Gooners could be forgiven for running through all the feelings this week, where Arsenal are concerned. Elation over Martinelli’s late equalizer against City, frustration over not getting the win, sadness over Noni Madueke’s injury, and joy again over Eze’s first goal and a midweek League Cup win.

This Sunday, it’s Newcastle away, and in recent years, trips to Tyneside have not been easy for the Gunners. But the Magpies are currently struggling to find their groove, following the departure of their top striker Alexander Isak to Liverpool. Still expecting a tough match, but hoping Arsenal do the business.

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Great turnout for the City match and a phenomenal atmosphere. Unfortunately, an Arsenal supporter visiting Maggie’s for the first time, decided to antagonize City and Arsenal fans alike before being tossed out and banned from returning.

This was definitely someone with preexisting issues, but the bottom line, people who try to start some sh*t, get asked to leave and not come back.

Maggie’s is meant to be a safe, enjoyable space for everyone, so if you run into any problems, alert Mick, Maggie’s owner or one of the bartenders.

I won’t make it Sunday, but hope to see you at the pub soon!

COYG!

Best, Mark

Arsenal opened their Champions League campaign Tuesday with a 2-0 win against Athletic Club. A much maligned Gabriel Martinelli scored within a minute of coming on as a second half substitute. He did so with an assist from another forgotten man, Leandro Trossard. In the dying moments of the match, Gabi would return the favor so Trossard could add a second. Nice to see these two essential in the Gunners’ win.

Now all heads turn towards Sunday as Manchester City visit the Emirates. City are off to an uneven start, winning their opener, losing to Tottenham and Brighton, before demolishing a hapless Man United.

Over the years, a Man City supporters group sprang up at our home pub, largely because Mick, one of the owners, is a long-time City fan. They don’t have our numbers but manage to turn up when playing Arsenal.

These matches are casually known as the “Maggie McGarry’s Derby” and we have a framed dollar bill for the winning side. After his passing, the trophy was renamed for legendary Gooner bartender, Patrick Dunphy.

We ask all Gooners to help maintain an amiable atmosphere and not let things get too contentious. Our group’s informal edict is to keep the banter civil and friendly, while Maggie’s owners (Mick and Mairéad) insist the pub be a safe space for all supporters.

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We had a nice little turnout last weekend for the 4:30 am win over Nottingham. 20 or so local and visiting Gooners cemented their legend status. My hope for Sunday is that we outnumber the City fans exponentially as usual.

If you want a seat, get there early. Gooners turning up right at kickoff will have a challenge getting in the door. Hope we’ll see you at the pub!

COYG!

Best, Mark