Rapport från Dave, vår man på plats
Aye up duck,
Can it get any better than this?
The singing in the ground was definitely one of the best I've witnessed at The Brit. You got the feeling that the supporters knew that they had to get behind the lads from the start and they certainly did. They helped to create an intimidating atmosphere for the Arsenal players. One incident that stands out for me was when Fabregas made his way over to the Boothen to take a corner. The sight of thousands of Stokies pointing at him singing "Who are ye?, who are ye?, who are ye?" must of had an effect as he proceeded to kick the resulting corner straight out for a goal kick to Stoke.
A full repertoire of songs was heard including:
To the tune of KC & the sunshine bands "Never give it up" sing
Ma ma ma ma ma ma ma ma ma maaa.. Mama Sidibe, Sidibe , Mama Sidibe.
also,
To the tune of Gary Glitters "Rock n' roll...HEY!...Rock n' roll" sing
Abdoulaaaaaaaaaaaaaye.....FAYE!.....Abdoulaye.
The celebrations after the 2nd goal was something I'll remember for a good while.
The defence once again looked in control. I wasn't too sure about Sorro at the start of the season but he has now settled in well. The way that the Stoke defence are playing at the moment meant that he didn't get a lot to do to be honest. However, when called upon he seems much more confident and assured. He has started to command his area, communicate to the defence and he also isn't afraid to distribute the ball out quickly to the full-backs.
Griff must be playing some of the best football of his career at the moment.
Shawcross has taken his chance in the team really well. His last 2 games show that he can play in the Premiership. What do you think of this?..... Ryan Shawcross (Stoke City & England)......sounds good doesn't it?
I know that I keep going on about Ab Faye but at £2.25 million he has got to be an absolute bargain.
Higgy is, as always, totally committed.
Amdy Faye was brought in to further bolster the central midfield. He replaced Soares who had had a quiet game versus Sunderland.
Olly was pushed out to the right. Along with Diao and Delap they all gave another committed hard working performance.
Mama & Fuller held the line well up front.
Cresswell, Whelan & Kitson were used subs.
Our results and overall team performance in the last 3 home games has given everyone connected with the club the confidence that we can survive in this division. Pulis has built a team that we can be proud of. I know I am greedy but now lets start to pick up some away points.
.........Dave
