arsenalhistory

[arsenalhistory]

May 17th In Arsenal's History

On this day in 1901 Tommy Briercliffe signed for Second Division Woolwich Arsenal from Stalybridge Rovers. He went on to make 133 appearances and score 34 goals before leaving in 1905 and joining Blackburn Rovers.

In a friendly at Stamford Bridge today in 1919 Arsenal lost 2-1 to Chelsea. Wally Hardinge got the Arsenal goal in a match that saw Clement Voysey  made his first appearance for the club. He played 37 times and scored 6 goals before he left in 1926.

In 1928 today Arsenal were in Denmark. James Shaw, Harold Peel and Sid Hoar all scored as the Gunners beat a Danish FA XI.

Legend Cliff Bastin signed for Arsenal on this date in 1929. Before leaving the club in 1946 he had notched up 396 matches and 178 goals. In his hometown of Exeter, Devon he rightly has a street named after him.

Arsenal were back to play a Danish XI again in 1931. With goals from Jimmy Brain, Ray Parkin, Leonard Thompson and Cliff Bastin adding to an own goal it ended 1-5 to the Gunners.

On this day in 1939 right back Eddie Magill was born in Lurgan, Northern Ireland. He signed for Arsenal in 1959 and stayed for six years and made 131 appearances before joining Brighton & Hove Albion in 1965.

West Ham United were at White Hart Lane today in 1941 to play Arsenal in the London War Cup. Leslie Compton scored and Ted Drake got two in a 3-0 victory. 1950 and a trip to Ireland for a couple of friendlies. The first of which was today against Bohemians Select XI. Arsenal won the match 3-5 thanks to two from Peter Goring and a hat trick from Doug Lishman.

In 1962 Arsenal beat a Skane Alliance team 0-4 in a friendly in Sweden. Two goals from Alan Skirton and one each for John Barnwell and Vic Groves did the business.

In Arsenal's tour of South Africa today in 1964 Arsenal breezed past a Natal XI. David Court and Alan Skirton both scored while Geoff Strong, Joe Baker and Jon Sammels both scored two a piece in a 2-8 demolition.

Highbury was in use on this date in 1968 as England took on Young England in a Representative match. The youth side beat the seniors 1-4.

The Gunners were in Asia in 1975 and today they took on a Singapore National XI. In a 2-3 Arsenal victory Alex Cropley, John Radford and Brian Kidd all scored.

In 1977 today when Arsenal played Rotenborg in Germany Malcolm Macdonald got a hat trick and Frank Stapleton scored to make it 0-4 at the end.

Today in 1983 saw the last match for two Arsenal players. Dublin born John Devine (who had played his final league match only three days prior) and full back John Hollins both wore the shirt for the last time. It was a testimonial for Bill Collins at Prestfield Stadium. Brian McDermott's two goals and one from Alan Sunderland were enough for a 1-3 win. John Hollins left on a free transfer after this final match in the season and rejoined Chelsea after playing 173 time for the Gunners.

In 1989 on this date in Division 1 Wimbledon visited Highbury and took home a point after holding the Gunners to a 2-2 draw. Paul Merson and Nigel Winterburn goals got the vital point and Arsenal would go to Anfield for the last match of the season needing to win by two clear goals against Liverpool to win the league.

Liverpool were the opponents today in 1991 when they and Arsenal played each other for the Caltex Cup in Singapore. It ended in a 1-1 draw with Nigel Winterburn scoring again for the Gunners.

It was time to say goodbye to another Arsenal legend on this day in 1993 when a match against Manchester United was the last for record appearance holder David O'Leary . The David O'Leary Farewell Match ended in a crowd pleasing 4-4 draw. One for the eponymous hero of the match and one each for Kevin Campbell, Paul Merson and Paul Dickov made up Arsenal's tally. Back in Asia today in 1995 and Andy Linighan goal was not enough as Arsenal were beaten 2-1 by Guo An when they played the exhibition match for the London Export Euro-Asia Cup.

Real disappointment today in 2000 as Arsenal lost in the UEFA Cup final in Copenhagen after a penalty shoot out against Galatasaray that followed the preceding goalless 120 minutes.

2003 meant a trip to the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff for the FA Cup final. The opponents were Southampton and thanks to a Robert Pires 38th minute goal the Gunners became the first club to retain the trophy since 1962. 73,726 supporters were there and witnessed keeper David Seaman's last appearance for the club. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oRGiMoRforg

Another testimonial match today in 2004. Retiring as an Invincible this benefit match was for centre back Martin Keown. The opponents were an England XI and they failed to score while Arsenal helped themselves to six goals. Ashley Cole hit one, Jeremier Aliadiere bagged a brace and Jose Antonio Reyes nipped in with a hat trick. Arsenal said goodbye to another legendary player.

Heartbreak was the result on this day in 2006. Arsenal travelled to the Stade de France, Paris for the Champions League final. A goal from Sol Campbell in the 37th minute was not enough and it was Barcelona that lifted the trophy after their 1-2 victory and Arsenal fans left France bitterly disappointed.

Finally, no heartbreak on this date in 2014 however. After a decade of hurt and despair (for some) Arsenal finally lifted a trophy after beating Hull City at Wembley Stadium in the FA Cup final. They did it the hard way going 2-0 down to Steve Bruce's side. Goals from Aaron Ramsey, Santi Cazorla and Laurent Koscielny though made it a 3-2 win and the long wait was over. It was a final appearance for right back Bacary Sagna. The Frenchman finally left with a winners medal after signing from Auxerre in 2007 for €3m and playing 284 matches in Arsenal colours. With his contract up and talks about a one year extension not working out, Sagna left on a free to join former team mates Gael Clichy and Samir Nasri at Manchester City. Lifting the trophy would be the last act as captain for Thomas Vermaelen who would be sold to Barcelona after 138 appearances. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7K5j4mMfBK0

[arsenalhistory]

May 16th In Arsenal’s History

On this day in 1881, Edwin 'Teddy' Bateup was born in Horley, Surrey. He made 36 appearances in goal for Woolwich Arsenal after joining as an amateur from Faversham in 1905. He left to sign for New Brompton in 1911.

On this date in 1891, due to financial difficulties, at its Annual General Meeting Royal Arsenal voted against forming a Ltd company and offered to resign from the London FA and the Kent FA, but neither took up the offer.

In Europe today in 1907 Woolwich Arsenal faced SK Slavia IPS in a friendly. John Coleman scored twice and Charlie Satterthwaite was amongst the goalscorers in a 2-4 win for the Arsenal.

In 1910 with the onset of another set of financial problems this date saw a share of the club sold to Glasgow Rangers. Shortly afterwards they bought a further share. It is believed that this arrangement came about through the help of manager George Morrell who had previously worked for Rangers. In 1930 in a gesture of gratitude for that help the club made a gift of 14 more shares to the Scottish club and this stake in Arsenal was held until owner Craig Whyte, with Rangers experiencing their own money worries sold the shares to Alisher Usmanov for £230,000 in January 2012, ending a 102 year connection between the clubs. The press meanwhile were propagating rumours that Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and Fulham were trying to buy the south London club.

In Germany on this date in 1912 it was Woolwich Arsenal versus Deutscher FC. Although I have been unable to find who scored the goals we do know it ended 1-4 to the Gunners.

Touring in Sweden today in 1922 William Bradshaw, Clement Voysey (2) and Alf Baker scored the goals that gave Arsenal a 1-4 win over Gais.

Arsenal must have enjoyed the experience as they were back in Sweden today in 1923 when they played a Sweden Combined XI. Goals from Harry Moffat, Billy Blyth and Bob Turnbull made it 1-3 in Arsenal's favour at the final whistle.

On this day in 1925 manager Leslie Knighton officially departed the club to be replaced by Herbert Chapman. His volatile relationship with Henry Norris was over.

This date in 1934 Jack Crayston  joined Arsenal. He signed from Bradford Park Avenue and played 187 times for the club scoring 17 goals. He stayed as a player until he retired in 1939 and they advent of World War II but would later be coach and manager of the club.

Back in Sweden today in 1939 the Gunners took on Gothenburg Alliance. A goal from George Drury and two from Ted Drake made it a 0-3 English win.

At the temporary wartime home of White Hart Lane Arsenal played Brentford today in 1942 in the London War Cup. Arsenal couldn't score but Brentford helped out by putting through their own net. The Bees went on to win 1-2 though.

Once again back in Sweden Arsenal took on Staevnet today in 1961. Vic Groves scored the only goal of the match to give the Gunners the 0-1 win.

In 1962 today the great Jack Kelsey injured his back and retired from Arsenal and football. The goalkeeper that the Brazilian national team nicknamed the 'cat with magnetic paws' had played 352 times between the posts for Arsenal.

The Gunners made the trip to Molineux for a Division 1 match against Wolverhampton Wanderers in 1980 and returned to the capital with the points after a 1-2 victory. Frank Stapleton and Steve Walford got the ogals for the win.

Arsenal were invited to the Valley today in 1984. It was the Les Berry Testimonial match and the assembled supporters saw seven goals. Brian Talbot, Paul Davis (2) and Raphael Meade scored the goals the made it 3-4 against Charlton Athletic.

May 16th 1997 Arsenal signed Matthew Upson  from Luton Town for £2m. Over the next six years he would make only 56 appearances for the club. He left to join Birmingham City in 2003.

On this day in 1998 it was FA Cup final day at Wembley Stadium. Arsenal were to face Newcastle United. David Seaman, Lee Dixon, Tony Adams, Martin Keown, Nigel Winterburn, Ray Parlour, Patrick Viera, Emmanuel Petit, Marc Overmars, Christopher Wreh & Nicolas Anelka took to the Wembley turf and after the first 45 minutes Arsenal were 1-0 up through a 23rd minute Marc Overmars  goal. The Gunners scored again in the second half as Nicolas Anelka (picture bottom right) found the back of the net on 69 minutes. That was enough! Arsenal lifted the trophy and the Gunners had achieved their second league and cup double. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lyf0A-rCVA8

Into the Premiership era and today in 1999 saw Aston Villa make the trip to Highbury but they were unable to get anything from the game and Arsenal sneaked a 1-0 win thanks to a goal by Nwankwo Kanu. Arsenal finished 2nd in the league (just a point behind Manchester United) and Nicolas Anelka was top scorer with 19 goals.

Finally, 75,468 supporters took their places at Old Trafford in 2009 to watch the Gunners against Manchester United. The points were shared as no one could break the deadlock and the score remained 0-0.

