We took our chances well, but what impressed me most of all was the return of the pressing game that Chelsea couldn't deal with. It forced them into plenty of mistakes, giving the ball back to us and it gave them little chance to create goal scoring opportunities. Fabregas, Wilshere and Song, you could argue bullied Chelsea's midfield which is ironic what with all the 'Chelsea bully Arsenal in midfield' comments in recent times. I thought all the team were terrific, you couldn't have a go at anybody's performance, it was great to see them play so well. Not only playing good football and putting Chelsea under pressure a lot but defending very well as a team and looking so mature and determined. Maybe this is what would have happened last season if we hadn't had so many injury problems, particularly up front.
One of the outstanding performers was Johan Djourou, who was immense throughout. Strong, determined, alert, brave and clever. Just what you need in a centre half coming up against Didier Drogba, who didn't get a sniff. His positional sense is excellent, his bravery in the challenge (aerially and on the ground) is brilliant and he times his tackles so well. I have always thought him a good player, but this season he has looked fantastic when he has played and is looking more experienced, mature and intelligent.
Another man of the match contender was Alex Song who has come on leaps and bounds this season going forward, his passing is much better, his awareness is, his finishing looks like that of a centre forward. And this is not to mention his brilliant defensive attributes, his positioning, his tackling, his strength. He showed it all last night in another big game performance in a big game.
Another player who's finishing has improved is Theo Walcott, who blasted in another clinical finish. And, like the rest of the team, what impresses me about him is that he did it in a big game at a big time. He didn't do it to get the fifth in a 5-0 win in a champions league group game, he scored a pivotal goal in a massive game. It was similar to his goal at Blackburn where he came in from the right and blasted a low shot across the 'keeper into the bottom far corner, textbook finishing. He makes it look so easy too.
Overall, it was a massive result and a great win and performance, Our big players showed up in the big game, Fabregas was excellent for example, his passing, intelligence and creativity was on fire last night. Lets hope we can kick on now and go on a long run without losing, which we haven't really done yet this season, starting at Wigan tomorrow- and I'll be there to cheer them on!
Come on you Gooners!
Fabianski 7
Sagna 8
Djourou 9- MOTM (just)
Koscielny 7
Clichy 7
Fabregas 9
Song 9
Wilshere 8
Walcott 8
Nasri 8
van Persie 7
Diaby 7
Chamakh 6
Rosicky 6
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