Blackburn (Team A) 2-3 Arsenal (Team B)

This match was absorbing and exhilarating till the end. The Gunners gave Blackburn a footballing lesson in the first. The second half was pretty even and Blackburn came back.

Eduardo’s wonderfully executed shot put paid to Blackburn’s hopes in extra time. What drama. The Gunners storming to a 2-goal early lead, squandering it and then with 10 men, hitting the winner in extra time.

Now, for the semis and then Wembley should beckons...

Back in the saddle

Arsenal beat a Mourinho-less Chelsea for the first time since February 2004. The feeling on the final whistle was just too good.

The resilience and will to win was there. Yes, Drogba, Essien and a few others were out, but, don’t take that away from the Gunners.

A lone goal settled this bruising encounter. Captain Willy rose like a lark and head home from Fabregas’s corner near half-time.

After this round of matches involving the Top Four, I reckon the title would do down the wire this time round with Man Utd and Arsenal competing.

Yes… I love that muscular kung fu dragback that Fab4 used at Cashley. The match was a frenzy… my man of the match vote goes to our regular Blondie. He was simply superb.

One nil to the Arsenal.

Young and Dangerous

Mad Jens appeared for the Gunners in this match. The gunners played much, much better, unlike the Boro showing.

Great to see RvP and Diaby back…they looked so sharp as ever. Diaby even found the net. Nicklas Bendtner drove home the second just before half-time.

I am peeved, winning and still unable to top the group. Next Friday’s draw would be intriguing…. I am hoping we would meet Barcelona, for sentimental reasons, to have the young Gunners squaring up against Titi.

This Sunday would be so cool… Grandslam Sunday.

The day the music died...

Arsenal's 22-match unbeaten record in the Premiership came to an end at the Riverside. Okay, Middlesbrough won as they were marginally better on Sunday. But then, playing 3 games in a week did took its toll on the Gunners. Moreover, RvP, Flamini, Fabregas and Hleb were out…

Downing’s penalty strike and Tuncay’s shot gave Boro a two goal lead before Rosicky fired a late consolation for a weary Arsenal.

The Czech’s goal was a little too late…the Gunners tasted defeat for the first time this season. Hey, the game is about winning and losing. There’s no time to fret…the Grand Slam weekend is coming!

Relief for Sam

I reckon this was the match that could spell doom for Newcastle embattled manager Big Sam. After 90 minutes, it was 1-1. The result probably bought him more time at St James’ Park.

Arsenal's opening goal, which is around 3 minutes into the match, was another gem. Adebayor received Eboué's cross on his chest before executing a superb volley. I thought the floodgates was open…alas, Newcastle showed more grit and fight to storm back for a draw.

It was a pretty subdued performance by the Gunners. But then, that volley by Ade was simply audacious. I felt Arsenal do miss the quartet of Flamini, Fabregas, Hleb and RvP.

Class and resilience

This was one match that definitely got gooners purring and drooling all over…

Emmanuel Eboué was instrumental in this match. He was involved in both the Arsenal goals. His deflected cross set up Flamini to power home and his reverse pass free Sagna to cross for Adebayor to head home the decisive winner.

Yes, it was a game of two halves, literally. The first was Arsenal playing cosmic football and the second was classic resilience. Oh yes… the gunners did got rocked a bit in the second half.

Fads in November 2007

1. Spurs got their 7th manager since 1996. Arsenal had the same one since that year.

2. It’s the 25th anniversary of Wacko Jacko’s best selling album, Thriller.

3. It was the Yao-Yi NBA “China Derby”.

4. Norman Mailer passed on. He is 84.

5. England lost 2-3 to Croatia at Wembley and failed to qualify for Euro 2008.

6. Arsenal’s unbeaten 28 ended at Sevilla.

Lost the battle, not the war

My colleague was asking me yesterday…should he punt for an Arsenal away victory? Somehow, I told him not to….it was an under strength Arsenal team playing away in Spain. Gosh, the Gunners tasted defeat this time round.

I still feel the decision to rest the established first team players was just. There are tough games ahead… however, the gamble did not pay off. Sevilla isn’t that easy meat after all.

Eduardo scored the only goal for Arsenal after out muscling Daniel Alves. It was undone by two superb goals from the home team in the first half. Damn, there was even time for Sevilla to score a third through an injury-time penalty.

Hope they rebound fast enough. This weekend’s trip to Villa Park could be tricky.

Bruce's not almighty

Another Arsenal victory, but not till the last 10 minutes… Wigan provided stubborn resistance and some rough play in this match. Finally, two late goals saw off Wigan. Captain Gallas scored the first with a superb header. Sagna’s cross from the right was pin point. Rosicky added the second to seal the win.

Not a bad result for the home side with a depleted midfield… the Gunners were without Fabregas, Flamini, Gilberto and Hleb. It is now an unbeaten 28 in all competitions.

Halfway through the second half, I was actually worried about the Gunners not winning this match…why? Titus Bramble was doing the defending! Luckily, all well’s end well. While Wigan put up quite a fight in this fixture, those blardy tackles on Denilson and Walcott should be straight red cards.

Gallas was perfect in this match. Okay…I am slowly beginning to accept the fact that he is the One to inherit DB’s No. 10 jersey. Bendtner was good too…he was Dangerous Dane the moment he came on. The roll continues.

Goal #1001

Adebayor hit goal 1,000th with a curling shot and Hleb twist and turn in front of the Reading keeper before scoring the third. Arsenal were simply gloriously classy.

Reading took a defensive approach right from the beginning. The first goal came when Eboué, Adebayor and Hleb inter-played effectively for Flamini to score.

Three points were never in doubt. It could have been a rout… at times, the gunners over-elaborated with their passing. Anyway, it was quite a strolling breeze… the gunners are back on top. Yipppeee!

To the knockout stage

Not gonna write much… the Gunners just got the point they needed with this away 0-0 draw against Slavia Prague to get to the 2nd round.

I hate to admit it… it was agonizing and the match was quite a yawn. Who cares… the Gunners stay undefeated and are through to the knockout stage. That matters.

Though the whole thingie was far from beautiful...there was a message to Liverpool. Qualify then rotate. Don't rotate and try to qualify.

Old fogey's webb of distraction

The injury time equalizer brought much joy to my house. Luckily, my ah girl was asleep, if not, I might had toss her up in the air as well.

The midfield contest between Man Utd’s Anderson and Arsenal’s Fabregas was intriguing. Man Utd’s teenage Brazilian was like a young Edgar Davids, snapping at every gunner’s heels. He didn’t really snuff out the Arsenal play but he was dastardly irritating. My, I think this duel could soon replace the Vieira vs Keane or even the Wright vs Schmeichel feuds of the yesteryears.

I think Arsenal were the slightly better team on Saturday. Yup, even though they had to come from behind twice. When Fab4 calmly rolled the ball to made it 1-1, it was sensational. When Gallas made it 2-2 right at the death, I felt like it was …. like better than getting laid.

It now stands at a club record run of 25 fixtures unbeaten in all competitions. Sure, Man Utd did sort of prevent the Arsenal from doing their sleek passing game. So, this new found resilience and steel have prevented any dreaded results. We saw remarkable comebacks against the likes of Liverpool and Man Utd.

A draw was a fair result… and yes, Gallas gave everything… more such stellar performances from our captain. It was euphoric when captain Gallas hooked in the equalizing goal. This Arsenal team’s got character and they just doesn’t want to lose.

My initial blog title was "Stoppage time joy"...I've since change to this current title. Ha ha.

Dudu on the double

Eduardo Da Silva fired his warning shots last night with two superb goals. Le Boss even insisted there is much more to come from the Croatian.

Dudu’s double was enough to sent the Gunners to the fifth round. The first was a swerving strike and the second, a sweet left foot shot after feinting past the keeper. Denilson added the third off a deflection.

Oh yes… it was simply Arsenal from start to finish or, Arsenal all the way. The Blades were clearly out-passed by this set of younger Gunners. Though it was 3-0 victory, it clearly could have been more…. without breaking a sweat.

Fads in October 07

1. A “humilated” Jens Lehmann blasts Wenger and the other 2 Arsenal keepers.

2. Arsenal launched their Chinese language website.

3. Time’s up for Tottenham’s Martin Jol.

4. Section 377A is a hot act.

5. The world’s most wanted suspected paedophile got nabbed in Thailand.

6. Thierry Henry took his international strikes to 43 and surpassed Michel Platini’s goalscoring record for France.

7. Is Sin Ming the funeral hub of Singapore?

8. AC Milan goalkeeper Dida looks very much like a promising actor.

9. Local farmers petition against granite stockpile in Kranji. It was hilarious when they sent a basket of fruits and vegetables to the Prime Minister.

10. Senior Citizen is re-branded as “Active Ageing”.

Record intact

Arsenal’s season had entered its most demanding phase, facing Liverpool and Man Utd in the space of 7 days. That includes Sheffield United in-between.

In the much hyped match played yesterday, it was a 1-1 draw against Liverpool at Anfield. Yes, it was a pulsating match… Arsenal did the chasing as they fell behind early in the match.
Arsenal, coped well with this so called first big test of their Premier League campaign. Neutrally speaking, the Gunners were by far the more polished and better team.

Though a goal down so early in this match, they showed no signs of fear or nervousness… they just kept plugging away… struck the posts twice. With 10 minutes left, the excellent Hleb came from the left, found Fab4 and the young Spaniard toe poked gently past Pepe Reina for the equalizer.

Another excellent Arsenal display, great football, passing, teamwork and a never-say-die attitude. Blondie Almunia pulled off a few fine saves…I think Lehmann would be “humiliated” for a longer than expected time…

I’m glad with the draw. Actually, Arsenal could have well won it. It was a Liverpool displaying some admirable defensive work, working through a tight defensive mindset in a home match. Pooh pooh.

If Arsenal had not left Anfield with at least a point, it would be a real travesty.

Football from another planet? Yes!

Out of this world, it was outta this world….this was Arsenal in top gear. My, oh my… a mouthwatering 7-0 win over a bewildered Slavia Prague.

It is now an astounding 12th consecutive victories in all competitions. Walcott and Fab4 got 2 goals apiece, Hleb got erh, 2 goals too. Substitute Bendtner sealed the win with the 7th goal.

I like Cesc’s first goal, that wonderful curler. It has all the hallmarks of a player on top of his game. Walcott and Hleb’s second goals were equally mesmerizing.

Of course, young Theo Walcott stole the show. He was magnificent. Actually, so was the entire Arsenal squad. So va va vroom and it was a wonderful belated birthday present for Arsene Wenger.

A truly brilliant and flawless masterclass team performance. The only dampener was those scorching Lehmann’s remarks about being “humiliated”. Hope it is not affecting the team spirit too much…

Knox-king them down

Alright, it wasn’t a great performance… oh yes, the Gunners still nicked a 2-0 home win against Bolton.

The game did came alive during the second half. Kolo Toure gave the Gunners the lead with a low drive from a freekick some 25 yards. Rosicky and Walcott came on as substitutes and made the game lively. About 10 minutes to go, some blistering pace and a cross by nippy Walcott gave Rosicky the chance to tuck in the second goal.

I do wish for a better showing against Slavia Prague during mid-week… then it’s Liverpool and Man Utd. I dread and look forward to those matches at the same time.

It was great to see Gallas back in defence. This squad is something… even old guards like Lehmann and Gilberto have not find their way back to the starting 11 yet. Oh, I guess Bolton came with an intent to play out a draw.… armed with their fouls and ugly football.

Dudu didn’t really stamp his authority much in this match. To sum up the Arsenal strikers… Emmanuel Adebayor raced clear on goal 14 minutes from time, after rounding the keeper, he tripped over the ball. Thank God, a defender and midfielder scored.

Black cats culling

Man, this was one match that Arsenal should have been wrapped up nicely way before half-time. Instead, the Gunners were made to sweat a bit, got a bit of a scare and eventually, won all 3 points.

Well, the Gunners were all over Sunderland and had raced to an early 2-0 lead, somehow, cockiness and complacency sets in….squandered the lead and Sunderland drew level. Thank God, Van Persie scored his second to lift the Gunners to a 3-2 win.

Overall, a great game of enthralling football. There was excitement throughout… a stunning and ferocious Van Persie freekick, a 30 to 40 odd yard sizzler from Toure that cannoned off the post, Walcott sitting on his bum when an open goal was there for the taking, Senderos scoring, Hleb’s battered crown jewels…. and much more.

The poor decision to disallow Arsenal’s “third” goal was decisive. I actually felt that if that goal had stood…the turning point would had led the floodgates to open. 6 or 7 goals would have been a possibility. Damn.

Haiz…wish the Arsenal to be more ruthless…finish their opponents by half time so that the substitutes could come in during the second half for match exposure….leaving it till the end was nail biting but it have been painful.

9 in a row

The Gunners took a step closer towards qualification to the knockout stage in the Champions League with a Robin van Persie strike in the 76th minute.

At the final whistle, Arsenal became the first English side to beat Steaua Bucharest. Only saw the goal highlights…Van Persie did lashed out a good strike. Fab4 had an incredible miss from close range early in the match.

It was great to see Hleb up and running after that injury he got from the West Ham match. I guess it might not be a vintage Arsenal performance. I rather called it controlled with a few scares.

It is now a superb run of nine consecutive victories for Arsenal in all competitions. There is already talks of going unbeaten and emulating the form and consistency back in 2003-04. It is early days….for me, just enjoy the moment. Tops in the Premiership and group H in the Champions League. So, there might not be a need for a new Thierry Henry to emerge in the Arsenal ranks after all. Just keep winning.

My wishlist….also that our local cable operator could at least try showing the Slavia Prague match in three weeks’ time. Is that too much to ask?

One-nil to the Arsenal

The roll continues… this time round, it’s a win against the team who did the double over the Gunners last season.

This Hammers encounter looked every bit a hard fought match, unlike the skinning of the rams last week. Ha…of course, that extra grit, class, cohesion, energy and resilience matters….the Gunners held on to an early Van Persie header for a victory.

I’ve heard it’s the 101st meeting between this two sides and it’s Arsenal's first league win at Upton Park for seven years. This time round, there’s no shoving of Pardew, but there is Mark Noble's crude challenge on Alex Hleb, causing him to be carried off the pitch.

Upton Park was quite a big test and Arsenal came out with a win. Sitting pretty at the top….The Gunners’ title aspirations would really be put to the test come end-October… meeting Liverpool and Man Utd in a week. Wow!

For now, I’m wondering if Starhub is showing this week’s Champions League game against Steaua Bucharest.

Fads in September 07

1. Arsene Wenger signed a new 3-year contract extension with Arsenal till 2011. It is also his 11th year in charge this month.

2. Russian Alisher Usmanov upped his Arsenal stakes to 23%.

3. Arsenal is Europe’s 2nd richest football club.

4. The Special One quits Chelsea.

5. It’s six years after 9/11.

6. The ex-chairman of the old NKF got 15 months’ jail.

7. I was surprised with the recall of Emile Heskey to the England squad. However, to my pleasant surprise… he linked up pretty well with Micheal Owen.

8. An army chap went missing with a rifle and some ammo. The bloke got caught after a 20-hour manhunt.

9. Local football club, Woodlands Wellington walked out en masse against Tampines Rovers in a S-league match. The local football fraternity called it “a sad day for Singapore football”. Actually, I was thinking... what is there to be sad about?

10. Asafa Powell is the world’s fastest man doing 9.74 secs in the 100m dash.

11. Italian opera great, Luciano Pavarotti died at age 71.

The run continues...

Damn. No telecast of this match on telly.

A summary of several match reports I’ve read….it was Arsenal all the way.

Jokes aside, it was a team containing only 3 from the side that thumped Derby, outclassing a full Newcastle squad. Nicklas Bendtner and Denilson scored their first goals for the club in the last 10 minutes of the match.

I’m so delighted….Furthermore, the Gunners are tops on the money pile. Only second to Real Madrid in Europe. Best news was the 70 million pounds to be made available for Le Boss to boost the squad. Power!

Demolition Derby

Wow. The Gunners gave the meek rams a football lesson on Saturday. The result – A thumping 5-0 scoreline and more exhilarating football to boot. The relative ease that Arsenal finish off Derby was great. This young side is shaping up well….

We had Fab4 moving in top gear. The modern thinking footballer, spraying passes intelligently and importantly, scoring goals regularly. This was his sixth match in a row which he has scored.

Abou Diaby opened accounts on the 10th minute with a rocket, Adebayor added two more to make it 3-0… Another rocket whistled in on the 70th minute, it was Fab4’s parting shot prior to being rested. The fifth one and Adebayor’s hattrick came when the Togo international chested a long ball forward, evaded his marker and fired home.

Every Gunner played above themselves. Walcott looked as though he was trying to hard. His final ball did go astray couple of times. However, I like his darting runs. Hoped he could rise and show all the flair and early promise he was demonstrating back in Southampton.

I admit I am a bigot. I once commented that Adebayor wasn’t the type of finished article I so long for to lead the Arsenal attack. I am wrong.

Keep on playing this magical way…come May 08, the Thierry Henry years will only become fond memories and this team of young Gunners will be the Special Ones.

The perfect start

A 3-0 win over Sevilla. What I saw was an Arsenal display of consummate ease, sharpness and professionalism.

Fab4 notched his sixth of the season on the 27th minute. Looked pretty much a deflected shot. It was 2-0 in the second half when Robin van Persie fired home from close range after Sagna had nodded to his path via Fab4’s freekick.

Dudu came on late in the match and still had time to notch a third goal at stoppage time. It came off a classic move involving superb ball interchange between Fab4 and Hleb.

To be fair, that so called dark horse Sevilla did have some good spells… or spurts. For the home team, Fab4 was fabulous and Sagna was so solid at the back.

On more football front, Russian Usmanov upped his Arsenal stakes to 21%. The biggest news was probably The Special One leaving Chelsea by mutual consent. Lastly, Juande Ramos and Martin Jol just got that sinking feeling together.

Actually, I don’t give a hoot about what goes on at Stamford Bridge….C’mon, the Gunners, slay Derby this weekend.

Childhood days

Just relieving my happy days of my childhood, my youth and naivete.

I reckon I was quite a morose when young, the happiest memories of my early childhood were having the chance to steal lengthy glances of those teen or music magazines bought from the nearby mama shop, belonging to my elder brother. Of course, made possible when there is nary a soul at home. Back then, stars like Leif Garrett, Andy Gibb, Parker Stevenson and Shaun Cassidy were hot. I thought they were super cool. Before I go further, I am not gay, hor.

My earliest known fave song is likely to be “Shadow Dancing” by Andy Gibb, who so tragically died so young then. Other than that, “Physical” by ONJ sounded okay and I didn’t really know why it was deemed too controversial then. I also like the music of Grease and Xanadu. Boney M may seems goofy now, I thought I like them then. I also like Abba and The Osmonds a great deal.

Like most children, I was afraid of the dark. As far back as time deemed that I was old enough to sleep alone without falling off the bed, the issue of lights out and darkness irks me…. Big time.

I do have a couple of friends from the neighbouring blocks. Games were just the silly “one-leg”. I was hopeless with marbles, catching spiders or venturing down drains to catch guppies. To top it all, I can’t swim or cycle for nuts. To recap, my older siblings had never played with me that much. Frankly, I guess they were not that keen at it themselves.

It did not help much that I am always on the receiving end – being pelted by the tennis ball in “hantum bola” game, being caught all too easily when playing “One-Leg” and being discovered way too early in the “Police and Thieves” game.

In my teenage years, I spent the greater part of my day locked up in my room. Of course, I had radio for company, those Smash Hits and Shoot! magazines to keep me company. My first experience with blue movies was definitely “Deep Throat”. Ha ha…a porn classic. The stirring of one’s teenage groins…. Ooh aahh… Linda Lovelace and Traci Lords were goddesses. Not forgetting, my weekends… late Saturday nites were spent gluing to BBC radio, listening to the fortunes of Arsenal FC. Match highlights….I must say…the Terry Neill years were not that spectacular.

I love to laze on the floor. It’s cooling. With no one at home, there are always 1,001 things to do, besides school homework. I loves dreaming… I remember I often get lost in the picnic adventure world of The Famous Five…. even, being an Arsenal player. Some one like Graham Rix or Liam Brady. I consider them as silky skillful players back then.

My mom is not going like reading this… I actually dread going to my maternal grandparents’ place during Chinese New Year. It was sheer distaste to fulfill this social obligation. While CNY is a time for merry-making, setting off fire crackers… it is a much-dreaded event for me. Even, it is once in a year!

I can’t understand the evergreen habit of comparing of one’s height, weight, school grades, blah, blah, blah. Let me tell you, as the years goes by, one still had to be field questions on income, job and marital status.

For eons, I wanted to break away from this vicious CNY visits. It is a tedious social and family tradition. I just thought… will those relatives ever go away? Let me live entirely to my own free will, without their well meaning intents and uncalled interference, the world, or rather, my world, would be a better place to live in.

Now, as a parent, I would be mortified if ah girl thinks likewise. CNY visits are one heck of an undeniable facts of life and kinship are at best, of unbreakable bonds.

The Graph

I got this pic in my email. Thought it was hilarious...

Crayfish Hor Fun

This Ipoh crayfish hor fun is yummy. Used to go queue during lunchtime, real legendary queue…about half an hour or more. I’ve given up on queuing during weekdays. Nowadays, I go down on Saturdays. Around 11 am to avoid the crowd.

Superb dish of hor fun, prawns and crayfish. The thick and tasty gravy is light, not too salty and gives a smooth, savoury and nice flavour to the dish.

Location: 2nd floor, at the hawker centre in the Hong Lim or Fook Hai area.

Storming to the top

In a season where Arsenal would be Henry-less, expected to be reeling and all sorts… viola, the Gunners are top of the Premiership after the London Derby.

My heart almost stopped when Gareth Bale took a superb free kick and sent Spurs in the lead at half-time. I was really feeling down at half-time. I wasn’t sad for long… the second half display was awesome.

Emmanuel Adebayor gave a towering performance. He equalized by jumping in front of Paul Robinson and headed home for the equalizer. Of course, Spurs did have their chances to extend their lead….luckily, they didn’t convert their chances in this free flowing derby.

Fab4 continued his goal scoring run by drilling home a 30-yard drive for Goal No. 2. The best of the 3 goals came late….Adebayor flick the ball up and a thunderous volley on the turn. Now, that’s what I call audacious.

Interesting derby. The ever-reliable Gilberto was a bit groggy in defence. Not sure if it was the midweek transatlantic journey for Brazil. Blondie Almunia running out of his area to nowhere in a heart-stopping moment, expensive Darren Bent miskicking, Le Boss’s first game since signing a new 3-year extension contract and that 30-yard boom.

Radiohead

I hadn’t been listening to the radio for awhile….quite awhile. Perhaps, too many distractions. Maybe watching too much football. But, football is never a distraction. Arsenal is never a distraction.

Horror of horrors, I’ve realized that I am pretty uncomfortable with 98.7 FM. I used to loved this station. Right now, I reckon it’s for kids who wants the noisier stuff. To be honest, I am pretty comfortable with Gold 90 FM, in Brian Richmond’s company. I was thinking that 95 FM might be too soothing for me.

