Arsenal In KL - Day 1

Love and passion are splendid things. They enrich the soul, fuels the mind and gives your heart a workout no gym can. Such is the the way I feel when I watch the Arsenal.

Yesterday, we were at Bukit Jalil Stadium in KL watching the Arsenal training session during their Malaysian leg of their pre-season Asia tour. There aren't many reasons why I'd come into Malaysia, but for Arsenal, I definitely will. Being able to be here with my mates from Arsenal Singapore was incredible. When Arsene Wenger walked onto the pitch, my breathing quicken and my hands felt clammy. I smiled - a smile that one can't quite suppress - because I felt so much admiration and pride. I have so much respect for Arsene that, for me, he is quite untouchable. Some people may not agree, seeing the results over the last few seasons. I call for changes too, but I'd never say "Wenger out". Before you get all worked up, this debate will have to wait for another time...

When Pat Rice waved to us, I wanted to bound towards the barriers and advertisers' boards and kiss him. I felt a surging need to give him a big hug to thank him for everything he has done for us. What a legend. The crowd's loudest cheers undoubtedly were saved for the players. Screams rang out when the players started emerging from the tunnel. Sad to say, I had absolutely no idea what the stadium commentator was saying. My eyes served me well though, as I saw the tiny figures on the field and recognised my lads immediately.

The pre-season tour is more an effort for clubs to build up/reinforce their fanbase more than an actual pre-season training programme. So we were treated to some routined drills and very satisfying minutes of football (where Theo made an impressive run to provide a good cross for Chamakh to tap into goal). I wish I had more pictures to share, but truth be told, I was rather enthralled by my Arsenal lads. Perhaps its the lull of a summer without football, perhaps I just miss them too much, but I was so single-mindedly (and -heartedly) fixated on the Gunners.

Ryo's every promising run got me excited. Theo's pace reminded me of the wonder boy that he is. Samir's smile made me love him despite recent stories. See Thomas playing next to Laurent gave me hope. Ramsey's plays made me hopeful. Jack's industry made me fall in love with him over and over again (if only every single one of his shots weren't over the bar). And Wojciech. Oh, how I love our Pole. He was relentless in front of goal, with plenty of mischief to amuse the crowd. He turned a ball away with his bum. He made Jack stand in goal when they were practicing penalties. He made so many brilliant saves. Wojciech's willingness to put himself out there, his sense of humour and his skills between the posts make him my Arsenal #1, for sure. The only thing that got to me was the condition of the pitch. Every tackle lifted turf. Well, what can we expect when we aren't at the Emirates, right?

When the lads did their lap around the stadium, tears swelled in my eyes. I know I am being a total pussy, but the kind of emotions and hopes we invest into the club we love is not very different from the dedication we give to an actual human relationship. In fact, how many can say they have stayed no matter how much disappointment have been flung at them, just because they have made a commitment?

Today, we see Arsenal play the Malaysian national team. I pray it all goes well. I can't wait to see Arsenal on the pitch again. And maybe today Wojciech will hear me calling out to him.