[arsenalhistory]

May 15th In Arsenal’s History

On this day in 1886 midfielder Willis Rippon was born in Beighton, Sheffield, England. He was briefly at Woolwich Arsenal. He signed from Bristol City in 1910, played in 9 matches, scored 2 goals and left for Brentford in 1911.

In Europe today in 1926 Arsenal had a friendly match against SK Slavia IPS. Charlie Buchan, James Ramsay, Jimmy Brain (2) and Harold Lee all scored in a 1-5 win for the English team.

Arsenal didn't travel as far for their friendly today in 1943. They took on Blackpool at Bloomfield Road where Reg Lewis and Denis Compton both scored only for the Gunners to lose 4-2.

The Arsenal squad had made the long trip to Brazil in 1949 and today they played their first match of the tour against Fluminense. it started well when Don Roper scored and Doug Lishman hit four goals for a 1-5 win.

In Switzerland today in 1952 the Gunners took on Grasshoppers. Doug Lishman got another two goals, Alex Forbes and Don Roper were also amng the scorers in a 1-5 Arsenal victory.

Three years later they were back among the Alps when they took on Young Boys of Switzerland today in 1955. On this occasion Len Wills, Alex Forbes and Tom Lawton got the goals in a 0-3 win.

The trip to Scandinavia in 1962 included a friendly match against Staevnet which took place today. Gerry Ward got a goal and that was enough for a 1-1 draw.

Romford invited Arsenal to play in a testimonial for Bill Seddon today in 1967. After George Johnston scored and Colin Addison struck twice it ended 1-3 to Arsenal.

Edu Gaspar celebrates his birthday today. He was born in Sao Paulo, Brazil in 1978. He was signed by Arsene Wenger for Arsenal in 2001. Wenger paid Corinthians £6m for the midfielder and he would go on to play 127 times scoring 15 goals for the club. He left on a free in 2005 and joined Valencia in Spain.

Southampton visited Highbury on this date in 1982 and were resoundingly beaten 4-1 by the Gunners in the First Division's final match. John Hawley, Paul Davis (2) and Stewart Robson got the goals today as Arsenal finished in 4th place. Alan Sunderland's 12 goals made him top scorer for the season.

Today in 1990 Arsenal signed David Seaman from Queens Park Rangers. They paid what was then a British record for a goalkeeper as they shelled out £1.3 million. Seaman was between the posts 564 times for Arsenal during his 13 year stay before he left on a free transfer and joined Manchester City.

1993 on this day Arsenal made their way to Wembley Stadium for the second time that season. After winning the League Cup final by beating Sheffield Wednesday 2-1. The opposition in the FA Cup was to feel like deja vu as Wednesday had made the FA Cup final aswell. Ian Wright scored for the Gunners but an equaliser from the Yorkshire club sent the game into extra time. The extra fifteen minutes each way could not separate the teams or produce another goal so a replay it was going to have to be.

The Arsenal FA Cup final song had entered the charts and with the help of Tippa Irie & Peter Hunnigale, 'Shouting for the Gunners' was another entry in the embarassing football songs category. If you dare to have a listen you'll find it here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ykAYL5JaU2I

Into the Premiership era in 2001 Arsenal made the trip to St James' Park but played in a disappointing 0-0 draw with Newcastle United to take a single point back to London.

This date in 2004 was Arsenal's finest hour and saw probably the greatest Premiership achievement. Goals from Thierry Henry 47 (via the penalty spot) and Patrick Vieira 66 saw Arsenal run out 2-1 winners at the Emirates over Leicester City to become the first and only club to go a whole Premiership season undefeated. Henry got the Golden Boot again with 39 goals to help to the record (all pictures). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4kkiCdpvY9M

Finally, on this date in 2011 Aston Villa beat Arsenal at the Emirates as they could only score an 89th minute consolation goal courtesy of Robin van Persie but lost 1-2.

[arsenalhistory]

May 14th In Arsenal’s History

On this day in 1877 centre forward Thomas Meade was born in Plumstead, London. He joined Woolwich Arsenal in 1893 but in his three seasons with the club he only managed 14 first team appearances in which he scored 7 goals. Both his debut and final matches were against Leicester Fosse and he left to join north London club Tottenham Hotspur in 1897.

Today in 1910 The Times newspaper reported that the new share issue in Woolwich Arsenal had failed. The club's financial woes continued.

In Sweden today in 1921 the Gunners were up against IFK Gothenburg in a friendly. Arthur Hutchins, Bob Turnbull and James Hopkins scored the goals in a 2-3 win for Arsenal.

In 1924 today Arsenal played the second friendly match in a tour of Germany. The Gunners drew 2-2 with a Hamburg XI.

1931 saw Arsenal back in Scandinavia for another post season tour. David Jack and Cliff Bastin scored the goals in a 0-2 win over a Danish XI.

On this day in 1935 Welshman Mel Charles was born in Swansea. he was signed from Swansea City for £42,750. Charles would go on to play for Arsenal betwen 1959 and 1962 scoring 28 goals in 64 matches. His relationship with manager George Swindin was a tempestuous one and he returned to Wales in 1962 signing with Cardiff City for £28,500.

Back on the continent today in 1952 Arsenal were beaten 1-0 in Belgium in a friendly with RSC Anderlecht.

In 1959 on this date the Gunners were in Italy to play a friendly with the 'Old Lady'. Birthday boy Mel Charles scored for the Gunners but Juventus won the match 3-1.

May 14th 1960 was the date on which centre back Bill Dodgin played his last senior game for the Gunners. Having played his last league match for the club in April he featured today in another of Arsenal's friendlies in Belgium against RSC Anderlecht. The Gunners won the match 1-4 with goals by Len Wills, David Herd, Danny Clapton and Jackie Henderson. Dodgin had joined the club from Fulham in 1952 for £4000 and it was Craven Cottage he returned to when he finally left Arsenal in 1961.

Today in 1963 in Division 1 Arsenal played in a convincing 3-0 home win against London neighbours Fulham in the penultimate match of the season. Joe Baker took the plaudits with all the goals. It was Baker that would finish the club's top scorer with 31 goals.

On this date in 1964 Arsenal began a tour of South Africa with a friendly against Transvaal Orange Free State. Jon Sammels and David Court both scored in a 0-2 victory. New signing from West Bromwich Albion, Don Howe would make his official debut on the opening day of the new season against Liverpool but this was the first time he would be seen in an Arsenal shirt.

On this date in 1971 the Arsenal team's FA Cup song made the UK singles charts. If you think your ears are brave enough you can suffer.... I mean listen to it here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QUncUQn7P20

Today in 1975 while a on a tour in Asia Arsenal played a second friendly against a Malaysian Select XI. After losing the first one, the Gunners got a 1-1 draw this time thanks to a Brian Kidd goal.

Also today in 1975 Christopher Wreh was born in Monrovia, Liberia. Arsene Wenger paid AS Monaco £300,000 for the striker and he went on to make 46 appearances for the Gunners scoring five goals between 1997 and 2000.

It was defeat on the final day of the season today in 1977. Despite Liam Brady and Frank Stapleton goals Arsenal were beaten 3-2 at Old Trafford by Manchester United. The Gunners had gone without a win in the last three games as they finished in 8th position. Malcolm Macdonald topped the scoring charts with his 29 goals. For two Arsenal players this was the last appearance in Arsenal colours. For Jimmy Rimmer it was his 146th and last match since joining from today's opponents in 1974. He left to join Aston Villa. It was a farewell to the legend that is George 'Geordie' Armstrong. Since joining as a trainee in 1962 Geordie had amassed 621 appearances, scored 68 goals, won the club's first European silverware and helped the club to the first league and cup double. https://www.facebook.com/media/set/…

Arsenal travelled across London to Stamford Bridge on this day in 1979. Paul Vaessen  made his league debut for the club in a relatively unexciting 1-1 draw, achieved with a Malcolm Macdonald goal. Arsenal finished 7th that season and Frank Stapleton was top scorer with 28 goals. For goalscorer Supermac it was the last time he would play for the club. He had scored 57 goals in 108 matches during his three season stay. As for centre forward Vaessen he had joined the academy in 1977 and would play 41 first team matches scoring 9 goals. His career was cut short at 21 years of age through injuries, he never came to terms with things, turning to drugs and alcohol and his tragic life ended at the age of 40 in 2001.

This day in 1980 Arsenal made the trip to the neutral ground of Heysel Stadium, Brussels to meet Valencia in the final of the European Cup Winners Cup. After an unscintillating 0-0 draw over 120 minutes it came to penalties. Valencia ran out winners of the shoot out 5-4 and Arsenal had lost the final.

Today in 1983 it was again the last game of the season for Arsenal and it ended in a 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa at Villa Park. Paul Davis scored the Arsenal goal. Arsenal only finished 10th and this would be manager Terry Neill's last complete season. Tony Woodcock was highest scorer with 21 goals. Three players took their final bows for the club in this match. Yugoslavian Vladimir Petrovic played his 22nd and last in his one season stay after joining from Red Star Belgrade, midfielder Peter Nicholas  had racked up 80 matches in his 2 years at the club before he signed for Crystal Palace for £150,000 and Irishman John Devine who had played 111 times since graduating from his apprenticeship. He left to join Norwich City.

This date in 1986 saw the appointment of George Graham as manager of Arsenal. After parting company with Don Howe as manager the directors were keen to appoint the then Aberdeen manager with Graham as his assistant but 'Alex Ferguson' refused to decide his future until after the World Cup that summer and Arsenal went ahead and gave the job to the former Arsenal player who had previously been manager at Millwall.

In a second friendly in Greece today in 1987 Arsenal combined with Luton Town and took on a combined APOEL/Omonia XI. The match finished APOEL/Omonia XI 2-3 Arsenal/Luton Town XI. Arsenal's Michael Thomas got one of the goals and Luton's David Preece got the other two.

Into the Premiership era and today in 1995 Arsenal lost 2-1 away from home to Chelsea. John Hartson got the Arsenal goal in the final match of the season as the Gunners a disappointing 12th despite Ian Wright top scoring for the club with 30 goals.

Arsenal faired no better after the trip to Newcastle United in 2000 as we ran out 4-2 losers to the Magpies. Nwankwo Kanu and Stefan Schwarz got on the score sheet for the Gunners. Arsenal finished where they did the previous season in 2nd and Thierry Henry's 26 goals made him top scorer. In three days time the Gunners would meet Galatasaray in the UEFA Cup final.

Finally, in 2013 today Arsenal faced a home match against Wigan Athletic and after goals from Lukas Podolski 11, 68, Theo Walcott 63 and Aaron Ramsey 71, a 4-1 victory was enough to relegate the visitors with one match left in the Premier League season. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wUCpJyeFuKc

[arsenalhistory]

May 13th In Arsenal’s History

On this day in 1904 Scottish right back Archie Gray signed for Woolwich Arsenal from Hibernian. He stayed until 1912 making 200 appearances before being sold on to Fulham for £250.

