OK, it was only a pre-season friendly so no panicking, but here was a game that Arsenal were winning 1:0 and playing the better football; then went on to get only a draw and come close to losing. Just the reminder we need or an ominous sign?
Great debut by Marouane Chamakh. He isn’t just the big, traditional centre-forward as billed. He’s got great feet and a great eye for a pass. Very encouraging from the Moroccan. He was deservedly man of the match. Vela replaced him for a short cameo and also made an impact with some chances. Koscielny made a good start too and was looking good with Vermaelen – but for the goal.
The second half substitutions broke up the flow and we began to look a bit sloppy. Mark Randall came on and really should have scored from a double chance in the six yard box.
Then we did something all too typical, a goal conceded from a set piece scored by a late running player. Keep up the hunt for another central defender Arsene, and another defensive midfielder too. There were some good signs for the season today, but some stark reminders too!
