Typically rambunctious London derby at Arsenal yesterday. No quarter asked or given, but very little in the way of chances so a goalless draw was just about a fair reflection of the game although as with Wednesday night, Peter Cech had to thank his woodwork on more than one occasion.
It was difficult to fathom Chelsea's objective for the day. It was only natural that they fielded a much changed team from the Barcelona game, but surprising John Terry played. I would have thought nothing will stop him playing in the Nou Camp which will require a herculean effort given it it will be his fourth high profile game in ten days. Similarly Chelsea's tactic of defending deep and trying to hit Arsenal on the counter attack looked likely to work throughout the game given the Gunners' defensive frailties, yet failed to force a save from Wojciech Szczesny. Given that three points were required by the Blues I thought they would have shown a bit more adventure.
For Arsenal's part they carried on from Monday night, energetically powering forward but unable to break down a solid defensive unit enough to create an unmissable chance save the first half efforts from Robin Van Persie and Laurent Koscielny which hit the post and bar respectively. There appeared to be a bit of mental fatigue in the red ranks, Aaron Ramsey lacked match sharpness being regularly caught in possession whilst Van Persie looks to be running on empty exposing the lack of a suitable deputy to take the pressure of scoring off him.
By the evening it was clear that a rare draw for Arsenal had maintained their position as favourites for third place and surely they will get the two wins required to secure it from their final three games, all against teams with nothing to play for.
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