The win against Stoke City has definitely enthused Arsene Wenger as much as it enthralled the fans. He was gushing after the game and went on to say that this is just the beginning for Arsenal. In a thinly veiled message to opponents, he said that the Gunners are close to hitting top gear.
The win against Stoke was accomplished with goals from his forwards Theo Walcott and Olivier Giroud. The difference could have been much more and the goals could have been many multiples. Such was the dominance of the team that Stoke were left wondering whether they left their game kits at the Britannia.
Stoke had Jack Butland to thank who made saves of the highest order. There were some easy chances missed too and whenever the ball was on target, Butland was on cue. Stoke were never in the game and Wenger would have loved more goals in his kitty.
So, is it really the start of Arsenal’s season? Whatever way you see, it could be true. The horror start against West Ham now looks a game from the past. The pain of failing to add a striker could soon be a thing of the past too – if Walcott can continue his form.
After long time, Mesut Ozil seems to have found a way to repay Wenger’s faith. Trusted with the central role that he craves, this could just be the season for the German playmaker. Most of the attacks were orchestrated and executed by the talented talisman.
The critics may have different say on the suitability of Walcott, the missed chances and the quality of opposition. Some of those who pointed out Stoke’s better record against Arsenal before the game retreated immediately stating that this team is no City or Chelsea.
Chelsea is up next for Wenger and his team. Of course, the midweek European sojourn to Dinamo Zagreb is sandwiched in between. But, the big game will be up next and a similar performance and similar result will definitely prove Wenger’s words right.
Sridhar