Of course, I miss those days when Chris Ho was in Redifusion. I especially miss that radio show playing those thundering heavy metal numbers…by that lady DJ, was it Lyn Sardon, or something like dat? Her shows were explosive, man. Sheer dynamite. Oh yes, Ann Neo wasn’t too bad either. Of course, I am a big fan of the late John Peel. There were his superb programs on BBC then.

Actually, I really hope that one day, there would be one local station dedicated to rock music. 24/7 type, playing Led Zeppelin, Dio, Jimi Hendrix, The Doors, Black Sabbath, right up to Slipknot or Linkin Park. From 60s to today, and back again. Also give me Twisted Sister, WASP, Poison or Motley Crue anytime. In between, to feature guitarists….like Eddie Van Halen, Steve Vai to Randy Rhoads. Now, that would be heavenly.

I must come clean…I’ve never grown out of rock n roll. While I am the early middle aged good guy who pay his bills and taxes on time, I still steal fixes of rock or metal’s unrestrained thuds and thumps everytime I am safely ensconced in some pub. In fact, when I do have lunch at Hard Rock Café occasionally, I always try to sneak a peek at Eddie’s Kramer, Elvis’s Vegas suit, Bowie’s Serious Moonlight concert boots and every bit of rock n roll memorabilia.

I must say, rock music is very much an adolescent form of expression. It’s not like jazz or classical. Hey, those few old rockers who are around, don’t look ridiculous today. Look at Eric Clapton, Keith Richards or David Bowie. They have submitted totally and lived out all the rigours, demands and excesses of rock n roll. One can “feel” their performances, the stimulation is visceral.

When I played it real loud and get enveloped by it, my, the beat and its incantations, it sure gives me the feel-good rush that nothing can. Furthermore, it has that rough and ready feel, the intense noise and the anarchy. Raise your fist and yell!

I told my wife the other day, I wouldn’t mind our daughter learning a musical instrument. I was contemplating…an electric guitar. If she like, I would buy her a Fender Stratocaster. I would play drums, rammed it up like Keith Moon. I dream to be her roadie, ferrying her for her performances, lugging her amplifiers and be her manager. Okay, stop dreaming…

Little Earthquakes

Those earthquakes in nearby Sumatra rocked me this morning. At around 0750 hours, I could feel the house moved. The bed was shaking, the floor was moving. Even those laundry hung high up in the kitchen area was swirling. It was almost like a swivel.

Ah girl’s favourite object at the moment, the windchime, was literally smashing against each other. It is making me dizzy….my head is spinning.

Volcano High

I saw this movie, Volcano High on Sunday nite over Arts Central. It was a made in 2001 Korean film. Boy, it was hilarious and interesting. I was riveted to my sofa from start to finish.

The show revolves around a problematic high school student named Kim Kyung-Soo. From the simple subtitles, I gather that he was transferred from school to school. Finally, Volcano High accepted him. It is an institution where several students displayed incredible kung fu skills. Some even had mysterious psychic powers.

Between plots, Kim was drawn into fights between the different school clubs. There’s also a secret Manual that could hold Great Powers and a group of 5 teachers roped in by the principal to check the students’ discipline or rather, maintain some order.

The final showdown between Kim and the 5 teachers remind me of the 1980 film, Superman II whereby Superman squares off with 3 baddies similarly dressed in black. Oh, and the fighting sequences in Volcano High did bear some resemblance to those Matrix scenes. Great stuff.

I was pretty much glued to the TV. Luckily, manage to stop my daughter from rolling down the couch in time. Phew.

A rock & roll fable

Streets of Fire remains one of my favourite movie. Remember catching that movie at the then President cinema in Balestier back in the mid-80s. Since then, I’ve never seen it on telly. Actually, I’ve tried numerous video shops and whatevers, never manage to get hold a VCD or DVD copy of this movie.

Basically, it’s about a soldier of fortune returning home to rescue his ex-girlfriend from some thugs. It had that great mix of musical, action, drama and comedy with elements of both retro 50s and 80s. The lead, Michael Pare had that cool look then. I rank it up there with Sly Stallone’s Cobra and Kurt Russell’s Snake Plissken. Another bunch of my movie heroes.

Though never a box office hit, this movie is said to have attained cult status. Could be the rock soundtrack….I just lurve listening to “I can dream about you” by Dan Hartman. A fine rock and roll fable, indeed.

In Arsene We Trust

The great news is out… Arsène Wenger has signed a three year extension to his current contract, taking his tenure at Arsenal Football Club to 2011.

Best news for a weekend devoid of league matches, better still for most gooners, the recent departures of Henry and Dein was tough. Glad that Le Boss would be around…to built the next great Arsenal team. Hopefully, within this tenure, the Gunners could capture the Holy Grail, the Champions League. To be Kings of Europe.

More good years…

The Other Side

My wife met up with her ex-colleague for lunch couple of weeks ago. Her ex-colleague was a rich tai tai, a go-getter… ah, whatever. Many people would probably find her brash and she is sure to snort, “It’s your problem.” Strangely, though complete opposites… after all these years, she still kept in touch with my wife.

They sat through lunch, I guess that tai tai friend of hers must had looked expensive – the well manicured nails, the clothes, the pointy shoes, wearing nice perfume, the latest mobile phone and Luis Vuitton bag. It is likely that everyone around was rushing through their lunch while they were eating their lunch slowly, killing time.

Moving forward…my wife was back home. She was going on…saying how that tai tai friend ticked off a young waitress for not serving properly or rather, not to her satisfaction. At the back of my mind, I was cursing….those rich people at it, again.

Then again, I was into wishful thinking… how nice if I’ve got tons of money, I could just lap it up, stay at home and live a life of leisure and luxury. This scenario is too good to be dismissed outright. Imagine being able to walk out on one’s fxxxing highly stressed and low-paying job. For me, flying to London for Arsenal’s home matches, taking my meals at El Bullil, shopping at Milan, relaxing at some spa in some faraway Thai resort, and going almost anywhere, anytime.

It seems, her ex-colleague married rich. I guess there is no point marrying a struggling chap and spend the rest of the time trying to stretch his salary to cover housing loan, car loan, food, utilities, transport fares, maid levy, petrol and other necessities. Bluntly put forth, one might as well go back to work.

I only see the glamour part of being rich. Not sure how her ex-colleague sees it. Maybe she might have told people that the grass is always greener on the other side. You know, it could be… she may have sleepless nights worrying about her maid, about her husband in his overseas job stint, about her country club membership being open to outsiders, about en-bloc profits, about her golf handicap, about a fatter bank account and a zillion of other trivialities.

I really don’t know about what the ultra rich might worry about. My wife and myself haven’t had a holiday in donkey years. With a baby in tow, we just can’t pack our bags and leave whenever we feel like it. Sometimes, when things go wrong, if ah girl starts bawling in the middle of the night, we might had wish we were still single. This has got to be human nature…. to yearn for something that we do not have.

Days of being "wild"

I was a growing child of the seventies, a dull one. While many people can boast of a childhood with exciting stories like catching guppies in drains, catching spiders among thick bushes, swimming in the well, falling from tree-tops in their kampong homes…I virtually got none. Maybe, got lah…. playing that ridiculous game called “One-leg” in badminton courts or jumping up and down from the double decker bed that daddy bought for me and my older brother.

Maybe my wife might have a more exciting childhood, she grew up in a kampong home near the Bukit Timah hills. From young, I was a product of congested “high-rise” HDB flats. I’ve never flown a kite all my life…. apart from a few pathetic attempts to fly kite from the narrow corridors of the flat I used to live.

I’ve also never learn how to swim or go bike cycling. I guess I’m lousy…I also dropped out of NPCC in my secondary school days. I couldn’t stand the bloody marching. I settled for ku niang ones like chess and book reading. My youth, was limited to reading sleeping, eating, studying, reading Famous Five, Secret Seven and eventually, graduating to reading Agatha Christie’s murder novels. Hercule Poirot was like Sherlock Holmes to me. He could solve almost every darn thing. Damn good.

I still harbour a great deal of regret of not enjoying myself that much when I was young. It’s about as tragic as anyone’s childhood can get. That feeling of irrecoverable loss of being short-changed. I definitely would want my daughter to play as much as she can and stay happy.

I worry for her….must she chalked up an impressive array of extra-curricular activities in school? Must she go for gold, go for all the "A"s academically? Would there be a future if only she can jump higher, run faster, dance that perfect ballet routine, swim faster, score that perfect 10 in everything she does. Furthermore, sing that perfect note.

Things have changed, I mean, in education. I reckon there is a great emphasis on an all-round education by schools. I really shudder, to think that only the fittest kids will survive. That, it is a jungle out there.

I am all for fair play, or rather, the sound principles of fair competition and meritocracy in general. But, would this intense desire to be Number One, degenerate into a cruel rat race. I hope the intense pressure to win would not take away the joys of learning and participation. I hear horror stories of parents doing volunteer work on weekends so as to secure the choice primary school for their kids.

But what else would matter for me as a parent of an eight-month old baby girl. I believe that many others, in my generation, were left alone to stop and smell the roses, to watch TV shows and generally, left alone to indulge in fun and games.

Apart from the mid and year-end examinations, I was basically left alone to my own devices. I had the leisure to just grow up, albeit boring, and also to do things just for the heck of it. I must say I was terrified of my paternal grandfather.

I fear….kiasuism would strike me. So much so that I would thrust a set of Tang dynasty poems for my ah girl to recite. Yah, how could I forget Shakespeare. Not afraid to say, I’m no academic myself. I flunked my “O” levels, retook it and somehow still manage to get a basic degree later in life.

Singing. I also harbour thoughts of my girl to be the latest child singing sensation. What’s wrong with a precocious child emerging as champ in a phone voting competition among tiny tots? What’s wrong if ah girl could sing so well and boasts of a voice that can put adults to shame? I must be mad. Imagine the grueling process that maketh a child star.

It is all just wishful thinking. I’m sure that my wife and myself would only want our ah girl to be happy and to spent an eventful childhood that she can look back fondly. Hey, my infant and childhood years wasn’t that entirely deprived after all. To relive them, I think I could buy and then go fly a kite this weekend. Then again, I could live another childhood through my ah girl and yet stay an earnest adult.

Three to the good

4 goals, a thrilling performance by the Gunners and a sending off. Who needs those Russian roubles?

Arsenal were up early, leading by two goals by half-time. Even Senderos’s sending off didn’t derail them one bit. There was still time for Rosicky to drill home the third one from an acute angle.

Emmanuel Adebayor converted the first goal through a penalty with ease. The second came in the 35th minute through Fab4. He spun and slide to score for the third successive match.

First half was fantastic with 11 men, the second half was even better, with 10 men. My man of the match vote goes to everyone donning the red and white. Clichy and Flamini fought tooth and nail for each ball, Fab4 was ever so brilliant.

It was great to see Arsene clenching his fists and punching the air in delight after the match. Le Boss is surely building the next Great team based on his philosophy of not buying big.

Can’t wait for Spurs to come on 15 September. It’s gonna be mouth watering.

The red + white oligarch and another signing

This is a round up of some Arsenal news... David Dein, the former vice-chairman had been installed as chairman of the Red & White group after trading his 14.86% stake to joint owners Alisher Usmanov and Farhad Moshiri.

In the transfer front, Arsene Wenger left it late to beat the transfer deadline by signing Chelsea midfielder, Lassana Diarra. So, another one on a long term contract for an undisclosed fee.

The best one has got to be Arsene hinting that he will go public about his future sometime next week.

Fads in August 07

1. Elvis Presley’s 30th anniversary.

2. Previously, it was no brown T-shirt at MRT, now it’s no pink tees at the Botanical Gardens.

3. Van Halen are starting a reunion tour next month. The better news is that original singer, David Lee Roth is the frontman.

4. Roy Keane “alf-inge haarlanded” the WAG phenomenon.

5. Despite of previous sand and granite bans, a book titled “Gotong Royong” was launched to celebrate the friendship between Indonesia and Singapore.

6. Trans-atlantic Beckham played 3 matches in 6 days, in 2 different continents.

7. Read somewhere that the Chelsea team are naïve, pure and clean.

8. Barry Bonds hits No 756 home runs.

9. Marseille’s Samir Nasri is being touted as the “new” Zidane.

10. The Barca strikeforce of Ronaldinho, Lionel Messi, Samuel Eto’o and Thierry Henry are dubbed the “Fantastic Four”.

11. WOMAD celebrates its 10th anniversary.

12. McDonald’s famous Big Mac, the 3 layered burger, turns 40.

13. Rob Styles is the referee of the month.

14. Suree Sukha is the first Thai player set to play in the English Premiership.

Easy does it

My word. Another Arsenal blackout by the local cable TV operator. They can show the Liverpool vs Toulouse and skip the Arsenal match. Quite normal here, they shaft you what’s available. We got to take it… only one cable operator here.

After reading many match reports, I could conclude that it was an easy ride. Read from Sggooner’s post that Clichy, Hoyte, Dudu, Diaby and Walcott sparkled. Rosicky, Fab4 and Dudu were the scorers.

The 5-0 aggregate score is a Wow! What’s more… £25 m is on the way with this qualification to the Champions League group stage.

The group phase draw takes place tonite. I’m sure there will be tougher opponents than Sparta Prague. The season has just started, tougher tests lie ahead and I could see the young Gunners are up to the tasks.

On a sad note, Antonio Puerta, the Sevilla defender passed away on Tuesday after suffering a heart attack.

The zany drummer

Wild musicians start me up. Keith Moon is definitely one of them. He’s the drummer for the Who. Moon is the manic member, whose life is largely centred on excessive drinking and wild partying. Bad? Not sure. I thought he represented the youthful exuberance and zany side of rock & roll, of course, on the downside, it's self-destructive.

Keith Moon, though a drummer, was the heart and soul of The Who and the core of its sound. My, he sure bangs the drums with wild abandonment and such intensity. His lunacy, more than likely brought a strong personality to the members of The Who. It gave them that wild image and that razor cutting edge.

It can be said that The Who became tighter musically after Moon’s death, but then, things may not be that quite the same. Rock n roll isn’t quite the same when someone as zany as Keith Moon is gone. Like how John Bonham’s death in 1980 sort of derail the great Led Zeppelin.

Keith Moon in his prime, is one drummer with lust, wit and leer that was evident in his influence on The Who’s music, very much decked out between the songs themselves. He passed on in 7 September 1978. That’s 29 years ago. Time flies.

In memory of Wayne Seah and Corey Nonis, 2 young & promising local drummers who passed on this year.

Those old cheena and ang mo movies

I was an avid movie-goer. That was the past. Even my wife has stopped grumbling that we don’t visit the cinemas anymore. Must be the over-arching effects of looking after ah girl…..

The good ole cinema days.... dimming of lights, the never ending commercials, the “compulsory” in case of fire, how to run out of cinema ad, and so on, and on, and on…. then, the interval time, everyone goes for pee break.

Screening resumes, still, no movie. It goes like for eternity… longer than Ben Hur, Gone with the Wind and Godfather Part I, II and III combined. Until the last frame of the final tedious commercial, then the film bops out.

Love those days, my grandma, aunties, mother, cousins and siblings all in tow to watch the latest mushy movies acted by Zhen Zhen, Alan Tang, Qin Han, Lin Feng Jiao, Ku Ming Lun and many others. I remember the free seating, now defunct Kok Wah cinema at the old fifth mile, in the Serangoon area. I love the delicious yong tau foo push cart stall there and the hot tau suan.

In my younger days, there was also the black and white Cantonese Tornado Palm re-runs on telly. This set of 50’s film series, chronicles the adventures of an overweight swordsman called Long Gim Fei. It had those goofy “cling cling clang clang” swordsplay, actors in gorilla suits, and those 50ish state of the art effects – animated flying poison darts painted to the film footages. The cast includes the evil Shek Kin, Chan Poh Chu and Siu Fong Fong.

Education opens me up…new horizons. No lah, I only got more exposed to ang mo-ish culture. After some six years in primary school, I am quite tuned to or I say, become suitably westernised. I started to listen to Casey Kasem’s America Top 40. I begin to like Audrey Hepburn in My Fair Lady and Al Pacino in Godfather. I discovered Alfred Hitchcock, in turn I got scared stupid seeing Norman Bates in Psycho. I love the fuss that John Travolta did in Saturday Night Fever. I also love Kevin Bacon’s dancing in Footloose.

I’ve had got out of this twilight zone now. It’s hard to find a fellow old-time English movie buff with whom I can strike a meaningful conversation. Life gets lonesome when one keeps watching video re-runs of those each and every Clark Gable, Cary Grant, Ingrid Bergman, Liz Taylor, James Dean, Audrey Hepburn and Grace Kelly classics.

My wife is no old time English movie buff. Ha ha… I wonder how we could end up together. She’s more to the Chinese movie type. Tell her about classics like Giant, Roman Holiday, Indiscreet or Singing in the Rain would draw a blank face from her. It’s okay. I love her dearly. We can still catch up and watch ChungKing Express or The Millionaire’s Express. I love those Chinese movies too and can be more in-sync with her.

Bursting Sven's bubble

A match of firsts….first team to beat Man City, first to break Kasper Schmeichel’s 3-match old clean sheet record. The Gunners sure outplayed Man City for long spells during the match.

Thank God….Fab4’s rocket shot flew in 10 minutes from time. The young Schmeichel had earlier saved Van Persie’s penalty kick.

Fairly, there was enough chances for both teams to kill off the game. I thought the Gunners were once again, doing that continuous passing game and yet again or sometimes, hesitating to shoot. Hey, it’s not that it was bad. It was pretty to watch. Finally, it was thru Hleb on the right that fed Fabregas for that emphatic thunderbolt shot.

Richard Dunne and Micah Richards were stretched, yet they were excellent in Man City’s backline. Blondie Almunia had to make several saves during the match, luckily, it was routine enough for him.

A win that comes with defensive costs. Senderos and Sagna are injured. Not forgetting Gallas. Nonetheless, another 3 points in the bag for the Gunners.

The FT Squeeze

Two days back, in my office. A Foreign Talent (FT) colleague was complaining to me on our Government’s fervent efforts to attract more FTs. He was rambling about how other FTs can outmuscle and take over their jobs.

WTF, I am a local here, I don’t even breathe a word or had ever detested the influx of FTs, yet, here comes some shitty FT complaining about other FTs.

It’s probably normal for locals to complain about FTs taking over our jobs. A FT complaining about other FTs taking over theirs is an absolute KNN world first.

Will they be forgotten? Never

Will there come a time where people would forget Elvis Presley, The Beatles or The Rolling Stones? Yes, you heard me right. Forgotten?

They are the epitome and are representative of the most adulated and most abused decade of modern pop history, the Sixties. The 60s is like a password of an era where Bob Dylan is more than just a folk singer, he was a cultural force that shaped an entire generation’s way of thinking.

As a child of the 70s, I am oft, intrigued by all this all-conquering, consuming celebration of the 60s. There are friends I knew who were wearing diapers when the Beatles broke up. This year marks the 27th and 30th anniversaries of Lennon and Elvis respectively.

I was born a bit too late when Elvis was crooning to “Blue Hawaii”, when John, Paul, Ringo and George screamed “Love Me Do” and “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction” was the most astounding guitar opening riff ever. In school or at home, I do know that rolling stone gather no moss, not a band.

The 60s have never left us. The music, the mini-skirts never did go away. Seriously, would anyone think it can be so endearing? Sir Mick and his rock n roll mates were part of one the most famous generations in rock history ever, they still continue to play the part to perfection.

At 64 this year, Mick Jagger is essentially doing the same thing on stage as he has been doing for the past 30 odd years. Prancing, jumping in those no-ballroom tight pants. To me, the Rolling Stones can do no wrong. The scowl, attitude and raw energy that started out as an act of rebellion to the squeaky clean Beatles, has now become a ritual. The rubber lips and that lolling tongue, used to be too sexual, is now a corporate logo for Stones Incorporated.

I guess the 50s was an era when rock n roll was born, the 60s was about how rock n roll sought to move the world. How about the 70s, 80s, 90s and beyond?

The 70s was post-Beatles, each going their own ways. Olivia Newton John, Barry Manilow and some others became 70s icons. Wait a minute, we also got Led Zeppelin, David Bowie, the Eagles, Rod Stewart and Elton John.

The 80s was the rise of synthesizer music and the invasion of British pop. I swear then, people felt that music coming out from a digital synthesizer has no less soul than an electric guitar and fiddle. Duran Duran, Culture Club, Kajagoogoo, Nik Kershaw, Howard Jones, Madness and company churned out pretty good stuff.

90s music might have brought better music than anyone can expect. It had some genuine innovation and surprising seriousness. Bands like Nirvana, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Alice In Chains, Pearl Jam, Nine Inch Nails were awesome. It had that visceral kick and panache. Things were shook up, evasions got blast away and there was the direct expression of the moment.

Our parents, uncles, the elders are likely to convince us that music from the 60s are only worth listening to. I’m sure they wouldn’t quite relate to Boy George, Pete Burns and Blackie Lawless. For them, only the 60s matter. On the contrary, the Rolling Stones is one band that has been rocking from the 60s till today.

Forget them? No way.

Of butter fingers and simmering boiling point

Just when I thought that the points might be safe against a resurgent Blackburn. Out came another howler by our German custodian.

From the outset, it seems that the home team’s game plan was to unsettle the young Gunners with a rough and musclar approach. Arsenal took the lead in the first half through a close range Van Persie strike. The ball fell invitingly to Van Persie’s path after Rovers’ Brad Friedel had earlier blocked Dudu and Fab4’s shots in a defensive mix-up.

Though leading 1-0, Arsenal were under pressure for long periods in the second half. The equalizer came when David Dunn fired a shot from distance, Lehmann grasped the ball. However, it slipped and bobbled in…

It was a simple shot that should have been a routine catch. What a way to gift a draw in such a bruising encounter. In the other big matches, Man Utd lost away to Thaksin’s Manchester City. Liverpool and Chelsea drew 1-1. The penalty that led to Chelsea’s equalizer sure looked soft.

I was glad to see the new found toughness among the young Gunners. It seems that when Savage and the rest were attempting footbrawl, Fabregas, Van Persie and Flamini were likely to be there to give them an equally good whack back. They played the enfant terrible roles superbly and I like it.

Home, dry & one foot in

Sigh. No live telecast of this match on telly. Anyway, was glad to learn that Arsenal are almost through to the group phase of the Champions League competition.

Goals by Fab4, Arsenal’s dynamic playmaker and Hleb sealed the win. No howler from Lehmann this time round. It was great, their goals should put the 2nd leg beyond Sparta’s reach. Better still, the midfielders are grabbing the goals.

Now, my attention turn towards a possibly bruising encounter with Blackburn Rovers. Ha…got to add this…Spurs lost two in a row. I really feel sorry for their long suffering supporters.

Those supergroups of the past

It seems that the music industry don’t make such music anymore. What music? My kinda…back then. Those AOR (Adult Oriented Radio) ballads. I am referring to those supergroups of the past. To name them, Chicago, Toto, Journey and Foreigner.

