snuffleupagus
New member
I have this stinking feeling that Arsenal will be playing either Barcelona or Man Utd
THE FOOTBALL THREAD Vol 2
- Thread starter fgl
- Start date
GrimRiffer
New member
Yeah. I still hope for an all English semi-final though.
fgl
Well-known member
Wenger - I vigorously deny Eduardo rumours
By Richard Clarke
Arsène Wenger has dismissed rumours concerning the aftermath of Eduardo's injury at Birmingham as "completely untrue".
It was suggested that Arsenal were unhappy with the medical care at St Andrews on February 23 after the Croatian striker fractured his fibula and suffered open dislocation of his ankle following a challenge from Martin Taylor. Stories were also circulating that Eduardo had undergone a second operation on the day after the game.
Speaking to Arsenal TV Online on Thursday, Wenger swept aside the rumours calling Birmingham City's co-operation as "outstanding".
"No, he did not need a second operation at all," said the Frenchman. "I don't know where that story came from but it is completely untrue.
"And we were completely happy with the support we got from Birmingham. That story is untrue aswell. They were outstanding. Those rumours are completely false. All I can really do is deny it vigorously. It is just untrue."
Of course, it is long road back for Eduardo but, according Wenger, his first steps have gone well. "He is doing as well as he can," said the manager. "I am informed by the medical people that he is alright. The first thing he must do is get over the risk of infection and that is going well. So we have no problems apart from the obvious big disappointment of him being out and not playing."
fgl
Well-known member
Wigan Athletic v Arsenal
Barclays Premier League
JJB Stadium
Sun, Mar 9, 2008, 4pm
By Richard Clarke
Arsenal have lost Abou Diaby and Theo Walcott for the weekend trip to Wigan.
The Frenchman injured his calf in the 2-0 win at Milan on Tuesday while the Englishman damaged his thigh in a behind-closed-doors game against Colorado Rapids on Thursday.
Robin van Persie played an hour in the same game and came through unscathed.
However Wenger is unsure whether the Dutchman will be able to start at the JJB Stadium. It is just possible that Kolo Toure and Alex Song could be back this weekend but, from Arsène Wenger's words to Arsenal TV Online on Thursday afternoon, it seems pretty doubtful.
"From Tuesday night we lost Abou Diaby," remarked the manager. "He has got a problem on his other calf. Today we also lost Theo Walcott. He played against Colorado Rapids and he got a little thigh problem. "Robin played an hour and he looks OK. But it looks early for him, he finished the game very tired today so I will have to analyse that. We have a little chance to get Kolo back in the squad and a little, little chance to get Song back."
"As for Tomas Rosicky, it is difficult to say. We hope he'll be back in 10 or 12 days."
fgl
Well-known member
Flamini - I want to be a part of new generation
By Richard Clarke
Mathieu Flamini wants to seal a new deal with Arsenal so he can be part of the Club's "new generation" and "make history".
The French midfielder showed why he is the most improved player in English football with a magnificent display in the 2-0 win at Milan on Tuesday night.
The performance only heightened the urgency with which Arsène Wenger will want to secure Flamini's services. The former Marseille man is out of contract in the summer and has been able to talk to other teams since the turn of the year. However the player has no intention of leaving.
"Like I have said before I am very happy here," said Flamini. "Every game I give more than
100 per cent and I love playing for this team. We are a new generation, we have to create a new history. I want to be part of this history so I hope I will be here for next season.
"At the moment my advisers they are talking with the Club so I really hope that everything will be OK. I cannot put a time on it. But I really want to stay here.
"Yes, Milan was a great game and I have more and more confidence now. But what is important for a player is to play and I am playing and game after game I am becoming more and more confident. I want to take more responsibility.
"I don't know if Milan was my best performance [for Arsenal] but my job is to work hard for the players who are a little bit more offensive than me. We are a team who are always going forward so it's very important to protect the defence, especially against a player like Kaka who was going forward very quickly so I was trying to protect the defenders.
"Yes my job was to keep him quiet, boss the midfield and win the maximum amount of balls to pass to Cesc and Alex because they are a little bit more offensive than me."
On Friday, Flamini reaches the grand old age of 24. Typically, the only present on his birthday list is three points on Sunday.
"It will be fantastic if we win at Wigan. We have to finish the job. It's fantastic to play in the Champions League and beat AC Milan but to come back in the Premier League to go to Wigan is not going to be easy. It's a tough game."
By Richard Clarke
Mathieu Flamini wants to seal a new deal with Arsenal so he can be part of the Club's "new generation" and "make history".
The French midfielder showed why he is the most improved player in English football with a magnificent display in the 2-0 win at Milan on Tuesday night.
The performance only heightened the urgency with which Arsène Wenger will want to secure Flamini's services. The former Marseille man is out of contract in the summer and has been able to talk to other teams since the turn of the year. However the player has no intention of leaving.
"Like I have said before I am very happy here," said Flamini. "Every game I give more than
100 per cent and I love playing for this team. We are a new generation, we have to create a new history. I want to be part of this history so I hope I will be here for next season.
"At the moment my advisers they are talking with the Club so I really hope that everything will be OK. I cannot put a time on it. But I really want to stay here.
"Yes, Milan was a great game and I have more and more confidence now. But what is important for a player is to play and I am playing and game after game I am becoming more and more confident. I want to take more responsibility.
"I don't know if Milan was my best performance [for Arsenal] but my job is to work hard for the players who are a little bit more offensive than me. We are a team who are always going forward so it's very important to protect the defence, especially against a player like Kaka who was going forward very quickly so I was trying to protect the defenders.
"Yes my job was to keep him quiet, boss the midfield and win the maximum amount of balls to pass to Cesc and Alex because they are a little bit more offensive than me."
On Friday, Flamini reaches the grand old age of 24. Typically, the only present on his birthday list is three points on Sunday.
"It will be fantastic if we win at Wigan. We have to finish the job. It's fantastic to play in the Champions League and beat AC Milan but to come back in the Premier League to go to Wigan is not going to be easy. It's a tough game."
fgl
Well-known member
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Comment: Milan was our best Euro win ever
AC Milan 0-2 Arsenal
Champions League Round 2 Leg 2
San Siro
Tue, Mar 4, 2008, 7.45pm
Was Tuesday's victory at Milan Arsenal's best European away win ever? Arsenal.com editor Richard Clarke says yes, here's why.
