Liverpool and Arsenal,” says Niall Mullen. “Probably their peaks never really coincided (“it’s up for grabs” aside). The closest thing to enmity I can recall was after Stephane Hénchoz’s goalkeeping exploits in 2001 and the fortuitous penalty in the 2008 Champions League quarter final. I guess that could change but it feels like the two clubs have an enemy in common these days.”
There were also three red cards in a game in August 2000, though that was more about Graham Poll than any strong rivalry. The peak is surely 1986-91, when George Graham knocked Liverpool off their perch. Liverpool had their moments too, obviously, including one of my favourite free-kicks.
Arsenal drop to fifth before kick-off, though a draw would move them up to third.
Liverpool at the Emirates in February. And they’ll happily do it again if they win today.
Liverpool at the Emirates. As with many of the best games, before kick-off you can make a decent case for either side being the favourite. Arsenal are at home, where they’ve won 15 of the last 18 games, but they’re on a downer and will be without at least three key players. Liverpool are full of the joys and have won all six away matches under Arne Slot, but they haven’t really been tested in the league. Three of their away wins came against teams in the bottom four; the other was at Old Trafford.
While Liverpool would love to make a statement of title-winning intent, it feels like an even bigger game for Arsenal – not must-win so much as mustn’t-lose. It doesn’t feel right that a team with sucn an outstainding Premier League record in 2024 – P26 W21 D3 L2 Pts 66 – should be under such scrutiny. But this is the life they chose, mainly to experience days like today. And they know a defiant win would end that scrutiny before sundown.
Kick off 4.30pm.
Source: theguardian.com
