Heady times for Gooners. VAR finally made a correct call in our favor against West Ham on Sunday, preserving our lead on Man City. As Jonathan Wilson of the Guardian correctly opines, David Raya was being fouled by not one, but two different Hammers, and Callum Wilson’s late equalizer was rightly chalked off.
The level of media consternation around the decision was staggering, but expected as the UK press’ anti-Arsenal bias is a long-standing tradition. However, the level of vitriol from supporters of pretty much every other club has been confounding.
You’d expect it from West Ham, City, and Spurs fans, but we’re getting it from supporters of all 19 other clubs. For a Man U supporter to favor City winning the title over us, beggars belief, because (checks notes) supposedly there’s an age-old rivalry there.
I’ve heard it chalked up to Arsenal playing “negative football” and our “insufferable fan base”. We’d all love results built on the back of beautiful, free-flowing footy, but that’s not this team and ultimately, winning is all that matters.
As to our fan base, toxic fan outlets like AFTV put us in a negative light. I don’t give them any air or want them anywhere near the club I love, but what can you do. But with racist Chelsea fans or Man City supporters who wear their financial irregularities as a badge of honor, somehow we’re the worst?
The really sad news this week was the loss of Ben White for the rest of the season. “Benny Blanco” has been a mercurial but beloved figure for Arsenal and Arseblog offers this lovely tribute here.
Arsenal’s last home match of the season against Burnley was moved to next Monday, May 18th, which sucks for UK and US fans alike. Weekday matches are a big ask for most of us working stiffs here. Meanwhile, the evening match in London, means the traditional players’ “thank you” lap, won’t occur until after 10:00 pm local time, impacting the trip home.
Still all to do for the Gunners as City won their game in hand and we just need two strong performances to get us over the line.
Arsenal are on the precipice of the title with just two matches to go. For many at Maggie McGarry’s, it would be the first major trophy in their tenure as Arsenal supporters.
UPCOMING MATCHES AT MAGGIE’S – IMPORTANT!
Many US Arsenal supporters groups have made the last match of the season and the Champions League Final ticketed events, to manage capacity at their venues.
Currently, both matches at Maggie McGarry’s will be first come, first serve for anyone, 21 and over. However, we are trying to arrange a nearby all-ages viewing location as well as prepare for overflow.
I will alert Gooners through the usual channels (here and social media) when/if new details are finalized.
Hope to see you next Monday at the pub!
COYG!
Best, Mark
Bay Area Gooners 