Listening to Foreigner is like going through a crash course in 70s rock. They are the ones with those sweeping, anthemic ballads of adult-orientated rock. Their slow songs are spectacular and commercial. Singer Lou Gramm is the distinctive voice that has anchored so many of their hits. From the melodrama of ballads such as Waiting For A Girl Like You, or the 1985 monster hit, I Want To Know What Love Is, to the out-and-out rock of Jukebox Hero and Urgent. Gramm’s voice is tirelessly elastic, leaping into falsettos and beyond with much ease.

Chicago is one supergroup that contains so much more than Peter Cetera and their squishy ballads. While their love songs will always elicit the most applause by virtue of their mainstream appeal, the heart of Chicago lies in its breezy blend of a black-influenced rhythm section, filled with jazzy horns and conventional rock. I always remember Chicago as the band with the continuous stream of saccharine love tunes. Many could probably recall all their tunes, Hard Habit To Break (1984), Make Me Smile (1970), If You Leave Me Now (1976), Look Away (1988), Hard To Say I’m Sorry (1982), You’re The Inspiration (1985) and Baby, What A Big Surprise (1977). Fantastic, look at the years gone by, it’s almost like an unfolding of musical legacy.

Another favourite group of mine known for their adult-oriented radio (AOR) tunes is Toto. Everyone then was likely to be hooked up to the drum beats of Africa. People could gather around on the strength of the mellow Rosanna as well. Their other better numbers include Pamela, Hold The Line or the ever-pleasing I Won’t Hold You Back.

I reckon Open Arms is one track which any pub in anywhere in the world is likely to play this song over and over. If so, one would get to the experience the music of Journey. Singer Steve Perry can clobber power ballads with complete ease. Man, this guy can sure sing. I simply love Faithfully, Don’t Stop Believin, Only The Young, Open Arms and Who’s Crying Now. Those were perfect cheese-pop rock hymn. This is one supergroup that dish out polished sounds, fronted by Steve Perry’s superb and distinctive vocals.

Ha… I’ve got them. This are the four supergroups that were staple radio presence from the 70s right through to the 90s. I love my mushy ballads.

Season 07/08: Breathe Again

After the final whistle, I thought there was much relief all round. I was much elated, jumping on my sofa and kissing my daughter. Arsenal had capped another comeback win. I billed it as the first competitive match since Henry had left the building. It was important and the Gunners just had to win.

Well within that first minute, Lehmann gave us a self-inflicted horror. His attempted reverse pass fell straight to Fulham’s David Healy, who tap in easily from close range.

After 52 seconds, Arsenal was left searching for the equalizer. All their efforts were saved by Fulham’s stand-in keeper, Tony Warner. That guy was excellent, he kept everything out.

I reckon everything was lost… till Bocanegra blocked Toure’s charge. Robin Van Persie slammed the penalty home confidently. Six minutes left, scoreline reads 1-1. Into the final seconds of normal time, the Cesc worked his way through and pass to Hleb in the penalty area. Hleb found space from Chris Baird and strike home for the winner.

Nicklas Bendtner was pretty cool... he came on and rattled Fulham a fair bit. This bloke is quite similar to the John Carew role back in his Valencia days. I thought it was workmanlike and effective. I also love this... Spurs lost to newly promoted Sunderland at the death.

Year 1 and counting...

Oh my... it's been one year since I started blogging. Was surprised that I could continue on this something that I started for fun. Time flies...

On the Arsenal front, I was a bit surprised that William Gallas was chosen as captain ahead of Gilberto. Centre-back as the best person to lead on the pitch? Maybe.

My football memories...

It was all largely down to my late dad’s influence that I am the football-mad fan of today. He nurture this liking back in the late 70s… bringing me to the National Stadium… those Malaysia Cup days. Through football, we forge a strong father-son bond.

Lookin back at the swinging 70s, I was too young to appreciate Johan Cruyff and the Dutch Total Football. However, I could recall World Cup 78, the one which Mario Kempes shone like a star. The long locks of hair and legs. Also, the chain smoking Argentine coach, Cesar Menotti. He did make smoking look cool then.

In 1978, my love for the English game grew. Got to give credits to Spurs. I got hooked on football then, it was entirely due to the Argentine duo, Ossie Ardiles and Ricardo Villa. They were awesome in their FA Cup runs then. During that period, players like Kevin Keegan, Bob Latchford, Steve Archibald, Trevor Francis and Andy Gray were household names. The top managers were Bob Paisley and Brian Clough. Liverpool and Nottingham Forest were probably the finest English sides then.

1980. Arsenal were in the European Cup Winners Cup final against Valencia. The Gunners lost. The only two names that I still can recall were Graham Rix and Liam Brady.

The early 80s was all about Aston Villa and Ipswich Town. Players like John Wark, Eric Gates, Peter Withe, Gary Shaw, Tony Morley, Alan Brazil, Mick Mills, Arnold Muhren, Gordon Cowans, I can keep rattling about them all night. Oh, I must not forget to mention that great Liverpool side of the 80s.

Come Spain 82, I would say it was the most memorable World Cup for me. I watch quite a number of matches on telly with my dad. It was his last World Cup. He passed away the following year in December 1983. I swear that the Brazilian team led by Socrates was the best national team not to have won the World Cup. I remember my dad ranted so much how Toni Schumacher knocked Frenchman, Patrick Battison with an evil challenge. On the same note, my admiration for Michel Platini and Alain Giresse grew.

In the early 80s or right through that decade, Ian Rush of Liverpool makes goal scoring look so damn simple. Oh, and Gary Lineker too.

World Cup 86 at Mexico, the one where Diego Maradona won the World Cup single handedly. I thought he was absolutely the best. I feel so blessed to witness the skills of Maradona in his hey days. Pele and Kaiser were like passé to me when Maradona was around.

In Euro 88, Holland defeated the Soviet Union 2-0 defeat in the final. It laid to rest the ghosts of Dutch football. It was sheer delight to see Van Basten slamming home that well-executed volley past Dassayev.

1989, Arsenal’s Michael Thomas settled the title with the very last kick of the game. We took the title from Anfield at the death. It was a remarkable moment. It was THE MOMENT.

In World Cup 90, Gazza became a cult figure, an icon, for crying. His performances against Holland and Belgium were superb.

Before Asian players like Kazu Miura and Hidetoshi Nakata came by, there was Cha Bum-Kun, the Korean star. He ply his trade in Germany during the 80s. I thought he wasn’t that bad.

The early 90s…I felt very blessed to witness such a great team in AC Milan. They were and looked like they could go on unbeaten forever. The Dutch trio of Gullit, Rijkaard and Van Basten was simply masterclass. They were unbeaten in 58 matches that stretched from May 91 to March 93.

1994 was that dream final between Barcelona vs AC Milan. I saw Milan gave Barca a 4-0 demolition job. It was a feast of fantasy football. Dejan Savicevic ran the Barca defence ragged. The same year, the Gunners won the Cup Winners Cup at Copenhagen. Alan Smith with the lone strike. In World Cup 94, I saw a great Gheorghe Hagi goal when he lobbed from 40 yards against Colombia.

The 90s was interesting… , the great Eric Cantona was at his mercurial best. There was also the goalscoring exploits of Alan Shearer.

Euro 96 was football coming home. I remember that Gazza goal against Scotland. 1996 was also the year Arsene Wenger came by….Many asked… Arsene who? The rest is history.

The new millennium also saw David Beckham became the most recognizable face in world football. Of late, the global football phenomenon are probably, Kaka and Cristiano Ronaldo, in which their dazzling array of flicks and feints seem destined to bewitch football fans in equal measure. I guess, they are the Beautiful Game’s latest icons.

Who is the Greatest? Pele, Maradona, Zidane, Ronaldinho, Platini, Cruyff, Figo, Van Basten, Henry, Kaka, Beckham, Gullit, Hagi, Stoichkov, Baggio...... For me, Dennis Bergkamp is the best.

The greatest moment that etched firmly in my memories….the Unbeaten 49 by the Invincibles. The run that started on May 2003 and ending October 2004. To witness the Ian Wright (1991 – 1998), Dennis Bergkamp (1995 – 2006) and Thierry Henry (1999 – 2007) years was equally awesome. I’m done with my ranting…I can’t wait for the EPL season 07/08 to start.

Ba Dong Curry Fish Head

Another stall serving yummy food. This place, located at Blk 95, Toa Payoh Lorong 4 serves delectable mixed rice and power fish head curry.

Really awesome dishes… it may come across as the common mixed rice stall one finds in Singapore. The big difference is that Ba Dong dishes out yummy fish head curry and other delightful local mixed rice dishes.

Just sharing the one of many yummy food places in Singapore…

Fads in July 2007

1. A prisoner got an extra 3 strokes of the cane by mistake. Ouch! Ouch! Ouch!

2. Fernando Torres joined Liverpool. The new Lord of the Kop?

3. The Live Earth concerts was staged on 07.07.07 in 11 major cities.

4. Chek Jawa re-opens.

5. The “new” 7 wonders of the world were named.

6. After 6 months of waiting, the Beckhams finally landed in Los Angeles.

7. Ryan Babel, touted as the next Henry, went to Liverpool instead of Arsenal as rumoured.

8. Messidona scored an amazing measured lob in Argentina’s 3-0 semi-final win over Mexico in the Copa America.

9. Brazil won the Copa America with a 3-0 win over Argentina. I couldn’t believe my eyes when Julio Baptista hit that stunning first goal.

10. The ex-chairman of the old NKF was caught in Hong Kong.

11. The 7th and final Harry Potter book is out.

That sweet fleeting moment of Robin’s magic

A couple of months of non-Arsenal action….and two matches over the weekend. Two wins and the inaugural Emirates Cup belong to the Gunners.

Pretty uplifting to see the youthful gunners again…. 2 wins on the trot. Not that spectacular, a bit stuttering, but terrific for me.

The PSG game was a bit edgy. I like the Inter game better. Van Persie was great, that stepover and dragback before firing home the winner past Inter’s Toldo.

Things are looking good…. Flamini don’t seem like leaving, Henry’s absence don’t seem to hurt much, Diaby’s power play is majestic and Ebuoe’s runs looks marauding. I can’t wait for season 07/08 to start…

Yummy yong tau foo

I am always in awe with this yong tau foo stall at People's Park. It has fresh ingredients, clear & tasty soup, and lastly, the chilli and sweet sauce.

Each bowl costs $3 and is filled with yummy toufu, tau pok, fish ball and other generous stuffings. Every piece of yong tau foo is full of bite and taste. Dipping them to the chilli and sweet sauce, one get a completely superb taste of what supremely fresh yong tau foo should be like.

This stall is definitely worth a visit.... be ready to queue, that's all.

Freddie is a Hammer

Another of the Old Guard is leaving…yup, after weeks after weeks of yes, no, yes, no….the man is going to West Ham.

Nine seasons of goals, red hair, hard running, fighting spirit and flair. Occasionally, the Calvin Klein undies. He is my vote for the best Swede ever to turn out for the Gunners, ahead of Limpar and Schwarz.

In recent memory, all the ex-Arsenal greats seems heading to West Ham… Ian Wright, Nigel Winterburn, Davor Suker and now, Freddie.

I am sad today.

We can handle the Tooth (Truth)

Another whammy, the authenticity of the Buddha tooth relic housed in a temple at South Bridge Road is called into question.

Dental experts are claiming that the Buddha tooth may not be the Buddha’s tooth after all. Some are claiming it looks more like a tooth of a cow or water buffalo.

Besides the puzzling authencity of the Buddha tooth, I am also wondering why the temple need to use as much as 420 kilograms of gold for the stupa.

I am a simple Buddhist. I actually still think that observing and upholding the Five Precepts and practicing Lord Buddha’s Teachings was good enough to reap good karma and gain merits. Frankly, would donating tones of gold reap good karma and merits too? It then become a rich man’s game. Sigh.

It seems, thousands of years ago, the Man gave up on all wordly possessions to find the Truth. Observing His Teachings is the greatest homage any follower can show to Buddha. Maybe not by showering gold, not for me.

Army daze - Powderful whistle blowing

Last week, the “limelight” fell on a young maverick army officer. The young chap is 2LT Li Hongyi, the son of Prime Minister Lee. He was ranting here and there in an email to the army top brass against the workings of the SAF.

I didn’t pay much attention until I saw Rockson’s blog post on this matter. Check it out, I found it humorous, frank and earnest. Top marks for the right dose of vulgarities too.

Noise, sleaze... great sounds

When the “Appetite for Destruction” album came out in 1987, I reckon I might have been one of those first few who grabbed the CD then. After the release, Guns N’ Roses still wasn’t that popular. Somehow, all of a sudden, everybody starts listening to them and they became a top flight band from the 80s right through the 90s.

What genre they do? They are not alternative enough… they are quite heavy metal. What’s more… they are also commercial enough to hit No. 1 in America with the album, “Appetite for Destruction” and their single, “Sweet Child O’ Mine”. That’s it, back then, in the late 80s, I actually dig their style and scowl.

I guess many pop minded folks out there would see that Guns N’ Roses aren’t supposed to be commercial. The kinda band that is not supposed to be endorsed by the charts, by parents and not even to get near any airplay over the radio.

Who are they? To sum it up… they are noisy, sleazy, whiskey loving, long hair, tattoos, that no-ballroom tight pants and in general, the complete look of rock n’ roll decadence.

Ha ha… come to think of it, those into Scorpions, Rainbow or Deep Purple are likely to welcome Guns N’ Roses as another fine hair band. I would say that “Appetite for Destruction” did shook up action to some people, I liken it to a stab at total freedom. Listening through over and over again, I found that it gave me some sort of release. Most tracks from that album are stunning stuff.

“Outta Get Me” screams hell and fire on those people who are sitting on the other side. “Paradise City” is the Strawberry Fields Forever of driving hard rock. “Think About You” is sheer romantic rock coming down fast and furious. The fast talking “Mr Brownstone” is at best, undeniably attractive.

“Sweet Child O’ Mine” is the best track on the album. I will remember this song as the classic 80s MTV hard rock material. Right from the start, the classic opening guitar riff, to the wailing Slash solo, to the rhythmic kick and drive of the song’s groove to its bridge building up to a climatic crashing end.

This album makes me forget what should be and what should be not. Who cares if it is a bit hard rock, heavy metal, rock n’ roll or commercial sounding. It doesn’t really matter. It was the rise and rise of the sounds of GNR – the sounds of noise + sleaze = Rock & Rollah Freedom.

The new No. 3, on a long-term contract for an undisclosed fee

Okay, great news once again. Another transfer scoop, another one on a long term contract for an undisclosed fee and viola, a new gunner.

This guy is Bacary Sagna, from Auxerre. Frankly, once again... never heard of him till the last few weeks. Many sites reported Bakary, now it seems officially to be Bacary.

Not gonna speculate where he will play or will Ebuoe be pushed forward....

The post-Henry era continues to look bright.... Cheers.

Meanwhile, it's Barnet for tomorrow.

High voltage rock

My first brush or rather, taste of AC/DC’s music came during my secondary school days. At Bartley Secondary. This Australian metal band features Angus Young. He’s the one with the schoolboy uniform and shorts….

AC/DC’s line up features singer Brian Johnson, the one with the trademark cap pulled ever so low and that so unholy howl. Phil Rudd, the drummer with the get-outta-my-sight concentration, bassist Cliff Williams and Angus’s elder brother, rhythm guitarist Malcom Young. Of course, we musn’t forget Johnson’s predecessor, the late Bon Scott. The one with that high, screeching and sand-papered bark. In particular, I find Bon Scott pretty eerie with that wig and milkmaid’s dress. It was like seeing Norman Bates doing that Psycho thingie on stage. Alternatively, it was like a nympho Heidi from Hell.

Angus Young is sheer dynamite on stage. The school boy with that bookbag, the non-stop headbanging, the fiercesome guitar tantrum, that Chuck Berry duckwalk with his axe. Together with the band, the animal magnetism, they freaking hypnotize me. No doubt.

When AC/DC are in full throttle, it isn’t enough just to hear their brand of rock and roll. One just had to see them. The pandemonium on stage, ever pulverising their audience, the raw energy…. Let ‘em blow up your video. We know, amp blowing up, smashing your guitar and another and another. Straight up, no frills and no bullshit.

Generations of Gunners

It’s slightly more than a month away from the new season. Enough of those withdrawal symptoms, I thought. I’ve drawn up this list of first team players…..Incredible, I’ve witness close to 9 generations of players.

LATE 70s
Goalkeeper – Pat Jennings

Defender – Peter Simpson, Willie Young, David O’ Leary, John Devine, Pat Rice, Sammy Nelson

Midfielder – Alan Hudson, George Armstrong, Peter Storey, Liam Brady, Paul Vaessen, Brian McDermott, Alan Sunderland, Steve Gatting, Brian Talbot, Graham Rix, John Hollins, Paul Davis, David Price, Trevor Ross, Wilf Rostron

Forward – Malcom MacDonald, Frank Stapleton


EARLY 80s
Goalkeeper – Pat Jennings, George Wood

Defender – David O’ Leary, John Devine, Pat Rice, Chris Whyte, Colin Hill, Tony Adams, Martin Keown, Kenny Sansom

Midfielder – Liam Brady, Paul Vaessen, Brian McDermott, Alan Sunderland, Steve Gatting, Brian Talbot, Graham Rix, John Hollins, Paul Davis, David Price, Peter Nicholas, Vladimir Petrovic, Stewart Robson

Forward – Raphael Meade, Tony Woodcock


MID 80s
Goalkeeper – Pat Jennings, John Lukic

Defender – Viv Anderson, Chris Whyte, Tommy Caton, Tony Adams, David O’ Leary, Kenny Sansom, Gus Caesar, Martin Keown

Midfielder – Paul Merson, Brian Talbot, Steve Williams, Stewart Robson, Graham Rix, Paul Davis, David Rocastle

Forward – Tony Woodcock, Charlie Nicholas, Ian Allinson, Perry Groves, Martin Hayes, Paul Mariner, Lee Chapman


LATE 80s
Goalkeeper – John Lukic

Defender – David O’ Leary, Kenny Sansom, Gus Caesar, Colin Pates, Lee Dixon, Tony Adams, Steve Bould, Nigel Winterburn

Midfielder – Siggi Jonsson, Brian Marwood, Paul Merson, David Hillier, Paul Davis, Kevin Richardson, David Rocastle, Micheal Thomas

Forward – Niall Quinn, Kevin Campbell, Martin Hayes, Perry Groves, Alan Smith


EARLY 90s
Goalkeeper – David Seaman, Alan Miller

Defender – David O’ Leary, Gus Caesar, Colin Pates, Lee Dixon, Tony Adams, Nigel Winterburn, Steve Bould, Andy Linighan, Martin Keown

Midfielder – Paul Davis, David Rocastle, Micheal Thomas, David Hillier, Steve Morrow, Ian Selley, John Jensen, Ray Parlour, Paul Merson, Anders Limpar

Forward – Perry Groves, Alan Smith, Andy Cole, Paul Dickov, Kevin Campbell, Ian Wright


MID 90s
Goalkeeper – David Seaman, John Lukic, Vince Bartram

Defender – Lee Dixon, Tony Adams, Nigel Winterburn, Steve Bould, Andy Linighan, Martin Keown, Matthew Upson

Midfielder – Paul Merson, Paul Davis, David Hillier, Steve Morrow, Ian Selley, Stefan Schwarz, John Jensen, Eddie McGoldrick, Glenn Helder, David Platt, Ray Parlour, Patrick Vieira, Remi Garde, Stephen Hughes

Forward – Alan Smith, Chris Kiwomya, Paul Dickov, Kevin Campbell, John Hartson, Ian Wright, Dennis Bergkamp, Nicolas Anelka


LATE 90s
Goalkeeper – David Seaman, Alex Manninger, John Lukic

Defender – Silvinho, Nelson Vivas, Oleg Luzhny, Lee Dixon, Tony Adams, Steve Bould, Nigel Winterburn, Martin Keown, Matthew Upson, Ashley Cole

Midfielder – Jermaine Pennant, Marc Overmars, David Platt, Ray Parlour, Patrick Vieira, Emmanuel Petit, Stefan Malz, Luis Boa Morte, Remi Garde, Stephen Hughes, Gilles Grimandi, Freddie Ljungberg

Forward – Dennis Bergkamp, Ian Wright, John Hartson, Davor Suker, Christopher Wreh, Nicolas Anelka, Jeremie Aliadiere, Kaba Diawara, Thierry Henry, Kanu


EARLY 00s
Goalkeeper – David Seaman, Alex Manninger, Richard Wright

Defender – Lauren, Freddie Ljungberg, Jermaine Pennant, Pascal Cygan, Oleg Luzhny, Kolo Toure, Lee Dixon, Nigel Winterburn, Martin Keown, Sol Campbell, Matthew Upson, Tony Adams, Igor Stephanovs, Ashley Cole

Midfielder – Giovanni Van Bronckhorst, Sebastian Larsson, Patrick Vieira, Edu, Robert Pires, Gilberto, Marc Overmars, Ray Parlour, Emmanuel Petit, Stefan Malz, Luis Boa Morte, Gilles Grimandi

Forward – Thierry Henry, Francis Jeffers, Kanu, Dennis Bergkamp, Sylvain Wiltord, Jeremie Aliadiere, David Bentley


MID 00s
Goalkeeper – Jens Lehmann, Manuel Almunia, Mart Poom, Lukasz Fabianski

Defender – Philippe Senderos, Justin Hoyte, Johan Djourou, Sol Campbell, Emmanuel Eboue, Gael Clichy, Ashley Cole, Pascal Cygan, Kolo Toure, William Gallas, Lauren

Midfielder – Aleksandr Hleb, Gilberto, Mathieu Flamini, Denilson, Robert Pires, Cesc Fabregas, Abou Diaby, Patrick Vieira, Theo Walcott, Alex Song, Tomas Rosicky, Jose Antonio Reyes, Freddie Ljungberg

Forward – Thierry Henry, Eduardo Da Silva, Dennis Bergkamp, Emmanuel Adebayor, Jeremie Aliadiere, Julio Baptista, Robin Van Persie

Dennis Bergkamp is my idol forever. The Bergkamp years at Highbury was quite simply, the best!

I can recall the good ole days... listening to BBC radio for the "live" match commentary, reading SHOOT magazines and watching football highlights on "Big League Soccer" hosted by Brian Moore. Ha... all those years ago.

Dudu, the new Gunner on the Block

Saw this piece of news from the teletext last night... Arsenal made a surprise signing in Croat, Eduardo da Silva of Dinamo Zagreb.

Got to admit...never heard of this bloke before. Nonetheless, hope it is another masterstroke and brilliant piece of business by Arsene Wenger.

Well, let's all hope the capture of this prolific goal scorer would work out well for the team and may this chap stamp his mark with the Gunners!