On the continent today in 1926 against a team made up of MTK/VM in Hungary, Arsenal got a 2-2 draw with goals by Jimmy Brain and Harold Lee.

In the Football League South Combination today in 1940 Arsenal were back on the old rivals territory to play Millwall at the Dell. Eddie Carr and Leslie Compton got the goals for a 0-2 Gunners' victory.

George Graham got the Arsenal goal at Hillsborough today in 1967 as Arsenal drew the final match of the season 1-1 with Sheffield Wednesday. Centre back/midfielder John Woodward played the last of his four first team matches for the club. He stayed in the reserves after this until he joined York City in 1971. The Gunners went unbeaten in the last 12 in Bertie Mee’s first season in charge. George Graham's goal made it 12 for the season and he was top scorer as Arsenal finished 7th.

It was the second of two friendly matches in Greece today in 1970. Peter Marinello and Charlie George got the goals to make it a 0-2 win over Appollon.

Defeat at Highbury in the league today in 1989 as Alan Smith's goal was not enough and Derby County beat the Gunners 1-2.

The league champions went to Barnet today in 1991 to play a post season friendly. Tony Adams, Kevin Campbell, Paul Merson and Perry Groves all scored in 2-4 win that raised money for the local club.

It was also on this day in 1991 that Francis Coquelin was born in Laval, France. Coquelin joined the academy at Arsenal in 2008 and despite working his way into sporadic appearances or the first team he spent time on loan at Freiburg. It wasn't the most successful of loans and he returned only to go on a month to month rolling loan with Charlton Athletic. In December of 2015 with the Arsenal squad desimated by injuries, the midfielder was recalled from Charlton and began a hugely successful spell in the defensive middle role.

At Highbury today in 1997 it was Nigel Winterburn's Testimonial match. Ian Wright got two and Dennis Bergkamp scored in a 3-1 win against Glasgow Rangers.

It was an unprecedented second testimonial match today in 2002 for Mr Arsenal, Tony Adams. Having had his first in 1994 this time Glasgow Celtic were invited to Islington. Lee Dixon got the Arsenal goal that made it a very friendly 1-1 at the finish.

Into the Premiership era and just two days after beating Everton 7-0, Arsenal finished the season today in 2005 with a 2-1 defeat to Birmingham City at St Andrews. Arsenal finished 2nd a hefty 12 points behind Chelsea. Thierry Henry won the Golden Boot with his 30 goals for the season.

In the final match of the season today in 2007 Arsenal could only manage a 0-0 draw at Fratton Park with Portsmouth. A win would have meant the Gunners finished third in the league but the draw left them in 4th position. Robin van Persie topped the clubs scoring rankings with 13 for the season.

Finally, when Arsenal travelled to the Hawthorns on this date in 2012 for the final match of the season they got a 2-3 win over West Bromwich Albion. Andre Santos scored as did Laurent Koscielny and for the second match in a row loanee Yossi Benayoun got among the goals. Robin van Persie's 37 goals earned him the Goldon Boot as Arsenal finished in 3rd for the season. Find the action here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2P43tdnWsU4

This was the last match at Arsenal for the legendary Pat Rice.

[arsenalhistory]

May 12th In Arsenal's History

On this day in 1907 Woolwich Arsenal were on the continent to play a friendly against Slavia IPS in Czechoslovakia. John Coleman scored 4 of the goals in a 5-7 Gunners victory.

Today in 1910 Woolwich Arsenal announced that talks with Fulham have come to nothing, and the directors of Woolwich Arsenal FC have opened discussions with Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea, to see if their boards want to buy all or part of the club. The club's major creditor George Leavey was on the brink of financial ruin and everything possible was being done to salvage the club. It was this financial 'dire straits' that soon led to William Allen, William Hall and ultimately Henry Norris taking over the club. For the full story why not read the great article here: http://pws.prserv.net/Roger_Wright/Norris/SLWA10.htm

In Germany on this date in 1912 Woolwich Arsenal were in Frankfurt to play Viktoria 89. The friendly ended 2-2.

More European opposition for the friendly today in 1923 as Arsenal were in Denmark. Bob Turnbull scored the only goal to beat B93 Copenhagen 0-1.

Highbury was in use today in 1934 for a schoolboy international. The England boys beat the Scotland boys 4-1.

Back in Scandinavia this date in 1939 and Arsenal played a Swedish XI. Ted Drake and Reg Lewis both got two a piece, Leslie Compton scored and David Nelson had a hat trick in a 2-8 win for the Gunners.

Arsenal went to play Maidenhead United in a post season friendly on this day in 1945 and forced a 1-1 draw.

It was also this date in 1945 that Alan Ball was born in Farnworth, Lancashire. After signing from Everton in 1971 for £220,000 he went on to play for the club 217 times scoring 52 goals. He was sold to Southampton in 1976 for £60,000.

Today in 1978 was the John Pratt Testimonial. Arsenal had been invited to White Hart Lane to put aside the rivalry and play in the match against their north London neighbours. Alan Sunderland and John Radford both scored a guest Arsenal player Lil Fuccillo scored a hat trick in a 3-5 Gunners victory.

On this day in 1979; Pat Jennings, Pat Rice, David O’Leary, Willie Young, Sammy Nelson, Graham Rix, David Price, Brian Talbot, Liam Brady, Alan Sunderland and Frank Stapleton stepped out onto the hallowed turf of Wembley Stadium to face Manchester United in the FA Cup final. Seemingly cruising to a 2-0 victory the Gunners allowed the Red Devils back in to the game and at 2-2 the match was frenetic and on a knife edge. A great late goal from Alan Sunderland sealed a great victory and one of the best climaxes to an FA Cup final. Frank Stapleton and Brian Talbot had given the Gunners the 2-0 lead initially. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fQEXjVWe6lA

In 1984 we travelled to Vicarage Road but couldn't come away with any points as we went down 2-1 to Watford in the final match of Division 1. Stewart Robson got the consolation goal. Arsenal finished 6th in the league table and Tony Woodcock was the clubs top scorer with 23 goals.

Finally, it was disappointing for Arsenal fans on this day in 2001 after we travelled to Cardiff and lost the FA Cup Final to Liverpool at the Millennium Stadium. Despite a 72nd minute goal from Freddie Ljungberg we went down 1-2 and Liverpool lifted the cup. — with Charspar Wa Mtaja.

[arsenalhistory]

May 11th In Arsenal’s History

On this day in 1912 Woolwich Arsenal were in Europe again playing friendlies. The first was in Germany against Hertha BSC. Leslie Calder and Alex Graham both scored twice and John Flanagan added a goal for a 0-5 victory.

It was Arsenal's last post match friendly of the season today in 1921 and they had invited Clapton Orient to Highbury. Billy Blyth and Henry White both scored in a 2-0 win.

Back in Germany in 1924 and today Arsenal were up against Preussen in another friendly which they won 1-6.

On this day in 1925 after sacking Leslie Knighton, Arsenal owner Henry Norris placed an advertisment in Athletic News for a replacement, it read; "Arsenal Football Club is open to receive applications for the position of TEAM MANAGER. He must be experienced and possess the highest qualifications for the post, both as to ability and personal character. Gentlemen whose sole ability to build up a good side depends on the payment of heavy and exorbitant transfer fees need not apply".

Today in 1927 Arsenal's Joe Hulme was at the Edmond Machtens Stadium, Brussels to play for England in an international friendly against Belgium. He scored England's second in a 1-9 mauling of their hosts.

In Belgium today in 1948 Arsenal took on a Liege Selection team. Jimmy Logie and Ronnie Rooke both scored in a 1-2 victory. It was the very last time that George Male would wear an Arsenal shirt on a pitch. This was yet another appearance to add to his wartime matches and his 318 official matches in his 19 years service to the club.

Queen Elizabeth II was now on the throne of Great Britain and in deference to that fact Arsenal went to Ibrox to play Glasgow Rangers for the Coronation Cup today in 1953. The Gunners' failed to score and Rangers nicked it 1-0.

Another one of the regular friendlies with Grasshoppers in Switzerland today in 1955. Alex Forbes got two goals and Don Roper grabbed a hat trick in what turned out to be thrilling 5-5 draw.

In 1959 on this date Northern Irish right back Eddie Magill signed for the club from Portadown. He played 131 times before leaving Arsenal in 1965 and signing for Brighton & Hove Albion.

Continuing the tradition of friendlies against Racing Club de Paris (originally started to commemorate the Armistice of the First World War) Arsenal were once again in France today in 1960 where despite David Herd, Jimmy Bloomfield and Jackie Henderson all scoring the Gunners lost 4-3.

Defeat for Arsenal in Division 1 today in 1963 when Burnley turned up at Highbury. Joe Baker and Alan Skirton both scored in a 2-3 defeat.

In Switzerland today in 1965 Arsenal took on Grasshoppers. Don Howe popped up with a goal as did Jon Sammels and David Court and that culminated in a 0-3 victory.

It was the final match of the season today in 1968. Bobby Gould and Frank Mclintock scored the goals that gave Arsenal a 2-1 win over West Bromwich Albion at Highbury. The Gunners may have finished on a victory but they could only manage ninth in the league and George Graham topped the scoring rankings for the club with 21.

Quite amazingly for the third year running Arsenal finished the league season playing the noisy north London neighbours today in 1972. This one at Highbury disappointingly finished in a 0-2 defeat for the Gunners. Ray Kennedy scored the most goals with 19 as Arsenal finished in fifth position.

Arsenal's Alan Ball was in Limassol today in 1975 as he captained England in a European Championships match against Cyprus (to date the last time the two teams met each other). He skippered the side to a 0-1 victory.

British Home Championships action today in 1976 as England took on Northern Ireland at Wembley. Irish Gunners Pat Rice and Sammy Nelson could not hold back the tide and England won the match 4-0.

Alan Sunderland got the goal in Islington today in 1982 that made the final score 1-1 between Arsenal and Liverpool.

A 2-2 draw at home to West Bromwich Albion in Divison 1 today in 1985 was the last match of the season and the last appearance in an Arsenal shirt by Brian Talbot. It took a goal from Ian Allinson and a Baggies own goal to muster the draw. The highest goalscorer was Tony Woodcock as the club ended the season in 7th. Talbot played in his final and 327th match in which he scored 49 goals and the England international left for Watford in the summer.

