Being at Highbury this afternoon, actually started off on Thursday when ED, from Michigan, currently in the UK phoned to confirm all was well for his attendance at the Bolton game, and "by the way; any chance of 2 more tickets" (for 2 other travelling companions). Having been at Highbury the day before to get tickets for Newcastle and SPurs (still available) I knew that the game was a sell out but said, "Hang in there", I will see what I can do. A couple of phone calls made, produced 1, and I knew that I could probably pick up another from somewhere, but getting 2 together might be difficult at such a late stage. A "return call" on Friday never materialised until Saturday morning when I was asked, "How does 2 tickets (free!) in the directors box sound?" With an immediate reply to the affirmative, and thinking that ED and his buddies would not have brought suits and ties with them (a requirement) I accepted them, and that "freed up" my season tickets for ED's other two buddies. After giving ED his 4 tickets required I entered the "Marble Halls" via the front entrance, to follow Patrick Vieira up the stairs, stopping at the top for the obligitory autograph, then to be met by a book cabinet (unattended) with the 3 trophies that we won sitting on the top. Realising the camera that I had considered bringing with me was still sitting at home by the phone, I was glad that I had booked my "official photo shoot" for October, but realised the "Licence to Shoot" this opportunity was begging for would now pass away. (A request for a later opportunity has already been made!). I then sat down to read the match programme where on page 43 was half filled with "ArsenalAmerica" entries, starting with a "Letter from America" report referring to Rick and the official fan club, and him writing in the Gunner's magazine in issue 2. This was then followed by a reference and a photograph of A California licence plate owned by Andrew Layden showing "GOOONER" on the rear of a Lexus. The next reference was from John N Lilley III form Atlanta, GA. making a nice comment about the team standing to attention in rememberance of September 11th at the Manchester City game, and a picture of the team around the centre circle. Kind words from John about the Club's response to that tragic event. All this before the start of the game added to the optimistic feeling for the day. The game report to follow. (This is the second time of typing this. I got "timed out" and it failed to accept, so this part will be submitted now, and the match report to follow).
Jeff - here's a tip for writing long posts on a message board. Write it in a compose email (on Microsoft Outlook, AOL, etc) or Word if u want and then copy and paste it onto the message board. That's what I do. Sometimes I send it to myself if I want to do something on my computer, so I wouldn't lose the information if something happens to it.
Thank you for your advice. I will bear that in mind for the future. Also I have replied to your request about the Sunderland tickets. £35 each in the lower North Bank.
Jeff- What a great report. I look forward to hoisting a pint or three with you over the new year. The Evil Yevgheny shall not thwart me, and you shall not thirst. -G. Rex
Unfourtunately not! The beer will still have to remain "on ice" for an other day! While "you lot" are all flying over for the "official tour" on Dec. 27, I will be going the "other way" to Florida on Dec. 26 to Jan 10. Just a pity that you could all not get over in November instead and take in a "Champions League" game too. Never, mind, I am sure there will be other trips. "Old Trafford on May 28"!!!!!!!!!!!