The first indication that Arsenal might pull out something special against Milan came deep within the bowels of the San Siro on Monday evening. At the end of the final press conference Mathieu Flamini coined a simple phrase summing up his attitude to facing the Champions League holders on their home patch with the odds stacked in their favour.
"No fear," he said. And you knew he meant it.
It is the kind of phrase boxers come out with on such occasions. But, at the same time, there was a concern Arsenal might turn out to be Ricky Hatton facing Milan's Floyd Mayweather. They would perform gamely, even heroically, and win lots of friends for their style but ultimately all the tricks and experience of the champion would create a chasm in class on the night. After all, Milan/Mayweather had been at the top of the profession and winning titles for years, Hatton/Arsenal were pretenders to their crown.
Now, Wenger's young pugilists are hardly knockout artists. But they rained punishing blows on Carlo Ancelotti's side for most of the fight before finishing them in the final round. Had it been forced to go to the judge's scorecard, Arsenal would have surely won a landslide decision.
For me, the circumstances of this win are very, very special. With a nod in the direction of the 3-0 win at Roma in 2002 and the 7-0 thrashing of Standard Liege in 1993, there are only four contenders for the undisputed title of Arsenal's best European away win. And, having witnessed three of them, this one should definitely have its hand raised as the winner. Let me explain.
Milan's record in Europe was exemplary. Given that no one has retained the Champions League since it was morphed from the European Cup, the Rossoneri's three finals in five years represent the most dominant period by one side.
Also, as opposed to the win at Inter, this tie was in the Knockout Rounds. Yes, Arsenal's start has been so poor in 2003 that they had to win against Alberto Zaccheroni's side to get through the group. But, by definition, the pressure is more intense the further you get in the competition. That is why Juventus in 1980 is so special, albeit that it was 'only' in the Cup-Winners' Cup. It took us to a Final in a period when Arsenal played a major European name once a decade not three times a season. However, reportedly, Terry Neill's side 'nicked' that result while the Turin outfit were holding out for a win by away goals. It was a victory by stealth not style.
The same cannot be said of Real Madrid in 2006. However, my recollection on the night was of a superb Henry goal some fine football from Arsenal plus a bit of survival too.
And, remember, that was a first leg. Despite the obvious merits of Arsenal's victory, the Spanish outfit knew they could compensate in the return game. And, but for the best save of Jens Lehman's career after Raul went through, they would have done so.
Going into Tuesday's game, there was an ominous quality about Milan. They had hardly looked like 'a team of old men' when they held out under intense pressure at Emirates Stadium. There was a feeling that Arsenal had missed their chance.
In the table below, I have tried to put all four teams in context. Listing the honours they had around the time of the game and the great players on show in the games against Arsenal. Juventus won the most trophies but Milan won the most prestigious trophies - that is why I put them in the top two positions. Real Madrid had the biggest names but not the most silverware - no surprise there. Inter, well OK that win was comprehensive too, however they were not the Scudetto-winning side of today. Also three goals in the last five minutes that night - glorious though they were - made it a thrashing when for most of the game it had been tight.
And that brings me to my final point. Milan WAS a thrashing from the first 15 minutes on. It is just that Arsenal did not have the goals to prove it.
With six minutes to go, I wrote this in my report: "The tension was now becoming palpable. Milan were the masters of brinkmanship but Arsenal had been clearly the better side over the two ties. They deserved to go through, all they had to do was score."
As I looked up from my laptop Cesc Fabregas planted that 30-yarder past Zeljko Kalac. With seconds left Adebayor capped an incredible performance with a second and I got playfully reprimanded for celebrating in the press box. Admittedly not really the done thing.
However, I make no apologies. It was a unique night for Arsenal and, in my opinion, one that has not been bettered away in Europe.
Here's my top four European away wins.
1) Milan 0 Arsenal 2 - Champions League Knockout Round second leg, 2008
Their honours (in the six years before the game) - Champions League winners 2007, 2003; Finalists 2005. World Club Cup 2007. Italian League winners 2004, Runners-up 2005. Italian Cup 2003,
Key opposition players playing that night: Kaka, Pirlo, Gattuso, Maldini, Nesta
2) Juventus 0 Arsenal 1 - Cup-Winners Cup Semi-Final second leg, 1980
Opposition Honours (in the six years surrounding the game) - Italian League Winners 1977, 1978, 1981, 1982. Runners up 1980. European Cup runners up 1983. Uefa Cup 1977.
Key players: Zoff, Bettega, Causio, Gentile
3) Real Madrid 0 Arsenal 1 - Champions League Knockout Round first leg, 2006
Opposition Honours (in the six years surrounding the game) - Spanish League 2003, 2007. Runners up 2005, 2006. Copa de Rey: Runners up 2004.
Key players: Zidane, Beckham, Ronaldo, Robinho, Carlos
4) Inter 1 Arsenal 5 - Champions League Group game, 2003
Opposition Honours (in the six years surrounding the game) - Italian League: Winners 2006, Runners up 2003. Italian Cup winners 2005, 2006, Runners-up 2000
Key players: Cannavaro, Vieri, J Zanetti, Toldo.
theunknown
New member
alamak i read this thread very mabok already. so many words.
still, ARSENAL ROX!! not a die hard fan though.
am a die hard fan of JUVENTUS coz last time watch serie A. now no SCV.
damn.no scv.i feel so sad.
still, ARSENAL ROX!! not a die hard fan though.
am a die hard fan of JUVENTUS coz last time watch serie A. now no SCV.
damn.no scv.i feel so sad.
JaarVis.
New member
juventus sia. i still remember when they got relegated or smth .
for playing around illegally with the fixtures or wadeva. ha. unlucky. but they got some tip top players with em tho. hmm.
Give us Milan, Inter or Barcelona but not Chelsea, pleads Roma coach
Last updated at 09:22am on 13th December 2007
Roma coach Luciano Spalletti wants to avoid Chelsea in the last 16 of the Champions League.
The Eternal City giants wrapped up their group campaign with a 1-1 draw against Manchester United at the Stadio Olimpico.
"If I could choose, I would avoid a meeting in the next round with Chelsea," Spalletti said.
"But in any case, we will have to accept the rival that the draw will give us."
Fear the True Blues~
muhahaha.:twisted:
anyway , i really have to congratulate arsenal for the victory over the UCL title holders in an away match . GREAT one i suppose. i didnt think arsenal will actually even score against em in San Siro. wow. deserve some respect for that .
for playing around illegally with the fixtures or wadeva. ha. unlucky. but they got some tip top players with em tho. hmm.
