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Frank Stubbs: European tour anyone?

13/14: Arsenal 1-0 West Bromwich Albion - Olivier Giroud

Sunday can best be described as a relaxing afternoon in the sunshine. Something that could have been different had the previous evening's result at Goodison Park gone the other way. I use the word 'different' intentionally as not only would this apply to our emotions but I'm convinced to the match as well.

European away trips are quite something. Anyone who has been on one will support my claim. I consider myself very fortunate that I have been able to attend such occasions for more than 20 years now with a whole host of stadia, towns, cities and countries under my belt. The weekend's results mean we all have the opportunity to extend that list with an early-season qualifier at the very least.

All in all it made Sunday's game a little bit strange. Of course we all wanted a win, but a heavy defeat could not take away our late season target of Champions League qualification. Without having all those emotions we associate with going to watch our team, it made the game maybe a little too 'relaxed' at times. Olly's fine header from Bac's corner was enough to clinch the three points, a result our overall performance probably deserved.

A thoroughly enjoyable Bank Holiday weekend for all us Gooners then with two more 'days out' to look forward to before we call it a day for another year. They couldn't be more different of course with the totally stress-free and always enjoyable away day to Norfolk to come next and the simply huge occasion that is the FA Cup final.

Things really should be winding down I guess but with that, New York, membership renewals and the Emirates Cup all to plan for, life as a Gooner are still madly busy!

Walking to the ground on Sunday afternoon I purchased my cup final rosette. Briefly it brought a smile to my face and made the hairs on the back of my neck stand on end.

See you at Carrow Road (or the night before if you are joining me for a pre-match jolly!)

Frank
@stubbsy70