Arsenal’s capitulation is all too familiar

Just when it seemed Arsenal’s young guns were finally coming of age they throw away a four-goal lead at Newcastle. On a weekend that was full of goals and shock results, Arsenal and Newcastle served up a potential game of the season and one which everyone who was present will never forget. But given events at St James’ Park on Saturday, are we witnessing the diminishing of the Gunner’s title challenge for yet another season?

Arsène Wenger’s positive football philosophy has never been in doubt but his team’s persistence to capitulate at vital points in recent years has been a common trait in the Frenchmen’s side. It would be pleasing to see a team as fluid and creative as Arsenal crowned champions but their mental fragility means that their title chances look improbable. At St James’ Park, Arsenal’s best and worse characteristics were clear for all to see.

• photo by atomicShed

The Gunners raced into a four-goal lead after just 26 minutes thanks to Theo Walcott, Johan Djourou and a Robin Van Persie brace. But having lost Abou Diaby to a red card after a moment of madness following Joey Barton’s firm challenge, Arsenal’s bravado deteriorated in unforgettable fashion. The dismissal turned the game, with the Magpies hitting three back with a Barton penalty brace and a goal from Leon Best. With three minutes remaining, Cheick Tiote struck a sweet volley to send the Toon Army into ecstasy as Newcastle completed a stunning comeback.

On a crazy weekend which saw Manchester United lose their unbeaten tag against Wolves, Arsenal still find them one point closer to the top of the Premier League. But the Gunners will rue the missed opportunity. The disappointing draw comes in the wake of yet another quite transfer window for Arsenal. The Frenchmen’s unwavering commitment to focus on the future has seemingly obscured present plans to mount a sustainable title challenge. Arsenal’s young side lack doggedness and resolve, attributes that a more experienced player could bring to the team. Ostensibly, with the passing of the transfer deadline, Wenger’s frugalness could prove costly. With other’s faltering around them, a golden opportunity to lift their first Premier League title since 2004 may have passed.

Guest post by Aidan Donovan a copywriter for several companies that sell washing machines