Give us Milan, Inter or Barcelona but not Chelsea, pleads Roma coach
Last updated at 09:22am on 13th December 2007
Roma coach Luciano Spalletti wants to avoid Chelsea in the last 16 of the Champions League.
The Eternal City giants wrapped up their group campaign with a 1-1 draw against Manchester United at the Stadio Olimpico.
"If I could choose, I would avoid a meeting in the next round with Chelsea," Spalletti said.
"But in any case, we will have to accept the rival that the draw will give us."
Fear the True Blues~
muhahaha.:twisted:
anyway , i really have to congratulate arsenal for the victory over the UCL title holders in an away match . GREAT one i suppose. i didnt think arsenal will actually even score against em in San Siro. wow. deserve some respect for that .
fgl
Well-known member
- wigan Athletic
Arsenal
-
By Richard Clarke
From Milan to Wigan, Arsenal's desire will be exactly the same this season.
Arsène Wenger made that confident prediction ahead of his side's trip to the North-West on Sunday. After a stunning 2-0 win at the San Siro in midweek there is the potential for a massive slip-up this weekend - and not just because of the reported state of the pitch at the JJB Stadium.
Arsenal have seen their advantage over Manchester United at the top of the Premier League cut to just one point in recent weeks. In fact, there was a concern that the Emirates Stadium side may be wobbling when they travelled to Italy on Monday. However they came back with a win so uplifting that the rest of Arsenal's season might be able to ride upon it.
That said, the last time Arsenal returned from Europe with similar buoyancy - a wonderful 1-0 win at Real Madrid in 2006 - they also went up the M6 and were beaten 1-0 at Blackburn. Wenger's side can ill-afford a draw, let alone a defeat, on Sunday, especially as Manchester United will be otherwise engaged in the FA Cup.
However, when he spoke to the media on Thursday, Wenger was quick to point out the consistency and desire of his players this season - whatever the venue.
"We are up for it because along with Inter [and Bayern] we are the only side in Europe that has lost only one game this season," said the Frenchman.
"This team hasn’t an artificial hunger; they are really hungry for success and that's why I have believed in them since the start of the season. And that's why sometimes we are a bit excessive sometimes because we are not artificial in our desire to be successful.
"There's a good team bonding and a good team spirit. Of course Gallas is the captain and the experienced players have a little bit more to say but everybody is always very highly focussed and concerned."
Abou Diaby (calf) and Theo Walcott (thigh) have been added to the injury list since the midweek game. Robin van Persie was on duty in Milan but did not come off the bench. He played an hour in a behind-closed-doors game with Colorado Rapids on Thursday but may not be risked from the start this weekend. Kolo Toure (calf) and Alex Song (knee) have a minor possibility of coming back. Eduardo (broken leg) and Tomas Rosicky (hamstring) definitely miss out.
Wigan have been struggling against the drop all season. However two wins and a draw in their last four games have put some daylight between them and the drop zone. They are up to 14th, their highest position since the start of October.
"It will be a big test because they play not to go down,” said Wenger. “We expect a big commitment. They are under pressure like we are under pressure, so we are both in the same conditions.
"I've heard from reporters that their pitch is not like the Emirates. But I like England because to be champions here you have to go from Milan to Wigan - and win the game. It's a completely different kind of game but you have to find always a response to what you face.
“That's real quality for me."
fgl
Well-known member
Wigan Athletic v Arsenal
Barclays Premier League
JJB Stadium
Sun, Mar 9, 2008, 4pm
By Matt Fortune
Arsène Wenger would prefer to face a foreign team in the next round of the Champions League.
Wins for Chelsea and Manchester United on Wednesday ensured at least three English clubs are in the hat for the last eight of this season’s competition. Preservation of a two-goal lead by Liverpool at the San Siro next week will make it four.
With all draw restrictions lifted, Arsenal could face any of their domestic rivals — something which has happened only once before. In 2004 the Gunners met Chelsea at the Quarter-Final stage. Although Wenger’s side were dominant domestically, Wayne Bridge struck late at Highbury to dump Arsenal out of the competition.
The Arsenal boss believes that an all-English clash would dilute the authenticity of the tie.
"I would say that every English team, if they are honest, would prefer to play a foreign team,” said Wenger. “It's a bit more Europe, you know?
“It becomes more of a domestic competition when you play a local team. Ideally you would want to play a foreign team but if we have to overcome an English hurdle we'll do it as well.”
fgl
Well-known member
Wenger - Eduardo can follow Diaby example
Wigan Athletic v Arsenal
Barclays Premier League
JJB Stadium
Sun, Mar 9, 2008, 4pm
By Chris Harris
Arsène Wenger expects Eduardo's road to recovery to follow a similar pattern to Abou Diaby's.
The French midfielder suffered a broken and dislocated ankle at Sunderland in May 2006 and returned eight months later after complicated surgery, a lot of patience and a long, hard rehabilitation. Eduardo faces a similar journey after fracturing his leg and dislocating his ankle at Birmingham 13 days ago.
Wenger told Arsenal TV Online on Thursday that the Croatian striker is "doing as well as he can" at this early stage of his recovery. At his pre-match press conference the Arsenal manager predicted that Eduardo will need slightly longer than Diaby did before he pulls on an Arsenal shirt again.
"We believe the earliest he will play again is nine months," said Wenger.
"That is three months without really putting his foot down and then six months to practise fully, the same as Diaby."
Wigan Athletic v Arsenal
Barclays Premier League
JJB Stadium
Sun, Mar 9, 2008, 4pm
By Chris Harris
Arsène Wenger expects Eduardo's road to recovery to follow a similar pattern to Abou Diaby's.
The French midfielder suffered a broken and dislocated ankle at Sunderland in May 2006 and returned eight months later after complicated surgery, a lot of patience and a long, hard rehabilitation. Eduardo faces a similar journey after fracturing his leg and dislocating his ankle at Birmingham 13 days ago.
Wenger told Arsenal TV Online on Thursday that the Croatian striker is "doing as well as he can" at this early stage of his recovery. At his pre-match press conference the Arsenal manager predicted that Eduardo will need slightly longer than Diaby did before he pulls on an Arsenal shirt again.
"We believe the earliest he will play again is nine months," said Wenger.
