We made it, we are on our way to the semi-finals. Taking a 2-0 lead into this away leg we were cautiously optimistic of getting through, but for our disastrous away form. Let’s  not beat around the bush however, there’s definitely work to be done, however, if recent results are anything to go by, we are slowly but surely finding improvement in our away form. A clean sheet here and looking at the big picture in our last seven games we’ve won six and conceded just a single goal, one at Everton. We’ve been able to keep two clean sheets against Napoli and Manchester United so things aren’t all that bad.

Here’s how we sealed our place in the semi finals:

Emery got the tactics right

I have accused us of not having cojones away from home but this was the complete opposite. Yes, there were some moments where we struggled in defence and the deeper problems won’t be solved any time soon, but it helps when Mustafi isn’t there. Koscielny made more successful clearances in 8, than successful passes, in 7. Aging as he might be, class is permanent.

But what impressed me most about Emery was that he went with an attacking formation, two strikers, wing backs and Ramsey in the middle. He could have been forgiven for taking it easy given we had the two goal lead however, we were positive from the start and it really set the tone for the rest of the game. After Lacazette sunk that lovely free kick the tie was all but over, but do you think we’d have scored if we were timid like against Everton? I don’t think so.

Ballsy tactics, playing to our strengths was a masterstroke from Emery, and I don’t know if it is just that he loves this competition so much, but he got it spot on today.

This could be the last time we see Ramsey  

This cannot be understated this man is an Arsenal legend. Of course it is because he won us 3 FA Cups and came back from a broken leg, but the professionalism he’s shown in recent weeks has been nothing short of inspirational. Emery was right not to risk him the other day and we know why today. That hamstring reared its ugly head and he had to be taken off. There’s not long left until the end of the season and I just wonder if this the last time we ever see him in an Arsenal shirt. He will be sorely missed, and all I can say is I hope Emery has a plan for replacing him because I for one do not agree with letting him go for free.

We need to go all the way now

We must get past Valencia and push for this title. Of course it brings Champions League qualification which we know is important, but just having that shiny silverware, lifting that trophy, that glory, don’t underestimate the psychological effect of winning something. The mentality of this team is a huge weakness, if they can believe they can win, it builds a solid platform mentally for next season. In my opinion, I’d rather finish fifth and win the Europa League. It is not to say we should put all our eggs in one basket, but if I had to choose one it would be winning a trophy, not a “fourth place trophy”.

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