Today in 1986, Paris, France was the birth date and place of Vassiriki Abou Diaby. After joining Arsenal in January 2006 he made 180 appearances (43 as substitute) and scored 19 goals. Those totals would surely have been more were it not for his constant injuries. Despite Arsene Wenger's faith in his fellow Frenchman he was eventually released at the end of his contract in July 2015 and shortly afterwards joined Olympique Marseille.

Another trip to Greece for a couple of friendlies in 1987 and today the opponents were APOEL Nicosia. Paul Davis and Martin Hayes scored in a 2-2 draw.

It was Bob Pearson's Testimonial today in 1988 and old rivals Millwall had invited Arsenal to the Dell. Martin Hayes and Alan Smith both scored as Graham Rix played his final Arsenal match in the 2-2 draw.

Coventry City came to Highbury on this date in 1991, only to be defeated 6-1 and leave empty handed on the final day of the season. An own goal from the Sky Blues added to goals from Perry Groves and Alan Smith and a hat trick by Anders Limpar. A great win to celebrate winning the league and Alan Smith to be the highest goalscorer in the First Division with 29 goals. See all the goals here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cIR2t5XsTXE

Into the Premiership era and today in 1993 it was a 1-3 defeat at home to the shitty Middlesex club with Paul Dickov getting the Arsenal goal in the final match of the season. The Gunners came a demoralising 10th despite Ian Wright scoring a good 30 goals to be highest scorer. It was Norwegian Pal Lydersens last of his 16 appearances for the Gunners. He returned to IK Start after his four year, reasonably uneventful stay in north London. You don't want to look at the match but it's here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PvyZV0BZ1pY

Paul Merson also played his last game for Arsenal on this date in 1997 after 425 matches played and a goal tally of 99, he signed off after helping the club to a 1-3 win in the Premiership against Derby County. It was the last ever match at the Baseball Ground before Derby's move to Pride Park. Ian Wright scored twice and Dennis Bergkamp scored on the season's last day. Ian Wright topped the scoring again with 30 goals and in Arsene Wenger's first season in charge Arsenal finished in 3rd on goal difference to Newcastle United in 2nd and Liverpool in 4th. Catch the action here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f1OsTwjS79k

Before Arsenal had achieved the double, on this date in 1998 Arsene Wenger was awarded the Manager of the Year Award.

At Elland Road on this day in 1999 Arsenal failed to score and were beaten 1-0 by Leeds United. Highlights are here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mIWf9G_MZts

In 2002 on this date goals from Dennis Bergkamp 4, Thierry Henry 33, 72, and Francis Jeffers 83 gave Arsenal a 4-3 Premiership win over Everton. Richard Wright was given a substitute appearance so he could claim his league winners medal. It was a another double winning season and Thierry Henry won the Golden Boot for his 32 goals, Robert Pires received Football Writers' Player of the Year and Dennis Bergkamp received Goal of the Season. Lee Dixon was given the honour of skippering the side in his final match for Arsenal. You can see all the action and trophy presentation here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1rZXiF8Ar6c

Arsenal made the long trip to Sunderland in the Premiership today in 2003 and a goal from Theirry Henry 7 and a hat trick by Freddie Ljungberg 39, 78, 88 saw Arsenal win 4-0 and take three points back to London. With the season over Arsenal finished in 2nd with Henry once again scoring 32 goals to be the club's top scorer. All the goals from the match are here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0uR-7HPYkXM

Everton visited Arsenal on this date again in 2005 and once again there were seven goals in the match. This time however they were all scored past Arsenal old boy Richard Wright in the Everton goal. Goals scored by Robin van Persie 8, Robert Pires 12, 50, Patrick Vieira 37, Edu 70 (pen), Dennis Bergkamp 77, Mathieu Flamini 85 contributed to a 7-0 win. For the goals click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PboL6hSIb9M

When in 2008 we travelled to the Stadium of Light again on May 11th a single 24th minute strike by Theo Walcott was enough for victory over Sunderland. After this last match of the season Arsenal finished in 3rd position thanks to four successive wins with Emmanuel Adebayor ending as top scorer with 30 goals.

On this date in 2009 the Under 21 side took on West Bromwich Albion in the Premier Reserve League. Goals from Jay Emmanuel-Thomas and Mark Randall gave the Young Gunners a 2-0 victory.

The Under 18 side were in the Premier Academy League Play Off final today in 2010. The opponents were Nottingham Forest. Eight goals in the match and with Benik Afobe scoring a hat trick and Luke Freeman netting twice, it was a 5-3 victory for the young Gunners and they lifted the trophy as champions.

Arsenal's last Premiership match of the season today in 2014 was at Carrow Road against Norwich City. Aaron Ramsey and Carl Jenkinson (for the first time in an Arsenal shirt) scored the goals that gave the Gunners the 0-2 win. That made it five straight wins scoring 12 and letting in 2 to finish 4th in the league. The unbeaten run continued through to the cup final and into the next season. Arsenal won the FA Cup 6 days later to break the trophy drought. Olivier Giroud finished the highest club scorer in the league with 22 goals.

Finally, on this day in 2015 Swansea City were at the Emirates. The Swans had beaten Arsenal in Wales and from the off they sought to frustrate the Gunner's style and passing and put everything behind the ball. After a goalless first half the Welsh side came out with a little more intent and after substitutions were made by both teams after the hour mark it was Swansea that got the only goal of the match to do the double over Arsene Wenger's side. The highlights are here: http://www.arsenal.com/juniorgunners/news/55677/highlights-arsenal-v-swansea-city

[arsenalhistory]

May 10th In Arsenal's History

On this day in 1869 Woolwich Arsenal right back Robert Stevenson was born in Barrhead, Scotland. He was with the club for the 1894/1895 season playing in 7 matches. He left in the summer of 1895 to join Thames Ironworks (later West Ham United).

Today in 1890, although highly unusual for the era, Royal Arsenal played a friendly with local rivals Millwall Athletic in May. The match ended in a 3-3 draw with William Campbell getting two goals and Edward Williams scoring for the Royals.

In 1899 on this date left back/midfielder James Jackson signed for Woolwich Arsenal from Newcastle United. He became captain of the club and played 204 times although only scored once. He was with the club until 1905 when he left to join Leyton.

Right winger David Greenaway signed today in 1908. Signing as an amateur from Shettleston he played in 170 matches for Woolwich Arsenal and Arsenal and scored 13 goals before he left in 1921.

The Great War was over, the London Combination was disbanded and the new season would be back to Football League fixtures. Having been voted into the First Division Arsenal played a friendly at Highbury today against West Ham United. Jackie Rutherford, Wally Hardinge and Henry King all scored to secure a 3-2 win for the Gunners.

1923 and Arsenal were in Denmark for three friendlies. This first one was against Frem and Bob Turnbull enjoyed his day getting all our goals in a 2-4 Arsenal win. Although not official debut it was the first time that Samson Haden played in an Arsenal shirt. Winger Sammy made his official debut against West Ham United at the start of the new season after joining from Castleford Town and went on to play 93 matches and score 11 goals. he was transferred in 1927 to Notts County for £1,350.

On this day in 1932 it was the last of the Herbert Chapman inspired friendlies between Arsenal and his first managerial club Northampton Town. Pat Beasley scored and Jack Lambert got two in a 2-3 win or the Gunners at the Sixfields Stadium.

This date in 1939 saw Arsenal start another tour of friendlies in Scandinavia. This first match was against Sweden's national team. Jack Crayston and George Drury scored and Alf Kirchen struck twice in a 0-4 win for the tourists.

The Gunners were at Deepdale on this day in 1941 to play Preston North End in the Football League War Cup. Denis Compton got the goal in the subsequent 1-1 draw.

Ronnie Rooke got the goal at the Baseball Ground today in 1947 as Arsenal beat Derby County 0-1 in Division 1.

In Germany on this date in 1957 Arsenal took on Fortuna Dusseldorf in a friendly fixture. After Vic Groves scored twice it ended in a 2-2 draw.

On this day in 1959 manager Leslie Knighton died. He was in charge of Arsenal for six years and had a tempestuous relationship with owner Henry Norris. After Norris had stipulated that Arsenal were not to sign players under 5' 8" tall or weighing under 11 stones, Knighton signed 5' tall Hugh 'Midget' Moffat and after a blazing row Norris overruled Knighton and immediately resold the player to Luton Town. It was one of many battles between manager and owner over those 6 years.

In 1962 in Norway, winger Danny Clapton played his final game for the Gunners. He featured in the friendly against Skeid Oslo which Arsenal won 0-3 courtesy of Billy McCullough, Laurie Brown and Vic Groves' goals. After 225 official matches and 27 goals Clapton left to join Luton Town.

Arsenal favourite Charlie George signed his apprentice forms for Arsenal on this day in 1966. But this one of very few occasions when Arsenal played two matches at the same time spreading their squad between two teams. One side went to play Queens Park Rangers in the London Challenge Cup and were easily defeated 4-0. The other went to play in a testimonial match for Terry Adlington. The opponents a South Devon Select XI conceded a goal to George Eastham and a hat trick to John Radford but still managed to win 5-4. Possibly the squad was stretched to thin in order to fulfill commitments?

Three years later in 1969 the incomparable Dennis Bergkamp was born in Amsterdam, Netherlands. In a total of 423 run outs for Arsenal he scored 120 goals and for most became a genuine club legend after being signed by Bruce Rioch in 1995. On the 22 of July 2006 the first game to be played at the Emirates Stadium was Bergkamp's testimonial in which Arsenal ran out 2-1 winners against Ajax.

In the first of two friendlies in Greece, Arsenal played Omonia today in 1970. George Armstrong's goal was topped by a Charlie George hat trick in a 3-4 win for the Gunners.

Today is the birthday of another former Gunner. In 1974 on the 10th of May Sylvain Wiltord was born in Neuilly-sur-Marne, France. He made 175 appearances for the club scoring 49 goals in the process.

Arsenal travelled to the Far East in 1975 where the first of their friendly matches would be against a Malaysian Select XI. The Gunners were unable to find the net and lost the match 2-0.

At Highbury on this date in 1977 it was John Radford's Testimonial. Hudjuk Split had been invited to London and Arsenal played well enough to make it 5-0 final scoreline. A goal each for Charlie George and Trevor Ross were capped by a Frank Stapleton hat trick.

On this day in 1980 Arsenal made the trip to Wembley Stadium to play in their third consecutive FA Cup final. After losing to Ipswich Town in 1978 and winning what is considered by many to be one of the most exciting finals in 1979 against Manchester United, it was not to be Arsenal's day as they lost 1-0 to West Ham United after conceding an extremely rare Trevor Brooking headed goal.