"That is three months without really putting his foot down and then six months to practise fully, the same as Diaby."
fgl
Well-known member
Wigan Athletic v Arsenal
Barclays Premier League
JJB Stadium
Sun, Mar 9, 2008, 4pm
By Richard Clarke
Trophies are not the only things that Arsène Wenger wants his team to win. The Arsenal manager wants the hearts, minds, admiration and respect of the football community.
With two months left in the season, the Frenchman is closing in on his two main targets — the Premier League and the Champions League. Should he lift either, it will end a three-year wait for silverware.
However, speaking at Thursday’s press conference, the Arsenal manager explained why that hiatus did not hang heavy on his shoulders. He wants victory, yes, but victory with integrity.
“I try to do my job as well as I can,” said Wenger. “If it’s not good enough people will tell me. But I don't feel under more pressure to win trophies this year than any other year.
“I know people who have won trophies and I don’t rate them at all. I can give you examples of people who have won 100-metre medals in the Olympic Games and they have cheated. I know people in football who have done exactly the same, you look at the history of football.
“What is important for me is to do things in a fair way and in a way that people will enjoy. Of course, a trophy is what you can show but what remains is not only the trophy but the way you play, the way you behave.
“Winning can never be everything,” he went on. “And to destroy people can never be everything. I do not understand those who come out to destroy people. That is not what life is about. Why should you always have to kill other people to exist? If you do that then, somewhere, you feel you are not good enough.
“It's like you say to me you kick everybody off the park and at the end of the season you win a trophy. To win trophies is important but it is not the only thing in sport.”
fgl
Well-known member
: 0 - 0 (Agg)
Barnsley 1-0 Chelsea: Seismic shock at Oakwell
Scoring Summary Barnsley Chelsea Kayode Odejayi (66)
Match Stats Barnsley Chelsea Shots (on Goal) 7(3) 23(15) Fouls 9 11 Corner Kicks 3 10 Offsides 1 4 Time of Possession 49% 51% Yellow Cards 1 1 Red Cards 0 0 Saves 3 6
Match Information Stadium: Oakwell Stadium, England
Attendance: 22,410
Match Time: 17:30 UK
Referee(s):
S Bennett (Referee)
Teams Barnsley Chelsea 31 Luke Steele23 Carlo Cudicini16 Stephen Foster35 Juliano Belletti5 Robert Kozluk18 Wayne Bridge2 Bobby Hassell26 John Terry23 Marciano Van Homoet6 Ricardo Carvalho25 Martin Devaney24 Shaun Wright-Phillips20 Jamal Campbell-Ryce10 Joe Cole10 Brian Howard5 Michael Essien9 Kayode Odejayi15 Florent Malouda13 Istvan Ferenczi13 Michael Ballack18 Dennis Souza39 Nicolas AnelkaSubstitutes19 Jacob ButterfieldHenrique Hilario 4029 Diego LeonTal Ben-Haim 227 Sam TogwellJohn Mikel Obi 1211 Daniel NardielloClaudio Pizarro 1424 Michael CoulsonSalomon Kalou 21SubstitutionsSam Togwell for Martin Devaney (73)
Salomon Kalou for Florent Malouda (62)
Michael Coulson for Kayode Odejayi (80)
Claudio Pizarro for Juliano Belletti (74)
Yellow CardsRobert Kozluk (54)
Ricardo Carvalho (90)
· Club Squads: Barnsley | Chelsea
Updated: March 8, 2008, 2:41 PM ET
Kayode Odejayi is hardly a name that rolls off the tongue, but it will long be remembered in FA Cup history as Barnsley produced another massive shock to send holders Chelsea crashing out 1-0.
As if beating Liverpool at Anfield in the fifth round three weeks ago was not enough, the Coca-Cola Championship side managed to go one better, with Odejayi the man of the hour.
GettyImages
Barnsley celebrate their success.
The Nigerian striker, a £200,000 buy from Cheltenham in May, had not found the net for 28 appearances, but he undoubtedly scored the most important goal of his career to send Barnsley into the semi-finals at Wembley.
Make no mistake, this was no fluke because although manager Avram Grant made six changes to his team from the one that romped over Olympiacos in the Champions League in midweek, there was still a star-studded line-up on view.
Barnsley boss Simon Davey had described that win as "men against boys,'' and departed Stamford Bridge feeling quite "unnerved'' at how the Blues had dismantled the Greeks.
Needless to say, though, he was expecting far more from his Tykes, and that is what he duly received as Yorkshire grit took on the might of the millionaires from the Kings Road.
There was no Frank Lampard, Didier Drogba, Claude Makelele, Paulo Ferreira or Ashley Cole, who were all rested.
Even without Lampard, there was a distinctly English slant towards the Chelsea side as captain John Terry was joined by Wayne Bridge, Joe Cole and Shaun Wright-Phillips.
Despite their star status, they more than anybody would appreciate this was an old-fashioned cup tie of favourites against underdogs, with a sell-out, fervent Oakwell crowd providing the backdrop.
As if to prove no fear would be shown, Barnsley took the game to their opponents, carving out the opening chance inside three minutes.
The livewire Jamal Campbell-Ryce's through ball found Brian Howard inside the area, the Tykes captain who had scored the late winner at Anfield.
Although Howard's stabbed shot was blocked by Michael Essien, it at least underlined Barnsley's intent that they would not be as easy a pushover as Olympiacos.
Half-chances followed for Chelsea, interspersed by a number of counter-attacks from the home side, who used Campbell-Ryce's pace along with the height and power of strikers Istvan Ferenczi and Odejayi.
Michael Ballack ballooned the visitors' first opportunity over the crossbar, followed by an edge-of-the-area chip from Joe Cole that also cleared the woodwork.
In the 15th minute Cole drilled another effort goalwards, and despite a slight deflection that carried the shot inches wide, there was no corner.
Underlining Barnsley's commitment, Rob Kozluk threw his body in front of a Cole drive that followed three minutes later, and that was it in terms of first-half chances for Chelsea.
Instead, it was the Tykes who should have headed into the break with the lead, initially in the 21st minute when Carlo Cudicini was caught napping on the edge of the six-yard box.
The Italian goalkeeper made a hash of attempting to trap a backpass, allowing Odejayi to thunder in, but his nudge was wide.
Then, eight minutes from the interval, Ferenczi should have found the target after latching onto Bobby Hassell's free-kick from deep.
But after flicking the ball up with his right foot, he fired wide from 12 yards, with the Hungarian then sinking to his knees and with his head in his hands as he appreciated he should have done better.
