Best Game I've Ever Seen Live! #2

This is the second entry to the new "Best Game I've Ever Seen Live!" feature on DMF's Football World. This time, it's written by another Arsenal fan - but one who writes for the fun of it, Frankie Hobbs. You can catch him on Twitter on @FrankieHobbs.

When I thought about writing this, there were many factors and variables to consider. What makes a good game? Does standard of football outweigh the atmosphere of a match. Then of course there is the result of the team you supported. But the game I’ve chosen, I believe, is a great blend of them all, and I’ll now explain why I’ve chosen Tottenham vs. Arsenal, in the Carling Cup, as ‘The Best Game I’ve Ever Seen Live’.

Tottenham 1-4 Arsenal
Carling Cup 3rd Round

Prior to my visit to the away section of White Hart Lane, I had never travelled away with Arsenal. After being fed up with the poor atmosphere that comes with the Emirates, I hadn’t gone to an Arsenal game in about a year. Most Arsenal fans would tell you just how hard it is to get tickets to away games. So when I found out the opportunity to go to the Arch-Rivals, in their own ‘back-yard’ arised, I grasped it with both hands.

As previously stated, I had never been to an away game, so it was to be a learning curve. I had heard stories of how much better the atmosphere is in the away end, and with the opponents being Tottenham, it was sure to be a fiery atmosphere.  It didn’t disappoint.

From the first minute until the last, the atmosphere created was electric. Credit to Spurs fans who supported their team very well, but on this Tuesday night, everything just ‘clicked’ for Arsenal. It started well, with Arsenal controlling the opening segments of the derby, and a young Jack Wilshere was the dictator in most of this. This vast possession and control of the game payed off when Henri Lansbury, whom was making his first start fro Arsenal, slotted in a goal from a Jack Wilshere cross.  This was actually down the opposite end from myself, but this didn’t stop the celebration that was about to occur. I’ve never experienced anything like it, in my life.  This one shot, from an Arsenal player, had caused the 3,000 Arsenal fans to celebrate as if their life depended on it.  You see, when a goal goes in at the Emirates, against a lower league team, it’s great. Everyone’s happy, a cheer rises, etc. But when there’s a goal, in your arch-rival’s ground, to take the lead, it’s almost too good to be true.

Jack Wilshere had a marvellous game, bossing the midfield for Arsenal.

Spurs did show some fight in the second half of the first, but to no avail. Sandro was the only player showing some fight, but nevertheless, the two teams went in at half time, with the Red side of North London winning  1-0. The Arsenal fans were delirious, after such a strong showing in the first half. Perhaps too confident, as Tottenham hit straight back through substitute Robbie Keane. Deflation. Hearing the home fans cheer whilst you and your ‘army’ are silent is one of the weirdest emotions. The 45 minutes of domination had just been cancelled out, in a mere matter of a minute. The game continued, with a few good chances missed. As time drew on, the fans became nervous, and at times, the atmosphere was very eerie.  As the game drew to a close, neither side had outscored the other. The two North London giants couldn’t be separated, so onto extra time we went.

As if from no-where, the Arsenal fans gained an extra pair of lungs. The chants were strong, and meaningfull, Arsenal were out to prey on Spurs’ nervousness, and they did.  Frenchman Sebastion Bassong brought down Fan-Favourite Samir Nasri for a much needed penalty. Nasri obliged, and Arsenal were ahead. From what I can remember, the chant of Samir Nasri to the tune of ‘Baby Give it Up’ rang around White Hart Lane for the rest of the piece. And in that time, Arsenal had time to slot away 2 more goals, through Nasri and Arshavin respectively. We’d done it. White Hart Lane conquered, and despite it being the Carling Cup, getting one over your neighbours is the best feeling in the world; and didn’t we have a sing-song. Just check youtube.com for the various taunts directed at Spurs fans. ‘is there a fire drill’ as they started to leave is a personal favourite of mine.

I made my way home, safe in the knowledge that I had followed my team, to a victory over the enemy. Many people would question why a Carling Cup 4^th round game would be the best game I’ve ever seen. But, it’s simple, the range of emotions felt over that one night, will never be repeated again. I might not ever get another chance to sit at Row 8 in a North London Derby.  This game, made me more passionate for the special club, that is Arsenal. That’s why this was my favourite game I’ve ever seen live.

