Thankfully I persuaded my dad to postpone collecting me until 3pm rather than midday, and it was well worth it as Rob and I were able to watch this performance (after a brief mix up about pubs).
After taking an early lead - thanks to some beautiful interplay between Pennant and Arbeloa, then Crouch's telescopic leg stretching in front of Toure - we never looked too troubled. Other than Adebayor (who did hit the post, and force Reina to tip another shot onto the woodwork) Arsenal never offered much attacking-wise, while at the back they were shambolic. The second came from a free-kick where Crouch finally won a decent header (if only he could use his height advantage more often) and then Agger was allowed a free run and header from a corner to make it 3-0.
After a brief period of somewhat sloppy play from us, I was a bit worried that Gallas' goal could prove to be more than mere consolation but start a comeback. Thankfully Crouch completed a classic hat-trick (right, head, left) to make sure of the points. We may be only two ahead of Arsenal, who have a game in hand, but our goal difference is now superior. The only blow was a possible injury risk to Gerrard - substituted quite early. Hopefully he'll be fit for Tuesday, but at least we were able to rest the likes of Riise, Finnan, Kuyt and Bellamy (though with Crouch in this form, I'd give him another chance up front)
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