Within a minute Barnsley were on the attack again as Howard played in Odejayi, and although forced wide, he still fired in a powerful shot that forced Cudicini into his first save via his legs.
Perhaps inevitably Chelsea then dominated the opening 20 minutes of the second period as Barnsley were penned back inside their own half, resorting on occasion to desperate, but effective defending.
From their sporadic opportunities, Cole had a further shot blocked by Dennis Souza, while on-loan goalkeeper Luke Steele made an easy save from a low Nicolas Anelka drive.
Cole and Terry then combined to set up the Frenchman in the 57th minute, but again the determined home side thrust bodies in the way when it mattered most.
After weathering the storm, Barnsley then conjured a goal to lift the proverbial roof off Oakwell, one which is likely to result in further inquests from Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich following those held in the wake of the Carling Cup final defeat to Tottenham.
Ferenczi initially fed Martin Devaney on the right, and after a run from Marciano van Homoet pulled away Bridge, the right winger delivered a piercing cross to the heart of the area.
At 6ft 2ins, Odejayi managed to rise in front of the outstretched hands of Cudicini and nod home only his second goal for the club this season into an empty net.
Chelsea poured forward for the remainder of the game, but despite the pressure, not once was Steele was forced into a save as a wall of 10 red shirts protected him. When the final whistle sounded, and despite warnings over the tannoy not to do so, a pitch invasion ensued - one you could not begrudge the delirious Barnsley faithful.
Saturday, March 8
Man Utd0Portsmouth1Final
Barnsley1Chelsea0Final
Barnsley 1-0 Chelsea: Seismic shock at Oakwell
Scoring Summary Barnsley Chelsea Kayode Odejayi (66)
Match Stats Barnsley Chelsea Shots (on Goal) 7(3) 23(15) Fouls 9 11 Corner Kicks 3 10 Offsides 1 4 Time of Possession 49% 51% Yellow Cards 1 1 Red Cards 0 0 Saves 3 6
Match Information Stadium: Oakwell Stadium, England
Attendance: 22,410
Match Time: 17:30 UK
Referee(s):
S Bennett (Referee)
Teams Barnsley Chelsea 31 Luke Steele23 Carlo Cudicini16 Stephen Foster35 Juliano Belletti5 Robert Kozluk18 Wayne Bridge2 Bobby Hassell26 John Terry23 Marciano Van Homoet6 Ricardo Carvalho25 Martin Devaney24 Shaun Wright-Phillips20 Jamal Campbell-Ryce10 Joe Cole10 Brian Howard5 Michael Essien9 Kayode Odejayi15 Florent Malouda13 Istvan Ferenczi13 Michael Ballack18 Dennis Souza39 Nicolas AnelkaSubstitutes19 Jacob ButterfieldHenrique Hilario 4029 Diego LeonTal Ben-Haim 227 Sam TogwellJohn Mikel Obi 1211 Daniel NardielloClaudio Pizarro 1424 Michael CoulsonSalomon Kalou 21SubstitutionsSam Togwell for Martin Devaney (73)
Salomon Kalou for Florent Malouda (62)
Michael Coulson for Kayode Odejayi (80)
Claudio Pizarro for Juliano Belletti (74)
Yellow CardsRobert Kozluk (54)
Ricardo Carvalho (90)
· Club Squads: Barnsley | Chelsea
Updated: March 8, 2008, 2:41 PM ET
Kayode Odejayi is hardly a name that rolls off the tongue, but it will long be remembered in FA Cup history as Barnsley produced another massive shock to send holders Chelsea crashing out 1-0.
As if beating Liverpool at Anfield in the fifth round three weeks ago was not enough, the Coca-Cola Championship side managed to go one better, with Odejayi the man of the hour.
GettyImages
Barnsley celebrate their success.
The Nigerian striker, a £200,000 buy from Cheltenham in May, had not found the net for 28 appearances, but he undoubtedly scored the most important goal of his career to send Barnsley into the semi-finals at Wembley.
Make no mistake, this was no fluke because although manager Avram Grant made six changes to his team from the one that romped over Olympiacos in the Champions League in midweek, there was still a star-studded line-up on view.
Barnsley boss Simon Davey had described that win as "men against boys,'' and departed Stamford Bridge feeling quite "unnerved'' at how the Blues had dismantled the Greeks.
Needless to say, though, he was expecting far more from his Tykes, and that is what he duly received as Yorkshire grit took on the might of the millionaires from the Kings Road.
There was no Frank Lampard, Didier Drogba, Claude Makelele, Paulo Ferreira or Ashley Cole, who were all rested.
Even without Lampard, there was a distinctly English slant towards the Chelsea side as captain John Terry was joined by Wayne Bridge, Joe Cole and Shaun Wright-Phillips.
Despite their star status, they more than anybody would appreciate this was an old-fashioned cup tie of favourites against underdogs, with a sell-out, fervent Oakwell crowd providing the backdrop.
As if to prove no fear would be shown, Barnsley took the game to their opponents, carving out the opening chance inside three minutes.
The livewire Jamal Campbell-Ryce's through ball found Brian Howard inside the area, the Tykes captain who had scored the late winner at Anfield.
Although Howard's stabbed shot was blocked by Michael Essien, it at least underlined Barnsley's intent that they would not be as easy a pushover as Olympiacos.
Half-chances followed for Chelsea, interspersed by a number of counter-attacks from the home side, who used Campbell-Ryce's pace along with the height and power of strikers Istvan Ferenczi and Odejayi.
Michael Ballack ballooned the visitors' first opportunity over the crossbar, followed by an edge-of-the-area chip from Joe Cole that also cleared the woodwork.
In the 15th minute Cole drilled another effort goalwards, and despite a slight deflection that carried the shot inches wide, there was no corner.
Underlining Barnsley's commitment, Rob Kozluk threw his body in front of a Cole drive that followed three minutes later, and that was it in terms of first-half chances for Chelsea.
Instead, it was the Tykes who should have headed into the break with the lead, initially in the 21st minute when Carlo Cudicini was caught napping on the edge of the six-yard box.
The Italian goalkeeper made a hash of attempting to trap a backpass, allowing Odejayi to thunder in, but his nudge was wide.
Then, eight minutes from the interval, Ferenczi should have found the target after latching onto Bobby Hassell's free-kick from deep.
But after flicking the ball up with his right foot, he fired wide from 12 yards, with the Hungarian then sinking to his knees and with his head in his hands as he appreciated he should have done better.
