A few thoughts on Arsenal v Milan

Tuesday, March 6 offered some of the most exciting soccer i have watched on television in years. We all know the story. Arsenal went to Milan two weeks ago and laid an egg. A completely overpowering Milan team finished half their chances and still had a 4-0 lead heading to London... Simple task, don't allow four goals. I am not a huge fan of either. I like Serie A so would not mind seeing Milan advance. I like Arsenal's commitment to wide open, intricate attacking play, so would not mind seeing them win. The match that resulted had me on the edge of my seat. By twenty minutes in, i found myself backing Arsenal.

Arsenal had different plans. Scoring two early goals put pressure on the Milan side. As underwhelming and plodding as the Gunners were in Milan, they were dynamic and overpowering in London. Incisive runs, smart passing and opportunistic goals had the Arsenal faithful believing. Late in the first half, Chamberlain was fouled in the box and the most in form striker this side of Spain clinically buried the resulting PK. At this point everyone believed we were about to witness a historic comeback.

 It was not to be. Milan came out and played a more disciplined and organized second half. Arsenal seemed to play a little "tighter" and the fourth goal was not to be found, even when RvP had what looked to be like the easiest goal of his season thus far. What was amazing about this game was the range of emotions. From the confidence (arrogance?) with which Milan took the field to the cavalier attitude with which the Gunners played. This was dramatic stuff! With each goal, the Gunners got a little looser and played with more belief. Milan got a little more nervous. That was until halftime. It almost felt like had the first half gone on five more minutes, the game would have been tied. The chance to regroup proved all Milan needed.

 So, for Gunner fans, it seems official. Another year without a trophy.
 Just remember, Fourth is the New First.