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Expectation degradation

From the way the pundits were carrying on, it seemed like I was watching a different game than the one at Stamford Bridge. The commentators were lauding it over the strong defence and the commanding midfield that was able to deal with the usually undeniable force of Chelsea. Aaron Ramsey was awarded man of the match for his inspirational display, leading his team to a phenomenal one point.

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It was as if we were a relegation candidate playing away at Chelsea, written off from the start and denying the gods to come away with a draw. Our ambitions have gone from the league title to fourth place in one season, from winning big games to scraping a draw. This is not the standard that Arsenal fans should accept.

At the level Chelsea were playing, a win should be expected. The passing on display, aside from a few magnificent passes from Fabregas (who brings me to tears of what could have been every time he plays), was appalling.

Neither team could hold onto possession, with both resorting to long shots and launching the ball from defence to attack. Arsenal’s most threatening moves almost always came from Hector Bellerin’s lightning pace, whipping a ball into the box for no one to header.

Witnessing Chelsea’s attack was like watching a chef attempt to open a coconut with a blunt knife. For all the talent and millions of pounds on display, I could have been watching League Two.

On a weekend that saw the Manchester clubs score 10 without reply, London clubs should hang their heads in shame. This was less like a game in which two titans were at loggerheads, unable to break each other down, and more like a game between two newly formed Sunday League teams, yet to familiarise themselves with each other.

I understand the frustration of David Luiz, whose red card was the most exciting moment of the game. I envy his ability to lash out at the Arsenal players.

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