Within a minute Barnsley were on the attack again as Howard played in Odejayi, and although forced wide, he still fired in a powerful shot that forced Cudicini into his first save via his legs.
Perhaps inevitably Chelsea then dominated the opening 20 minutes of the second period as Barnsley were penned back inside their own half, resorting on occasion to desperate, but effective defending.
From their sporadic opportunities, Cole had a further shot blocked by Dennis Souza, while on-loan goalkeeper Luke Steele made an easy save from a low Nicolas Anelka drive.
Cole and Terry then combined to set up the Frenchman in the 57th minute, but again the determined home side thrust bodies in the way when it mattered most.
After weathering the storm, Barnsley then conjured a goal to lift the proverbial roof off Oakwell, one which is likely to result in further inquests from Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich following those held in the wake of the Carling Cup final defeat to Tottenham.
Ferenczi initially fed Martin Devaney on the right, and after a run from Marciano van Homoet pulled away Bridge, the right winger delivered a piercing cross to the heart of the area.
At 6ft 2ins, Odejayi managed to rise in front of the outstretched hands of Cudicini and nod home only his second goal for the club this season into an empty net.
Chelsea poured forward for the remainder of the game, but despite the pressure, not once was Steele was forced into a save as a wall of 10 red shirts protected him. When the final whistle sounded, and despite warnings over the tannoy not to do so, a pitch invasion ensued - one you could not begrudge the delirious Barnsley faithful.
Saturday, March 8
Man Utd0Portsmouth1Final
Barnsley1Chelsea0Final
fgl
Well-known member
Man Utd 0-1 Portsmouth
Scoring Summary Man Utd Portsmouth Sulley Muntar (pen 78)
Match Stats Man Utd Portsmouth Shots (on Goal) 19(9) 6(4) Fouls 9 16 Corner Kicks 11 5 Offsides 0 1 Time of Possession 64% 36% Yellow Cards 1 2 Red Cards 1 0 Saves 2 6
Match Information Stadium: Old Trafford, England
Attendance: 75,463
Match Time: 12:45 UK
Referee(s):
M Atkinson (Referee)
Teams Man Utd Portsmouth 1 Edwin Van der Sar1 David James5 Rio Ferdinand23 Sol Campbell6 Wes Brown7 Hermann Hreidarsson3 Patrice Evra15 Sylvain Distin15 Nemanja Vidic5 Glen Johnson18 Paul Scholes8 Papa Bouba Diop4 Owen Hargreaves17 John Utaka7 Cristiano Ronaldo11 Sulley Muntar17 Luis Nani19 Niko Kranjcar10 Wayne Rooney6 Lassana Diarra32 Carlos Tevez27 Nwankwo KanuSubstitutes29 Tomasz KuszczakJamie Ashdown 2122 John O'SheaLauren 416 Michael CarrickRichard Hughes 228 AndersonArnold Mvuemba 1813 Ji-Sung ParkMilan Baros 9SubstitutionsTomasz Kuszczak for Edwin Van der Sar (46)
Milan Baros for Nwankwo Kanu (54)
Anderson for Carlos Tevez (68)
Lauren for John Utaka (74)
Michael Carrick for Owen Hargreaves (68)
Richard Hughes for Niko Kranjcar (81)
Yellow CardsWayne Rooney (21)
Papa Bouba Diop (11)
Lassana Diarra (39)
Red CardsTomasz Kuszczak (76)
· Club Squads: Man Utd | Portsmouth
Updated: March 8, 2008, 10:17 AM ET
Sulley Muntari entered Portsmouth folklore by securing a famous 1-0 victory at Old Trafford and a place in the FA Cup semi-finals at Wembley.
The Ghana midfielder ended Manchester United's dream of winning the treble for the first time in nine years with a penalty 13 minutes from time to end years of hurt at the ground for Portsmouth.
The last time Pompey won at Old Trafford was in 1957 and they have endured seven successive defeats since - the last one as recently as January.
Empics
Kuszczak brings down Baros for the penalty.
United will wonder how they lost this match - which they finished with 10 men, after replacement goalkeeper Tomasz Kuszczak was sent off for bringing down substitute Milan Baros.
They dominated possession and almost went ahead in the fifth minute when Paul Scholes got on the end of a free-kick from Nani, only to head wide at the near post.
Cristiano Ronaldo thought he had won a penalty a minute later when he was bundled over by Sylvain Distin, but referee Martin Atkinson allowed play to continue.
Portsmouth were keeping a close eye on Ronaldo and Papa Bouba Diop was booked for dragging his opponent back in the 10th minute.
The visitors broke out of their slumber six minutes later, when Niko Kranjcar tested goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar from distance.
United almost took the lead in the 19th minute when Carlos Tevez got clear, after Wayne Rooney latched onto a pass from Wes Brown, but the Argentinian striker saw his shot superbly headed off the line by Glen Johnson.
United kept up the pressure and Scholes turned quickly in the 28th minute but saw his effort blocked by Portsmouth captain Sol Campbell.
Tevez worked an opening for himself four minutes later and fired in a shot that David James did well to parry.
Lassana Diarra was then booked for a challenge on Ronaldo as United maintained the momentum.
Nani tried to pick out Rooney, but Distin was alert to the danger and made a timely interception in the 41st minute.
Distin again stood tall in the 44th minute to head the ball to safety following a fine cross from Patrice Evra.
United boss Sir Alex Ferguson made a surprise switch at half-time, with Kuszczak replacing van der Sar.
There was a scare for Portsmouth in the 49th minute when James flapped at a cross from Tevez, but he recovered in time to prevent Nani getting in a shot.
Nani was coming more into the game and sent a powerful effort into the goalkeeper's body two minutes later, after being released by Rooney.
Then Rooney was wasteful after Ronaldo had picked him out - sending a shot high into the crowd.
With Kanu out of luck, Portsmouth boss Harry Redknapp replaced him with Baros after 55 minutes.
United almost went in front three minutes later when Nemanja Vidic powered in a header from Nani's corner.
But Tevez made an accidental block and Ronaldo fired his effort wide after the ball had been only partially cleared.
Play switched back down the other end and Baros got away from Owen Hargreaves in the 61st minute but was adjudged to have strayed offside.
Substitute Michael Carrick should have put United ahead in the 69th minute when he eluded James - but just as he was about to tap in, Distin made a vital tackle on the line.
United came within inches of taking the lead in the 73rd minute when Evra's shot came back off the post.
