Seems like the EPL just ended and here it is already starting all over again. I got back into the swing of things watching the season opener between Arsenal and Sunderland with the always engaging, though not always flawless, pair of Ian Darke and Steve McManaman on ESPN. Their best exchange was a hilarious dialogue about McClean’s misspelled name on his jersey. El Macca was “gobsmacked” when a blazing hot female supporter appeared on screen shortly before the start of the second half.
No more RVP but several new faces on the Gunners’ team: Podolski, Carzola, Giroud. None of them convincing. The Black Cats with their new jerseys featuring “Invest in Africa” sponsorship. Africa’s largest independent oil company, Tullow Oil, is evidently the founding partner in this initiative. Question is, who’s wearing Invest in Sunderland jerseys?
Lovely sunny and hot afternoon at the Emirates in North London. Darke must have mentioned the obvious at least four times, #thisaintradio. Good noise but a scoreless tie. Familiar feeling of frustration for Arsenal.
On Sunday, City was on the edge of defeat against newly promoted Southampton, but sadly battled back to eke out a 3:2 win in what was a pretty spirited campaign by both teams. Southampton made City look quite ordinary for significant portions of the game. Hope this is a sign for things to come.
Can’t wait for Monday, the start of Man U’s Sweet Revenge Tour.
Update: Well, Man U’s Sweet Revenge Tour started on a sour note with a 1:0 defeat to Everton. The Red Devils got sucker punched on a header from Fellaini from a corner. RVP played for about 20 minutes but didn’t really get into the game. Kagawa showed great form, nice spacing, good pace, fit the Man U system perfectly. But hate to admit it, Everton had more chances, played with more passion, and deserved to win. Three points down from the lead. Not an abyss, but a hole.