Putting Arsenal’s loss to Liverpool in perspective

Arsenal’s loss to Liverpool was definitely disappointing. Unai Emery’s use of the diamond formation was questionable, and the Gunners’ shaky defense was again exposed. However, one needs to look at the result realistically.

While it appears that Arsenal have made improvements to the team, the gap in quality between the Gunner’s squad and those of Manchester City and Liverpool is still there. Keep in mind however, that this applies to the rest of the league as well. It’s worth remembering that last season’s top two finished 25 points above third place Chelsea. In other words the remaining 18 Premier League clubs are all facing the same upward battle.

Did anyone truly believe that Arsenal were going to compete for the title this year? I doubt it. Is there any dishonor in losing to Liverpool at Anfield? No. Let’s be honest, it’s not a shock that Arsenal were beaten by a better team who are the current European champions. The Reds haven’t lost a Premier League game at home in over two years. It’s obvious that this fixture as well as the visit to the Etihad in Manchester will be each team’s most difficult challenges of the campaign.

Here’s the good news. The trip to Anfield is done and dusted as far as Arsenal are concerned. Despite the loss, the Gunners are still off to the third best start in the league.

Then there’s the “karma factor”. Banter among fan bases is par for the course. However, if you dish it out, you have to know how to deal with it when it comes back to bite you.

Prior to the weekend Manchester United fans were letting their feelings be known.

True Arsenal lost. However, United ended up losing at home to Crystal Palace with the Red Devils missing a penalty for the second week in a row.

Then there are Spurs fans. After Arsenal’s loss to Liverpool Tottenham supporters were gloating.

The next day Spurs hosted Newcastle at their shiny new stadium. Despite Harry Kane doing what he does best, diving to try and win a penalty, Tottenham lost to Newcastle 0-1 (thank you VAR).

The season is only three games old. Let’s look at things with perspective, and remember the EPL season is a marathon.