In truth, we looked no better today than we did last game, but one killer play sent the three points our way. Giroud, who worked hard but looked off the pace for much of the game, cushioned a header perfectly into recent substitute Welbeck's path in the box and he lashed it between a defender's legs and past the goalkeeper. Norwich had more good chances, it seemed to me, but never managed to beat a very sharp Cech.
I did a lot of screaming again, especially in the second half after our goal, as time after time our men tried tricks and flicks, losing the ball, instead of controlling possession and working things for a good shot while pulling Norwich back and forth. They didn't have to boot it down field at every opportunity; they just had to make high-percentage passes. Coquelin shored things up. Ramsey was a frequent offender.
I think everyone in the park but Wenger would have started Welbeck. I love Giroud, but he's been flat for pretty much the whole calendar year. Iwobi wasn't really clicking either. Alexis did what he could, but it wasn't his day. The defense was solid and had to be, given the toothless offense. Ozil keeps putting good balls in, but we can't do anything with them.
We needed this win. It should have been a lot easier. But assuming a win at home against Villa, Man U would have to be perfect to nip in ahead of us even if we lose to City. They have a couple of really tough games coming up, and 4-0-0 is asking a lot. But since it's possible, getting at least a point at the Etihad is vital--and I don't see why we shouldn't go there to pinch three.
No comments:
Post a Comment