Stoked

So we started the season with a frustrating nil-nil draw. And then in our second game we improved and progressed and....wait...nil-nil again?!
Sigh...Well once again we're in that frustrating little place where we're left saying "it could be better but it could have been worse." Ideally we would have kicked on and got a win today but there are positives to be taken. And I'm not just saying that. The Stoke game is always a difficult one for us that more often than not ends up in some sort of disaster. So frankly an unsatisfying nil-nil draw represents something of an improvement. Once again, I'd rather focus on the performances than the result, especially given how early it is in the season. Most significant today were the performances of our defenders. I don't want to jinx it but the back four today looked *whisper it* calm and competent. In a very surprisng turn of events, there didn't seem to be the customary flapping and flailing at the back. Per Mertesacker actually had a good game today. Vito Mannone starting in goal could have been a major concern but he actually acquitted himself very well and hopefully this performance will boost his confidence. Mikel Arteta had a great game and he's really developing a neat line in quiet authority. Our lack of goals isn't through a lack of trying and once again we had plenty of chances. The goals will come. We have to remember also that the squad will get stronger, there are first team players out injured that will come in. Look at the quality we're waiting on; Koscielny, Sagna, Wilshere, Rosicky. And we might make more signings too. Also technically we should have been playing against ten men today after a shocking challenge by Andy Wilkinson.
So lets all just chill out about our results so far. Do I need to remind anybody about how bad our start was last season? Didn't think so.