A minute later Campbell headed away a cross from Nani as Portsmouth again found themselves on the back foot.
But the game took a dramatic turn in the 77th minute when Portsmouth were awarded a penalty after Kuszczak tripped Baros, who had been released by Kranjcar.
The Polish goalkeeper was sent off and Rio Ferdinand took his place between the posts. Although the defender correctly guessed the direction of Muntari's spot-kick, it was superbly placed in the right-hand corner and earned Portsmouth an unlikely victory.
Scoring Summary Man Utd Portsmouth Sulley Muntar (pen 78)
Match Stats Man Utd Portsmouth Shots (on Goal) 19(9) 6(4) Fouls 9 16 Corner Kicks 11 5 Offsides 0 1 Time of Possession 64% 36% Yellow Cards 1 2 Red Cards 1 0 Saves 2 6
Match Information Stadium: Old Trafford, England
Attendance: 75,463
Match Time: 12:45 UK
Referee(s):
M Atkinson (Referee)
Teams Man Utd Portsmouth 1 Edwin Van der Sar1 David James5 Rio Ferdinand23 Sol Campbell6 Wes Brown7 Hermann Hreidarsson3 Patrice Evra15 Sylvain Distin15 Nemanja Vidic5 Glen Johnson18 Paul Scholes8 Papa Bouba Diop4 Owen Hargreaves17 John Utaka7 Cristiano Ronaldo11 Sulley Muntar17 Luis Nani19 Niko Kranjcar10 Wayne Rooney6 Lassana Diarra32 Carlos Tevez27 Nwankwo KanuSubstitutes29 Tomasz KuszczakJamie Ashdown 2122 John O'SheaLauren 416 Michael CarrickRichard Hughes 228 AndersonArnold Mvuemba 1813 Ji-Sung ParkMilan Baros 9SubstitutionsTomasz Kuszczak for Edwin Van der Sar (46)
Milan Baros for Nwankwo Kanu (54)
Anderson for Carlos Tevez (68)
Lauren for John Utaka (74)
Michael Carrick for Owen Hargreaves (68)
Richard Hughes for Niko Kranjcar (81)
Yellow CardsWayne Rooney (21)
Papa Bouba Diop (11)
Lassana Diarra (39)
Red CardsTomasz Kuszczak (76)
· Club Squads: Man Utd | Portsmouth
Updated: March 8, 2008, 10:17 AM ET
Sulley Muntari entered Portsmouth folklore by securing a famous 1-0 victory at Old Trafford and a place in the FA Cup semi-finals at Wembley.
The Ghana midfielder ended Manchester United's dream of winning the treble for the first time in nine years with a penalty 13 minutes from time to end years of hurt at the ground for Portsmouth.
The last time Pompey won at Old Trafford was in 1957 and they have endured seven successive defeats since - the last one as recently as January.
Empics
Kuszczak brings down Baros for the penalty.
United will wonder how they lost this match - which they finished with 10 men, after replacement goalkeeper Tomasz Kuszczak was sent off for bringing down substitute Milan Baros.
They dominated possession and almost went ahead in the fifth minute when Paul Scholes got on the end of a free-kick from Nani, only to head wide at the near post.
Cristiano Ronaldo thought he had won a penalty a minute later when he was bundled over by Sylvain Distin, but referee Martin Atkinson allowed play to continue.
Portsmouth were keeping a close eye on Ronaldo and Papa Bouba Diop was booked for dragging his opponent back in the 10th minute.
The visitors broke out of their slumber six minutes later, when Niko Kranjcar tested goalkeeper Edwin van der Sar from distance.
United almost took the lead in the 19th minute when Carlos Tevez got clear, after Wayne Rooney latched onto a pass from Wes Brown, but the Argentinian striker saw his shot superbly headed off the line by Glen Johnson.
United kept up the pressure and Scholes turned quickly in the 28th minute but saw his effort blocked by Portsmouth captain Sol Campbell.
Tevez worked an opening for himself four minutes later and fired in a shot that David James did well to parry.
Lassana Diarra was then booked for a challenge on Ronaldo as United maintained the momentum.
Nani tried to pick out Rooney, but Distin was alert to the danger and made a timely interception in the 41st minute.
Distin again stood tall in the 44th minute to head the ball to safety following a fine cross from Patrice Evra.
United boss Sir Alex Ferguson made a surprise switch at half-time, with Kuszczak replacing van der Sar.
There was a scare for Portsmouth in the 49th minute when James flapped at a cross from Tevez, but he recovered in time to prevent Nani getting in a shot.
Nani was coming more into the game and sent a powerful effort into the goalkeeper's body two minutes later, after being released by Rooney.
Then Rooney was wasteful after Ronaldo had picked him out - sending a shot high into the crowd.
With Kanu out of luck, Portsmouth boss Harry Redknapp replaced him with Baros after 55 minutes.
United almost went in front three minutes later when Nemanja Vidic powered in a header from Nani's corner.
But Tevez made an accidental block and Ronaldo fired his effort wide after the ball had been only partially cleared.
Play switched back down the other end and Baros got away from Owen Hargreaves in the 61st minute but was adjudged to have strayed offside.
Substitute Michael Carrick should have put United ahead in the 69th minute when he eluded James - but just as he was about to tap in, Distin made a vital tackle on the line.
United came within inches of taking the lead in the 73rd minute when Evra's shot came back off the post.
A minute later Campbell headed away a cross from Nani as Portsmouth again found themselves on the back foot.
But the game took a dramatic turn in the 77th minute when Portsmouth were awarded a penalty after Kuszczak tripped Baros, who had been released by Kranjcar.
The Polish goalkeeper was sent off and Rio Ferdinand took his place between the posts. Although the defender correctly guessed the direction of Muntari's spot-kick, it was superbly placed in the right-hand corner and earned Portsmouth an unlikely victory.
fgl
Well-known member
Arsenal
- Manuel Almunia
- William Gallas
- Bacary Sagna
- Philippe Senderos
- Gael Clichy
- Gilberto
- Kolo Toure 66
- Cesc Fabregas
- Mathieu Flamini
- Alexander Hleb
- Emmanuel Adebayor
- Nicklas Bendtner
- Robin Van Persie 66
Wigan Athletic
- Chris Kirkland
- Mario Melchiot
- Emmerson Boyce
- Paul Scharner
- Erik Edman
- Luis Valencia
- Michael Brown
- Jason Koumas
- Wilson Palacios
- Marlon King
- Emile Heskey
- Antoine Sibierski 55
- Michael Pollitt
- Titus Bramble
- Ryan Taylor
- Kevin Kilbane
- Rob Styles (Hampshire)
Match Report
Barclays Premier League
JJB Stadium
Sunday, March 09, 2008, 4pm
Wigan Athletic
0
Arsenal
0
By Richard Clarke
Arsenal came away with a solitary point and a sense of frustration following their visit to Wigan Athletic on Sunday.
