Arsenal to win the World Cup …
Posted by Martin in Arsenal, World Cup | 17 May 2006
Well that was comment from one of the commentators at the start of the Arsenal – Barcelona match. Must has been a slip of the tongue, since from my recollection Arsenal only had 2 English players on the pitch, Cole and Campell.
Well, what a game, was the ref right to give a free kick and send Lehmann off, or should the goal have been allowed and Arsenal given the opportunity to continue the match with 11 men ? That was the debate in the pub where myself and David watched the game. Personally I think the goal should have been given, at least it would have made it a more fair contest. But I have to say, that was about the only correct decision the ref made. Henry was right to be rather upset (unusual for Henry) about the refs performance.
The free kick that ended in a goal from Campbell, didn’t look like a foul to me, although what a great goal. And every time a Barca player went down it seemed to be a free kick against Arsenal.
Despite being down to 10 men, Arsenal gave a solid performance, Campbell, Cole performing well, Almunia producing some great goal keeping and Ljungberg, what speed down the left, astounding.
So despite losing, at least Arsenal have another chance next year in the Champions League. Which is more than can be said for Spurs !
Thanks.
Martin
