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Arsenal vs QPR Preview: A Christmas Miracle
By Brian Wong
Games during Christmas and the New Year is one of many reasons why I love watching the Premier League. It is a time where everyone is happy and there is a sense of optimism even if there shouldn’t be any. What makes it even better is the approaching transfer window, where hopefully Arsenal will improve it’s defense! All those aside, Arsenal vs QPR will be an exciting game, mostly because there is no way Arsenal play any worst than they did against Liverpool. Maybe it is the holidays but I feel like Arsenal will be able to bounce back against a subpar QPR team and treat us all to a great Christmas.
Prediction: Arsenal 3-1 QPR
1) Alexis Sanchez comes back down to earth
If one thing was clear while watching that Liverpool game, it is that Liverpool was going to let anyone except for Sanchez to beat them. Sanchez was tackled and tightly covered throughout the game, and for 90 minutes, it seemed like he was human after all. Well I doubt QPR could do the same thing, and I expect to see him contribute to all 3 of those goals I predict Arsenal will score!
Sep 6, 2014; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Chile forward Alexis Sanchez (7) controls the ball against Mexico during the first half at Levi
2) Defending set pieces
Arsenal were very good last year at defending set pieces, but that zonal marking system has proven to be very unreliable this year. It is extremely frustrating to see great players run into the Arsenal box unmarked and untouched. Arsenal’s zonal marking system is effective at times, yet this year it has been the reason Arsenal has given up so many goals. It is also the reason why I think QPR will be able to get a goal, and further extend this streak of no clean sheets!
3) Wenger always delivers
It seems like this is a crazy thing to say, but I think it is true. Wenger always delivers after a poor showing by the Arsenal team, and I think this will be no different. Arsenal always rebound well and against QPR, this game should be a very different feel from that horrible game at Anfield!
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