The draw does extend their lead in the Premier League to two points but Manchester United now have a game in hand.
Wigan keeper Chris Kirkland had to save superbly from Emmanuel Adebayor after only 45 seconds and would have to pull off three more fine stops in a game the visitors bossed, including one from Cesc Fabregas in the final seconds of normal time.
It would be wrong to say Arsenal were suffering from a Champions League hangover. Their performance was not that bad and a dogged Wigan side gave them similar problems at Emirates Stadium earlier in the season.
The heavy, muddy pitch was much more of a factor as Arsenal struggled to put their familiar slick style into practice. Even the returns of Kolo Toure and Robin van Persie could not lift the game.
It was a disappointing - but not decisive afternoon - for Wenger's side.
The Frenchman's only changes from the San Siro were enforced. Abou Diaby had collected a calf injury during that game while Emmanuel Eboue was seeing out the last game of the three-match suspension he had picked up for that red card at Manchester United in the FA Cup Fifth Round defeat.
Their replacements were Nicklas Bendtner, whose selection up front saw Alex Hleb drop back to the left-side of midfield, and Gilberto. The Brazilian was making his 29th appearance of the season, 14 of which had been as a substitute. Somewhat surprisingly, Wenger accommodated Gilberto in central midfield alongside Mathieu Flamini and Cesc Fabregas was moved out the right.
However there was brighter news on the bench with Kolo Toure and Alex Song back after injury. Van Persie was again named as a substitute having been unused at Milan.
The state of the Wigan pitch had been a talking point before kick-off. Certainly it was muddy and still bore the markings of the last Wigan Warriors Rugby League game it had hosted. At least the expected rain had not arrived to make matters any worse. However the surface would be a factor throughout the game.
That said, Arsenal should have taken the lead right from the whistle. Only 45 seconds had elapsed when an astute pass from Fabregas sent Adebayor through. The Togolese striker outpaced the home defence but Kirkland rushed the edge of his area and blocked wonderfully.
The visitors started the game well and, early on, seemed determined to stick to their passing principles. After five minutes, Adebayor and Bendtner combined adroitly but Melchiot had shadowed the latter all the way and managed to pull off a sliding block.
In the 10th minute Flamini nipped in front of Michael Brown for Bendtner, who had an excellent first half, to trickle a shot wide.
However Wigan are a resilient side under Steve Bruce and, in recent games, have scrapped their way clear of the danger zone. They relied on the same qualities to drag themselves back into this afternoon's game.
Antonio Valencia fooled Clichy on the right and cut inside for Wilson Palacios to blunder a shot wide when he should have done better. Then, just before the half-hour, Wigan had claims for a penalty when Michael Brown's drive cannoned back off the Arsenal defence.
However, most of the quality was coming from the visitors. In the 36th minute Clichy threw a cross into the area and Fabregas sent in an angled header. It did not have power but it was directed just inside the post. Kirkland stretched himself to his right to make his second fine save of the game.
As the half-time whistle blew, Arsenal went down the tunnel fully aware that they would need the same brand of tenacity they had shown at the San Siro, albeit with a different style of football.
The visitors nearly got the goal they deserved twice within five minutes of the restart. Firstly, Clichy's long free-kick was knocked down by Kirkland to Adebayor on the edge of the area but the keeper recovered to make another fine save. Then Fabregas and Hleb spurned chances to convert when the ball ran loose in the Wigan area.
However, yet again, the home side responded. The front running of Marlon King forced William Gallas to collide with Manuel Almunia as the keeper came out to clear. Just before the hour, substitute Antoine Sibierski crossed from the right and Jason Koumas' deflected shot trickled just wide.
Suddenly the game had found some life and Wigan were playing their part. In the 63rd minute, Valencia's vicious curling drive forced Almunia into his first major action of the match.
Two minutes later, Wenger brought on Toure and Van Persie for Gilberto and Bendtner. The Dutchman, making his first appearance since January, went up front but the Ivorian slotted in the right of midfield.
The changes had no immediate effect and, after Valencia sent a drive in the area following good work from Melchiot, the first signs of real urgency started to the visitors' game.
Van Persie sent a free-kick high over the bar and, with seven minutes left, thumped an effort over the bar when well-placed. In a move entirely out of keeping with the game, the final minutes were frantic and incisive. With two minutes left, Fabregas shot straight at Kirkland after Adebayor had put him through. At the other end, the Spaniard screwed a clearance over his own bar in injury time then a thumping drive from Koumas was blocked.
Arsenal will feel this was two precious points dropped, the reaction of the Wigan fans at the end told you everything about the one they gained.
But there is still time for Wenger's men to recover.
Dime
New member
Arsenal held again
United's domestic campaign received a welcome boost on Sunday when rivals Arsenal tossed away two more precious points in the league.
The Gunners' goalless draw at Wigan was their third successive stalemate in the Barclays Premier League after their inability to beat Aston Villa at home and Birmingham away.
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger said, "We're in a patch where we're not taking enough points, but we'll stay calm. We have a very good chance of winning this championship."
Another Sunday result may also have a bearing on the title race - Middlesbrough's FA Cup defeat at home to Cardiff leaves them free to host United in the league on Sunday 6 April. Boro's exit also means United's conquerors Portsmouth are the only top-flight team in the FA Cup semi-finals. The other teams through are Barnsley and West Brom.
United's domestic campaign received a welcome boost on Sunday when rivals Arsenal tossed away two more precious points in the league.
The Gunners' goalless draw at Wigan was their third successive stalemate in the Barclays Premier League after their inability to beat Aston Villa at home and Birmingham away.
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger said, "We're in a patch where we're not taking enough points, but we'll stay calm. We have a very good chance of winning this championship."
Another Sunday result may also have a bearing on the title race - Middlesbrough's FA Cup defeat at home to Cardiff leaves them free to host United in the league on Sunday 6 April. Boro's exit also means United's conquerors Portsmouth are the only top-flight team in the FA Cup semi-finals. The other teams through are Barnsley and West Brom.
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