Fads in June 07

1. Sgt Pepper turns 40.

2. Chelsea are on the cheap with Bosman signings.

3. Fashion icon Gianfranco Ferre died.

4. WWE wrestler Chris Benoit wrestler died.

5. Salman Rushdie got knighted.

6. Ebel are Arsenal’s new “timing partner”.

7. Singapore is the 14th most expensive city to live in.

8. Thierry Henry left Arsenal for Barcelona. Sob… sob…

9. The ex-chairman of the old NKF “runs road” while TT Durai got only a 3-month jail term.

10. Real Madrid muzzled Mallorca on the final day and won their 30th La Liga. Anyway, coach Fabio Capello got the sack.

11. David Beckham and Roberto Carlos bow out of Real Madrid with the La Liga title.

12. San Antonio Spurs completed a clean 4-game sweep over the Cleveland Cavaliers in the NBA Finals. LeBron James didn't really shine... sigh.

Au revoir, TH14

Old news by now… Thierry Henry has finally left Arsenal for Barcelona. 226 goals, 370 games since August 1999. What a record. Arsenal’s finest has left.

For the past few weeks… so much rumours about Henry leaving. It finally came… I suppose this bloody day was likely to come at some point.

King Henry was absolutely supreme for the Gunners in the eight seasons there. Such a gem of a player that would be difficult to replace. I am glad he was at his prime and peak of his powers during his time at Arsenal.

People can start worrying about Arsenal falling apart…fret not… I’m not here to perpetuate the gloom. Players come and go, I was fortunate enough to witness the cavalier attitude of Ian Wright, the safe hands of David Seaman, the fearsome English defence bedrock of Adams, Keown, Bould, Dixon and Winterburn, the brilliance of Pires, the fighter in Patrick Vieira, the God himself, Dennis Bergkamp….the list goes on.

The initial hurt and disbelief would pass…soon… and I do hope Arsene Wenger buys very very special and exceptional player(s) to strengthen the squad.

So, it finally arrvived… the end of an Arsenal career of a truly exceptional footballer. Thanks for the memories…the wonderful goals, the solo runs, the extra mile… It has been a blast! For now, let’s all move on – cause' the King has left the building.

Fads in May 07

1. Romario claimed the 1,000th goal of his career.

2. Leeds is in administration. A once big club in turmoil.

3. Kaka seems like the best footballer in the world right now.

4. AC Milan beat Liverpool in the Champions League final. No Istanbul Revisited.

5. Paris Hilton gets 45-day jail term for knowingly driving without a valid licence. The term has since been reduced to 23 days.

6. Thierry Henry is named as one of the world's 100 most influential people.

7. Sam Allardyce is the new Newcastle boss.

8. Man Utd are the new English Premiership champions. The stronghold by Chelsea is broken.

9. F1 is coming to Singapore. A night race.

10. Juventus are promoted back to Serie A.

11. One-eyed dragon gets the death sentence for slaying Milky Pig.

12. Singapore's drive to be an education hub took a severe knock when UNSW shut down its Singapore campus just barely 2 months.

Woo-Kash Fab-Yan-Ski

Young Polish international goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski has signed for Arsenal from Legia Warsaw on a long-term contract for an undisclosed fee.

Let's hope he could turn out to be another of those goalkeeping greats for Arsenal. Also, to kickstart more signings for the coming season...

Those great Arsenal moments...

1971
Beating Liverpool in FA Cup Final to win their first ever Double. The title was also won at White Hart Lane, home of Tottenham Hotspurs.

1989
Needing to win by two clear goals to lift the title. The Gunners did just that with a last–minute Michael Thomas strike at Anfield.

1991
Arsenal lost just one game en route to another English Championship title. The only match was lost at Stamford Bridge.

1993
Arsenal beat Sheffield Wednesday in the FA Cup Final replay. A bloodied Andy Linighan headed home the winner.

1994
The Gunners beat Parma in the Cup Winners' Cup Final. A lone Alan Smith strike at Denmark won the game.

1996
Arsène Wenger is appointed as Arsenal manager.

1997
Dennis Bergkamp was simply the best footballer on planet Earth in 1997. That hattrick at Filbert Street was sensational. Ian Wright broke Cliff Bastin's goals record.

1998
A final day win over Everton clinches Wenger's first title. I remember Tony Adams scored with a swaggering Ian Wright-attitude. Arsenal won their second Double.

1999
Kanu scores an incredible hat-trick in 3-2 win at Chelsea. A thrilling comeback match.

2000
Thierry Henry hooked a wonder goal over Barthez in the Arsenal vs Man Utd encounter.

2002
Arsenal beat Chelsea at FA Cup Final in Cardiff. Parlour and Ljungberg were the scorers. Dennis Bergkamp scores an amazing goal against Newcastle. Wiltord’s goal at Old Trafford secured another Double.

2003
I saw an awesome Arsenal display that won 5-1 over Inter Milan at the San Siro.

2004
The 'Invincibles' clinch the title at White Hart Lane. The Gunners were unbeaten for a record 49 league games.

2005
Beat Manchester United on penalties in FA Cup Final. We saw Patrick Vieira’s final kick for the Gunners. Thierry Henry became Arsenal’s all-time record goal scorer.

2006
Arsenal are the first English club to beat Real Madrid at the Bernabeu. Thierry Henry’s magical solo run was simply out of the world stuff. The Final Salute match saw Arsenal beat Wigan 4-2. I almost cried when Henry kissed the Highbury turf. The Gunners lost 2-1 to Barcelona in the Champions League Final at Paris. The club moves from Highbury to Emirates Stadium.

Season 2006/07: Not that goonerrific

Season 2006/07 has finally ended… been one long, painful and arduous one. Terribly disappointed…been a supporter since the early 80s. The level of disappointment was equivalent to one particular season when Terry Neill was at the helm. I still remember… Arsenal lost 5-0 to Spurs back then.

I would tend to agree… once a club goes on with any stadium plans…cash strapped situation, the team will suffer. So, to begin with…the season of The Final Salute surpassed expectations when the Gunners reached the Champions League final. Domestically, they were pretty abysmal.

For any gooners wondering, how many “transitional” seasons to go before we start winning trophies again. I would say that Roman’s roubles sort of unsettle the balance, or even, revolutionise the modern game. It would be then left to the guile and tactics of Wenger to overcome such adversities. Sir Alex just did.

Losing players like Bergkamp, Pires, Campbell, Cole, Reyes and Lauren at one go wasn’t easy. This loss of experience was just too much for this young team. Towards the tail end of this season, came the bomb. David Dein resigns and there were eminent talks of Yankee Kroenke wanting to take over Arsenal.

Coming to the players... It is always like that, South Americans probably needs a longer time to sink in and blend. To be fair, it took them some time but I reckon Edu, Silvinho and Gilberto were great. Julio “The Beast” Baptista, I really don’t know. I find him totally inept. I dare conclude that Reyes is better. At least, he could draw fouls.

Pires’ boots are too big to fill. I reckon Rosicky would suffer from this expectation. The Czech’s goal rate is really nowhere near Pires. Adebayor looks like a dead ringer to Kanu. In fact, he is also nowhere near Kanu’s standard when compared to the Nigerian, who once paraded his skills at Highbury. In short, he might still be the not-so finished article thrown to the fray too early. Denilson is okay, a rough diamond…but, he really needs time to be honed.

I has always proclaim in my earlier posts that Diaby is the next Vieira…however, the team must know how to draw the best from him. I am wondering which is his best position?

A half fit Henry didn’t help the cause either. He was really overworked during season 05/06 and also at the last World Cup. Does it seems that he might be frustrated with his “lesser” colleagues round him. Would he have felt this way with the likes of Vieira, Bergkamp, Petit, Overmars and Pires around him? It's anybody's guess.

Cesc is fantastic. The fact that he was played almost in every match shows one flaw – there is no able replacement in his role. Scary… what if he got a long-term injury? Too much reliance on this young Spaniard, the moment he is on an off-day at the field, the Gunners would be in trouble.

Is Theo that frighteningly good? Only after the shoulder operation, his full recovery, then we can tell….I can only hope that he is that frighteningly good.

Lastly, for next season and beyond…I reckon that winning ugly is important. Not necessary to pass the ball to death…then try to score. Please turn ball possession, passing and those incredible ball movements to goals. We need that. Only that can win matches.

Another big wish…to see Arsenal going out and buy big. Buy real big! The really very, very good, super, super players. With the Russian revolution in place at Stamford Bridge, these are different times. Would there be time to discover and nurture the young Vieiras and Anelkas like the yesteryears. It is time to go for the tried and tested. I think all departments need reinforcements…goalie, defenders, midfielders and strikers.

Season 06/07 has ended with modest measure. For this coming new season, I still optimistically stay in awe of the endless possibilities that this Golden Generation might bring. On the strength of that Carling Cup final display, this Golden Generation beckons...

It is common knowledge that Wenger's sights has always been set on the future, to venture far beyond the confines of just playability and brings us, cosmic football.

As one particular banner always scream at every home match in the Emirates, "In Arsene, we trust".

Thank you, Baptista

When I saw the line-up last night, I was thinking...maybe, third place was not in Wenger's mind. Julio "The Beast" Baptista enjoyed a third penalty miss in his Arsenal career so far. Many can argue that he took it well, but, to me, it got saved. Heck.

The Gunners had the lion share of chances during the first half and that's about it.

Baptista's miss and the draw against Pompey meant the Gunners ended up in fourth spot. Sigh...

Where is Cashley?

Chel$ea were without Cashley, Sheva, Ballack, Carvalho, Drogba, etc. Well, I thought the Gunners would boss them around at their own turf. In fact, the Blues turned on a lion hearted performance in their must-win match at the Emirates.

Arsenal grabbed the lead when The Dutch Beast upended the Brazilian Beast. I actually thought Khalid Boulahrouz needn’t challenge Baptista from behind. The awkward Brazilian, while all set to shoot, might had, in any case, fire wide. Gilberto stepped up and despatched the spot-kick confidently.

Chel$ea came storming back in the second half. Why not? They badly needed a win to keep their faint hopes of retaining their title alive. They poured their players forward… once again, Essien scored against the Gunners.

Joe Cole had a beautiful goal disallowed and Emmanuel Eboue struck the cross bar in the dying minutes for Arsenal. To sum it up, the draw left me sort of fuming. Gilberto’s goal won the title. For Man Utd, not Arsenal.

Damn… Cashley wasn’t playing. It would be great to see the many Gooners pelting him with celery. Gilberto scored. The Brazilian will go down in history as the first to score in the season opener against Aston Villa and the last one to score again in this final home match of this inaugural season at Ashburton Grove. Let’s hope he is not contemplating to head towards Turin as rumoured.

Sigh.. the season is gonna end soon. I do hope that there are some big name signings or whatevers. With Wenger, we all know, he would probably buy some unknown player(s) and mould them to world beaters. Whatever it is, I am always a red and white Gooner and I still believe the Golden Generation as led by Fabregas would surface soon…

The Inept One

Till today, I still wonder what frightening potential that Arsene Wenger saw in him. Perhaps, two seasons ago, he was then scorching the La Liga scoring charts. Became hot property, snubbed Arsenal and left for Real Madrid.

Then came the Loan Exchange, Reyes went the other way. This Brazilian bloke, known affectionately as the Beast, was acquired and many expected him to score goals alongside Henry, Adebayor and Van Persie in the Premiership.

Plenty of expectations….he didn’t start soon…used more in FA and Carling Cup matches. The only highlight of his season was that 4-goal haul at Anfield. I thought the rudiments of a great striker was taking shape. I was wrong. Thereafter, it was misses after misses. I’ve never seen someone donning the Arsenal shirt played so badly.

Among all the Brazilians… Silvinho, Edu or Gilberto, the Beast sure stands out as the worst Brazilian import ever. Even my friend, a neutral fan, called me, and said “Baptista is starting, this guy will spray the ball everywhere. Arsenal sure gone fxxx”. My, how right he was.

I thought Baptista ever lamented that he didn’t have enough first team chances…well, the big chance did came when Henry and Van Persie were out for the rest of season 06/07. Out came the big stage for the Beast to perform.

What did he do? Yes. Sprayed the ball everywhere. He did everything wrong. His headers goes awry, his touch let him down repeatedly, he balloon countless chances, hit rugby shots, squander possession with apparent nonchalance… he even collided with Diaby when an open goal was there for the taking. His entire package looks crude and his reading of the game was woeful.

He really irks me... from his failure to supply a final telling ball or to get a shot on target after reaching a promising position. He never contributed more than the rare flashes of flair, it hints of some samba talent rather than actually achieving it. To be fair, the Beast needs prodigious resolve to prosper in his striking role so well illuminated by the likes of Bergkamp, Wright or Henry. Sadly, this quality is what the Beast do not possess.

With two games left before the end of season 06/07, I hope he gets shipped back to Madrid. I am sure he hasn't lost his grip on his game, his vast potential can be better tapped back in Spain.

Let's not be so sure... a different struggle may awaits...

Fads in April 2007

1. David James have kept 142 Premiership clean sheets and counting.

2. Man Utd's Cristiano Ronaldo is the PFA Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year. The first player to win both awards in the same season since 1977.

3. Michael Owen is finally about to return...

4. David Dein leaves Arsenal.

5. 32 people died in The Virginia Tech Massacre.

6. Poland and Ukraine are the joint hosts of Euro 2012.

7. Hooray! Spurs got dumped out of the UEFA Cup. They are also never gonna finish higher than the Gunners this season. No more final day tummy upset excuses, please!

8. Man Utd scored a Magnificent Seven against Roma in the Theatre of Dreams.

9. 3 out of the 4 semi-finalists in the Champions League are English clubs.

10. Flamini wants out!

11. Thailand bans YouTube.

12. 12.2% of Arsenal belongs to Stan Kroenke.

13. I saw police brutality, or maybe, law enforcement on telly during the Roma vs Man Utd match. It was awful to see.

14. Asia's richest woman, Nina Wang died.

15. Lama Rinpoche, aged 4 visited Singapore.

In cruise control

I reckon this was one match which Arsenal would have won easily. Even the inept Baptista scored. Boy, did he score so early into the match. I was still at the kitchen, opening my kropok and Heineken.

There was total Arsenal domination from start to finish. Quite strangely, Fulham even managed to equalized. It was Lehmann’s mistake as he punched weakly to the path of Simon Davies. The ex-Spurs player lobbed and scored.

Adebayor hit a real stunner for Arsenal to take the lead again. The Cesc had provided the perfect through-ball for him to chase on, coupled with a slight body feint, the Togolese smash home with a swerving shot. The third came via a penalty. Ex-Gunner Moritz Volz’s poor challenge left Hleb sprawling to the ground. Captain Gilberto scored from the spot.

The 3 -1 scoreline was flattering. It could have been more… Antti Niemi was simply outstanding for Fulham.

Fourth place is assured. Now the Gunners could gun for third spot. Unless Liverpool slipped…

One more year

Great news! Jens Lehmann to stay on for one more year. This guy is quite exceptional and I’m happy he is staying. For someone to oust Oliver Kahn as Germany’s No 1, he can’t be that bad.

When Jens would leave eventually, I hope Arsenal could sign someone like Buffon or Casillas as replacement. Almunia or Poom are not quite up there yet.

Denied at the death

What a North London Derby. The Gunners were all over Spurs, dominated through and through….went behind, equalise, took the lead and the match ended all square with a last-gasp equalizer by the inept Spurs team.

Firstly, the offside given against Ljungberg was definitely dubious. I thought the Swede's neat flick to Adebayor and the strike, itself was superb. The game soon swung to Arsenal’s favour once Fabregas came on for the injured Ljungberg. The Cesc changed the course of the game and Arsenal were in cruise control thereafter.

Arsenal’s first goal came from Kolo Toure, he was quick to pounce when the Tottenham defence went static. Arsenal’s second was from the hardworking Adebayor. He climbed high above everyone to head past Robinson.

All I can say is that Spurs were lucky to escape with a 2-2 draw and avoided a defeat in front of their long suffering fans. My guess is that Martin Jol must have heave a sigh of relief... his team were lucky.

9 out of 10 in the Richter scale

This was the big news of the day. Vice-Chairman of Arsenal, David Dein has left Arsenal with immediate effect. The reason cited was “irreconcilable differences”.

Wow. I reckon the next wild speculation would be the exodus of Wenger and key players… What a season it turns out to be.

The revival continues...

A second win in a row. The football that Arsenal dished out in the first half was simply amazing. Cesc Fabregas scored again…Wow! The Gunners are on the roll.

Hleb and Rosicky’s speed and skill outdo the crowded City’s midfield for long spells. The first Arsenal goal came when Diaby pressured City’s defence on the right. The overlapping Eboué sent a cross and it was met by a darting Rosicky.

The second goal was sheer brilliance from Fábregas. The young Spaniard volleyed home from the edge of the box. The third goal came from the forgettable Beast. Hleb bulldozed his way through in the 80th minute for Baptista to finish off easily. Thank God, he did not miss.

Hey, after beating Bolton and Man City… the Gunners are now third!

The not so first XI: Past and Present

I’ve previously put up a Dream Team post. Now, it is time for the not so first XI. At times, I really wonder how on earth did they ever got snapped up to be a Gunner.

GOALKEEPER
Richard Wright
This guy showed much promise. He was even in the reckoning to be England’s No 1. Somehow, he fizzled….

DEFENDERS
Oleg Luzhny
I thought he was the heir apparent to Lee Dixon. Alas, he was not. I think Lauren was converted to right back because of him.

Igors Stephanovs
This Latvian is so forgettable. I only remember him as the culprit behind the 6-2 defeat by Man Utd years ago.

Philippe Senderos
This youngster showed so much promise in some youth tournament with Switzerland. He was hot property then. I’m not so sure about that now. It is painful whenever he squares off against Drogba.

Pascal Cygan
This bald guy is quite the weakest link. I was surprised he wasn’t sold off any earlier. Maybe no takers.

MIDFIELDERS
Eddie McGoldrick
He is the one with that Elvis hairdo. After a 90 minute workout, the fringe is still there. Incredible.

Glenn Helder
He came to Highbury with those Ruud Gullit dreadlocks and deadly step-overs. Over time, I conclude that Ruud Gullit, he is definitely not.

John Jensen
This tough tackler’s only claim to fame was by scoring only a single goal in his entire Highbury career. I remember that goal was a curler against QPR. I actually think T-shirts with the slogan “I saw Jensen scored against QPR” can sell….back then.

STRIKERS
Christopher Wreh
I only knew that he was George Weah’s relative. Only significant contribution was that winner against Wolves… in a Cup semi, I guess. Not sure was it FA or League Cup, though. Yah, those somersaults too…if he did manage to score.

Julio Baptista
I give up……

Jeremie Aliadiare
I also give up…

On course for No. 4

I was rejoicing after the final whistle. The Gunners sort of cemented fourth spot. Not only that, they also beat the bogey team, Bolton.

Le Sulk drew first blood for Bolton early in the match. Rosicky levelled the scoreline when he sneaked past Hunt, the static Bolton defender to score. Fabregas scored the winner at the start of the second half. As he gathered a pass from Gilberto, it was magical from then on. The young Spaniard skipped past one, wrong footed another and then composed himself to score.It was his first Premiership goal in 11 months!

The referee was great… he turned a blind eye to Eboue’s handball late in the match. Hope it is a start of an upturn of fortunes…for awhile, I saw hunger and urgency in this Arsenal side.

Pure superiority turned into victory.

Quite a yawn

It was a pretty lacklustre display by a weary Arsenal team. Luckily, there was no fourth consecutive Premiership defeats in the trot. It was their first goalless draw in 15 months.

I felt Diaby tried hard to link an attacking game plan with Emmanuel Adebayor. The overall effect was lightweight and hardly threatened. When the Gunners did go forward, the Newcastle defence crowded them out. How I wish Titus Bramble played.

Not much action till the 84th minute when Solano cleared off his line. The only excitement in this drab match was the Lehmann, Gallas and Taylor skirmish.

Let’s hope confidence is restored for this Saturday’s match against Bolton, the bogey team.

From 3rd to 1st World: The ills of the construction industry

I met up with my old army buddies the other day. The usual “what are u doing now” and the “where are u working” stuff. Another one chipped, still in construction? Another guy added, your industry is one which sells “Man-Year” like nobody’s business.

I was like, huh, yah….how you know. Everyone chorus that everybody knows. It was like an open secret. Gee…even those in other sectors also know. The construction industry really sucks, I thought to myself.

Another buddy added that he had just sold his construction business and is washing his hands off this industry that has taken much of his time…day and night, 24/7. While yakking about how nice it was to leave this industry…he gave us a lowdown on how low some contractors would stoop to… it was on how they would systematically cheat on their workers and oops, taxes.

Let’s draw this picture:
A contractor employing 30 foreign workers and 10 local “phantom” workers. Their total staff strength in the books would be 40.

Let’s say the contractor made (Net terms) a profit of two million dollars. It has to pay income tax which may amount to some S$400,000 or more. Foreign labour is cheap…the contractor probably enjoys a substantial benefit from there. They probably pay their foreign workers, a salary range of between S$400 to S$600 per month.

It is common knowledge that workers’ passports are being held by the contractor. The foreign workers have a FIN number. This card will be used by the contractor to apply for a password, needed for online transactions such as income tax filing, etc.

An errant contractor would use their FIN number and passwords to file tax their tax returns online. While the foreign workers are paid between S$400 to S$600 a month, the contractor could file online tax returns with their salaries as between S$1500 to S$1900 per month. For 30 workers, the salary expenditure shown can be an additional S$400,000 dollars or more, than what is actually paid to them. Plus another S$100,000 dollars put in as expenditure is claimed for medical expenses, those “non-existent” holiday travels to back home, overtime allowances, etc.

At the onset, the contractor would open bank savings accounts for their workers. Pretty common for their passbooks and ATM cards to be kept by the contractor. The company credits the monthly salary of S$1,900 dollars into their bank account and withdraws them using the ATM cards. The workers are then paid their actual salary of some S$600 in cash monthly.

He added that the contractor would make a bundle in tax savings with this method. All the worker levies and CPF contributions for the local “phantom” workers it paid out to the Government is more than offset by the income tax savings from this bright idea.

At the end of the day, the contractor got super cheap foreign labour, saves a bundle on taxes, and virtually employs “phantom” Singaporeans at a token amount of say, S$$60 per month.

Wonderful picture, the contractor got cheap labour and tax savings. It was no wonder that foreign labour is much welcomed to inject those savings on income tax and further down, “leasing” them out to other companies at S$60 or more a day as contract labour.

In retrospect, I think my previous employer might have done that. That creep didn’t pay my CPF and salaries and closed down his business. I remember seeing him zapping around town with his new beemers then. Real MF.

Inspired goalkeeping... and the Hammer Double

Can somebody tell me how??? 30 shots and 14 corners and still lose 0-1.

The Gunners started the match in storming fashion. They really peppered the West Ham goalmouth with shots after shots. Robert Green, the West Ham custodian was simply top class. When he did got beaten, the woodwork saved them twice.

Really, Arsenal were at their best… beautiful passing, fluidity, great movements, plenty of purposeful running. The only problem was the failure to conjure a goal.

This match is also historic by virtue of being their first Premiership defeat at the Emirates and also the dubious honour of losing three Premiership games in a row in two years. Real arse luck!

My wife, who was earlier carrying my daughter and had since laid her to sleep…came to the hall and saw the scoreline at the telly… she just exclaimed, “West Ham also can beat them?” That really sums it up.

Not a fair result, but in football, it is always the results that matters. If this rot continues… fourth place also seems wobbly.