West Ham were the opponents when Arsenal next played on this date in 1983. The Gunners got a 1-3 win at Upton Park with Brian McDermott, Vladimir Petrovic and Chris Whyte all getting on the score sheet.

This date in 1995 saw Arsenal hearts broken when the Gunners lost 1-2 in injury time to Real Zaragoza in the European Cup Winners Cup final. John Hartson's goal had given hope but it was not to be.

In the Premiership in 1998 Aston Villa came to Highbury and left the victors after narrowly defeating the champions Arsenal 0-1 in the final match of the Premier League season. Dennis Bergkamp was the highest scorer with 22 goals in what would be in six days time a second double season.

Finally, when Arsenal next played on this date in 2009 it was a visit from Chelsea that remains the Gunners' heaviest defeat at the Emirates when the Gunners could only score once through Nicklas Bendtner in the 70th minute but conceded four goals to be pretty much destroyed 1-4 on the day.

[arsenalhistory]

May 9th In Arsenal's History

On this day in 1891 Royal Arsenal FC voted to become a professional side, making them the first professional team in the south of England.

It also saw the birth of James Paterson who after qualifying as a doctor in his native Scotland and being a keen amateur footballer moved to Clapton, London and subsequently signed for Arsenal in 1920. He played on the left wing 77 times for the club and scored twice before retiring in 1926. Paterson is said once when given a bunch of daffodils by a girl in the crowd for one match, to have played on the wing with them in his hand for several minutes before finding a place to put them. I can hardly see a footballer doing that today.

In 1907 today Woolwich Arsenal had more action on the continent against Preussen in a friendly in Germany. It would seem they had fun as Edwin Bateup, Charlie Satterthwaite (2) and John Mordue scored goals and Bert Freeman popped in 5 goals in a 1-9 win.

On this date in 1921 Arsenal were at Roots Hall to play Southend United in a post season friendly. After only finishing 9th in the league the Gunners won 0-4 through the goals of Billy Blyth, Joseph Toner and Henry White (2).

The same date in 1922 and Arsenal returned the favour and invited Southend to Highbury for the after season friendly. Henry White got another goal and Alex McKenzie added another to make it a 2-1 win for the home side.

Also on this date 1922 Andrew Kennedy joined the club from Crystal Palace and went on to make 129 appearances before leaving for Everton in 1928.

It was this date in 1931 that Dan Lewis left the club after playing 167 times to go to Gillingham and on the same date in 1935 his namesake Reg Lewis joined from Arsenal's nursery club Margate and he went on to appear for the Gunners 176 times scoring an impressive 118 goals.

In 1936 today Arsenal player Bernard Joy played for England and was the last amateur to do so in a full international. He was joined in the side by club mates; George Male. Eddie Hapgood, Jack Crayston and Wilf Copping in a 3-2 defeat to Belgium at the King Baudouin Stadium, Brussels. The Belgium side were coached and managed by Arsenal old boy Jack Butler who made over 250 appearances for Arsenal as a player.

It was the London League today in 1942 and at Selhurst Park it ended 3-3 between Crystal Palace and Arsenal. It was a Reg Lewis hat trick that saved the point for the Gunners.

Peter Storey made his senior (though unofficial) debut appearance for the club today in 1965. It was a friendly match against Latina Calcio in Italy which Arsenal won 0-3 through goals by Brian Tawse and Jon Sammels. Peter Storey would go on to play 501 more times in competitive matches and stay with the club until 1977 when he joined Fulham.

Today in 1966 Arsenal won the FA Youth Cup for the first time by beating Sunderland 5-3 on aggregate with Pat Rice and Sammy Nelson in the side. The full starting XI was; Ernie Adams, Pat Rice, Tommy Youlden, Micky Boot, Ian Gillibrand, John Woodward, Trevor Rhodes, Robert Bristow, Neil Leven, Andrew Milne, Gordon Cumming with substitutes Dave Simmons and Sammy Nelson. The young Gunners had lost to Everton in the previous season's final.

Arsenal had a shocker at Elland Road today in 1973 as they were beaten 5-1 by Leeds United. George Armstrong with the consolation goal. It was the last match of the season and Arsenal finished 2nd. John Radford topped the club's scoring statistics with 19 for the season. This last match saw two debutantes. It was a first appearance for midfielder David Price who would go on to play 176 matches in total and he was joined in midfield by first timer Brian Hornsby who would only manage to accumulate 26 senior appearances.

The end of the season for Arsenal in 1978 would mean a trip to the Baseball Ground and a 3-0 defeat to Derby County. Malcolm Macdonald would top the scoring for the season at Arsenal with 26 goals as the club finished 5th. Midfielder Jimmy Harvey would make his debut but it was the final match in Arsenal colours for both Alan Hudson and John Matthews. Hudson had been signed from Stoke City for £200,000 in 1976 and had played in 41 matches . In the summer he left and tried his luck in America by joining Seattle Sounders. John Matthews played 57 first team matches after joining as an apprentice in 1971 and was sold to Sheffield United for £90,000.

On this day in 1981 Frank Stapleton made his last appearance for the club. The season had finished and this was a match against Eastern Athletic Association for the KUK Trophy. Alan Sunderland and Paul Davis scored and Stapleton signed off with a goal in the 0-3 Arsenal win. He had notched up exactly 300 Arsenal appearances and netted 108 times before doing what is for some the unthinkable and signing for Manchester United for £900,000.

Final match of the season today in 1987 Arsenal were beaten 1-2 at home by Norwich City despite a Paul Merson goal. Arsenal finished 4th with Martin Hayes claiming the goalscoring prize with his 24 for the season. The club also said goodbye to Viv Anderson who left the club after this his last match. Right back Anderson had joined from Nottingham Forest in 1984 for £250,000. He played 150 times and contributed 15 goals from defence before 'doing a Stapleton' and signing for Manchester United for the same £250,000 price tag. After joining as a schoolboy in 1977 goalkeeper Rhys Wilmott also made his last first team appearance. He only played 9 times in total in front of the net but carried on with the reserves until he moved to Plymouth Argyle in 1989. See the action here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qriVJCD_-FA

On this day in 1990 the Gunners played a South Korean National XI in the Caltex Cup. Lee Dixon and Alan Smith scored the goals that nicked it 1-2 for Arsenal.

Into the Premiership era and this day in 2000 saw Sheffield Wednesday's visit to Arsenal and the teams played out an exciting 3-3 draw. Lee Dixon, Silvinho and Thierry Henry got the goals to save the point in the penultimate match of the season. Sadly for the Owls it sealed their relegation from the Premier League. See the goals here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HnzW0ZR8jeU

In 2004 today on a trip down the river to Craven Cottage a 9th minute goal from Jose Antonio Reyes was enough to see the Gunners take the three points from Fulham with a 0-1 win. After three draws in succession this was the 37th league game of the unbeaten season. Just one game to go, JUST ONE!. See the goalkeeping howler here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KaG15VaCi4s

In 2010 today in the reverse of the fixture Fulham left demoralised after a 4-0 drubbing at the Emirates with goals from Andrei Arshavin 21, Robin van Persie 26, Baird's 37th minute own goal, and Carlos Vela 84 in the final match of the Premier League season. Arsenal finished 3rd with Cesc Fabregas being the club's top scorer on 19 goals. Check out Vela's deft little chip here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sWLLXHNRXKc

On this date it 2013 it was announced that Arsenal had agreed a £30m-a-year kit deal with Puma in what for a short while was the most lucrative kit contract in Britain. Read more here: http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/puma-and-arsenal-announce-partnership

On this date in 2014 amid media and press induced frenzy amongst Arsenal supporters, centre back Laurent Koscielny signed an extension to his Arsenal contract despite the press speculation he was leaving. http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/20140509/koscielny-signs-new-long-term-contract

Finally, Arsenal Under-18's played Fulham and were beaten 5-1 leaving them finishing bottom of the table after a disappointing season.

[arsenalhistory]

May 8th In Arsenal's History

On this day in 1910 left half turned right back George Male was born in West Ham, London. He joined Arsenal as an amateur in 1929 and signed his professional papers on this date in 1930. He went on to make 318 appearances for the club before retiring in 1948. Having beaten Barking, Queens Park Rangers and the noisy neighbours in earlier rounds, today in 1922 Arsenal met Crystal Palace in the London FA Challenge Cup final. Arthur Hutchins got the club's only silverware of the season with his goal for a 0-1 win. Centre forward Jimmy Brain signed for the club today in 1923 from Welsh side Ton Pentre. He would stay until 1931 and score 139 goals in 232 matches before moving down the road to join the enemy. Charlie Jones retired from football and left the club on this date in 1934 after being signed by Herbert Chapman in 1928. He was made captain during his time here and played 195 times scoring 8 goals. He became manager of Notts County. Highbury was used for a commemorative match today in 1935. An England XI played an Anglo Scots XI in honour of King George V Silver Jubilee. The Anglo Scots scored the only goal of the day. Arsenal were in Holland today in 1938 today for a post season friendly. They failed to score and were beaten 1-0 by their hosts Feyenoord. On this day in 1942 future Arsenal player and manager Terry Neill was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland. The centre back joined from Bangor in 1959 and played 275 matches scoring 10 goals before joining Hull City in 1970. He managed the shitty Middlesex club before joining Arsenal as boss succeeding Bertie Mee in 1976. If it's possible to have such a thing, today in 1943 Arsenal were at White Hart Lane for a 'friendly' against the bitter enemy. Cliff Bastin and Alf Kirchen were both on target in a 1-2 victory while the clubs were ground sharing. John Hawley was born today in 1953 in Withernsea, England. The centre forward joined Arsenal from Leeds United in 1981 and got 21 first team matches under his belt before leaving in 1983 to join Sunderland. Another post season friendly against Grasshoppers in Switzerland today in 1957. Dave Bowen, Derek Tapscott, Dennis Clapton and Vic Groves all scored in a 2-4 win. After finishing 3rd in the league, today in 1959 Arsenal went to Ashton Gate to play a friendly against a combined Bristol XI. Vic Groves (2), Jackie Henderson and Danny Clapton got goals but the Bristol XI won the match 5-4. On a tour of Scandinavia, today in 1962 Arsenal played a Gothenburg Alliance. With Gerry Ward getting a hat trick and goals from John Barnwell and Alan Skirton it ended in a 1-5 win for the Gunners. Welsh born centre half John Roberts made his unofficial debut for the club on this date in 1969. Arsenal had been invited to Vicarage Road to play in the Ken Furphy Benefit match against Watford. George Johnston scored twice for Arsenal giving them the 1-2 victory. Today's date is a special one in Arsenal history for not one but two reasons firstly in 1971 after winning the league (at White Hart Lane), Arsenal beat Liverpool 2-1 in the FA Cup final to win their first double! Eddie Kelly and Charlie George scored the goals that made Arsenal history. For the other.... read on. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7uL-iJEiyIg When Arsenal played on this date in 1972 it was Liverpool again. This time it was a league match at Highbury which ended in a disappointing 0-0 draw. David Grondin celebrates his birthday today. He was born in Juvisy-sur-Orge, France in 1980. Arsene Wenger signed the midfielder in 1998 from AS Saint-Etienne for £500,000. He was with the academy and did make 4 senior appearances before being moved on to Scottish club Dunfermline Athletic in 2003. It was a confident win at Ayresome Park today in 1982 as Arsenal beat Middlesbrough 1-3. Paul Davis, Graham Rix an Brian Talbot took their opportunities. On this day in 1985 the great Pat Jennings played his final game between the posts for the club and returned briefly from whence he came, yes, Tottenham Hotspur. It was a special match in which both sides thanked a great servant and in which Liam Brady and Martin Hayes both scored. The Middlesex club won the match 2-3 though and the Highbury faithful said their farewells. Into the Premiership era and Crystal Palace were visitors to Highbury this date in 1993. They were defeated 3-0 on the day by goals from Ian Wright, Paul Dickov and Kevin Campbell. This day in 1996 was the date of Paul Merson's Testimonial match. The opponents were an International Select XI. Dennis Bergkamp scored as did Paul Shaw, Merson himself got two and a certain Paul Gascoigne scored four times for Arsenal in 8-5 Gunners win. I said it was a special day for two reasons, the second reason is another double. On this day in 2002 a 0-1 win at Old Trafford courtesy of a Sylvain Wiltord 56th minute goal gave Arsenal the Premiership title. The Gunners had won the double again after beating Chelsea 2-0 in the FA Cup final with goals from Parlour 70 and Ljungberg 80. We were the first team in over 100 years to go an entire season unbeaten away from home in the league. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WP_8O05dSgc Goals from Robert Pires 25, Jose Antonio Reyes 29 and Cesc Fábregas 90 today in 2005 secured a 3-1 home win in the Premier League over Liverpool. Theo Walcott put pen to paper on this date in 2009 to sign an extended contract with the club and later in the day Nicklas Bendtner was fined for unacceptable behaviour in a nightclub. Finally, 27,478 people turned up at the Britannia Stadium today in 2011 to see Arsenal leave empty handed when an 81st minute Robin van Persie goal was not enough and Stoke City ran out 3-1 winners.

