So much is at stake this afternoon, as Arsenal take on Manchester United, at the Emirates Stadium. Lovers of the beautiful game are guaranteed of the best of attacking football as the Premiership front-runners go to battle.
Arsenal are sitting on top of the table with an outstanding game. But defending champions, United are hot on their heels, coming in the second position. Both share 26 points and goals difference of 15. But Arsenal have an edge over them because their unbeaten run in the season.
The outcome of today’s game may upset the apple cart. A win for United will give them a three point lead. The reverse would leave United trailing by three points. Arsenal may open a six-point lead should they win their outstanding game.
Points and position aside, both giants have pride to also play for. Records show that the two sides have clashed 154 times.
United have won 62 times, while Arsenal have triumphed 56 times. The rest 36 encounters ended in draws. So history favours United to win. But since last seasons, Arsenal have risen to stop that dominance. In their two Premiership encounters, Arsenal were victors, winning at both at home and away. United would be going to reverse this emerging trend.
Twelve weeks into the season, both teams have served notice that they would not let go. And judging by the pace at which they are going, the season may end in a photo-finish.
Arsenal manager, Arsene Wenger and United’s tactician, Sir Alex Ferguson are seasoned fellows. Both have paid their dues in the tactical aspect of the game.
So, their meeting would be a mind-game, who blinks first. The Gunners are blessed with a new generation of players who are bringing in a turn around to the fortunes of the club. From the defence to attack, they are playing as a team. They are family.
The soul of the Gunners seem to be in Cese Fabregas, who will supply the balls to Kolo Toure, Thomas Rosicky, Emmanuel Adebayor and Robin Van Persie to get the goals. This season, they have won six times at the Emirates. Only Manchester City have won as much at home. They surely would like to raise the bar and make United bit the dust.
But the ‘Red Devils’ are not a team to be intimidated. They have quality players in all departments of the game, who can take on the best anywhere around without fear. England kid sensation, Wayne Rooney, and Portugal’s winger, Cristiano Ronaldo are likely to start on the front line.
In the midfield, they have Michael Carrick, Paul Scholes, Ryan Giggs. The like of Rio Ferdinand and Mikel Silvestre would provide cover to goal tender, Edwin Van de Sar.
Today’s game is one Premiership fans are waiting for.
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