My Dream Team

I've always dream about this. My Dream Team... of past and present Arsenal players. Here it goes...

Pat Jennings - GK
Lee Dixon - DR
Nigel Winterburn - DL
Tony Adams - DC
David O' Leary - DC
Robert Pires - ML
Marc Overmars - MR
Patrick Vieira - MC
Dennis Bergkamp - AM
Thierry Henry - FL
Ian Wright - FR

Hey, I think this team can even beat the Brazil of '82.

Running into the 12th season

I was at the 4D booth the other day. Saw the S-league poster. It was screaming… New season… in its 12th season. It was like…wow. It seems like yesterday when Singapore “left” the Malaysia Cup scene.

Anyway, I was thinking… has the standard of Singapore soccer improved by leaps and bounds? Another thought came to my mind…the vision for the national football team to qualify for World Cup 2010. It used to be Goal 2010, then Vision 2010….. the goal posts keep shifting. We are in 2007 now, it is just 3 years away from the realisation of this dream.

Quite simply, before we reach that stage, we probably have got to beat the likes of Japan, Korea, Australia or those Middle Eastern countries… on a regular basis to be Asian soccer kingpins. Apparently, we are not.

Coming back to the S-league. I am another sceptic observer. I confess… I have never gone to the stadiums to watch one single match. On the telly, yah, just a few minutes, before I switch channels.

At times, I wonder…are we able to lure better foreign players to our S-league? There are lots of great foreigners on the wrong side of 30. Youri Jjorkaeff, Teddy Sheringham, Kazu Miura, Edgar Davids, Hidetoshi Nakata, Christophe Dugarry, Dion Dublin, Stan Collymore, Roberto Baggio, Robert Prosinecki, Romario, Davor Suker, etc. My wish list can go on and on. Is it really impossible for such players to grace our football fields?

Whenever I watch the Asian Football Show on cable, I can’t help but feel that the S-league is a lower standard and poorer cousin to the J-league or K-league.

Actually not all the foreign players in Singapore were crappy. I remember players like Paulic Goran, Sixten Bostrom and the gem, Kimmo Tarkkio back then. They were pretty good. The good old days was when Farrer Park Dynamos and Farrer Park United dominated the local football scene.

3 out of 4 ain't bad

It was just one of those days where I would hold my hands high and say that the better team won. I thought Arsenal could put up a fight…the defence was first choice stuff. I was wrong…

Well, it was one of those days when Toure had a real bad game and Crouch’s height and feet actually posed a problem. The nose job probably gave him that extra level of confidence. Let’s hope Crouch could provide more of such displays again if he is ever used in future England’s games.

Nevermind…three out of four ain’t bad. I hoped it might also spur Wenger to splash big on the transfer market come this summer and hopefully, to return the Beast to Real Madrid.

I have on previous occasions, harped about third spot. If such feeble attempts at football still persists… a fourth-place finish would be a reality. I guess the Gunners are pretty short on confidence at the moment. Let’s pick up with the West Ham game.

Fads in March 07

1. Captain America is dead.

2. Earthquakes jolted Sumatra. We could feel the tremors over here too.

3. Holders Barcelona are out of the Champions League.

4. After 11 years, Roberto Carlos is finally leaving Real Madrid.

5. I hate to say this… Spurs is on course for the UEFA Cup while the Gunners is on course for… nothing.

6. First sand, now possibly, maybe granite.

7. Lionel Messi, the new Maradona hit a hat-trick in the Real Madrid-Barcelona thriller.

8. Thierry Henry is out for the rest of the season.

9. I love the daily flips and flops on the $20K payment.

10. Regarding the Great Biomedical Debate, I couldn’t agree more… Sometimes, the ground may know more than the helicopter.

11. Lippi, Rijkaard, Mancini, Deschamps and Hiddink are some of the big names linked to the Chelsea job for next season.

12. Singapore is luring F1 to her shores.

13. Wenger admitted that he got it wrong this season. Never mind, it’s okay. Just deliver the Fab Four next season. The Premiership title, Champions League, League Cup and FA Cup.

14. I am muddled about the young, old and a value system. Thank God… I’m no test tube washer.

Weddings, an all-new low

I attended a colleague’s wedding dinner over the weekend. Things were fine. The couple was radiant, accommodating and things run smoothly. However, there was some things that really irks me…

First, I saw people sneakily removing all the cute bear souvenirs and emptying it to their handbags. It was sure disturbing. Not only did they go for one table, they went bear snatching on other tables. My God. What insatiable greed.

The second blow came a couple of weeks earlier…before the wedding dinner. This colleague of mine was going around asking for kakis to "form" table. He approach me if I wanna “form" table. I was pretty puzzled momentarily….WTF. I thought the bridegroom or bride would allocate where their guests would sit? I thought that jerk's idea was illusory. Wait a minute...that bloke really went on to "form" table. KNN.

It was sheer "deafness" to the couple's wedding dinner preparations. I thought it was outright disrespect to the couple's arrangements. C'mon, u think it is your father's Dinner & Dance function?

Quite rightly so, it spoilt my weekend. What a load of crap from this people.

Men in Black

They are quite the top class metal band around. I am talking about Metallica, the no nonsense heavy rocking real McCoy. I like them.

Their songs, "Seek and Destroy", "Enter Sandman", "One", "Fade to Black", "Nothing Else Matters", and others are some of my metal favourites. Listening to such metal classics are indeed, a phenomenal experience. Many metalheads would or could chorus those words and raise their fists in the air…in unison. Metallica brings metalheads together. Sheer unadulterated rock.

I’m not sure how much changes have the band undergone. The Metallica I knew of was James Hetfield, Lars Ulrich, Kirk Hammett and Jason Newsted. Oh, who can forget the late Cliff Burton. Watching them trading those grinding licks with their axes. What sweet cacophony. For an untrained metal ear, it is noise. To metal fans, like me, it is a bacchanalian celebration of life with all the attendance of joys and trapping of fears.

True… Metallica’s lyrics are morbid, anti-war, angst, frustration and disillusionment. Headbanging to their songs, their heady beats borne of life’s harsher knocks. I will always remember "One" as the most towering anti-war anthem of all time. "(Anesthesia) Pulling Teeth" showcases the greatest metal bass solo ever. "Enter Sandman" was startling, in a sense that it sounded more mainstream than metal.

James Hetfield, the tall metal messiah. His gravel stab at what we call singing will always be a hypnotic mantra, a grim reminder that all is not right in this world. Hammett and the then bassist, Newsted trading those furious licks. Ulrich pounding on the drums with demonic fury. Top draw.

My men in black. Their trademark low-slung axes and all black attire, spewing with the panache and macabre fury that fed off us, the adoring metalheads.

The spear of AJ...ouch!!!

The match was rather even contested, both teams well matched…it seems that a draw is on the cards. Then… deep into injury time, as Everton was gathering for one final attack, it turned out to be the winner. Andy Johnson drove the ball home through a crowd of Arsenal players for a 1-0 win.

Another record got shattered… it was Arsenal’s first Premiership defeat of 2007. The recent spate of matches saw Arsenal conceding late… against Blackburn, Alex’s late equaliser for PSV and now.

Everton’s Lee Carley was the midfield general last night. He was their anchorman, winning, intercepting, passing and distributing superbly. He was bossing the midfield like what Vieira used to do for the Gunners.

It will hold true… for all the pretty football that Arsenal dishes out, the failure on those incisive final move… those goals… might prove costly, one day.

There is some bucking up to be done. The final run-in of Premiership matches are here. The Gunners have got to start scoring and winning in order to secure that third place spot.

The highs & lows of the season so far...

The highs so far…

Reyes leaving. I reckon from Day One, he was hoping to go back to Spain.

Cygan leaving. The weakest link left.

The Cole-Gallas exchange.

Diaby recovering from that long term injury.

Completing the Double over Man Utd.

The Dennis Bergkamp testimonial match at the Emirates.

The Gunners moving to their new home at Ashburton Grove.

Wenger’s 10th year anniversary.

Van Persie scoring that volley against Charlton. It looked every bit like the "Goal of the Season" to me.

Whipping Liverpool thru’ and thru’ this season.

Beating Spurs 3-0 in the first ever North London derby to be staged at the Emirates. It was sweet!

Gilberto is my vote for this season’s "fox-in-the-box".

Baptista’s 4-goal haul at Fortress Anfield.

Rosicky’s wonderful 2 goals against Liverpool.

Henry’s last minute header that won the game against Man Utd at the Emirates.

Henry rubbishing reports that he is leaving Arsenal. He is a Gunner for life.

Unbeaten run at the Emirates still intact…


The lows…

Dennis Bergkamp retired. Robert Pires and Lauren left.

Sol Campbell leaving for "overseas". Pompey was overseas.

Henry’s injury plagued season.

Going out of the Champions League so soon.

That wretched 11 days.

Losing to the lesser lights like West Ham, Fulham, Bolton, Sheffield Utd, etc.

Wenger’s wild shove.

The melee "started" by Chel$ea at the final moments of the Carling Cup Final.

Senderos losing much of his duel with Drogba everytime Arsenal meets Chel$ea.

Losing to Blackburn in the FA Cup.

Winning Ugly

Recovery is on the way. Abou Diaby’s first half goal settled this match. A landmark match for Wenger. It was his 400th Premiership match in charge.

Diaby’s second ever goal came when he deflected Baptista’s shot past Thomas Sorensen. In fairness, it was his illustrious run from the left that brought Arsenal the lead. Soon after, there was enough chances to kill off the game. Once again, the goal mouth shyness rears its head again. It is a recurring nightmare.

Luckily, Aston Villa did not punish the Gunners. John Carew was quite a handful, though. I remember this tall chap bundled the Gunners out of the Champions League some seasons ago.

This match also tells us more… Jérèmie Alaidière and Julio Baptista are quite capable of appalling finishing too. To wrap it up, a fine effort against the hosts and Arsenal are up to third place.

A Gunner for life

It was reassuring to hear Henry coming forth to put the rumours to rest. It was great to hear the Great Man reiterating his loyalty to Arsenal for life. The best piece of news coming out from this lukewarm season so far.

On top of every Gooner's wish list is for Henry to be at his devastating best come Season 07/08. I was a bit surprised to read that Le Professor admitted that he was a bit lost.

I reckon all is not lost... what with the chasing of third spot in the Premiership still a possibility.

Something to think about...

Sigh… in a matter of days, the Gunners got dumped out of three Cup competitions. Domestically, they are left to fight for third place for an automatic Champions League spot. Another barren season, so was the last season. Sad too… Bergkamp, Pires, Reyes, Campbell and Lauren all left.

No trophies to parade for the Gunners as they settle in to their new home at Ashburton Grove this season. Going out of the Champions League was quite a bitter pill to swallow. The other Big Three were through. What went wrong? Was it injuries? A team too young? Growing too one-dimensional? Did the players over-elaborate with their passing, created openings and yet, fail to find the net. Ultimately, football is also very much about converting chances and scoring goals.

Quite rightly, the Gunners played the Beautiful Game to death. They are the masters of short passing. Have they become predictable? Or did those wily coaches finally mastered to counteract the Gunners’ football approach. Grooming the youth and giving them chances to perform on the pitch is the right thing. Can’t really go wrong with investing and training youth. On the basis of the modern game, is it prudent to throw the 18 & 19 year olds into the fray? I am talking about getting those talented Arsenal youths to exercise control in those must-win matches. Something like the PSV match.

I am quite sure Fabregas, Denilson and Diaby are the midfield force to be reckon with in the years to come… They will be a joy to watch…they will be the future Petit-Vieira-Overmars-Pires axis. Right now, the midfield park is "greener" than the flanks. On the flanks, we’ve got Rosicky, Hleb and Ljunberg… great exponents.

There is a missing link here. Quite pressing, the Gunners need someone masterful enough to give that "missing" variety. The man to give that difference amidst all the superb ball inter-passing. Bear in mind, among all the great movement, failure to find the net, the vital ending…is as good as losing all earlier impetus. All the pretty moves will just fall flat.

Two seasons of trophy-less seasons…Come season 07/08, with a well rested Henry up and running and possibly some signings... the "transitional" period should end and I see the team challenging for honours again. But, as for now... on a night where we got to beat PSV, it was Koeman who triumphed. The evening where steely nerves was needed, alas, it wasn’t there.

The wretched 11th Day

Oh… on the night where it matters… a not so up-there performance blew Arsenal out of the Champions League early. Of course, courtesy of Koeman. Once again, the Dutch freekick master found luck in English soil.

Oddly, it was a "Chelsea" player who inflicted the damage. It was Brazilian centre-half Rodrigo Alex who put PSV 1-0 down and balancing the aggregate score at 1-1. However, in the 83rd minute, he won the game by leaping higher than Abou Diaby to head home. Our dreams were quashed.

Poor Henry, his performance was pretty subdued. Well, in fairness, he has not fully recovered from that sciatic nerve problem back then. With all Cup and Euro distractions all gone, he should seek a hiatus now…

As for now, all Gooners must reunite and root the team to go for third placing in the Premiership. I guess, when a club wants to go ahead with stadium plans.... It is inevitable, the team will suffer. Arsenal did not come off any worse. Look at the shape of Southampton when they built St Mary’s or Sunderland with the Stadium of Light.

In any case, I think Emmanuel Adebayor deserve a raise. He was the one man who look dangerous against PSV. His presence was good enough. I can’t say much about the converting of his chances, though.

It was tough predicament when they lost at Holland around a fortnight ago. By gaining a 1-1 draw at home, all was lost… Voicing a personal opinion, I think Baptista’s loan stint should end right at the end of season 06/07. Pretty unthinkable, this team was so darn close to winning the Champions League final last May.

An all-Brazilian affair

Last night's 2-1 home victory over Reading was just the perfect response to end a dreary three match Cup defeat streak. It was something that the Gunners were not quite accustomed to. That losing streak ended all domestic Cup hopes.

Well, Reading nearly forced a draw. Thanks to Jens Lehmann's superb save. Around half-way through the match, the German was seen screaming at Gallas. I'm not sure if it was his quick temper or his total commitment to the cause.

In all, it was a deserving victory for the Gunners.... A fifth consecutive league win at the Emirates Stadium. Once again, Hleb was magical. Twisting, turning and creating. The Cesc spurned a couple of easy chances. The two goals came from the boys from Brazil. Gilberto scored from the penalty and the Beast striking home after steam rolling past the Reading defence.

Talking about Wenger's foreign policy, about a quarter of the Arsenal team were Brazilian. The next one is the tricky tie against PSV. Let's hope the Gunners win and progress through the Champions League. Against the Royals, the Gunners actually look quite weak without Titi.

Cup woes Part II

Oh dear, losing to Blackburn and getting dumped out of two competitions in the space of four days.

All I can say is that Benni McCarthy’s well executed strike was the highlight of what seems like a normal tie, seemingly devoid of Cup fervour and passion.

To be fair, Arsenal were the much better side in over 180 minutes of football. However, failure to score did us in. The lack of killer instinct in front of goal and quite frankly, the Gunners look jaded.

With impending fines and suspensions over the Carling Cup final melee looming… things are not looking good for Arsene’s army. Nothing much left this season… the Gunners still got the return leg against PSV in the Champions League to turn around.

Well, Sparky’s men may not dished out Barcelona football. I thought that lone strike was Barca class all the way.

Fads in February 07

1. Singapore are the kings of ASEAN football after beating the Walk-out team, Thailand 3-2 over 2 legs.

2. Real Madrid lost 0-1 to lowly Levante in the 1,000th match to be staged at the Bernabeu. One can imagine whose head the 75,000 crowd were calling.

3. Around three quarters of Jakarta was under water.

4. Liverpool FC are under American ownership.

5. Anna Nicole Smith died.

6. The dipping fortunes of England football coach, Steve McClaren continues…

7. Britney Spears shaves her head bald.

8. The Police reunites!

9. No. 1 football goal celebration: The Golf Swing.

10. U turn of the month: Capello fielding Beckham and praising him soon after.

11. Johor’s leaders has it that Johor floods is caused by Singapore’s land reclamation works.

12. "Best quote" coming out of the Great Singapore Bashing – “You’II get nowhere with them either being nice or being tough, they only think of themselves”.

13. The Great Biomedical Debate and Organ Opt-Out outrage rages…For the former, I’m with the “voice in the wilderness” and the latter, I’m truly disappointed with the way things are handled.

All-London thriller at Cardiff

A Cup final between a squad of raw young talent against another of expensively assembled seasoned professionals. True…this young team lost 2-1 in a thrilling encounter. The manner in which they fought… the future for Arsenal is bright. In the coming seasons, this young team that will come of age, will certainly go down as the best Arsenal side ever.

In the first 20 minutes, it was Arsenal all the way. They virtually pinned down Chelsea. Theo Walcott was all over the pitch, he was a natural. Playing his best game so far, his passing and running was top flight. He combined well with Diaby to scoop the ball past Cech in the 11th minute.

Somehow, Didier Drogba scored two well-taken goals and won the game. The Elephant’s goals came in the time when Arsenal were dishing out sequences of expert ball passing and wonder play. Forget the score… Cesc, Diaby, Denilson and Walcott were zipping around the park like seasoned pros. They truly ran the midfield pound for pound against a side of world class midfielders.

Talking about football brawls, I really wish that Keown, Lauren and Vieira were around. They would have wind up those Chel$ea hoodlums. Let's face it... I really admire Vieira's guts whenever he faces off with Roy Keane and also that spat with West Ham's Neil Ruddock.

Let’s put aside John Terry’s head injury, the melee, the rash of 3 red cards. This match should be remembered for how great this young Gunners will grow to be, one day.

Rappin', Illin', Rhythm & Stealin'

I was surprised to hear that The Beastie Boys performed in the Good Vibrations Festival held on Monday evening, 19 Feb 2007 at the Fort Canning. Ya... Singapore is opening up, I thought. An act like The Beastie Boys was allowed to “come here” or rather, they “make their way past” the local authorities.

It is really 20 years late…I was pretty into rap music in 1986. It was because of “Licensed to Ill”. Frankly, this album is one of my personal favourites. It really got me hooked up to rap or humour rap.

In the 80s, they were everywhere. It was like, you know, the only white rappers around. I really love their boisterous antics then, I can’t remember, one of them was always wearing that Volkswagon sign, the tossing and spillng of Budweiser beer cans around. Ha ha…I actually bought and snipped Budweiser beer at 7-Eleven way back then, it was my way of identifying with The Beastie Boys. I felt connected. Me and the beer swilling frat boys. Cool.

I guess that’s what we call…growing up. During one’s youth, being rebellious, wild and being anti-establishment were the buzz. Such excesses back then, could be boiled down to the folly of youth. Perhaps, it could be the genuine need to express one’s inner devil or simply, to be yourself. Strangely, rap is sort of associated with such tendencies. The anger, the angst...

When Run DMC and Aerosmith combined to give us the ultimate rap rock number, “Walk This Way”. It was a sheer delight. Those no-shoelace Adidas sneakers were cool too! “Ice Ice Baby” by Vanilla Ice was pretty cool back then. Actually, I would cringe and shudder if I hear it again.

Other favourites of mine include “The Message” by Grandmaster Flash & The Furious Five. I think this rap number has got sheer power and dynamite in it. "Reckless" by Ice T was fast and furious. “Parents Just Don’t Understand” by DJ Jazzy Jeff and The Fresh Prince was fun. “U Can’t Touch This” by MC Hammer started a craze on being hip to be seen wearing baggy pants.

Other rap gems which had left lasting impression include Tone Loc’s “Wild Thing”, LL Cool J’s romantic rap number, “I Need Love”. Marky Mark’s “Wild Side” transported one to those tough ghettos. Of late, I mean in recent years, the only mentionable ones are “Gangsta's Paradise” by Coolio and “Lose Yourself” by Eminem.

When's your turn?

The CNY season is about to fade away…. just around few years ago, I really dread CNY. You know, when one is single…well meaning relatives and friends would bombard you with those “When’s your turn?” questions. As a single back then, I really dread this moment.

CNY is not just about spring cleaning, mandarin oranges, bak kwa, mahjong sessions and house visiting…I don’t believe it. I brought my baby girl for visits this CNY… I am still not spared…. “When is the next one coming?” Quite rightly, I cringed!

Oh my, conversations would always be centred around this theme. It really doesn’t help much when TV kept rolling out those old and ridiculous Chinese movie re-runs. Thank God, we didn’t get “Once Upon A Time in China” again. I can almost move around like Master Huang. No kidding, I really think I saw the first and second installments around 7 times each. I’ve also outgrown Stephen Chow movies. I really find his antics, truly tiresome.

I still dread CNY… can’t really get over CNY songs by our TV artistes, newscasters are even dragged along to sing! Champion evergreen CNY songs are those belted out by Ms Long Piao Piao. I heard it in malls every year. She just wouldn’t go away.

Just a wicked thought…imagine one is at a relative’s funeral wake. You try telling those older relatives…”When’s your turn?” I bet ya…all hell’s gonna break loose.

They were the rock

During the late 80s and right through the 90s, this few men were the rock at Highbury. I am talking about Adams, Dixon, Bould, Keown and Winterburn. It may be quite unlikely we would see an all-English backline in an Arsenal team again…They played a huge part in what seems like the meanest defence in the then First Division. The combination of these individuals brought increased appeal to the art of defending.

They had courage, intelligence and determination. They presented themselves well with a truly formidable presence when the chips are down and the team is facing the crunch.

Tony Adams, who can argue that he is not the one who was so tireless in inspiring and ever urging his teammates on. Who else would be so passionate and resilient till the end? He is perhaps, one of the most influential captains or figures in the history of Arsenal. To me, no doubt, he is Mr Arsenal.

To gooners, we will know… Right is Dixon and Left is Winterburn. This two are the best…forever displaying the athleticism, enthusiasm, fiery bravery and alertness. They were efficient at the back and nimble flank raiders when the need arises. They possess the skills and speed of what some traditional wingers lack. Overlapping runs, whipping in wicked crosses and cracking open many a locked rearguard are just part of their repertoire. Mind you…they also have the knack of scoring cracking goals.

Next comes Bould and Keown. The central defenders. Tough, ruthless and uncompromising. They brought streetwise toughness to effective consistency to the pitch. I believe…for those trying to crack the Arsenal backline then, facing them must be a daunting task. I can’t say more… they are always there. Hoofing clearances, incisive tackles, neutralising strikers, heading dangerous crosses away and turning dangerous situations to a sea of calm are their hallmarks.

I musn’t forget Andy Linighan. I will never forget his blood covered face when he rose and sent a bullet header into the goal. It was at the final moments of extra-time in the Wembley replay against Sheffield Wednesday in 1993. That header prevented a penatly shoot-out and won the FA Cup.

They had, at all times, exuding authority at the rearguard for Arsenal, home and away, week in and week out. It is served out with unreserved enthusiasm and well-drilled discipline. In the movie, Full Monty, when the male strippers raised their arms in unison…quite strangely, it seems like a tribute to Adams and company, the upstretched arms screaming…”offside, offside”!