[arsenalhistory]

May 7th In Arsenal's History

On this day in 1883, full back Joseph Ebenezer "Joe" Shaw was born. He joined the Woolwich Arsenal from Accrington in 1907 and went on to make 326 appearances for the Gunners. After his playing career was over he managed the reserves and following the death of Herbert Chapman in 1934 he won the league with Arsenal as caretaker manager. Woolwich Arsenal were in Belgium today in 1907 for their second friendly in the country. Having beaten Racing Club Brussels two days prior, today the took on a team from The Hague. Billy Garbutt and Peter Kyle got a goal each and Charlie Satterthwaite and John Coleman bagged two a piece in an exiting 3-6 win on the continent. In the final match of the season today in 1921 Arsenal were easily beaten 3-0 by Liverpool at Anfield. The Gunners could only finish 9th in this campaign with Fred Pagnam taking the plaudits as highest goalscorer with 14 for the season. At his 4th attempt today in 1927 Herbert Chapman finally managed to get a win over the north London enemy. Jimmy Brain and Reg Tricker both bagged a brace in a 0-4 win at White Hart Lane in the concluding match of the season. Arsenal ended the season with six wins in the last seven but could only finish 11th. Brain's two goals took his total for the season to 34 to make him the club's top scorer. In 1929 today goalkeeper Charlie Preedy signed for Arsenal. Charlie was born in India whilst his father served in the army. He signed from Wigan Borough and would play 40 times in his four year stay before leaving or Bristol Rovers in 1933. Herbert Chapman's Arsenal rounded off his 7th season in charge with a 4-0 Highbury win over Blackburn Rovers. Rovers put one past their own keeper, Reg Stockill scored and Jack Lambert hit twice for the comfortable win. Jack Lambert was top scorer with 26 goals as Arsenal finished runners up in the league. On this day in 1934 First Division champions Arsenal took on the north London noisy neighbours in the final of the London Challenge Cup. The Gunners lifted the trophy after a 0-4 win. Today in 1938 Arsenal beat Bolton Wanderers 5-0 to win the league for the fifth time in eight years, the second title under George Allison. Alf Kirchen got on the score sheet while Cliff Bastin and Edward Carr struck two each. Ted Drake though the scoring rankings though with 18 for the season. Arsenal beat Charlton Athletic 2-0 at Highbury on this date in 1949. Doug Lishman and Don Roper both scored in the season finale. The Gunners finished 5th in the table and Reg Lewis was top scorer with his 18 goals. Welsh centre back Ray Daniel made his debut for the club in this match and went on to make 99 appearances for Arsenal, most after understudying Leslie Compton. When he was sold in 1953 Sunderland paid £27,500 for his services. 1960 today saw the Gunners once again in Switzerland or a friendly against Grasshoppers. Jimmy Bloomfield and Jackie Henderson put the ball in the back of the net whilst David Herd added two for a 2-4 win for the English team. Rounding of a poor season for Arsenal today in 1966 the Gunners got a 1-0 home win over Leicester City but even that came courtesy of an own goal by the Foxes. It would be Billy Wright's last match as Arsenal manager as Arsenal finish 14th. Joe Baker was the season's top scorer for the club with 13. In Division 1 today in 1968 Arsenal fought out a hard won 4-3 victory over Leeds United at Highbury. Bobby Gould, Frank McLintock and George Johnston all scored and the Gunners were the benficiaries of yet another own goal. In Queen Elizabeth II's Silver Jubilee year of 1977 on this date Middlesbrough visited Highbury and took home a point after playing out a 1-1 draw with Arsenal. Frank Stapleton got the goal for the Gunners. Defeat in Islington today in 1983 as Arsenal failed to score and Sunderland nicked the advantage to leave with a 0-1 victory. It was a final appearance for centre forward John Hawley before leaving to, coincidentally, sign for Sunderland. He had joined from Leeds United in 1981 and played 21 senior matches scoring three times. When West Ham United came to Highbury this day in 1984 it ended in a 3-3 draw. Paul Mariner, Brian Talbot and Tony Woodcock were all on target for the Gunners. This date in 1988 Arsenal got a 1-2 victory over Everton at Goodison Park through goals by Martin Hayes and Michael Thomas. George Graham handed 18 year old Kevin Campbell a debut. Meanwhile, two Arsenal players played their last match for the club. Both Graham Rix Kenny Sansom said their farewells. Rix had joined the academy in 1974 and made 464 first team appearances scoring 51 times and left on free transfer to Caen in France. Left back and one time captain Kenny Sansom had played 394 matches since signing from Crystal Palace in 1980 for £1m. He left to join Newcastle United. Into the Premiership era and a 2-0 defeat to Newcastle United at St James' Park was the final match for Arsenal keeper Alan Miller on this date in 1994 and the final match of the season. Arsenal finished in 4th position in the league with Ian Wright being top scorer with 35. Keeper Miller only made 8 senior appearances after graduating from the academy. He was sold to Middlesbrough in the summer for £500,000. This day in 2003 was a day that 38,052 at Highbury watched Arsenal thrash Southampton 6-1 with two hat tricks, one each from Robert Pires 9, 23, 47 and one from Jermaine Pennant 16, 19, 26. Nobody in the crowd expected then that this would be the start of the now famous 49 game unbeaten run for the Gunners that gained us the title 'Invincibles'. Finally, today's date is famous for another reason. A great 4-2 home win over Wigan Athletic today in 2006 with a goal from Robert Pires 8 and a hat trick by Thierry Henry 35, 56, 76 (pen) was tinged with sadness as it was the last match to be played at our beloved Highbury. It was also the last official match for one Dennis Bergkamp.

[arsenalhistory]

