Will Arsenal lament their squandering leads?
Premier League: talking points from the weekend action. Although the proverbial “2-0 is the most deadly scoreline in football” has long since been abandoned, Arsenal is making a strong argument for its reinstatement. The only time a team at the top of the Premier League has ever done so, Mikel Arteta’s team wasted away a hard-earned two-goal lead for the second straight week in a manner unbefitting of title contenders. There is still time for them to make that right, but following a run of seven victories, the sense of stopped momentum will need to be restored before the trip to Manchester City on Wednesday, from which Arsenal must earn a victory in order to keep City from passing them by. Not this season’s defeats will be their worst regret if they fail to achieve so. Arsenal had lost a lead four times before against teams they should have easily defeated. This was the fourth time they had done this. The last two weeks have illustrated how a see-sawing thriller can also have the reverse effect, as proven by Arsenal’s thrilling victory over Bournemouth last month.
Premier League: talking points from the weekend action
Antony displays his abilities. United
The entire season, Antony has demonstrated his exceptional talent. The Brazilian winger can create issues by cutting in from the sidelines, sliding past defenders, and displaying skills others can only imagine. However, the former Ajax player has been erratic, resentful, and overly animated on the ball. He scored the opening goal for Manchester United against Nottingham Forest and set up the second with some deft ability and a brilliantly placed ball. Some of his shortcomings include the fact that he was frequently predictable due to the weakness in his right foot, that he dribbled the ball out of play with some meaningless talent, and that he did not pursue crosses at the back post. He is only 23 and playing in his debut Premier League season, something we must not overlook. His advantages outweigh his disadvantages, and he has already demonstrated that he can contribute to United for many years to come.