Picture taken on my phone pre-game

Best Game I've Ever Seen Live! #1

This is a new feature on DMF's Football World, where I will try and get as many guest writers in to write about their best experiences at a football match. It could be non-league to a European final, as it's all a personal opinion.

Our first guest is Joss Bennett. He currently writes for Arsenal Report, an excellent website dedicated to all things Arsenal, as well as having many opinions on multiple things via his personal Twitter account - @JossBennett.

So without further ado, here is Joss Bennett's "Best Game I've Ever Seen Live!".

Arsenal 3-1 Chelsea:  December 27^th 2010

Last season (the one just gone by) I had fairly regular access to season tickets at The Emirates, so the experience of walking up Holloway Road with my dad, walking into the Media Office, collecting the tickets, and taking my seat quickly lost its specialness (it’s a word, I checked).

But playing Chelsea – or at least, a member of the infamous ‘Big Four’ – is always a special occasion. The closest to a rival game I’d had before this was a boring 1-1 draw against Tottenham Hotspur, as well as the 2-2 draw at home to Barcelona (a game I considered when writing this article, but spurned in favour of Chelsea) so this game was a welcome change.

Of course, we hadn’t beaten Chelsea since Robin van Persie’s second half brace at Stamford Bridge in 2008, so nerves were expected – particularly after the 1-0 defeat at Old Trafford on Boxing Day. But, as ever with the amazingly inconsistent Emirates crowd, the fans created an incredible atmosphere which the players thrived in and Arsenal’s first half performance soon quelled any nerves.

Van Persie, back from injury, undoubtedly had the best chance of the first half for Arsenal. After a nervy start by both sides, Alex Song clipped the ball to the far post from an advanced midfield position, but the Dutchman volleyed the air, rather than the ball, into the roof of the net.

Then the breakthrough. And what a break-through. We certainly deserved to be going into half-time with a lead, but it was so satisfying to do it the ‘Arsenal way’. Passing the ball in neat, tippy-tappy square movements until someone is 10 yards out and only has to beat the ‘keeper – which Alex Song did emphatically.

Naturally, the 60,000-strong crowd went wild and shrugged off the cold to jump out of their seats. And with the fans in good voice – refueled by coffee and half-time pizza slices – the team continued their forward momentum and completed what is undoubtedly the best Arsenal display I’ve ever seen live.

Theo Walcott’s pace was too much for boo-boy Ashley Cole and he broke through twice. First Walcott broke through down the right hand side and set up Fabregas (also just back from injury) with a “simple ‘X’” as if playing FIFA to make it 2-0, and then the much maligned winger got on the score-sheet himself to finish Chelsea.

But of course, being Arsenal, we had to concede a goal from a set-piece – just to keep our record intact. Even after Ivanovic’s header, though, Arsenal ran the show. And that was the best thing about that game, and about being there. Once we scored the second, everyone knew the end result would be in our favour. It would be too cruel of the (non-existent) Gods to deny us that.

An electric atmosphere to go with a terrific team performance means that this late Christmas present is the best match – or at least, my favourite – that I’ve ever been to. Others such as the 2-2 draw with Barcelona, my first away game (At Old Trafford, 4 days before the Chelsea game) also deserve a mention but both are some way behind my eventual winner.

Theo Walcott and Cesc Fabregas celebrate the win against Chelsea last December.

My Perfect Player

After speaking with fellow blogger 15 Year Old Gooner, he was doing a feature called 'My Perfect Player'. I decided to get in on the act and voila. My perfect player, with different components of players that I've seen play.

Brain - Manuel Rui Costa 

A magnificent footballer, he was truly steps ahead of the game. Always had an image in his mind of what would happen in the game and had a superb eye for a pass and often chipped in with the odd spectacular goal - England in Euro 2004 pops up in my mind.

Head - Hernan Crespo

He could head the ball with power, precision and incredible accuracy. Always in the right place at the right time too, meant he was a clinical striker and one that in his prime was near unstoppable.

Eyes - Paul Scholes

Scholes' vision made him one of the best midfielders of his generation. The nickname 'Sat Nav' didn't come from anywhere, as he was see things others couldn't and then pick the perfect pass. No wonder he had so many players sing his praises in his final season.

Mouth - Roy Keane

He was a leader on and off the field, for club and country and was an excellent example to youngsters. Born for success, he knew when something had to be said, and what needed to be said. Could run a game by himself and took each game by the scruff of the neck.

