There’s always next year. But I have to tell you… I am really proud of the way Arsenal played Barca Wednesday night. What a great game, really. To play that long without your goalkeeper, down a man, and retain a lead into the 77th minute… that was spectacular. I can’t help but wonder the outcome had they not hastily red-carded Jens 19 minutes in.

And! Thierry announced today that he’s staying with Arsenal for at least four more years! Excellent! >8)

I can’t find coverage of this game anywhere in the U.S.!! Not even a replay! Am I missing something? I had assumed Fox Soccer Channel would at least pick this up for a replay later in the day, but it doesn’t appear to be scheduled >8\

… who I'm starting to see as my favorite player ever. What's not to like about the guy? He is simply fantastic, and here's the proof.

Someone please tell me if this clip is for real. It’s a Nike ad, and therefore, automatically suspect. But damn… I know Ronaldhino is one of the most skilled players alive today, but hitting the crossbar 4 consecutive times at just the right angle and speed to send the ball directly back to him for an easy trap? The footage is a bit grainy, but it appears my man is standing just outside the penalty area… that’s like 17 meters from the crossbar. Simply incredible.

And here’s another awesome clip of more of Football’s greats, putting that fancy footwork to use in the game. Tricks are impressive, but when I see some of these guys actually put it to use in the game, it never fails to amaze.

Well, they did it! A final 4-2 win against Wigan and a loss by the Spurs to West Ham, and they’re locked in at 4th place in Premiership for the year. Well done, Gunners! Yeah, it may only be 4th place, but I think they’re playing better football than any other team right now. Let’s just hope they can carry that momentum into their underdog match with Barcelona on the 17th!!