Another 1-0 win, and it's another Champions League for us. We finished 1 point ahead Tottenham. I'd be lying to say this is a beautiful win, but ultimately, it was a very crucial three points via ugly win - I lost count how many times we did that this season.
Arsenal was poor in the first half, as they rarely create chances, and Newcastle was the better team in the first 45 minutes, although the scoreline was 0-0. Second half, Arsenal started brightly and Laurent Koscielny scored his goal - like last season - to ensure another Champions League in 16th consecutive season for Wenger. It's never easy to hang on to a slender 1-0 win and the team deserves the credit, especially the defence.
Koscielny deserved credit in this match. Undoubtedly he was man of the match for today. One acrobatic clearance, one steal in the penalty area, 90 minutes of superb defending, plus the winning - and acrobatic - goal. His partner, Per Mertesacker also deserved praise for being solid alongside Laurent. He made one crucial block inside the 6 yard box to keep the clean sheet.
Aaron Ramsey looks solid replacing Arteta in deeper role in three midfield but Alex-Oxlade Chamberlain were surprisingly playing well through the middle. I was surprised to see him playing down the middle when he came in to replace Arteta, as I expected Cazorla to play in the AMC and Chamberlain playing down the left. But he was playing quite well, and next season we might see Ramsey - Chambo - Jack in the central of the park, a very offensive midfield trio, but I would love to see Arsenal with British core next season.
Walcott was dangerous but he still lacking final product - only hitting the post today. He might have been provided the freekick causing the goal, but in open play, he still has room to improve, and I'm still hoping for more improvement from him next season, especially in the decision making.
For the negative side, I think Cazorla was not at his best today, might be because he is a bit overplayed. He was played more than any other player this season, and Wenger need to be more careful playing him next season in my opinion. Podolski, once again, was anonymous, but in the other hand, the midfield didn't supply him with good passes.
4th place means another Champions League football, and this means Arsenal would have more power to attract player - compared to non-UCL club (like Sp*rs). Arsene needs to spend this summer. I can't see this team challenging for trophy. There should be more booster this summer, and I'd expect one or two marquee signings this transfer windows.
Well, we haven't been qualified directly to the Group Stage, but we are
seeded for the play-off for Champions League. We're just 180 minutes
away from the Group Stage. And as we are seeded, we won't face the likes
AC Milan / Olympique Lyon, should they qualify to the Champions League.
Thus, Arsenal has a fairly decent chance to go to Group Stage! Or great chance if they sign one or two world class players.
PS : Happy St. Totteringham's Day!
