This team can defend absolutely brilliantly. Very non-traditional Saints defence. I wondered whether we might see a game like that. Sacrifice possession in favour of keeping our shape. I thought we cleared the ball when needed and carried the ball out when timely also. VVD was nicely arrogant doing that run out and into Arsenal's half. When he decided not to do anything with it I knew Koeman had instructed them to waste time. Targett was a smoothie with his walk towards the touchline [as if to take the throw-in] only to get himself into position. Brilliant cool headed stuff.
Got the ball off Ozil when he was looking threatening (I think it was Ozil). Tracked back well. Set up Pelle about ten yards out after holding onto the ball in a bit of a scramble. Not too shabby at all. Vin
In contrast to some others, I thought Juanmi did alright when he came on. It was backs to the wall time at that point and he contested the ball well - which I was worried he wouldn't. He was also fairly solid on the ball. Not sure what anyone wanted from him...
If Sadio had been de rigeur and fallen over as Gabriel slid into him, we'd have won that too! So Tom, can you see anything other than a defeat yet? Good performance - didn't think it was quite as good a game as some think, but gritty and ballsy in that second half from us. I hope Sadio gets one off his arse at some point too, he desperately needs it. Fraser is just a wall. Magnificent. Imagine how much that positively impacts the mindset of the whole defence.
No buts... he was all right. That nick off Ozil was beautiful. Ozil barely knew the ball was gone. It didn't break his stride. Juanmi just came away with the ball.
What a crazy, crazy season. 6 points behind 5th placed United and 6 points ahead of 15th placed Bournemouth. Keep on defending like in the last 4 games and 5th place is STILL an option.
A quick glance at the table and Saturday is a massive match(aren't they all). Five points behind the hammers in sixth. If we lose then I think any lofty top 6 ambitions can be forgotten.
And to think a few weeks ago, some were calling for Koemans head? A week [or two] is a long time in football.
Great defensive performance especially after RK breaking up our ever so successful 3-5 at the back. Our front three added very little and didn't take much advantage of the opportunities but everyone else deserves a medal. Hope Austin is available for Saturday
Look, I still don't agree with the team he put out, or the formation. Arsenal were all over us by the sounds of it and it was only Forster (and JWP) who prevented Arsena winning by 2 or at least. Oh sorry, I'm not allowed to even be a tiny bit negative am I?