May 6th In Arsenal's History

On this day in 1868 Henry Boyd was born in Pollockshaws, Scotland. After playing for Sunderland Albion, Burnley & West Bromwich Albion, centre forward Boyd signed with Woolwich Arsenal in May 1894. He scored eight goals in his first four matches. Sadly for Boyd he then broke his leg and was kept out of the game for over a year. All in all Boyd scored 32 goals in 41 appearances before he was sold to Newton Heath in January 1897 for £45. Today in 1914 future Arsenal captain Billy Blyth joined the club. He made 12 appearances before the outbreak of World War I. After the war he went on to make a total of 343 starts for the club scoring 51 goals and played in Arsenal's first ever FA Cup final in 1927. He finally left for Birmingham City in 1929. Arsenal played a benefit match today in 1916. It was to raise funds for the widow of the tragic Bob Benson who died while an Arsenal player. They invited a team made up of a Rest of London XI. The match ended in a 2-2 draw. Never officially an Arsenal player, Freddie Steele was born in Hanley, England today in 1916 aswell. He played numerous times for Arsenal as a guest player during World War II. Today in 1922 the aforementioned Billy Blyth scored the goal that gave Arsenal a 1-0 win over Bradford City at Highbury in the last match of the season. After a dismal season which included 5 consecutive defeats Arsenal rounded off with 4 wins and a draw in the last 5 to finish 7th in the league. Henry White was the club's top scorer with 19 goals. Herbert Chapman ended his final (complete) season with a 3-1 defeat at Bramall Lane against Sheffield United despite a Frank Hill goal. Arsenal had already won the league for the second time in three years. Cliff Bastin's 33 goals made him top scorer for the season. Champions Arsenal went to Carrow Road for a post season friendly on this date in 1935. Ray Parkin got the only goal of the match in Arsenal's 0-1 win. Arsenal players George Male, Eddie Hapgood, Cliff Bastin, Jack Crayston, Ray Bowden and Wilf Copping were all in the England eleven that played Austria today in 1936 at the Prater Stadion, Vienna. Hapgood captained the side that was managed by Tom Whittaker but lost the match 1-2. In 1939 today it was the last match in an Arsenal shirt for Eddie Hapgood. The Gunners beat Brentford 2-0 in the match at Highbury courtesy of Ted Drake and Alf Kirchen's goals. Arsenal had finished 5th and Drake's goal added to his top scorer's tally for the season of 16 goals. The action was filmed and used in the movie 'The Arsenal Stadium Mystery'. Captain and left back Hapgood retired after playing 440 times for the club. He had been with Arsenal since 1927 when he signed from Kettering Town for £950. Four other players took their final bow after this match. Midfielder Jack Crayston also retired after 187 performances in Arsenal colours, another retiree was right winger Alf Kirchen who had signed off with his 45th goal in his 101st match. It was the last of two matches for goalkeeper George Marks who was sold to Blackburn Rovers in 1946 after the war and centre forward Andrew Farr also played his second and final first team match before moving on to Aidrieonians in 1940. In the Football League South today in 1944 Brentford were at White Hart Lane to play Arsenal. Ted Drake scored and Reg Lewis bagged two in a 3-1 win for Arsenal. In 1948 on this date the Gunners continued to enjoy the sunshine in Portgual where they were beaten 3-2 by Oporto in a friendly. On the final day of the season today in 1950 Arsenal enjoyed themselves with a 2-5 win over Stoke City at the Victoria Ground. Reg Lewis and Ian McPherson both scored and Doug Lishman got a hat trick. The Gunners finished in 6th place with Lewis getting top honours for goals scored with 24. Today in 1954 Arsenal played their second friendly in Switzerland. The day before they had beaten by Grasshoppers today they faced Young Boys. Cliff Holton opened Arsenal's account but no one could add to it and the Swiss side won the match 3-1. Today in 1955 Highbury was in use again for a Representative match between England and Young England. The senior side won the match 5-0. The same two sides met at Highbury again today in 1960 when England beat Young England 2-1. Arsenal were at Old Trafford on this date in 1963. Goals from Joe Baker, Alan Skirton and Geoff Strong managed a hard fought 2-3 win over Manchester United. George Eastham was at Wembley Stadium today in 1964 as he played for England in an international friendly with Uruguay. 55,000 watched a 2-0 England win over the South American side. Stoke City were at Highbury today in 1967 but left empty handed after Arsenal beat the Potters 3-1. Frank McLintock and John Radford scored for the Gunners and Stoke put through their own net. Ray Kennedy joined Arsenal on this day in 1968 as an apprentice. Before leaving in 1974 he had notched up 212 appearances and scored 71 goals for the Gunners. In 1972 this was the date that Arsenal as FA Cup holders lost 0-1 in the Centenary Final to Leeds United at Wembley Stadium. Arsenal travelled for a post season friendly today in 1974 with Kettering Town. John Radford, Brian Hornsby and Charlie George all scored in a 0-3 win. It was the first time that Arsenal would play apprentice John Matthews who would make his official debut in the opening match of the new season. In 1978 today Arsenal were back at Wembley. Unfortunately they lost another FA Cup final, this time to Ipswich Town in a 0-1 defeat. At Highbury today in 1985 it was Arsenal versus Southampton and Graham Rix scored the only goal of the match for the 1-0 win. The Gunners nicked another 0-1 win today in 1989 at Ayresome Park. Martin Hayes got the goal for the victory over Middlesbrough. In 1990 today it was not a good day for Tony Adams as after crashing his car he was found to have four times the legal limit of alcohol in his bloodstream. It was a 1-3 win over Manchester United at Highbury today in 1991 thanks to a Smudger Smith hat trick. Before the match Arsenal had the pleasure of the northerners forming a guard of honour to welcome the Gunners onto the pitch as champions. Smith finished top scorer for the club and top scorer in the league for the season with 27 goals. It was the second time they had won the title under George Graham, with just one defeat all season. Into the Premiership era and it was defeat at Hillsborough on this date in 1993. The Gunners failed to score and lost 1-0 to Sheffield Wednesday. Arsene Wenger gave two players their debuts in the match. 20 year old right back Scott Marshall (picture middle right) played for the senior side for the first of his 26 times and Gavin McGowan made the first of his 7 appearances ater graduating from the academy. It was this date in 1998 that Arsenal suffered what should have been a crushing 4-0 defeat to Liverpool at Anfield but they were still celebrating after securing Arsene Wenger's first Premiership title the match before at Goodison Park. Theirry Henry got both the goals today when Arsenal played Chelsea at Highbury today in 2000. It ended in a 2-1 Gunners win over the Pensioners. Before the match Thierry Henry was presented with the Player of the Month Award for April. Finally, it was Chelsea again when Arsenal next played on this date when Arsenal got a 1-1 draw at the Emirates in 2007 thanks to a 43rd minute Gilberto Silva penalty.

[arsenalhistory]

May 5th In Arsenals History

On this day in 1907 Woolwich Arsenal were in Luxembourg to play a friendly against Racing Club Brussels. Billy Garbutt and Peter Kyle got the goals in a 1-2 victory. Garbutt left the club on this date in 1908. He had joined from Reading in 1905 and played on Woolwich Arsenal's right wing 65 times, scoring 14 goals. He played his last match in January against Hull City then today departed for Blackburn Rovers. In the London Combination League on this day in 1917 Arsenal travelled to Fratton Park where they played out a 0-0 draw with Portsmouth. In 1928 on this day Arsenal were at Goodison Park to face Everton. Arsenal needed an element of good fortune to earn a 3-3 draw. James Shaw scored two goals in his last match for the club but it needed a Toffees own goal to earn the point. Arsenal finished 10th in Herbert Chapman's third season as manager. Midfielder Shaw didn't get many first team chances after signing from Frickley Athletic for £100 in 1926. Infact this was only his 11th appearance and in those matches he scored 4 goals. He stayed with the reserves until 1930 when he left to join Brentford. The Gunners' captain and striker Charlie Buchan also played his last game for the club as he retired at the end of the season. The local born Plumstead boy joined Woolwich Arsenal from Sunderland in 1909 and played 120 matches and scored 56 goals. In another post season friendly with Herbert Chapman's first managerial club Northampton Town, Arsenal went to the Sixfields Stadium and put seven goals past them without reply. Joe Hulme, David Jack, Jack Lambert got goals and Cliff Bastin scored a hat trick for the league champions. 1931 today saw Arsenal beat the shitty Middlesex club 2-1 to lift the London Challenge Cup. Despite the death of the great Herbert Chapman, Arsenal went on to win the league in 1934 on this date with a 2-0 win at Highbury over Sheffield United. It was David Jack's last game in an Arsenal shirt. He was signed by Chapman in 1928 from his hometown club Bolton Wanderers for £10,890. He scored 124 goals in 208 matches for Arsenal and made himself somewhat a local hero in the process before he retired after this match. 1945 saw the last match for Arsenal's Ted Drake whose career was cut short by World War II in which nine Arsenal players lost their lives (the highest losses of any top flight club). Arsenal were at the Boleyn Ground where they drew 1-1 with West Ham United thanks to that man Drake's goal. The incomparable centre forward scored 139 in 184 matches, including scoring all seven in one match against Aston Villa in 1935. He had signed from his hometown club Southampton in 1934 for £6,500 and finished his career at Arsenal as he retired after this game. Renewing old local rivalries in a friendly today in 1951 against Millwall, Arsenal were beaten 2-0 at the Den. The Gunners were in Switzerland on this date in 1954 where they played a friendly against Grasshoppers. In a 2-3 win for Arsenal the goals came from Dave Bowen, Jimmy Logie and Doug Lishman. Left back Lionel Smith had already played his last official match back in March but made one final appearance in this friendly before moving on a free transfer to Watford. More European friendly action on this day in 1957. Arsenal were in Germany where goals from Cliff Holton and Jimmy Bloomfield made it a 0-2 Gunners win over Eintracht Frankfurt. In 1961 on this date Arsenal carried on the tradition of friendlies against Racing Club de Paris. Johnny Petts and Alan Skirton both scored while Jackie Henderson got two in a 1-4 victory in France. In the last of three matches in Italy today in 1965 Alan Skirton's goal forced a 1-1 draw for Arsenal with Brescia. One player who hadn't been available for selection was George Eastham who was at Wembley with England playing in an international friendly against Hungary. England won the match 1-0. Highbury's lowest ever league attendance of 4,554 saw Arsenal lose 0-3 to Leeds United on this day in 1966 in the penultimate match of the Division 1 season. The attendance reflected Arsenal's performances as they finished a poor 14th in the league. This was right back Roy Pack's one and only first team appearance. He joined as an apprentice in 1962 and after this season he left to join Portsmouth. It was the start of a short burst of first team showings for Scottish midfielder Jimmy McGill. He had joined from Possil Park in 1965 and made 12 appearances before eventually moving on to Huddersfield Town in 1966. Arsenal were on the coast for a post season friendly today in 1970 against non-league Folkestone. Ray Kennedy hit the net twice and goals from Pat Rice and George Graham made it a 0-4 win for the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup holders. On this date in 1979 the Gunners were at St Andrews where neither they or Birmingham City could find the net in a disappointing 0-0 draw. One more match to play and Arsenal would end up seventh in the table but winning the FA Cup would be a huge consolation to club and fans alike. It was another 0-0 draw today in 1980 when Nottingham Forest and Arsenal were devoid of the scoring touch at Highbury. Also today in 1980 in Dimona, Israel one time loanee midfielder Yossi Benayoun was born. The Chelsea player made 25 appearances in his one season and scored 6 goals for the club before returning to his parent club in the summer. In Islington, London today in 1982 former academy striker Jay Bothroyd was born. He was on Arsenal books as a schoolboy and signed officially in 1998. He never made it as far as the first team though and after a bust up with Don Howe over being substituted in the FA Youth Cup final in 2000, which resulted in strong words and the youngster throwing his shirt at youth coach Howe, he was sold to Coventry City for £1m. His career subsequently took him to Perugia in Italy, Charlton Athletic, Wolverhampton Wanderers, Cardiff City, Queens Park Rangers, the Thai Premier League and currently the J1 League team Júbilo Iwata in Japan. At the Hawthorns today in 1984 Paul Mariner, Stewart Robson and Brian Talbot all scored for a 1-3 win over West Bromwich Albion. It was the last match of the season today in 1986 and Arsenal were at the (other) Manor Ground. The Gunners failed to score and were beaten 3-0 by hosts Oxford United. Arsenal finished 7th in the league with Charlie Nicholas the top scorer for the season with 18 goals. Caretaker manager Steve Burtenshaw would be in charge for the last time as he handed the reins over to George Graham. It was a final match in his first stay at Arsenal for young centre back Martin Keown but as we know he would be back. For centre forward Tony Woodcock it really would be his final appearance in an Arsenal shirt. The England international scored 68 goals in his 169 matches for the club before being sold to FC Cologne for £200,000 in the summer. In 1990 this was once again the final match of the league season. The Gunners were at Carrow Road where two Alan Smith goals earned Arsenal a 2-2 draw. Smith was top scorer with 13 as Arsenal finished in 4th spot. David O'Leary's appearance broke George Armstrong's record of 500 league appearances. Martin Hayes played his last game for the club. After joining the academy in 1981 midfielder Hayes made 132 appearances scoring 34 goals before being sold to Glasgow Celtic for £650,000. Despite a brief return later it was also a final match for keeper John Lukic as he went back and forth between Leeds United and Arsenal. Arsenal travelled to the sunshine for a post season friendly today in 1992 and took on APOEL Nicosia in Greece. Alan Smith scored to make it an amicable 1-1 draw. Into the Premiership era and today in 1996 Bolton Wanderers (already relegated) visited Highbury but went home pointless after Arsenal nicked the three points with a 2-1 victory. David Platt and Dennis Bergkamp got the goals. It was the final match of the season and Arsenal had needed the victory to secure European competition the following season. A trip to White Hart Lane in the Premiership in 1999 proved fruitful with a 1-3 win over the shitty Middlesex club with goals from Emmanuel Petit, Nicolas Anelka and Nwankwo Kanu. The title was looking a possibility but the Gunners would falter in the next match. Always lovely to watch a win against the scum. Two years later in 2001 David O'Leary's Leeds United went home empty handed from Islington after losing 2-1 to the Gunners thanks to goals from Freddie Ljungberg after 17 minutes and Sylvain Wiltord on the 57 minute mark. On this date in 2009 a Robin van Persie penalty in the 76th minute of the Champions League semi-final second leg against Manchester United was Arsenal's only goal. United had a 1-0 lead from the first leg and Arsenal went on to lose this match 1-3 and go out 4-1 on aggregate. Finally, Norwich City made the trip to the Emirates Stadium today in 2012 and left with a point after fighting out a 3-3 draw. Arsenal earned their point in the final home match of the season with goals from Yossi Benayoun (2) and Robin van Persie 72, 80.