Lungs - Cafu

Legendary Brazilian full back just didn't know how to stop running. Even at the age of 34 while at AC Milan, he could be seen charging up the touchline looking for the pass in stoppage time. A real engine and a model for fitness. Great player too.

Left foot - Lionel Messi

Closely run by Raul Gonzalez, Messi's left foot scrapes it due to the moments of magic he can produce. A truly magnificent player, the ball sticks to his foot when dribbling and it's almost impossible to stop him when he's in full flow. 

Right foot - Zinedine Zidane

Zinedine Zidane, for me, is the greatest player in the modern era of football. He had everything in his right foot. Control, accuracy, shooting power and more. The perfect right foot.

DMF.

U21 European Championships; 10 Players to look out for...

With the U21 European Championships set to kick off, I thought I'd take a look at the top 10 players to keep an eye out for during the tournament, mainly from some of the lesser countries but a few you may have heard of prior to the show kicking off.

Connor Wickham

ENG - Striker

Ipswich striker Connor Wickham won't be first choice for England, but he's one of the main players to look out for for me. The 6ft 3 18 year old forward will offer his England team a different option when necessary, and without doubt has the potential to be a real match winner for England. With 9 goals to his name this season from a wide left position for Ipswich, he's a real goal threat and certainly one to look out for.

Andriy Yarmolenko

URK - Left Wing/Striker

This exciting young forward currently plies his trade at Dyanmo Kiev and had a blistering campaign coming into this competition. He bagged 15 goals in 41 appearances in all competitions in just his second full season of first team football and looks ready to tear through the defences in this tournament. With his excellent left foot, he's definitely one to keep an eye out for in this summers competition.

Jan Moravek

CZE - Attacking Midfielder

21 year old attacking midfielder Moravek is Czech Republic's key man in attack this summer, having already earned 2 full international caps for his country. Currently playing for Schalke, Moravek spent last season on loan at Kaiserslautern. He scored 5 goals in his spell at the club and got 2 assists in his 29 games. He'll be the main man for Czech and his link up play with Vaclav Kadlec could be key if the Czech's are to get any success.

Francois Affolter

SUI - Centre Back

Standing at 6ft 2, Francois Affolter is Switzerland's mean defender. A no nonsense centre half, who is also content playing as a full back on either flank - this kid is the base around how Switzerland begin most moves and end most opposition attacks. A key player for Young Boys last season, making 49 appearances in all, he's one to look out for.

Bojan Krkic

ESP - Striker

Probably the hottest property in the tournament this summer, Bojan is one of the most lethal finishers in world football for his age. A product of Barcelona's famous La Masia academy, he is Spain's first choice striker and will be their main goal threat. Already on the fringes of the Barcelona team and senior national side he is most definitely one to watch, not only over the duration of this tournament, but for the next few years too.

Tomas Pekhart

CZE - Striker

Tomas Pekhart will be well known by Spurs fans, for his dire 3 year spell at White Hart Lane. However, since he left he has gone on to establish himself as a goal machine for Czech Republic's U21 side and at club level too. With 19 goals in 29 games at club level this season he has been on fire, and has recently signed a deal to take him to Nurnberg in Germany from July 1st. He's odds on to win the Golden Boot at this tournament and will be key to any success the Czech Republic gain at this competition.

Johann Gudmundsson

ICE - Winger

Iceland's second most recognised played at this tournament, Johann is a winger currently plying his trade in the Eredivise for AZ Alkmaar. The 20 year old played 34 games this season for the Dutch club, bagging 4 goals and 4 assists in all competitions. His supply will be key for Iceland if they stand any chance of progressing to the semi-finals.

Iker Muniain

ESP - Winger/Striker

Only 18 years of age, Iker Muniain has been around for a long time. A starter at Athletic Bilbao, the Basque player is a fan favourite among Bilbao and Spain fans. Known for his blistering speed and eye for goal, he could be a real game changer for Spain if needed, as he doesn't usually start games. Impact player for Spain, but definitely one to watch.

Gylfi Sigurdsson

ICE - Central Midfielder

Known for scoring screamers, and playing eye catching passes, former Reading man Gylfi Sigurdsson is without doubt the main man for Iceland this summer. A superb talent, now at Hoffenheim he carries his nations hopes of success on his shoulders, and it's almost certain that all things good about Icelandic team in this competition. Always with a blockbuster in his locker, beware of something spectacular when he's within 35 yards of goal. A fantastic season in Germany this year with 12 goals in 39 games and 5 assists show exactly what he's all about.

