Breathtaking game has ended in a disappointment for Arsenal, for not getting away with three points. It was a game of two halves, first one Arsenal were timid, not much in control, lots of chances given to Liverpool. Thankfully Arsenal were just a goal behind in that half.
Then came the second half, Arsenal felt a bit different, yet against the mood, Liverpool scored a second. Now if it was a Manchester United or Chelsea or Manchester City at this point, they would have closed the gates, however Liverpool being Liverpool, Arsenal always were in with a chance.
Second Half
Arsenal responded in style, a goal in the next minute to make it 1-2. Sanchez made a good move, and the header was just what the doctor ordered. Within the next 5 minutes Arsenal scored another two to take the lead at 3-2. Of the goals, the third one was the classiest, the one two passing, and the finish was icing on the cake.
Again if it was a Manchester United or Chelsea or Manchester City at this point, another goal to kill the game, with additional defensive solidity to shore the lead and keep it. Now it was the turn of Arsenal to be Arsenal, allowing Liverpool back, defensive misjudgment and Liverpool was back.
Young Push
Arsene Wenger needs to be given credit for starting Maitland-Niles, and giving him a big game to cut his teeth. Maitland-Niles was part of the defensive mistakes that led to the first goal, however it’s good learning for him. I think players that get into big games, get a confidence boost that helps them become better players, and Arsenal do need someone to crop up from their ranks, it’s been awhile since the class of Van Persie, Fabregas, Nasri era, where Arsenal had a good crop of young upcoming talent.
Wilshire
Wilshire’s gradual return into the first team is again showcasing Wenger’s man management, and injury rehabilitation program. Europa to Cup games, then substitute and now the starting XI, Wilshire’s journey is showing promise, and he has matured as a player, plus he plans to extend his contract with Arsenal, makes him a an asset going forward.
I would still like Ramsey back into the squad, having Wilshire gives those additional options, maybe use both!
Intensity
The game was intense, especially the second half, Arsenal did show good spirit in getting back from 2 nil down to take the lead, however Liverpool did push for the third one very hard. Arsenal have shown against the likes of Manchester United that they break any organized defense if given enough time, Liverpool high press choked Arsenal of time. I think both teams need to learn game management, other top managers would have figured out a strategy to maintain the lead, once they got it. However then the game would not be entertaining!
The game does nothing to the league table, both teams stay in third and fourth places, however it gives chance to Burney to leapfrog both and take the fourth spot.
Arsenal need to push fast and challenge Chelsea for the third spot, because just focusing on the fourth spot is risky, towards the end of the season it will become more tight, and Arsenal risk another season in the Europa if fortunes do not change fast.
In conclusion, the game was entertaining, but in the context of the league, both teams are having too many entertaining games, and very few points to show for it. Arsenal famously don’t do business in January window, however this seems a window where Arsenal need some shopping , A defender might go a long way in improving league position. The prescription is a proven defender with Premier league experience is needed to make an impact, Virgil van Dijk ! (I know its not happening, but you can always hope!)
No Comment