4. Table-Topping Arsenal Send Hammers Tumbling
Arsenal have been struggling to maintain the irresistible autumn momentum generated by the
signing of Mesut Ozil, and the
0-0 home draw with Chelsea certainly gave the impression of a once gleaming speedy Ferrari running out of gas. Fortunately, the jet-powered Theo Walcott
showed off his predatory skills to remind the Premier League that the Gunners mean business. In reality, even though West Ham took a second-half lead which they held until the 68th minute, a home victory would have been a robbery of the most unseasonal variety. Carlton Cole could scarcely believe his luck when Wojciech Szczesny spilled a Kevin Nolan shot into his path, and Arsenal proceeded to remind West Ham that fortune can only get you so far with a comeback that could have seen five or six goals notched up. Lukas Podolski's return to fitness for Arsenal also acted as a catalyst for the away side, and his appearance will further strengthen an attack that has been all-to reliant on the inconsistent Oliver Giroud of late. Podolski will want to prove to Arsene Wenger that no new arrivals are needed to propel them to a first title in ten years. West Ham, in contrast, desperately need striking reinforcments, and the Upton Park support will be hoping for alternatives to Cole to help keep afloat what is becoming an increasingly leaky ship.