One Defensive Mistake...(at Arsenal, 05.01.11)

Hello,

Derek in for Dan again.

If you do not count the handball from Vidic, there was one defensive mistake in the game which counted for a goal. All thanks to Park who, for some reason, tracked back somewhat and then just stopped and decided to watch the game along with the rest of us allowing Ramsey the space to shoot and score.

The 1-0 has now blown the Premier League title race wide open as United's lead remains at just three points to Chelsea, whom they face next week at Old Trafford.

Coming off a loss, people asked me what do you expect from Arsenal. I said I expect possession at home, fancy plays but not a lot of real chances and that is exactly what happened. Arsenal dominated possesion in the first half (something like 67%) but really did not have any real chances save the Vidic handball. By the way, we do not know if that would have landed on Van Persie's head so one could say that was not a real challenge either. United's defense were solid, closing shooting lanes and intercepting passes. The problem was, our midfield could not hold onto the ball. I will say that Arsenal showed more guts than usual. I have watched 17 Arsenal games (besides the United ones) and I, like a lot of pundits, believe that Arsenal lack something special, maybe heart and confidence. Do I think Arsenal played well: yes and no. They did not create much even after the goal when United were stretched. On every Arsenal counter attack, United's defence pushed them wide, allowing players to get back into position. Personally, I think the lack of Nasri and Fabragas were missing after the first goal on the counters.

United just lacked the creativity in attack. That was the problem. No Giggs? Maybe that is the problem but Anderson is definately a problem. There was a point where Anderson could have ran into open space in the box but he hesitated. That hesitation have Arsenal the time to close the space and Anderson has no lane to shoot. He is lacking in confidence and ability which allows for the defensive mid-field to push up because he is not afraid of Anderson coming up. Giggs always looks like he is going to attack and gets into the minds of the defense.

Marks:
Park - C (for inconsistancy)
Hernandez - D (did nothing)
Anderson - D (do something please)

Now, as for Vidic: that was stupid and could have easily been a red card. My question is why did he do it? Did he know he could not reach the ball with his head and felt Van Persie could score?

Anyway, Sunday = big game.

Derek