Just one result, but today’s outcome at the Emirates couldn’t have set up the season climax any better.
In many ways the 3-3 draw typified the season for Arsenal. Robin Van Persie again delivered – his brace of goals taking him to 30 this term – an outstanding return for a player who, for the first time, has enjoyed a Premier League season uninterrupted by injury. But, once again, the Dutchman’s efforts weren’t enough, as the Gunners slipped to a late equaliser and were left frustrated by another spirited Norwich display.
Arsenal now sit just two points ahead of Spurs and Newcastle in third – leaving the door ajar for the pursuing pair, making their meetings with Villa and City all the more crucial.
It’s beautifully poised. While those without Van Persie will have been perturbed by only his second double figure return in ten Gameweeks, the result does at least ensure that Spurs and Newcastle will go into Sunday’s games buoyed by the opportunity presented them. Those who placed their armband on the Dutchman will settle down tomorrow with the comfort of a twenty-point cushion. Those who looked to Wayne Rooney will at least have renewed hope that Newcastle will go at City, perhaps setting up a Old Trafford goal fest just a few hours later. Arsenal’s role in this scenario was perhaps a minor one, but their failure to earn a victory has undoubtedly added further incentive for Alan Pardew’s men, making City’s path to the title that little bit more treacherous.
It also ensures that the battle for third will go to the end. Regardless of how Spurs and Newcastle fare on Sunday, both will go into Gameweek 38 contesting for the precious Champions League places. The Gunners will need to win at West Brom, similarly Spurs and Newcastle will have extra motivation to earn three points against Fulham and Everton respectively.
For Fantasy managers, that’s a dream scenario. With our squads full of assets from both clubs following the double Gameweek, we can now be content that the likes of Gareth Bale, Rafael Van der Vaart and Papiss Cisse will be fully motivated to the final whistle.
Then there’s Van Persie. He’ll go to the Hawthorns looking to push his side over the line – one last effort from a player who has undoubtedly emerged as this season’s star asset. Once done, we’re then reliant on Arsene Wenger’s ability to retain his services.
Arsenal’s failings ensured that our season went to the last – we can only wonder if they’ll also bring an end to Van Persie’s career at the Emirates.
