So that happened. Last Saturday’s match against Wolves was a forgone conclusion, according to so many people I spoke with, . Surely, Arsenal would dispatch the worst team in the Premier League with ease.
But the Gunners struggled again against another low block side which slowed the match to a molasses level. Ultimately, Arsenal had to rely on 2 Wolverhampton own goals to secure the victory, including one in stoppage time.
Saliba returned as did Trossard but then we lost Ben White for another month with a hamstring injury. Gabriel Jesus was bright in his return and did enough to force the winning goal.
Saw footage of fans leaving the Emirates, prior to our late equalizer and while a common enough occurrence at football grounds all over, not something I usually associate with our dedicated supporters.
Their frustration is understandable. Many Bay Area Gooners discovered Arsenal in the past 5-20 years and it’s not been an easy run since The Invincibles season. A couple of FA Cups and several seasons as runners up.
Then there’s how Arsenal are treated in the English press. From this side of the pond, the bias is so glaringly obvious. No club quite gets the scrutiny or negativity the Gunners do. The criticism of our supposed reliance on set pieces, labeling us “bottlers”, and even attacks on how we celebrate wins.
A homegrown fan once told me that establishment media in the UK has never quite forgiven Arsenal (largely Arsene Wenger) for fielding sides with no English players.
Apparently, there’s a perception Arsenal supporters feel they are better than everyone else, despite the lack of trophies in recent times. For my part, guilty as charged. I cannot fathom supporting City, Chelsea, United, or Liverpool and genuinely believe our club is in a class all its own.
We’ll need maximum effort from the lads Saturday against Everton, as the level of play we saw against Wolves just won’t cut it. Besides, the Gooners at Maggie’s cannot take another like that. I know I can’t. But my support of this club will never waver.
Hanukkah has begun and Christmas is right around the corner. If you need something for the Gooner in your life, we still have scarves and t-shirts available at the pub on most match days. See you Saturday!
COYG!
Best, Mark
Bay Area Gooners 