The Calm After The Storm

 

After the venom of Wednesday night, after listening to Herbie Hancock, Michael Jackson and reminising over Phats and Smalls, an eloquoent purpose swims over me. A cleaness that implores me to do my duty; to write, in truth and honesty, and deliver my own opinions, rather than going with the mass propganda.

The pain of defeat left a taste of suicide. But Arsenal, at the end of the night, were simply blown away by the best team in the league, in Europe, in the world. That is not a statement I type in lightly. Nor should it be forgotten who went out too.

All the events stemmed from an unforunate slip by Gibbs. Specifically, both losses from the F.A Cup semi and Champions League were down to down instruments; the same cause. Inexperience. Gibbs showed despite his bravery, he was caught out of position. Likewise, Fabianski did not have his best of games at Wembley. Unfortunately, this did not reflect the season he has had. I can think of numerous occasions where Lukasz made point blank saves, alongside commanding his area. The latter, however, isn’t his strongest point.

The summer is a focal point because many see the chequebook needing some sunshine. However, with Arshavin eligble for all games next year and loking like a young Freddie Ljunberg, Andre should set the pace for what will be a competitive squad. Rosicky, with any luck, should return from the dead. Eduardo will have a summer to return to proper fitness. And with no international tournament, its generally a time to relax and look forward.

The season hasn’t been all that bad. We only seem it so because of the rollercoaster ride if 2007/08, where we set the pace after a long while. It seems like we’ve taken a step back, and in many ways we have. But if we took a step back in the beginning of the season, we’ve taken 2 steps forward in the second half of this season. The signs are that a new team with Arshavin, Nasri, Cesc and Walcott at the heart. Whats not so sure is the defence and attack. Will Gallas and Toure work? Will Adebayor get his socks up? Who’ll come and go?

Saxophones blow. There is a quiet, new found determination. Perhaps not the exhuberance of the flag waving Wednesday evening. But a feeling of human proportions; that we shall be better. Success isn’t guaranteed in life. The same applies to football. But I feel that it is not far enough, so be patient, be happy, be a Gooner.