THE London derby

Info courtesy: the guardian

Hello everyone and happy holidays. I've been away from the internet for awhile but am back just in time to break down one of my favorite games in the EPL, the London derby that pits the west londoners, Chelsea against the north Londoners, Arsenal. Now, I know there is a whole slew of London clubs. Who doesn't love a matchup between crystal palace and QPR? But this is really THE matchup to watch within the English capital. The Blues have beaten the gunners 5 times in a row, a trend they hope to be able keep up tonight in the north side of town. For Arsenal's part, Arsene Wenger has all but guaranteed that his side need this game if they want to overcome the mental hurdles that it takes to win an English football title. Wenger said,"We need a big win...and Chelsea could be that opportunity."

One important piece to this game will be the presence of the Spaniard, Cesc Fabregas. Fabregas has not started for Arsenal since a November 23 champions league game. On the opposite side, however will be the Blue phenom, the heart and soul of Stamford Bridge, Frank Lampard. From watching the various struggles of my team over the last couple of months, many excuses have presented themselves. "Well Essien's not in the lineup...drogba has Malaria..." But the one
excuse that may actually be viable is the absence of Lampard. At his best, he offers a midfield presence perhaps only bested by the likes of Xavi and Iniesta. He can find holes for passes that others are too distracted to see. Not to mention his ability to shoot on goal from long-range. I am biased toward Chelsea but one cannot deny that there should be a considerable difference in the Blues' play with Lampard out on the pitch for ninety minutes.No matter what, there will be no excuses. The winner will hold the pride of London, if only for one night.