A Win At Last

Culminating the end of Arsenal's worst ever run in the Premiership was a great comeback victory against an ailing Bolton. Granted that this was against a Bolton fighting to stay in the Premiership rather than an Europe chasing Bolton, the victory was not all that awe inspiring.

However, the manner in which Arsenal did win would have been a tremendous boost ahead of the Champions League tie. A man down and two goals behind at half time, no on gave Arsenal a ghost of a chance. Well, not in the current Arsenal's form or past results at Reebok Stadium anyway.

It really shouldn't have been so hard, for Arsenal had far the better chances to score and was dictating the game. Sucker-punch against the run of play cause them to trail behind at the break. Again it was Gallas who was found wanting. How Matt Taylor could ghost in unnoticed for a glancing header was beyond me. Already lacking in leadership, now his positional strength is coming into question.

Looking back at the game, I'm baffled to remember what provided the impetus for an Arsenal comeback. There was no one who was particularly exceptional. They were still spraying the pass around and attacking in drove without being threatening. But still they managed to put 3 past Bolton's Asian keeper.

This means that when push comes to shove, Arsenal can provide the finish but in a more simplistic manner. No one could argue that on their day, Arsenal can play everyone off the park. But it is days like this which is crucial for the title cause. Not anywhere near as impressive but still able to conjure up 3 goals to seal a valuable win.

For once, the doggedness and determination must come to the fore and the flair and beauty needs to lie in the shadow.