Their desire and hunger burnt so brightly towards the tail-end of their careers at Highbury. It would take exceptional players to replace them. Campbell, Luzhny, Lauren, Cole, Silvinho, Stephanovs, Cygan and company have came and gone. Now, the defensive duties have fallen on Hoyte, Clichy, Toure, Ebuoe, Gallas and Senderos. May this generation of defenders settle, meet the challenges and do their predecessors proud. The challenge right now is to serve with distinction.

An Ecuadorian sting

Oh dear, Arsenal tasted defeat on Dutch soil for the first time in Euro competition. Hopes of progressing towards the quarter-finals in the Champions League took a knock.

It was a game where chances were far and few. Tomas Rosicky combined well with The Cesc on midfield and PSV had difficulties handling them. I dare conclude that it was all Arsenal during the first half.

After 61 minutes, Edison Mendez drilled a low range shot beyond Jens Lehmann's right. The German was at full stretch… to no avail. No debate, the Gunners gave too much space and time for the Ecuadorian to score the winner with a right-foot strike.

In fairness, Rosicky, Henry and The Cesc all had chances… spurned ones. Gutsy PSV just did enough to hold on for the slender win.

Never mind, we’ve got to take heart that the Gunners performed well at the Philips. They were unlucky to lose. Well, in two weeks’ time, let’s hope the Gunners right all the wrongs against PSV at the Emirates. I am confident they would.

Let’s not ponder too much…this coming Sunday, there’s the Carling Cup final against Chel$ea at the Millennium Stadium to savour.

Between the posts

Since the time I’ve supported Arsenal till the present-day, this club have always the distinction of having a long line of great goalkeepers. From Jennings, Lukic, Seaman, Manninger to Lehmann. They were absolutely flawless between the posts.

My personal favourite was Pat Jennings. I had the pleasure of meeting him at the Padang many years ago. He was with Tony Woodcock, another Arsenal great. They were in Singapore for some SCC six or seven-a-side football tournament.

The strong line of keepers at Arsenal seems like a tradition. They are the rock, they are pretty calm, instilling confidence among the backline. Their magical hands plucked swung-in crosses with ease and great composure. They offered near-impossible goalmouth saves with their renowned reflexes.

Pat Jennings, very often, made the goalkeeping task look so easy. He just had that great positional sense. To me, Jennings is the Gentle Giant. John Lukic, the tall custodian was to me, the unfashionable and unspectacular keeper. Wait a minute… he is also the great shot-stopper, and his great goal kicks can start a wave of Arsenal attack right from the goalmouth.

Turning to David Seaman, another Highbury great. I think he is among the best in England, besides Banks, Shilton and Clemence. Seaman was pretty the top flight keeper during the 90s. He was faultless, very much the finished article. Many a times, he left us wondering on how did he manage to pull off those humanly impossible saves. He claimed crosses with the slightest of fuss and goalmouth ball melee were rescued with extreme calm. In short, he was simply sensational.

Calm. Never a term to describe Jens Lehmann. This German is one hot-headed chap with a liking for the occassional madness. But, I must say he was absolutely magnificent during the run-up to the Champions League Final in Paris last year. If not for his goalmouth reflex claw against Real Madrid and that penalty save against Riquelme, Arsenal wouldn’t have made their way to the Final against Barcelona.

Of course, there are also Jimmy Rimmer, George Wood, Vince Bartram, Alan Miller, Stuart Taylor, Richard Wright, Mart Poom and Manuel Almunia.

So, we have it… the great custodians of Arsenal. With Lehmann’s possible exit at the end of season 2006/07… who will be next? Scott Carson? Only Le Boss knows.

Simply frustrating...

The way Blackburn played... it was obvious, to play negatively for a draw and gain a replay at Ewood Park. It did worked... Blackburn avoided defeat.

Brad Friedel's amazing double save in the final minutes sure as hell pissed me off. If that had gone in... it would have avoided an otherwise crowded diary. In the 81st minute, the referee denied the Gunners of a perfectly legitimate penalty claim. Stephen Warnock clearly took down Aliadiere. What a shame.

The Gunners probably had enough chances to kill off Blackburn. Never mind... we've got the Champions League match against PSV Eindhoven coming up and the Carling Cup final this coming Sunday.

Actually, it is pretty flattering that visiting teams come to the Emirates, defend deep and play negatively. It just shows that the opposition knows that if they were to come at and play open football. Arsenal will murder them! Great to see the return of No. 10 Gallas!

Thriller at Bogey ground

This was a thriller at the Bogey ground. What drama… extra time, two missed penalties, one sending off. Truly dramatic, entertaining, nerve wrecking and nail-biting to the end.

The Denilson-Diaby midfield pairing was a success. Denilson was the silky one while Diaby emulating Vieira, gave the Gunners a robust edge in central midfield. Hleb and Rosicky simply wreck havoc along the flanks during the first half. This match saw the return of Ljunberg appearing after a long lay-off. It was his goal that became the decisive moment of the match.

The Gunners failed to capitalize on Emmanuel Adebayor's early goal. His goal was pure picture perfect ball passing and sweeping ball movement. Denilson and Hleb were much involved with the build up leading to Adebayor’s ninth goal of the season.

It looked pretty lost cause when Gilberto Silva hit a rugby shot with his penalty. Extra time beckons as Bolton’s Abdoulaye Méïté scored an equaliser in the second minute of stoppage-time.
Ljungberg’s great left-foot shot in extra time put the Gunners in pole position. Arsenal could even afford another penalty miss through The Beast. The night ended with a Adebayor's tap-in after good work by The Beast seconds from the end of extra time.

Frankly, it was a football match where the Gunners could have wrapped it up easily in normal time. Alas, they “opted” the harder way, plus the ordeal of two wasted penalties. I wonder did anyone see Henry do the dance steps with Adebayor?

The potential of this youth set in Arsenal sure looks promising. It seems that in football, age doesn’t matter, when you are good enough, you are old enough.

Rosicky's first

As usual, the away team scoring first at the Emirates. This time around, deep into the second half, I was panicking… can the Gunners level it, force a draw, let alone win the match? I had my doubts…

At the end of 90 minutes… What a relief! Final score reads 2-1. An Arsenal win.

The last 9 minutes saw Arsenal storming back with two goals. Firstly, Fitz Hall scoring an own goal after Mathieu Flamini’s low cross from the right. Then, just five minutes later, Tomas Rosicky flying in with a close-range header for his first Premiership goal. Terrific cut back cross from the Beast, I dare say.

I have always thought well of Chris Kirkland as an excellent up and coming young goalkeeper during his time at Liverpool. After last night’s match, that opinion changed. Besides his injury woes, he is actually quite good at time wasting. Quite oddly, Lehmann got a yellow card for time wasting near the end of the match. Football is a strange game. A team’s fortunes can change just in a matter of minutes.

Well, the record still stays intact. Any visiting team that had scored first would either leave the Emirates with a draw or loss. No one has won there yet.

Quite amazing… Landzaat’s screamer, Heskey’s incredible miss, Flamini’s quite certain penalty area foul and Rosicky’s first. What a match to end my weekend.

Most worrying photo of 2006

This is perhaps, the most disturbing photo of 2006. A fan rushing to Henry and handed him a Barcelona jersey. When I saw it, I was thinking… oh no, don’t let this be true. Thank God, he didn’t go to the Nou Camp.

Most touching moment of 2006

It sure was the poignant moment of 2006. Henry kissing the lush Highbury turf for the last time. That act probably sent many hearts racing. Was he kissing this sacred ground goodbye? All season long, all gooners were kept wondering…would he stay or go?

Finally, he inked a new contract that would keep him with Arsenal for the rest of his career. I can’t imagine an Arsenal team stepping to the pitch at the Emirates stadium without skipper Thierry Henry. He is irreplaceable.

Precious Moments

Winning the English Championship was never easy and shall remain sweet...

- White Hart Lane '71

- Anfield '89

- Old Trafford '02

- White Hart Lane '04

1989 was memorable... the winning goal was scored at the final minute in the final match of the season. 2002 at Old Trafford was sweet... winning at the Hairdryer's turf. 2004 was incredible, going through the entire season unbeaten.

To the rescue

Thierry Henry is so important for Arsenal. He demonstrated his importance once again… hitting a late equalizer for 10-men Gunners. As usual, it was a vital goal, earning them an away point after they were reduced to 10 men by the dismissal of Philippe Senderos.

The Swiss defender was sent off for hauling down Yakubu in the 63rd minute. Thank God… Lehmann did not get himself sent off as well. The game itself was dull in the first half. Things come to life after the first half.

It was a game of few opportunities, Henry’s finish was a classic crisp finish after Adebayor had leaped high to nod the ball to his path.

A draw was a fair result for both teams.

Young Guns blazing to Cardiff

Chel$ea, High Noon at Cardiff… last night, the young Gunners gave us plenty to cheer with a smacking 3-1 extra time win over our long-suffering foe, Tottenham.

I thought the Gunners were on their way when Adebayor ghosted in from the left and scored in the 77th minute. Alas, Mido headed the equaliser five minutes from time.

Come extra time, Aliadiere whipped in the second goal. Thanks to Spurs’ Rocha, who headed tamely to the Frenchman’s path. In the 112th minute, Rosicky’s effort came off the post and via Chimbonda before rolling in. 3-1! The Emirates erupt.

I thought the Spurs players were pretty rough…Ghaly and some others. Gunner Denilson was pretty illustrious as he peppered Robinson with a few long range shots.

I forsee… Thierry Henry lifting the League Cup at the Milleniuum Stadium as end-February beckons…

Fads in January 07

1. Tonight, the National Stadium at Kallang will host probably her last competitive football match, Singapore vs Thailand….next, reduced to rubbles after 33 years.

2. Singapore swimmer, Joscelin Yeo is quitting competitive swimming. This lady got 40 SEA Games medals under her belt. She always remind me of another Great, Junie Sng.

3. The Beautiful One got trounced at the Australian Open.

4. Michel Platini, the French football legend is the new UEFA president.

5. Indonesia bans sand exports to Singapore. The timing is excellent just as our local construction industry starts to look sunny again.

6. Having body odour might / could hamper one’s job promotion chances.

7. This month seems like Chelsea’s “darkest moments” since Mourinho took over from Ranieri.

8. Trials of the old-NKF and One-Eye Dragon begins…

9. On Day 3 of the old-NKF trial, T T Durai concedes.

10. Korean Superstar, Rain was here for a concert. Tickets range from $188, $488 to $888. I reckon his priciest ticket costs more than Slowhand. He was here too.

11. An Adam Air jetliner vanished without a trace with 102 people on board.

12. Man Utd did not land Owen Hargreaves.

13. David Beckham is off to LA. Goldenballs is off to the Hollywood jetset. A staggering US$250 million 5-year deal. That is a rate of US$125 a minute.

Blame it on the Bogey

Oh my… coming from behind to salvage a draw at the Emirates again. Thank God, the unbeaten record at home is intact.

Kevin Nolan drew first blood with a well placed shot after some neat passing by the Sulk. With 13 minutes to go, Kolo Toure dived low to plant a weak header past Jaaskenlainen to force a draw and a trip to the Reebok.

Only one win out of seven visits to the Reebok. I really worry… would our FA Cup march be halted there? Sigh.. if only Henry’s back heel in the first half had gone in… the course of the game would have taken a new twist. Overall, not a convincing performance by the Gunners. I felt that Bolton were the hungrier lot.

I reckon this draw tie would create a pile-up of fixtures for the Gunners. It would be a problem when players are unavailable through injury and choice of players wears thin. Blame it on the bogey.

Beastie "Hattrick"

The Beast was sensational once again.... Facing a two goal deficit... he single-handedly put paid to Tottenham's opportunity for a rare win against Arsenal.

Cometh the 20th minute, the Gunners were already reeling from two goals down. The first one from a Berbatov’s header and a Julio Baptista own goal.

A team with a never-say-die attitude, the Gunners came storming back in the second half. The second 45 minutes was a better showing and The Beast blasted in two more Carling Cup goals to level the score.

Instead of wallowing in self-pity, Baptista came back strongly and powered through with a muscular goal in the 63rd minute and then did a simple tap-in with 13 minutes to go. With Van Persie out, the next few weeks could set the stage for the Beast to shine.

A total reversal of fortunes and the comeback is complete. May the young Gunners destroy stuttering Spurs at the Emirates on the return leg.

If they play true to their form next Wednesday night at the Emirates, the young Gunners would surely meet Chelsea in the final at the Millennium Stadium come 25 February 2007.

From Copenhagen, with love

Winning the now-defunct European Cup Winners Cup was perhaps Arsenal's greatest Euro glory. I recall that night when the Gunners took on the holders, Parma in Copenhagen. There was no doubt that the Italians were favourites.

What I saw was a classic Arsenal performance full of resolute, robust defending and relying on the occasional sucker punch counter-attacks. Alan Smith hit the winner in the first half.

Tony "Mr Arsenal" Adams was magnificent that night... so was the back four. They were the rock. The ridiculous Tomas Brolin played for Parma... he's the one who does that insane jumping swivel turn everytime he scores.... Thank God, he didn't get the chance to do so. He's such an eyesore.

The winning scoreline probably holds true as fans sung, "One nil to the Arsenal".

What a jolly good Double!

How memorable…coming from behind to level the match and then to snatch all three points with a beautifully executed winner in injury time. What a revival!

Oh dear… after Patrice Evra had race across the turf and sent a cross for Rooney to head in at the far post…I was like, not again... falling behind at the Emirates again.

The hunt for the equaliser was on. The match swung from one end to another till Robin Van Persie fired the equaliser with seven minutes remaining. It came from a pass from Henry. It could have been either a miscue shot or an ingenious deliberate back flick for Van Persie to slam the ball home.

Then the moment came… deep into injury time, Eboue whipped over an accurate pin-point cross from the right and captain Henry rose so majestically to bullet his stunning header past lanky Van der Sar. I rank this goal as high and crucial as the one he lobbed over Barthez in a Arsenal-Man Utd encounter quite sometime back.

What a night! Grand Slam Weekend ended according to my wish list…big spending Chelsea losing and the Gunners beating the Red Devils and in so, doing a Double over them this season. On a sad note, Van Persie broke his fifth metatarsal.

London Bridge is falling down

Quite oddly, I punched the air with delight when Liverpool beat Chelsea 2-0 last night. I felt good…it took a long time coming. It was such a nice feeling to see a team bankrolled by russian roubles…crumbling. I am not sure what it’s like come May. It sure feel good to see them shambling at Anfield.

All along we knew they had millions of pounds of talents rotting in their reserves, right now, they are exposed as a one-man team. Without their talisman captain, John Terry, this Chelsea team looked pretty lost at Anfield.

Well, the partnership of Ferreira and Essien looked uncomfortable. A pairing doomed to fail. Or was it the unhappiness of Mourinho affecting his players? With his defensive crisis looming over his head…was it right to let Gallas and Huth go at the start of the season? Who cares.

To top it off, Ballack and Drogba make a mess of a freekick. Drogba passes the ball to the sleepy German, anticipating he would stop it. Off guard, the German let the ball slip through his legs. It was comical. Oktoberfest was just a couple of months ago… shambolic, I thought.

After the two defeats by Arsenal, Benitez is praised once great again for his tactics. Did he saw the weakness in Chelsea and put in Crouch to deal with the air and let Kuyt run the ground ragged?

Is Jose Mourinho still a wily football tactician that brought in two Premiership titles in succession? Let’s not get too euphoric with this Liverpool win… only in May would we know the answer.

The Swedish Maestro

When he first step into the English game, many gooners, myself included, was wondering how is this Swedish player looking like Donny Osmond could be? Well, this swedish maestro was to give Arsenal and Gooners, pure artistic joy from 1990 to 1994.

Not long after, many of us would agree that this gem of a player was heaven sent. He was the entertainer who brought with him, a new dimension to a then Arsenal side which is ruthlessly efficient, but lacking flair and audacity. His impact then was huge.

This expert ball juggler was terrific while operating on the left flanks. There was everything…. great goals, mouth watering skills and mesmerising charm. He gave the Highbury faithful zest, dash and of course, lethal wing play. Back then, there was always moments of magic from Limpar… those superb long range strikes from him.

He was indeed, rapier-like with his many incursions on enemy line. His uncanny ball control posed many bewildering problems to defenders. It must have been sheer twist and torment for most opposing sides.

Summing it up, Anders Limpar was the ball wizard who can bring a dour game to life, passes the ball with great incisiveness, creates confusion with his sudden change of direction and creates openings when none seems to exist. My only quarrel is that he falls down too easily like a granny.

Well, enough said. He was indeed, exhilarating. Another of my Highbury heroes.

Bye bye... Bisan or Pisang???

It was with great sadness to learnt that Lauren is leaving the Gunners. It was just so recent that he had recovered from long-term injury. Many gooners would have thought he would be challenging for that right back spot again. Well, the exuberence and talents of youth…what with Ebuoue and Hoyte waiting under his wings. It became clear that an exit was imminent.

It seems not so long ago that Lauren came from Mallorca in May 2000. I remember he had that ridiculous pineapple crop of a hairstyle…the one similar to wrestler, Booker T.

Whatever it is… Lauren’s name in Arsenal folklore is assured. It may seems like hard won eminence, however, this Cameroon international had season after season of excellence as the right-back. Not too bad for someone who was originally a right-sided midfielder and filling in Lee Dixon’s shoes. Lauren has risen above all and perform with consummate professionalism.

Lauren’s steady and calm resolution was evident throughout his unerringly rise as the right-sided defender. His instinct to go forward dovetailed perfectly with the fantastic attacking profile that Arsenal demands from their full-backs. He was quick off the pace, in sharp bursts coupled with the quickness of thought. My word… his well placed accurate early crosses to Henry and the other forwards was countless, among many telling Arsenal raids on opposition territories.

He was the right full-back who discharge his defensive duties so efficiently. A tough tackler… an excellent player most compelling when surging forward. He is, to me, one of the most accomplished exponents of a creative full-back in today’s modern game. I am sure he would strike a wonderful partnership with Sol Campbell at Portsmouth.

Players come and go…it might be distant memory that great ones like Overmars, Petit, Vieira were sold…trust Wenger to put in able replacements, as always.

Grand Slam Weekend

This weekend… another bumper crop of high profile Premiership matches. Liverpool vs Chelsea and Arsenal vs Manchester United. Nothing gets bigger than this. Grand Slam Weekend.

Whenever there is an Arsenal vs Man Utd match… it always bring bad memories of the six goals drubbing by the Red Devils at Old Trafford many seasons ago. I remember I was at Man Utd Café that night watching Igor Stepanovs chasing shadows as Dwight Yorke ran riot. Thank God… that scoreline hadn’t been repeated since then.

I’ve always felt that the backline under Wenger’s tenure hadn’t been in particular, strong. Since Seaman, Adams, Bould, Keown, Dixon and Winterburn left… the Arsenal defence wasn’t as miserly as before. In recent memory, Stepanovs, Luzhny and Cygan were like the weakest link.

Hope the current young backline could emulate their predecessors. It is also on a sad note that Lauren would be allowed to leave. I thought he was gonna challenge the right back spot with Ebuoue and Hoyte.

The resilience of 10 men

I remember… Arsene Wenger’s first game in-charge was at Ewood Park. Couldn’t quite recall the score that day. However, I can remember that Blackburn’s Chris Sutton did an ungentlemanly act sometime back.

Well, coming back to last night’s match…the Gunners won with a gritty display…and with 10 men. There was determination, class and authority from that display. Despite the sending off of Gilberto after 12 minutes.

Defender Toure sent a superb glancing header to the net 9 minutes before the interval. Captain Marvel secure all 3 points with a clever hook in the second half. Well, it wasn’t just some ordinary shot. It was breathtaking quality stuff from Henry.

Henry raced down the left flank, played the ball inside to Fabregas, continue his run to receive Cesc's return pass… without breaking one stride, the skipper hooked a marvellous shot towards the Blackburn goal.

To end this piece…Sutton and Savage are not very much my cup of tea.

The win took the Gunners to fourth spot. Quite within reach for a automatic Champions League spot…but nowhere near to winning the Premiership. Well, the price for starting the season poorly.

The dirt less unearthed...

My buddy called me on Wednesday evening, and exclaimed “He conceded… he conceded…”. I was pretty nonchalant about the matter. Well, largely... my confidence with donations, charities, so on and so forth… have hit rock bottom. Scandalous, I thought. He complained that through conceding, he was robbed of filth, dirt and some decent amount of scandal that would, otherwise be dugged out in the open on a daily basis for his reading pleasure.I sort of agreed. He was robbed of an otherwise, a grandslam finale in a juicy soap opera.

Que sera sera… whatever the outcome is … the continual faith of ex-donors like myself... is gone forever. At the end of the hearing, the truth must prevail because confidence cannot be simply restored if the filth and dirt beneath which skeletons of the unresolved past remains in the old-NKF closet.

America’s Greatest Rock & Roll Band

Besides the Rolling Stones, I really like Aerosmith very much. Their glam rock swaggering style was really cool. I didn’t hear much of them untill their collaboration with Run DMC on “Walk This Way”. I was like… wow. What group is that or rather, what have I been listening to all this while. That tune was really smashing, man.

The first Aerosmith album I bought was “Permanent Vacation”. Man, it was great. “Pump” was even better. I personally find “Pump” as one of the greatest rock albums of all time. “Pump” was rock glory at her finest. These guys are bad boys…in fact, they are widely touted as "America's Greatest Rock and Roll Band". No mean feat.

This Boston quintet is made up of singer Steven Tyler, guitarists Joe Perry and Brad Whitford, bassist Tom Hamilton and drummer Joey Kramer. This combination of musical talents have carried them through around three decades where they had swung wildly from hits to hits, glam rock loudness, shotgun blues raunchiness with melodic blues-based riffs and bawdiness.

I guess “Pump” relaunched their careers and in the process, they pulled off one of the most remarkable comebacks in rock history… thereafter, they carried on with the winning formula with power rock ballads and the usual sleazy, raunchy rock numbers with dirty guitar licks thrown in.

“Janie’s got a Gun” is such a rock classic. It is such a great rock ballad and superb song, a great showcase of Tyler’s vocals. He slides, glides, mumbles, wails and screeches like a wild gutter rat resurrected in rock and roll-pantheon heaven. I also fancy their other hits like “Dream On”, “What it Takes”, “Angel”, “Amazing” and ”Jaded”. They are pretty like my enduring hard rock anthems. It is probably conventional wisdom that Aerosmith’s heady metal too had gloriously extrapolated folk and blues.

Don’t we just love the energy that Aerosmith oozes, Tyler’s stage antics and gyration, Perry’s muscular solos, the band’s energetic concert performances and not forgetting those scarves tied to Tyler’s microphone stand. With them, I reached Rock & Roll Nirvana. Many times over.

The rise of the Beast

As expected, Wenger fielded a team of youngsters for this Carling Cup match. These days… one could gauge the importance of a Cup match through the team selection. What an incredible match it turns out to be for the young Gunners.... it was the coming of age for the youngsters and the rise of the Beast.

