Liverpool Preview: We can render Anfield insignificant tonight
Add comment April 2nd, 2008
Tonight, Arsenal commence a trilogy of games against Liverpool that could reignite or destroy our season. After the remarkable comeback against Bolton, players and fans alike are on a real high. But all that good work will prove inconsequential if we fail to pick up results against Rafa Benitez’s side.
It’s funny, because in order to achieve our goals, we need only win one of the three matches. Defeating Liverpool in the league would keep us in touch with United, whilst a 0-0 at the Emirates and a score draw at Anfield would send us through in the Champions League. However, tonight’s game is arguably the most important of the three – for starters, it sets the tone for the following two.
Liverpool’s minds will not be on the league encounter. After beating Everton last weekend, they will feel fourth spot is fairly secure, and will probably take the opportunity to rest key personnel. Their focus will instead be geared towards the Champions League second leg at Anfield, where every man and his proverbial dog seems to think they’ll turn us over. With that in mind, they’ll be coming to London tonight determined to keep the tie as tight as possible.
With the right performance, we can destroy those plans. Although Arsene insists he wouldn’t be disappointed with a 0-0, he must know that a convincing win could take the pressure right out of what is on paper an exciting but hellish ten day schedule.
In the second half against Bolton, we attacked with a determination that has been missing from the side in recent months. The last goal typified that: it didn’t matter how it went in, we just were desperate to force it over the line. If we have that kind of hunger tonight, I’m not sure Liverpool will be able to handle it.
We’re the home side. The impetus is with us. I’m sick of hearing about Anfield’s 12th man, and how intimidating Liverpool are in front of the Kop.
Let’s show them what it’s like to play Arsenal at the Emirates.Â
