It was an admirable and brilliant game last night from Arsenal, who dominated throughout with increasing signs of threatening to progress, and the fact that Monaco had zero shots on target demonstrated that.
Goals from Giroud and Ramsey meant that Arsenal fell short by just one goal, and went out losing on away goals. Yes, I do recognise that the first-leg all but killed the tie, that our diabolical and naive performance meant that the tumultuous task was too much to overcome. However, many fail to acknowledge that last night, Arsenal produced a sublime performance that really showcased their abilities.
The defence in particular was solid, the midfield of Ozil and Cazorla impressive, and Welbeck constantly looked dangerous. Ramsey got on and scored, which will do him the world of good. Last night, Arsenal fought and played out of their skins, but it will be a performance to be easily overlooked due to their own naivety and shambolic performance in the first.
However, I am writing this piece today feeling extremely proud, feeling positive about the team’s valiant effort and character. they should, and must be proud of themselves, leaving the game feeling more confident and stronger, knowing that they can channel this win and positivity into the league and the FA cup, with plenty still to left to play for.
Yesterday’s win, though it fell short of progressing to the quarter-finals, was a result that will definitely maintain momentum, and it’s a win that the team can be proud of. Learn from the mistakes in the first-leg, take in the positives from the second, and with no further distractions, Wenger and his team can fully focus on the league and the FA cup.
The team cannot afford to feel down at the moment, and instead should feel galvanised, knowing that they can beat any team when they’re in this astounding form, winning the last 13 out of 15 games. Inevitably, some have called for the head of Wenger, but I absolutely see no reason in doing so. Compare our abysmal first half of the season and now, its really impressive how we find ourselves in a good position both in the league and in the FA cup. Do they really want to sack the man that has built the empire? Wenger for me, is Arsenal’s most priceless singularity, and I’m not saying this because I’m easily contented with finishing fourth every year, or accepting our mistakes. I’m saying this because there’s nobody else like Arsene Wenger out there, that can really produce a truly remarkable team. Consistency is the most elusive part of football, but Wenger has consistently produced consistency, even with one hand tied behind his back.
Now, he has both reaching out for the gauntlet, and Arsenal are a team on the upward curve, on the rise. Wenger in my opinion, has been brilliant in galvanising the squad to be where they are now, and as they approach the crucial run-in, his presence and experience is all the more vital.
Now Wenger has the task of ensuring Arsenal fully focus on the league and the FA cup, as well as channel this victory into a massive springboard. Can he do it?
You bet he can.