The Beast scored four times at Anfield. How remarkable. The other scorers were Jeremie Aliadiere and Alex Song. In total, Arsenal hit six past hapless Liverpool. The scoreline reads 3-6! I’ve been a supporter since 1980…never seen such a scoreline against Liverpool before. The previous euphoria was probably Tony Woodcock scoring 5 times in a match. That was the First Division then. Can’t recall which opponents, though.

Among the superb showing, we also saw the return of Abou Diaby. This young midfielder is promising… his strides, movements and commanding display always reminds me of the great Patrick Vieira.

An absorbing semi-final match against old-time foe, Tottenham Hotspurs beckons. May the class of the Arsenal youth shine all the way to the final.

The Voice of Led Zeppelin

I’ve written a fair bit about my guitar heroes. Today, I am paying tribute to another of my fav axemen…He is Jimmy Page, one of the greatest guitarists and the founding member of one of my all-time favourite rock bands, Led Zeppelin.

I could safely conclude that Jimmy Page is one of the forefathers of heavy metal. He probably electrified the audience then with his fantastic guitar solos, the heavier sounding type. His guitar mastery, prowess, stage magnetism and innovative guitarwork….was a work of art and truly, excellent.

Led Zep classics like “Whole Lotta Love”, “Stairway to Heaven”, “Heartbreaker”, “Black Dog”, “Kashmir”amongst other will always mesmerised me. His name is synonymous with Led Zeppelin, I guess it’s a little known fact that he played with the Yardbirds for awhile.

Actually, who came up with the name for Led Zeppelin? Till today… I’m unsure. Was it John Entwistle or Keith Moon? Anyway, it doesn’t matter. Jimmy Page rocks…as the composer and guitarist for Led Zeppelin, he was the main driving forces behind the rock sound of that era, the 70s. His Gibson Les Paul guitars and Marshall amplifiers complete the set.

It’s a real toss between the greatest ever guitar solo. Is it Jimmy Page’s “Stairway to Heaven” or Keith Richards’s “Satisfaction”? I can’t decide… I guess that just about every rock guitarist from the late '60s till the present day would have listened to Page and has been influenced by the master's work with Led Zeppelin. Back to Richards and Page, all I can say is that the former's guitar wailing screams bitch and Page's tells one - "I wanna give you my love, a whole lotta of love".

It’s so sad that Led Zeppelin called it quit back in late 1980. To me always, Jimmy Page is truly one of the all-time most versatile guitarist and songwriter in rock history. The voice of Led Zeppelin turns 63 today. Remarkable.

Fortress Anfield? I think not!

Quite a daunting task…facing the Cup holders and at Fortress Anfield.

Well, two moments of brilliance from Rosicky and a typical Henry wonder goal sealed the match and sent the Gunners to the Fourth Round. The two Rosicky goals are surely to be one of his many classics in the years to come….

Rosicky’s first was a perfectly crafted curler into the top corner and the Czech’s second was a low shot after an incredible mazy run. The 3-1 scoreline was flattering, but the Gunners didn’t really dominate, they just took their chances well. Liverpool hold the lion’s share of ball possession. Kolo Toure and Philippe Senderos held the defence superbly.

Dirk Kuyt pulled one back around the 70th minute. It sort of set up a grandstand finish as the Anfield faithful urged the home team on….However, seven minutes from time, Thierry Henry scored the decisive third goal to kill the game.

With Van Persie substituted and playing as a lone striker, the moment of magic came… the Arsenal captain snatched possession, knocked the ball on to the left flank, robbed the ball past ever-reliable Carragher, raced towards goal, cut inside and fired home!

Fortress Anfield? I think not.

Va va vrooming….Charlton away

Wow! What a start to the New Year. Beating Charlton 4-0. Well, Captain Marvel was well rested and he’s back…. feeling fresh and rejuvenated. Time for our opponents to start worrying.

A great turnout of 60, 057 saw the Gunners slaughtered the Addicks 4-0. The man of the hour was Captain Marvel. He was all over them. This guy sure looks fresh and can’t wait to set things right. He was at the heart of every great Arsenal moves and goals. He was the great motivator, the precise passer, or quite superbly, the Architect.

He scored from the spot after Van Persie got hauled down. After leading 1-0, and with Charlton playing with 10 men, the game was effectively over. The great Arsenal show was in overdrive….

Young Justin Hoyte received Henry's pass to notch his first ever goal just before half-time. In-form Robin Van Persie sent Arsenal to a 3-0 lead with a well-taken penalty around 15 minutes from time. The Dutchman scored his second and Arsenal’s fourth near the end of the match.

In fact, the entire Arsenal team were on fire and keeper Scott Carson was in fine form to keep the scoreline respectable for the Addicks. To be honest, Charlton hardly put up a fight after they were down to 10 men. It is quite a case of the opponents were so bad that made the Gunners looked so pretty good.

Not to take any thing away from the Gunners… it was a good performance. All well ends well. Pardew and Wenger even shook hands. No more the wild shove that Wenger gave him the other time at Upton Park.

The fox in the box

Hey... this Brazilian is potent stuff. He is the current stand-in skipper for Arsenal. Quiet, under-rated, a tough tackler, the brickwall before the Arsenal defence. The holding midfielder. He is Gilberto Silva.

He should earn the title as the "fox in the box". He is the one that Francis Jeffers fails to live up to.

His striking rate this season is awesome. His goals either got the Gunners out of jail, force a hard-fought draw, a comeback or launch a hail of goals. I guess the captaincy has something to do with it. He even takes cool penalties.

C'mon, Baptista, snap out of your "not enough matches to be sharp" talk and start scoring too!

Excuse me, we are actually… normal

I read with great interest to an article appearing on the Forum page, The Straits Times on 28 December 2006. It was by a Mr Tan Wei Zhi, a Tourette’s Syndrome sufferer. I am also a Tourette’s tics sufferer since young.

He highlighted of people at the public getting frightened when they see him. It would be natural for people who are ignorant of Tourette’s Syndrome to think that that we are mentally ill. In fact, we are not. It is a neurology disorder.

Wei Zhi also mentioned of his fears on holding a job, amidst other concerns. Quite similarly, back then, I had those fears too. I’ve since overcame them. I am also pretty used to people staring at me curiously. Not a problem. There are people out there who are aware of Tourette’s Syndrome too. I have had countless strangers who came to me, offering help and kind words to me before. Of course, there are still many who don’t. There would be people who would shun us. I have even seen frightened mothers who grabbed their kids and run. No joke.

Likewise as suggested by Wei Zhi, I too would like more programmes, public education and media exposure about Tourette’s Syndrome. No worries…we sure can lead normal lives. One such local hero is artist, Raymond Lau, a fellow Tourette’s sufferer. He just quite recently, held an art exhibition overseas. His paintings were great.

Quite concidentally, Wei Zhi started having tics when he was 13. I also suffered from tics at that age. It is odd…I’ve been suffering for 23 years since… medical science has yet to find a cure to this disorder. A medical cure for Tourette’s Syndrome is surely my New Year wish… this year and every year…. till it is found.

Fads in December 06

1. Singapore played China in the women's table tennis final at the Asian Games held in Doha. It was basically China: Quitters vs Stayers.

2. Goldenballs is still the top earning footballer. No longer an England international and playing occasionally at Real Madrid... he still nets 87 million pounds.

3. In fashion, we got Hugo Boss. In Venezuala, they got Boss Hugo.

4. Genting won the Sentosa IR.

5. Shevchenko is not one of Mourinho's Untouchables.. and this guy costs more then S$90 millions.

6. Augusto Pinochet, Saddam Hussein and James Brown died. Sorry to bundle the Godfather of Soul together with those tyrants.

7. Days of Being Wild is not just a cult HK movie... it's also a book about the Opposition in GE2006.

8. There is a football wonderkid. He's only 17, plays for Internacional, and he's known as... the Duck! His name just brought memories of the song, Disco Duck by Rick Dees.

9. Henry and Wenger had an alleged bust-up. Not long after, the club announced that Arsenal is not a one-man team...later, Henry admitted that, sometimes, he can be a "pig".

10. There is a serial killer in Ipswich. It not only evokes thoughts of Jack the Ripper, it also made me think fondly of footballers like Terry Butcher, Russell Osman, Arnold Muhren, John Wark under the astute management of Sir Bobby Robson. They were kings, then.

11. Fabio Cannavaro won the FIFA Player for 2006. What a joke. I think Thierry Henry deserves better.

12. Bono Vox, the lead singer of U2 is gonna be Sir Bono. Fantastic contribution towards music and humanitarian work.

13. There were mayhems of rainfall this month. We got floods, landslides, fallen trees and Japanese carps.

Losing more ground

What a sad end to 2006. Losing at Bramall Lane. Thank God…Wenger did not give Warnock a shove for his “wild” celebrations.

Christian Nade's goal just before the break did the damage. Probably, the Blades’s greatest scalp for a long time. Did enough to sent the Gunners down to fifth place in the Premiership.

Can’t say much…if one can’t beat a side like Sheffield United, coupled with a stand-in keeper…it just shows that Arsenal has been blowing hot and cold all season.

Pathetic showing by the Gunners. I also think that Jeremie Aliadiere should be shipped out soon…I thought he never showed the promise when he first came. Just like Guy Demel. Equally frustrating to see Kolo Toure out-muscled en route to Nade’s goal. What a crappy ending for the year.

Shades of Bergkamp

What a superb winning goal by Van Persie…it had all the hallmarks of a great Bergkamp goal. It was just a slender 2-1 win and sure looked like a hard fought victory for the Gunners.

As of late, our “fox-in-the-box” Gilberto rose majestically and headed the Gunners to a 1-0 lead. Watford equalised not long after and their goalkeeper, Ben Foster kept Arsenal at bay with a string of fine saves.

It looked like a 1-1 draw till the 83rd minute, Walcott sent Van Persie sprinting away on the right flank. The Dutchman cut inside and sent a left foot curler to the corner. Another of his catalogues of stupendous strikes!

A dificult match where the Gunners could not gain much foothold. Nonetheless, a win is a win. Back to third in the table…the way it goes… it is bye bye to the Premiership title but possibly, a spot for next season’s Champions League berth.

Sigh.. do hope that Walcott, Baptista and Rosicky could start finding their scoring boots soon…My Boxing Day wish!

My bundle of joy

My daughter was born on Boxing Day. Hooray... I am a father!

Life may not be the same again...no more couch potato lifestyle. I wonder would I have the time to watch telly. Meanwhile, I am learning about parenting.

Tons of things to do... changing diapers, sterilising the milk bottles, feeding her, making her "burp", washing stuff and countless baby stuff. Tiring but fulfilling.

From now... me and my wife's lives would revolve around her. Can't wait for her to grow up.

Merry Christmas!

Wow... today is Christmas. Hardly excited...didn't do any shopping, didn't go to the Orchard Squeeze, didn't go to Tanglin Mall & see fake snow. Things may have changed...when one grows older, such festivities do not really mean much.

Read this somewhere the other day, thought that it is meaningful...the 4 stages of our lives.

Stage 1 - We believe in Santa Claus

Stage 2 - We do not believe in Santa Claus

Stage 3 - We act like Santa Claus

Stage 4 - We look like Santa Claus

A thumping six!

What a thrilling match before Christmas. It was a 8-goal thriller against Blackburn Rovers at the Emirates. The Gunners roared six goals past Brad Freidel on the day before Christmas Eve.

Blackburn took a quick lead in the 3rd minute through a penalty. Soon after that, it was Arsenal all the way.Gilberto headed the first goal and the equaliser. It was our stand-in skipper’s 7th goal of the season. Hleb added a second. The Belarus just walked through the Blackburn backline and passed the ball into the goalmouth. Togo’s Adebayor added a penalty to make it 3 – 1. Arsenal are in cruise control. Van Persie added two more goals before Flamini hit No. 6 at the death.

Awesome….Not only was the scoreline impressive…the manner which Blackburn were outplayed…the cosmic football that Arsenal dished out…bewitching, so much energy and out of the world. It was also football that was meant to be…free flowing and attacking flair.

To end it, I thought ex-Gunner David Bentley was pretty impressive. Was it right to sell him then? Anyway, Christmas has never been better for me.

Buying a toy for Christmas?

I saw this toy at a large departmental store on Friday evening. Uhmm... I was thinking would any kid be impressed with this kinda toy... especially for Christmas.

It is a local taxi! How exciting. I guess any kid with reasonable intelligence, would probably crash this X'mas present on the gift-giver's head.

Talking about taxis and taxi-drivers... the latter are the greatest observers and thinkers in Singapore. Very so often, they have a wide range of topics to talk about during one's taxi trips... it can range from Government policies, PRC girls, Geylang trysts, maids, GST hikes, and anything. Strangely though, they NEVER... touch on topics like taxi fare increase and their disappearance just before the witching hour or rather, the midnite hour.

Rodzilla

The dizzying heights of the Chicago Bulls’ success in the nineties generated my interest in basketball. One player sure was my favourite of all time. He isn’t Jordan, Pippen, Barkley, Bird, Malone, Olajuwon, Dr J, Stockton, Shaq, Abdul Jabbar or Magic. He is Dennis Rodman.

This bad boy is known for his defensive force, his rebounding skills and for his outrageous lifestyle. He is so well conditioned that he never seems to tire. Well, at the Chicago Bulls, the unorthodox coach we see in Phil Jackson and the superstar, Michael Jordan kept Rodman focus on his rebounding job and basically, in line with the team.

Rodman’s gameplan is about bringing an attitude to the game to frustrate opponents and taking them out. Besides rebounding, Rodman was great at drawing fouls too. His other strengths include relying on a rough and physical style of play to compete against those taller and stronger opponents in the NBA.

I really love the attitude, colour and raw energy he brought to the Chicago Bulls or to a larger context, the game back then. Those were exciting times…What colour will his hair be? Was his marriage to Carmen Electra for real? Did he wear a wedding gown to his book-signing session? Will he erupt on court? Will he run naked on the court? Is that a new tattoo? One thing is for sure. Rodman was the best rebounding forward in NBA history. One of the best known and perhaps, most controversial basketball player during his time.

He has done it all…dyes his hair, being part of the Chicago Bulls, hanging out with Madonna, as a wrestler sidekick with Hulk Hogan, acted in a few action movies, had a bestselling book, torching the Mormons, kicking courtside cameraman, on his own MTV reality show, plus many more.

For all his rebounding brilliance, his appearance and lifestyle probably deflects media attention from his remarkable basketball achievements. He wore the 91 jersey, it was said that he actually wanted 911 and he sure spells trouble for his opponents. In short, he is the slap in the face to David Stern and the conventional America.

No bull. They are the Greatest!

The Chicago Bulls are the greatest NBA team. In 1995 to 96, with 72 wins and 10 losses, the Bulls set all records. They were indeed the single best team in recent history. The phenomena that the Bulls generated was compared to the excitement led by the Beatles and The Rolling Stones. There was hysteria…America went mad. People paid big bucks to see them.

Michael Jordan was at the peak of his powers. Rodman led in rebounds. Pippen was the best all-round player. Kukoc was the best European player to grace the NBA. The Bulls also got the best coach in town, Phil Jackson.

The pre-game introduction was excellent. Laser lights dancing round the arena, the red bull charging across the city skyscrapers on the video screens. The Bulls had the great Air Show – Michael Jordan.

The Bulls are tops in sports franchise during the 90s. The great team, the players and the winning streak set a unique appeal that transcends not just basketball, but the world of sports. The red bull logo is probably one of the well-recognised logo in the world. It was as recognisable as McDonald’s golden arches and the “Medusa” logo from Starbucks.

Their greatest moments… Paxson nailing the 3-peat in 1993, He’s gone and then, he’s back in 1993 – 95, that great record of 72 wins -10 losses in 1995 – 96, driving for No. 5 in 1996 – 97 and finally, the last dance in 1998.

Jordan and company was fabulous during the Bulls’ amazing run in the 90s. It was always a stellar perfomance from them… the glorious run of 6 NBA titles in eight years.

Number 23 + 33 + 91 would give the Bulls, countless three-peats! The Bulls sure set the records as the dominant basketball team of their era and perhaps, the greatest in history.

Dream Team 92 @Barcelona

I was serving my National Service in the army when I heard this great news. Team USA is fielding a team of NBA superstars for the Barcelona Games. It was in 13 September 1991 when this electrifying announcement was made. Most of all knew that we would see NBA stars on the Spanish courts. But, wait…to what extent is the greatness…well, this is the Dream Team. The Greatest of them all.

The Dream Team are Magic Johnson and John Stockton as playmakers. Larry Bird, Michael Jordan, Chris Mullin and Scottie Pippen are the guards. Charles Barkley and Karl Malone as power forwards and Patrick Ewing and David Robinson as centers. Clyde Drexler and Christian Laettner were drafted later. The coach was Chuck Daly.

There was indeed so much hype back then. Why not? These are the best players in the world playing together. This team is built around the three top players of all time, Jordan, Magic and Bird. It was not about winning the gold. It was a foregone conclusion when the team was formed. The team left an incredible mark on the history of Olympics.

In all 14 games, coach Daly did not call a single time-out at all. As Magic Johnson said,”Before we see a team like this again, we’II be dead and gone.”

Zhen Zhen Porridge

I usually have my Zhen Zhen fish porridge for breakfast at least twice a week. It is a must-have.

The first time where I got to try Zhen Zhen porridge was in the early 90s. I was a draughtsman then and had gone to BCD (Building Control Division) for drawing submission. I wandered off to Maxwell Market after that, saw this snake of a queue, tried it and had been a frequent customer ever since.

Zhen Zhen Porridge is a hawker stall located at Maxwell Road Hawker Centre. This stall dish out the best porridge in Singapore. No bull! They have a wide array of porridge, u know, the fish slices, frog legs, etc. One thing… they don’t sell pork porridge. The portions are generous in those flaming red bowls and it is cheap too. Prices starts from S$2, I think.

Zhen Zhen also sells raw fish as a side dish. For youtiao, one can buy them from some stall at another row of the market. For 30 cents each, it is equally awesome when one dips to the porridge.

Be warned…super long queue at all times. I think they open early. Say 6 am to at most, 1 pm. One more thing… they are closed for business every Tuesday.

Another priceless gem in local hawker food fare.

The Comeback

The unbeaten home record was intact…thanks to Adebayor. He led the comeback in the second half as Arsenal were trailing by 2 goals against Pompey.

Despite their dominance, Arsenal were down 2-0 just minutes into the second half. Noe Pamarot and Matthew Taylor were the Pompey scorers. The second one by Taylor was a beauty, those Matthew Le Tissier-types.

Emmanuel Adebayor was put into the fray…the Comeback begins. He brought urgency into Arsenal’s play. In the 57th minute, he fired home from Walcott’s low cross from the right. Couple of minutes later, Adebayor was at it again…playing a major part in the build-up to skipper Gilberto’s goal. The Brazilian blasted the ball home.

From then on, Arsenal threw everything at the nervous Pompey. They held on and at the end, the two teams share the points. It was funny to see David “Calamity” James sporting a thick hairdo. I prefer his crew-cut style all this years and I still remember that ridiculous iron board hairstyle in his Watford days.

It sure was an exciting match. In the absence of Henry, Adebayor has shone. He was the Difference…the catalyst behind the Comeback. What a turnaround!

The Amoy Tissue Seller

This photo is on the notorious Amoy food centre tissue seller. This lady is pushy, she just shove packets of tissues to the table and demand payment. She would not go away and it can be quite a harrowing experience.

Many colleagues had suffered this “treatment” from her half-way through their meals at Amoy. I had a close encounter with her the other day during the busy lunchtime. I just beat a hasty retreat…No point arguing.

I must reiterate that I’m not here to belittle any tissue sellers in Singapore. But, this lady is just too much. I reckon most of us who had our meals at Amoy might have got the "Hard Selling" treatment from her.

Adebayor strikes...

It was a bland first half. Things only start happening or rather, come alive during the second half. The way the Gunners and Wigan played…it seems to be that both teams are contented to grid out a draw.

Sigh. The Beast looked pretty lost. As mentioned before, I reckon most South Americans need time to settle in. I gather Edu, Silvinho and Gilberto took some time to adapt, they were great soon after.

Once again, with our talisman captain out till next year, Emmanuel Adebayor reprise the striker’s role again. His strike in the 88th minute was the match winner and sent Arsenal to third in the Premiership. Fabregas came in as a sub… sent a killer through pass for Adebayor to shoot pass the injury-prone Chris Kirkland. That was the Pass of the Match.

Frankly, I don’t really fancy this Togo striker. He don’t quite look the part. But his vital goals against Man Utd, Spurs and now, Wigan had slightly change my mind. However, my opinion is that he is still not quite good enough.

It has always been frustrating to me, or any Gooners that Arsenal do not splurge much in the transfer markets. Seeing Chelsea snapping all the best available players around has been nauseating.

Once again, Kolo Toure gave an assuring performance, he was ever so composed and reads the game excellently. Poor Wigan…don’t really deserve to go home empty handed. They did pushed the once mighty Arsenal all the way.

My dad's 23rd anniversary

How time flies... my dad passed away 23 years ago today. He died from a blood clot in his brain. He had sustained it from a fall about a month ago back then.

Gosh… 23 years now. Many of his friends and relatives would have joined him now. For me, he left us when I was 13. My greatest regret was how I never got to know him well.

He would have been 72 this coming February. I guess I had never really accepted that he was gone at an age of 48. You see, my father was stout, healthy and strong. He rarely smokes or touches alcohol. He had good sight, working as an accountant and could beat any man at arm-wrestling.

He died so suddenly in the morning on 14 December 1983. It sure struck my family like a thunderbolt. He was a strict father, who did not flinch from scolding my siblings and me. It was his way of telling us that he cared. But during my youth, all I felt was nothing but resentment.

There is an ever-reminder of his presence in my mother’s place. His photo is hung high up the wall overlooking our dining table. How I wish he’s around this Christmas…his grand-daughter is coming this Boxing Day.

Lucky Arsenal

The Gunners were six minutes from being the first side to leave Stamford Bridge with full points. Alas, it was not to be when Michael Essien fired home a long-range curling equaliser in the 84th minute.

This match was hyped to a large extent… the warring managers and the Cole-Gallas exchange. It was a match where the young Gunners showed true grit and resilience. However, they were lucky to share the spoils with Chelsea. The woodwork saved the day.

It was the Arsenal midfield of Hleb, Gilberto, Fabregas, Flamini and Van Persie squaring up against the established midfielders comprising of Ballack, Makelele, Essien and Lampard. Quite frankly, the young Gunners held them back pretty well.

Chelsea really stepped up their efforts in the second half and Arsenal had their backs to the wall most of time. Senderos was particularly nervous and Chelsea’s Robben looked dangerous on the left flank.

Despite all the pressure, Arsenal took a surprise lead. Flamini’s goal came against the total run of play. There was this interesting exchange play between Hleb and Flamini before the Frenchman fired a right-foot shot past the diving Hilario.

In the dying minutes, Hleb could have won it for the Gunners, but he blasted the ball over. Had it not for the woodwork, Essien and Lampard could have won all three points for Chelsea too!

What an exciting draw. Chelsea were unlucky and the Gunners are plainly lucky, lucky Arsenal. My final word…Essien’s goal was certainly a wild swing that went in. It was never a measured shot. Never.