Christian Eriksen

DEN - Central Midfielder

Ajax ace Eriksen burst onto the international stage against England at Wembley in a senior international last year. He ran the show from the centre, and since then everyone's eyes have been on him. Creative, skilful, agile, quick and with a superb eye for a pass - he has all the key attributes to make a phenomenal playmaker in the future. Denmark's main threat, and without doubt their number 1 man this summer.

# # # # #

There you have it. That's my Top 10 Players to watch at this summers U21 European Championships in Denmark. Do you agree? Is there anyone I've left out? Let me know in the comments below.

DMF.

Transfer Rumour Mill (Window Open)

Chilean sensation looks set to snub England in favour of staying in Italy

   Alexis Sanchez has been constantly linked with a move away from Udinese this summer, and he looks set to stay in Italy if he does move. Udinese chairman Giampaolo Pozzo claimed this week that Manchester City had made a bid which was rejected, and that the player was keen to go to Inter Milan this summer. Inter president Massimo Morrati said there is 'a 60% chance we'll sign Sanchez this summer' but nothing has been agreed or is close to being agreed.

   

   Another man that Massimo Morrati mentioned in this interview was Palermo's Javier Pastore. Rumours have been flying since January that the Argentine playmaker was set for a big move but Inter's president has claimed it is 'impossible' for Inter Milan to sign him. However, Chelsea have had a £33M bid rejected for the Argentine, with Palermo owner Maurizio Zamparini saying they will only sell their star player for €50M (£44M) and not a euro less.

   Another playmaker who could be on the move this summer is Croatian Luka Modric. The Spurs man put in some magnificent performances over the season, but was outshone by Gareth Bale and Rafael Van der Vaart in the media spotlight although most fans recognised his contribution. However, with Spurs missing out on 4th place and Champions League football, the Tottenham #14 could be on his way out. Manchester United are said to have shown a massive interest, while Croatian media are reporting that a deal is already in place to take Modric to Old Trafford for £32M. 

"Everybody wants to know what will happen with me and I'm trying to stay calm as my national team has a really important match coming, So I will tell you the same as always – my club status is the same as it was before. But of course, if there will be an offer which will be good for Tottenham and for me, also, then a transfer is of course possible. That doesn't mean that I'm bothered with leaving Tottenham. I'm not thinking about that every hour and every minute. I'm happy at White Hart Lane – my status is great, the fans like me and I do have everything I need. But then again when you experience playing in [the] Champions League, you want to keep playing in this tournament."

Brad Friedel has agreed a move to Tottenham Hotspur today, and will complete the move on July 1st. The American goalkeeper's contract at Aston Villa was set to expire later this month and Spurs manager Harry Redknapp moved quickly to secure an experienced goalkeeper. Harry Redknapp had this to say about his clubs first summer signing;

"Brad is a top goalkeeper of real quality who has great experience. It is good to have three such experienced top goalkeepers at the club in Heurelho Gomes, Carlo Cudicini and now Brad and it means we have competition for places particularly with the number of games we will hopefully face next year both domestically and in Europe as well."

Also, according to other news stories this week in tabloids and internet rumours alike;

Dimitar Berbatov has ruled out a move from Manchester United insisting he wants to stay and fight for his place at Old Trafford, despite being left out of the squad for the Champions League final.

Neymar's agent has claimed that his client will not be leaving Santos this summer, scuppering any hopes of a move to Chelsea dead in their tracks.

Giuseppe Rossi has edged even closer to a €35M move to Barcelona after his agent confirmed that personal terms had been agreed, but the clubs are yet to agree the fee.

Ricky Van Wolfswinkel has completed a €5M move to Sporting CP from FC Twente this evening. Sporting's president comfirmed the move and the report that the players' contract contains a €22M release clause in it.

Manuel Neuer has completed his move to Bayern Munich making him the second most expensive German player ever behind Mario Gomez.

Peter Odemwingie, who scored 15 goals in his debut season for West Brom is reportedly a target for Arsenal.

Former Manchester United captain Steve Bruce is set to make a double swoop on his former club, making a £12M move for Darron Gibson and Wes Brown who are seen as dead wood at the club.