https://www.bsports.com/statsinsigh...low-arsenals-example-top-4-quest#.VH1O-z9ybIU Interesting analysis of how Arsenal do well by gaining most points against the lower sides and comparing this with Southampton. Apparently Arsenal have repeatedly finished in the top 4 despite not doing that well against other teams that might be considered their rivals, but have an excellent record against lower sides. Suggesting that Southampton could emulate them.
Surprised this didn't get any comments after the media were dissing us about only beating lower sides. These stats suggest what we all know that you get 3 points from every game and we could finish in a high position just by beating teams below the usual top 4-6. A few of the expected title challengers have dropped points against teams like that.
There are only two teams in this league that I thought we would be lucky to take points from this season and they are both above us.
Nothing wrong with being flat track bullies, if it gets the rewards. Arsenal struggle to pick up points, from their peer group, IMO, because of their inability to defend against the better quality forwards/attacks, something they can overcome, against the lesser teams, by outscoring them.
The best two teams (City and Chelsea) tend to change their tactics when they play the top sides. They show them more respect and tighten up in midfield. Arsenal and Southampton are both guilty of thinking they can play the same way, with the same personnel, against everyone.
That's exactly what Southampton do...Koeman has admitted it. We have a good team, but don't have the variety to change things round. Therefore, playing our best squad in the way we are familiar with is the way to beat most teams. It may cause us to come up short sometimes, but over the whole season will probably work.