My Top of the Pops

Oh, I just have to do this. Putting my own all-time favourite tunes out there. Here it goes!

Jump – Van Halen
Every Breath You Take – The Police
Bang Your Head – Quiet Riot
When Doves Cry – Prince & The Revolution
Our House – Madness
The Glamourous Life – Sheila E
Safety Dance – Men Without Hats
Love is Love – Culture Club
Take Five – The Dave Brubeck Quartet
Epic – Faith No More
Nick of Time – Bonnie Raitt
Hotel California – The Eagles
Legs – ZZ Top
What is Love – Howard Jones
Wide Boy – Nik Kershaw
The Riddle - Nik Kershaw
You’re the Best Thing – The Style Council
Janie’s got a Gun – Aerosmith
Jaded – Aerosmith
Baba O' Riley - The Who
Mixed Emotions – The Rolling Stones
Undercover of the Night – The Rolling Stones
Satisfaction – The Rolling Stones
Start Me Up - The Rolling Stones
Don't Stop - The Rolling Stones
I Will Remember You – Amy Grant
Love Hurts – Joan Jett & the Blackhearts
Uptown Girl – Billy Joel
It’s Still Rock N’ Roll to Me – Billy Joel
People Get Ready – Rod Stewart & Jeff Beck
Young Turks – Rod Stewart
Forever Man – Eric Clapton
Give it Away – Red Hot Chili Peppers
More Than This – Bryan Ferry
Slave to Love – Bryan Ferry
I Can Dream About You – Dan Hartman
Let’s Hear It For The Boy – Deniece Williams
Doc – Earl Klugh
Just the Two of Us – Grover Washington Jr
Beyond The Sea – George Benson
Leader of the Band – Dan Fogelberg
Longer – Dan Fogelberg
Sometimes When We Touch – Dan Hill
One – Metallica
Enter Sandman – Metallica
Africa – Toto
If You Leave Me Now – Chicago
Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas – The Pretenders
Windows of the World – The Pretenders
The Christmas Song – Hootie & the Blowfish
Faithfully – Journey
18 and Life – Skid Row
One Headlight - The Wallflowers
Yesterday – The Beatles
Goodbye Yellow Brick Road – Elton John
Tainted Love – Soft Cell
Puttin On The Ritz – Taco
Bette Davis Eyes – Kim Carnes
One Shining Moment – Diana Ross
Down Under – Men at Work
Smooth Criminal – Michael Jackson
Human Nature – Michael Jackson
Here I Go Again – Whitesnake
Borderline – Madonna
Like A Virgin – Madonna
Material Girl – Madonna
Rock This Town – Stray Cats
Against All Odds – Phil Collins
A Broken Hearted Me – Anne Murray
Can’t Fight This Feeling – REO Speedwagon
Burning Down The House – Talking Heads
September – Earth Wind & Fire
Coming Around Again – Carly Simon
Copperline – James Taylor
Your Smiling Face - James Taylor
Ain’t Nobody – Chaka Khan
Feels so Good – Chuck Mangione
Wait For Me – Daryl Hall & John Oates
Private Eyes – Daryl Hall & John Oates
Hard Luck Woman – KISS
Beth - KISS
Yah Mo Be There – James Ingram & Michael McDonald
Kayleigh – Marillion
Don't Know What You Got (Till It's Gone) - Cinderalla
Through The Years – Kenny Rogers
Love Will Turn You Around – Kenny Rogers
Love You Inside Out – Bee Gees
Love Me – Collin Raye
The Gift – Collin Raye
Modern Love – David Bowie
Miss You Like Crazy – Natalie Cole
More Than Words – Extreme
Promise Me – Beverly Craven
Crying - Roy Orbison
Show Me Heaven – Maria McKee
Leather & Lace – Stevie Nicks
Footloose - Kenny Loggins
Forever - Kenny Loggins
For the First Time - Kenny Loggins
If You Leave – OMD
Talking Loud & Clear - OMD
St Elmo’s Fire (Man In Motion) – John Parr
Redemption Song – Stevie Wonder
Sara – Starship
What A Fool Believes – The Doobie Brothers
Morning Has Broken – Cats Steven
Eye In The Sky – Alan Parsons Project
Imagine – John Lennon
Take On Me – A-ha
Amanda – Boston
Crying in the Chapel – Elvis Presley
Smells Like Teen Spirit – Nirvana
Dancing in the Dark – Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band
Layla – Derek & the Dominos
Stairway to Heaven – Led Zeppelin
Whole Lotta Love - Led Zeppelin
Light My Fire – The Doors
Stand By Me – Ben E. King
One – U2
Stand – REM
Smoke on the Water – Deep Purple
While My Guitar Gently Weeps – The Beatles
Your Song – Elton John
Bohemian Rhapsody – Queen
Another One Bites the Dust – Queen
Radio Ga Ga – Queen
Lose Yourself – Eminem
Dancing Queen – ABBA
God Save the Queen – The Sex Pistols
Don’t Do Me Like That – Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers
Come Together – John Lennon
1999 – Prince & the Revolution
Starfish & Coffee – Prince & the Revolution
Raspberry Beret – Prince & the Revolution
Valarie – Steve Winwood
Heart of Glass – Blondie
Call Me – Blondie
No More Lonely Nights – Paul McCartney
Take It Away – Paul McCartney
Walking in the Rain – Modern Romance
Something – The Beatles
Walk this Way – Run DMC & Aerosmith
Do You Think I’m Sexy? – Rod Stewart
Poison – Alice Cooper
We Will Rock You – Queen
I Can’t Make You Love Me – Bonnie Raitt
Tears in Heaven – Eric Clapton
Killing Me Softly With His Song – Roberta Flack
Unchained Melody – The Righteous Brothers
Somebody – Depeche Mode
All Along the Watchtower – Jimi Hendrix
If You Let Me Stay – Terence Trent D’arby
Pride (In the Name of Love) – U2
Bitter Sweet Symphony – The Verve
Children of the Revolution – Marc Bolan
White Wedding – Bily Idol
State of Shock – The Jacksons & Mick Jagger
I Want to Know What Love Is – Foreigner
Heaven on Our Side – Foreigner
Oh Sherrie – Steve Perry
The Flame – Cheap Trick
Any Day Now – Ronnie Milshap
I’m The Man – Anthrax
Living On A Prayer – Bon Jovi
The Word Girl – Scritti Politti
Take My Breath Away – Berlin
Red Day – Hacken Lee
Your Latest Trick – Dire Straits
With a Little Luck – Paul McCartney
Band on the Run - Paul McCartney
Yesterday - Paul McCartney
Zombie - The Cranberries
Glory of Love - Peter Cetera
Turn Your Love Around - George Benson
Kisses in the Moonlight - George Benson
Lady Love Me (One More Time) - George Benson
Lithium - Nirvana
Plush - Stone Temple Pilots
I Alone - Live
In My Place - Coldplay
Mr Roboto - Styx
Break My Stride - Matthew Wilder
99 Red Balloons - Nena
Dog & Butterfly - Heart
I Love You - Heart
Never - Heart
Almost Paradise - Mike Reno & Ann Wilson
There's Got To Be A Way - Mariah Carey
Vanishing - Mariah Carey
Piano In The Dark - Brenda Russell
Walking In Memphis - Marc Cohn
A Whiter Shade of Pale - Procol Harum
Stepping Out - Joe Jackson
Time after Time - Cyndi Lauper
Little Red Corvette - Prince
One Headlight - The Wallflowers
Clocks - Coldplay

His Royal Purpleness

Back in 1983 – 84, it was those great years for music. You know… those monster hits like “Bette Davis Eyes” by Kim Carnes, “Every Breath You Take” by the Police. Wait…this particular track, “When Doves Cry” by Prince & the Revolution. My word, it was mind-blowing.

Those were the good ole days where I grew up listening to America Top 40 hosted by Casey Kasem through my mom’s Redifusion in the kitchen. I remember Casey Kasem’s Top 40 would be played on those lazy Saturday afternoons.

In 1984, I really liked Prince & the Revolution. They were awesome. The “Purple Rain” soundtrack was God-sent. Hits like “Computer Blue”, “Let’s Go Crazy” and who can forget the controversial “Darling Nikki”.

Of course, I went back the years for his other albums such as “For You”, “Dirty Mind”,”1999” amongst others. Hey, Prince sure draws his fans via musical seduction where sex, spirituality and funky music converge to music salvation.

With Prince, we can go to techno raves, rock goes cabaret, silent storms and also swinging jazz escalating to glam rock. He is one artist that pushes sexual limits to the fullest. Femininity, with religion and race, are just elements of Prince’s own psyche expressed through his music.

His ingenuity, his touches – music, ideas, proteges, Paisley Park and ideals – becomes an aspect of his own identity. His gifted talent has allowed him to create the most complex of artistic expressions known to pop music world. He is my funky Wizard…appearing behind those Purple walls and as always, creating tension-filled sexual illusions.

Top of the Flops

Just what is wrong with Andriy Shevchenko? Is he misfiring or about to get used to life at the Premiership? When Chelsea splashed out S$90 millions to signed him. I thought oh, he was gonna terrorise all the Premiership clubs, tear apart their defences at will and score spectacular goals for fun.

Well, it was not to be. I waited and waited. It’s around year end now. I am wondering when will he start firing in all cylinders?

I remember back then at Dynamo Kiev, he and Sergei Rebrov were like the twin strikeforce terror. Hey, Rebrov was a flop at Spurs too. When Shevchenko went to AC Milan. He was the epitome of the modern-day striker. He was classy, looks good and score lots of goals. He was a God at the San Siro and adored by everyone in Milan.

How come the goals dried up at Chelsea? Was the pace of the Premiership too much for someone who just hit 30. Quite frankly, he looked pathetic when he was leading Ukraine in the recent World Cup held in Germany. I can’t recall he did anything great. At the Premiership, he fumbled, stumbled, had defenders racing past him, passes going astray, shooting and heading wide. It was real wretched quality.

What a pale shadow of the great striker he used to be….sigh. It would be a shame if he got offloaded to somewhere come this January transfer window. But seriously, that could not happen. Why? He has become the excellent battering ram for Didier Drogba. He gets shadowed more by defenders and so, Drogba could sneak in and score. Disgraceful.

Since this blogpost is on football flops, I am gonna highlight the other flops that I can think of. There is Alen Boksic at Boro. The great Croat, he was so terrific at Lazio but flopped at the Riverside. Massimo Taibi, he cuts a dashing Walter Zenga-like air back then. Flopped at Old Trafford with a series of blunders. A fumbling giant with butter fingers.

The worst of all was Emile Heskey. He sure as hell flopped at the Kop. Can anyone tell me how he got into the England reckoning? Hey, wait…the French guy, Djibril Cissie sucks big time too!

I am not sure if Winston Bogarde and Shuan Wright Philips bombed. But they sure got frozen out at Chelsea. The great Dutch striker, Patrick Kluivert sure looked every bit the lost soul at Newcastle.

On the Arsenal front, Charlie Nicholas bombed too. Hardly score goals with the regularity he did at Celtic.

Carlos Tevez looks every bit like a flop at Upton Park as well. To be fair, most South Americans need quite awhile to settle in a foreign land.

Lifting the spirits

After those unexpected defeats by Bolton and Fulham, Arsenal recorded a well-deserved 3-0 derby victory over their fiercest North London rivals. It was rejuvenating and a wonderful response. This victory also calmed my nerves too. I am convinced for the moment, that Arsenal might not be an ailing side after all.

In the 20th minute, the lanky Adebayor came storming through the Spurs defence, beating the offside trap and slot the ball past England’s No. 1, Paul Robinson. The Togo international was to go on and have an excellent game. A commanding “Man of the Match” performance.

Just before the break, the excellent Graham Poll awarded Arsenal a penalty. Gilberto slotted home so stylishly. Our stand-in skipper converted another penalty in the second half to give the Gunners a convincing 3-0 win.

There is nothing better than trouncing the Old Enemy at the first ever North London derby at the new stadium, the Emirates. Overall, a tremendous Arsenal performance and superb refereeing by Graham Poll – Courtesy of 2 penalty awards.

Dead and buried...

Strangely, none of last nite’s bumper crop of EPL matches were telecast on Starhub Cable TV. Like many others, we paid Starhub Cable to get football blackouts. We must count our blessings...they reinstated Italian Seria A football this time round.

For the umpteeth time, Arsenal fell back to an early goal again. Sigh…what a season it has been…slaying Man Utd away and Liverpool at home. Yet, losing to the lesser teams. Those are not lesser teams anymore.. they have improved and catched up. Meanwhile, the Gunners, as of late... left to nurture “babies”.

Read the news…final score, Fulham 2 – 1 Arsenal. My take is that no matter what kinda beautiful curling long distance free kick one may score, a loss is a loss of 3 points and falling way behind in the title race.

Actually, I really hope Arsenal could turn the tide by beating Spurs come Saturday at the Emirates. That could possibly change our sort of abysmal season so far. Hey, it was not too long ago that they were known as the Invincibles.

Fads in November 06

1. Scientists warned that seafood may disappear in 40 years. So, let's all mee siam mai hum!

2. Saddam is sentenced to death by hanging.

3. Singapore is ranked 2nd in the world for nightlife, dining and shopping.

4. Wenger almost came to blows with Pardew at Upton Park. I think he is kinda losing it abit. Personally, I rather see him slapping the Hair Dryer and the Special One.

5. Oral sex between consenting straight adults will be de-criminalised. For gay bangers, it's still a no-no.

6. If the registration of the name, Yao Ming as a trademark for a women's sanitary pad is successful.... In the future, women can be Yao-Minged during their days of heavy flow.

7. GST will be 7% soon. Don't worry, it might be gradual....we can all cushion it.

8. Real Madrid signed Marcelo, a 18-year old left back, known as "one of the jewels of world football".

9. George Bush landed in Singapore. I love the way he calls up "the Internets" and "The Google". Oh, Bushism.

10. Ian Thorpe retires. He's only 24.

11. Sadly, no one would get to read O.J. Simpson's "what if" tell-all revelations.

The revenge of the Incredible Sulk

It was a Saturday when an ex-Gunner, or better known as “The Incredible Sulk” destroyed any remaining chance the Gunners could hold on to the title race.

The widely travelled Anelka, who ply his trade in France, England, Spain, Turkey and back to England again….haunt Arsenal with two superbly taken goals. Bolton drew first blood with Abdoulaye Faye nodding home from a corner early in the match.

I sense hope when stand-in skipper Gilberto rose and sent a muscular header to the Bolton net just before half-time. But the Incredible Sulk ended all hopes of a comeback when he scored his second mid-way through the second half.

The Gunners did came out all guns blazing in the second half. They struck the woodwork thrice in the second half.. well, it is just one of those off-days. A 3-1 away loss.

The title dreams is quite effectively over for the Gunners. Of course, unless Chelsea or Man United falter badly. But that’s not the case, I think. I am wondering if Thierry Henry is making the right choice with his decision to stay with the Gunners for the rest of his career.

He is experienced

He is quite the ultimate rock guitarist, the killer. He is none other than Jimi Hendrix. I reckon Eddie Van Halen, Joe Satriani or Steve Vai might be better technically with the six-string. But, I must say Hendrix was there first. So, quite rightfully, he is the Man.

Many other guitarists have laid claims that they were influenced by Hendrix. Quite rightly so, I guess. Hendrix sure defined the electric guitar. He explored it, fired it all up and makes the six-string an essential rock status. The guitar became the essential music instrument for all rockers. He did what Wacko Jacko did to the moonwalk or The Beatles’s influence to mop top hair.

Hendrix embodies the fusion of rock, blues and at times, jazz. He was the showman, the explosive live act and the unabashed rocker. He is the spiritual music force on stage and also, the unstoppable liberator of the six-string.

Songs like “Fire”, "Crosstown Traffic", "Hey Joe", "The Wind Cries Mary", “Voodoo Child” and “Purple Haze” were sensational. His rendition of “All Along the Watchtower” and “The Star Spangled Banner” were fast, furious and outta the world. The latter probably, stung the Woodstock crowd…The Flower Children.

In 1970, he rose to the Heavens…till today, this Seattle-born musician’s work is revered as mythology. His name had reached almost God-like stature to any known or practicing guitarists. Any lingering memories of his stage performances will continue to reverberate across the music world.

Ghoulish Rock

One of my all-time 70s rock hero is Alice Cooper. Wow, it was quite some time ago already…in fact, his work spanned four decades. Alice Cooper’s shock rock is just simple hard rock with punchy guitar riffs, sometimes nice sounding rhythms & melodies with oh yes, cool lyrics. His shows were pretty grand theatre style, violent and designed to shock. Probably drawing inspirations from horror movies, his concerts features snakes, electric chairs, gullotines, dripping blood, boa constrictors and damn heavy make-up.

I reckon parents back then did fathom… what their children (growing up in the 70s & 80s) like about this creepy rock singer with his simple loud music. I like Alice’s songs. Hits like “School’s Out” – a hit single on sheer adolescent rebellion, “I’m 18”, “Under My Wheels”, “No More Mr Nice Guy”, “Freedom”, “Poison” etc. Alice also introduced to the world – Kane Roberts. The hunky Rambo-like metal guitarist with those machine-gun guitar. It was Out-Out-Outrageous!

Back in the 80s, I remember going to the Attic CD shop at Centrepoint to buy my “Constrictor” and “Raise Your Fist and Yell” records. The musical interest started to wane till Alice Cooper released “Trash” in 1989. My word, it was superb and this album sure as hell revitalised Alice’s career. It was one great pop metal release meeting all mainstream requirements.

Alice Cooper sure did some masterpieces in his 70s heydays. “Killer” is perhaps one of the greatest rock albums of all time. No kidding. My wish for now… more shock rock from this beloved great stage entertainer. So scary, with all the thrills and spills. Yes, all the snakes, blood… everything…and there is news that his new album is in the works.

The late, late show

Same old situation…falling behind at the Emirates once again. This time around, the Gunners did not salvage a draw. They stormed to a 3-1 win and sent Arsenal to the top of their group table.

Dutchman Raphael van der Vaart stunned the Gunners so early in the match with a curling right-foot long-distance strike. The Hamburgers’ early lead probably stung the Gunners to action. It was a match they could ill afford to lose.

The 3 goals came flooding in after the break. Fabregas was running the midfield and spraying passes all over, Hleb was twisting and turning, tormenting Hamburg on the right flanks. Hamburg had their backs to the wall for most of the second half.

Come the 51st minute, Arsenal broke the Hamburg’s resistance. The Cesc sent Dutchman Van Persie through with a splitting pass and our Dutch striker slotted the ball home. The second goal was from an impossible angle and the unlikely scorer was Eboue. He ran right through the right flank and drill in a low shot. The score now stands at 2-1.

The introduction of Walcott and Baptista was the final nail to Hamburg’s coffin or rather, Wenger’s masterstroke. The young British talent’s ran down the right, whipped in a pinpoint cross for The Beast to head home from far post. Final score 3-1!

They are the comeback kids and they sure did a late, late show for all gooners. FC Porto, you are next…

KISS, one hotter than hell band

I was one of KISS army, or alternatively, quite a big fan of KISS. I have an almost entire set of KISS figurines which I proudly display in cabinets at my home. Their appeal is rather limitless. The other day, my cousins, in their late teens, were asking me about them. They were busy buying back catalogues of KISS albums.

Many would probably ask, why are they so spell-binding back in the 70s and still manage to stay sort of relevant today? Well, the KISS experience was sheer spectacle. Four costumed characters such as The Demon, The Catman, The Star Child and Space Ace. They played bubbly rock & roll with some metal riffs, wore high heels, stage pyrotechnics, smoke bombs, candles, chandeliers, scary make-ups, dripping blood, wigs, fire-breathing shows, a comic called “Psycho Circus” and an entire horde of crazy fans calling themselves “Kiss Army”. All this factors led them to be the hottest act in the 70s.

KISS sure as hell drove us, the fans, wild and happy. Looking back, or listening to their music all over again, I do feel it borders on thinly-veiled bubblegum-hard rock with some occasional catchiness. I like their song, “Hard Luck Woman” best. Even the great Garth Brooks covered this song and make it country-sounding.

Well, KISS has long past their expiry date by now. All members came out with solo albums back then, not so outstanding ones…However, I like Gene’s version of “When You Wish Upon A Star”, the classic Disney child ballad. KISS tried everything….from recording with a full orchestra to removing their make-up and putting them back. Even going MTV Unplugged. I thought KISS went for a joint tour with Aerosmith recently.

Whatever they are trying to do now…I will remember their past better…in the 70s, when KISS was at their glorious, bizarre and gory best! In all, selling a whopping 75 million albums worldwide! That’s all for my KISStory.

Painful

Oh so painful. After seeing a dominant Arsenal controlling for almost the entire match and even have to come from behind to salvage a draw.

Despite all the domination over their visitors, the Gunners fell behind to a Keiron Dyer strike in the 29th minute. Once again, in similar fashion, the Gunners had to start hunting for an equaliser. To their credit, they didn’t panic.

Theirry Henry who was named as a sub for this match, just had to come on. The importance of our captain was demonstrated once again. In the 70th minute, he curled in a wonderful freekick equaliser for the Gunners.

Shay Given, the Toon goalie must be singled out for praise. It was his saves that rescue a draw for Newcastle. I must say the Toon Army are a bit boring… it was not too long ago when Ginola and Asprilla were thrilling the crowds…those were exciting times.

10 matches have been played at the Emirates so far. Out of which, there were 5 wins and 5 draws, with no losses. The record have to be improved if the Gunners were to mount any serious title threat to either Man Utd or Chelsea. I can’t help feeling that the Grove is a bit jinxed.

Van Halen, the monsters of rock

Van Halen’s “1984” was one hell of a thumping masterpiece of hard rock album. “Jump” is probably the song that inducted me to the music of hard rock and heavy metal. The album cover was maybe, controversial during its time. A baby smoking….

Of course, further to all this lies the band’s guitarist, Eddie Van Halen. This guy has what it takes. Great guitar skills and technical prowess. He probably set the standard for guitar solos in hard rock genres during the 80s. Their musical chair arrangement of replacing lead singers have always been news… to me, David Lee Roth was the best.

As a tribute, I rate them as a band with glorious Eddie’s guitar solos, sleazy, great fitnesse of hard rock power, sometimes glam, and the fantastic showmanship of David Lee Roth. Not only a great frontman, Diamond David was the oversexed, God’s gift to women. They always give the crowd a rollicking good time and in turn, form a entire generation of hard rock fans, or I rather call, pop metal fanzines.

They did fantastic cover versions of "(Oh) Pretty Woman", “You Really Got Me”, "Dancing in the Street" and "Where Have All the Good Times Gone?". The magic of the Van Halen I liked disappeared as soon as David Lee Roth left. I reckon Sammy Hagar was passable and Gary Cherone lacked charisma and personality to front a super band. Van Halen also established themselves as great MTV acts with breakthrough videos like “Jump”. The MTV video of “Hot for Teacher” really stirred the groins of many a teenager then.

I still followed through with the "5150", "OU812" and "For Unlawful Carnal Knowledge" albums. I felt that at times, they were quite good, but never, brilliant. Whatever it is, I still can look back at “1984”.