Nov 30 2008
Robin Van Persie Arsenal’s Hero
photo: Paul Blank
So Chelsea’s undefeated home streak has officially come crashing down this season. Two losses in the last few weeks have to start rocking the Blues confidence, especially when the match ends 2-1 with Arsenal scoring all goals, and the home side never dominated without creating really one convincing opportunity. My criticism was of Arsenal’s attack and defence before today, but apparently I should have saved all that for Chelsea.
You’d think with 60% possession Chelsea would have been able to produce more, but only managed 2 unconvincing shots on target, to Arsenal’s 7. But the Blues just never looked like they had that extra bit to pull the trigger. In fact even the own goal conceded by Djourou looked as though it would have gone past any blue shirts and out into touch had Djourou not stupidly played the ball.
Chelsea were useless, with Nicolas Anelka completely gun shy in the box all match, and Kalou not much better. Lampard managed a few shots, each of which not up to the England mans standards by any means.
No, the story here was all Robin Van Persie, who showed that the Dutchman should always be a first choice for Arsenal, when available. As an Arsenal side that looked to be beaten despite having half a match to play, Van Persie had enough commitment to put them ahead, and he only needed three minutes to do so.
Arsenal are well and truly back in the title race, and Chelsea could suffer a real blow to their campaign, as Liverpool has a prime chance to pull adrift of the Londoners on Monday when they face West Ham, and try to take the lead in the Premiership once again.
