smile replacing the customary scowl). Mad Jens will be missed, but I think Arsenal could be fine despite his absence. Almunia looks more and more capable, and Fabianski is definitely a young talent. We go into the new year in first place, looking very qualified to hold our place. The new year looks great for the Gunners.

Arsene Wenger’s New Year’s resolution:

“To give absolutely everything I have, every bit of energy to make this Club successful, and make this team successful, because I feel it’s a pleasure to work with the team and they give absolutely everything as well, so I want to give everything to make this team successful, because I feel it’s a pleasure to work with the team and they give absolutely everything as well.”

Have a happy new year.