[arsenalhistory]

May 4th In Arsenal's History

On this day in 1918 Arsenal took on Brentford in the last of four matches that they played in aid of the National War Fund. It ended in a 1-1 draw at Griffin Park with Frank Bradshaw getting the Arsenal goal. In a friendly today in 1921 Arsenal travelled to the home of Wigan Borough. A James Hopkins goal wasn't enough to avoid avoid defeat though as Wigan won the match 2-1. In the penultimate match of the Division 1 season today in 1927 the Gunners were at Gigg Lane to face Bury. Joe Hulme scored twice but Bury refused to be beaten and got a 3-2 victory. Goalkeeper John Moody made a debutante start in the match between the sticks for Arsenal. He signed as an amateur in 1925 and played a total of 6 senior matches in his Highbury career before leaving to join Bradford Park Avenue in 1928. The season ended today in 1929 with Arsenal's trip to Turf Moor. Jimmy Brain scored and David Jack struck twice in a 3-3 draw between Burnley and Arsenal. Jack was top scorer for the season with 26 as the Gunners finished 9th in the league. Goalkeeper Bill Paterson played for the last time in this his only season at the club. He had signed from Dundee for £300 and played 15 matches in the campaign before being sold to Airdrieonians for £475 in the summer. When we talk about Herbert Chapman's former clubs we generally talk about Leeds City and Huddersfield Town. On this day in 1931 he took his Gunners to Sixfields Stadium to play a friendly against Northampton Town where he was player/manager. Jack Lambert got the only goal in a 0-1 win for his First Division team. In another friendly today in 1932 the Gunners headed to Home Park in the west country to play Plymouth Argyle. Ray Parkin got both the goals to get a 1-2 win over the Pilgrims. In the final match of the season today in 1935 Arsenal went down 0-1 to Derby County in Islington. No matter! Arsenal were champions for the third successive season and four times in 5 years. The three consecutive wins came under three different managers; Chapman, Joe Shaw and this one under George Allison. Ted Drake was top scorer this time around with a creditable 49 goals. Left back Reg Trim made his first appearance for the club but he would only play once more for the first team. On this day in 1936 Arsenal beat Brentford 4-2 to win the London Challenge Cup. Unfortunately I have been unable to trace the goalscorers or team line-up. With White Hart Lane as the temporary wartime home ground Arsenal took on Crystal Palace today in 1940 in the Football League War Cup. A goal from Ted Drake and two from Leslie Compton made it a 3-1 Arsenal victory. It was Football League South today in 1946 as the Gunners played West Ham United. It took goals from Doug Farquhar and Reg Lewis to nick a 2-1 win. Two matches left to play in Division 1 in 1949 and today's was a home fixture against Portsmouth. With Doug Lishman grabbing two goals and Jimmy Logie getting on the scoresheet it finished 3-2 to the Gunners. On this date in 1953 the north London enemies put bickering aside and played in a charity match. Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur met to play for the Lord Mayor of London National Flood Disaster Fund. The match ended with Arsenal defeated 0-2 but money raised for the worthy cause. The final fixture of the league on this day in 1959 was a home match for Arsenal against Birmingham City. Danny Clapton and Vic Groves scored the goals in a 2-1 victory and Arsenal secured 3rd place for the season. Peter Goy played his final Arsenal match between the posts. He only played in one other (against Leeds United in February) before he returned to the reserves and then left in 1960 to join Southend United. It was also a farewell appearance for winger Dave Bowen. He had signed from Northampton Town in 1950 and played in 162 matches scoring twice. The Welsh international returned to Northampton in the summer. The Gunners were in Germany for a friendly today in 1962 against a Berlin City Select XI. John MacLeod and Alan Skirton both scored while Geoff Strong hit a hat trick in a straight forward 0-5 win. While the Gunners were in Germany, Highbury played host to a Representative international match between England and Young England. The senior side showed their superiority, just, in a 3-2 win. Bobby Gould and John Radford were both among the goals today in 1968 as Arsenal beat Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsborough. In a post season friendly on this date in 1969 Arsenal had travelled further north than usual, to Iceland. Bobby Gould and John Radford scored again and Jimmy Robertson added a goal as the Gunners beat Reykyavik 1-3. Although obviously not official debuts this was the first time that Charlie George and Eddie Kelly donned Arsenal shirts. On this day in 1976 Bertie Mee left the club after almost 10 years in charge. He led Arsenal to 3 FA Cup finals and during his tenure the Gunners won the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup and the league and FA Cup double in 1971. At St Andrews today in 1982 it took a Chris Whyte goal for Arsenal to secure a 0-1 win over Birmingham City. Defeat for Arsenal today in 1985 when they faced Luton Town at Kenilworth Road. Charlie Nicholas added a goal to his Arsenal staistics but Luton went on to win the match 3-1. Arsenal's last away game of the season today in 1987 was at Loftus Road. Arsenal got a 1-4 win over Queens Park Rangers courtesy of goals from Graham Rix (2), Martin Hayes and Paul Merson. In 1987 today former Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas was born in Arenys de Mar, Spain. He joined the academy in 2003, played 303 times for the club and became captain. He contributed 57 goals before his contentious (for some) departure for Barcelona in 2011 for €29m. Neither team could score at Roker Park today in 1991 so 0-0 it ended between Sunderland and Arsenal. To see the 'highlights' click here: Into the Premiership era and on this day in 1993 the same 0-0 was the conclusion of the match between Arenal and Queens Park Rangers at Highbury. 1994 saw the Gunners beat Parma 1-0 to win the European Cup Winners Cup in Copenhagen with a 20th minute goal from Alan Smith. This date in 1994 is also the day that former academy prospect Zak Ansah was born in Sidcup, England. The young aspiring centre forward joined the Hale End Academy when he was just ten years old. He progressed to the Under 18's and Under 21's but never got to play for the first team and was released in 2014 and signed with Charlton Athletic. Whilst with Charlton he has had loan spells with Plymouth Argyle and more recently Newport County. Back to the Premier League and the habit on this date of goalless draws continued in 1995 with a 0-0 result at Highbury when Arsenal took on Wimbledon. Despite losing 1-3 today in 2000 the youth side still lifted the FA Youth Cup. In the first leg of the final they had beaten Blackburn Rovers 5-0 so a 6-3 aggregate win was more than enough. Arsenal's starting XI were; Craig Holloway, Alex Bailey, Sebastian Svard, Ryan Garry, Nicky Nicolau, Moritz Volz, Steve Sidwell, Rohan Ricketts, Jerome Thomas, Jermaine Pennant and Jeremie Aliadiere. This date in 2002 Arsenal won the FA Cup by beating Chelsea 2-0 at the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff. Ray Parlour and Freddie Ljungberg got the goals and the Swede became the first player since 1961 to score in two successive cup finals whilst Arsenal won the double for the third time. It was defeat in Islington today in 2003. The dream team of Thierry Henry and Dennis Bergkamp both got goals but Arsenal needed to beat opponents Leeds United to maintain hope of retaining the league title. With the score sitting at 2-2 United's Mark Viduka scored in the 88th minute for Leeds to win 2-3 and killed the hope. Later Arsene Wenger would attack champions Manchester United's expenditure. In the Premiership, Jose Antonio Reyes earned the Gunners a point with his first Premiership goal in a 1-1 draw with Portsmouth in 2004 at Fratton Park. Two matches to play and Arsenal dreamt of going undefeated for the season. In 2006 a Freddie Ljungberg's first Premier League goal of the season and two from Jose Antonio Reyes 78, 84 gave Arsenal a 1-3 win over Manchester City at the City of Manchester Stadium. One fixture left to play but the Gunners weren't going to win the league and ultimately finished 4th beating their north London neighbours to the Champions League spot (again). Everton visited the Emirates today in 2008 but went away empty handed as a 77th minute Nicklas Bendtner goal gave Arsenal the three points in a 1-0 victory. It was a last appearance at the Emirates Stadium for keeper Jens Lehmann before his move to VfB Stuttgart. He came on as a substitute replacing Lukasz Fabianksi to have the fitting chance to take the accolades of the Arsenal faithful. On this date in 2013 a first minute goal from Theo Walcott saw Queens Park Rangers defeated by the same one goal margin as at Loftus Road. It was yet another 'One nil to the Arsenal' today in 2014. Olivier Giroud was the scorer today as the Gunners beat West Bromwich Albion in London. This was the final appearance for defender and captain Thomas Vermaelen. The Belgian international played 150 matches ater signing from Ajax in 2009. He contributed 15 goals in his Arsenal career but after he lost his regular place to the centre back pairing of Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny he was sold to Barcelona in the summer for £15m. Finally, today in 2015 Arsenal had to wait until Monday night to visit the KC Stadium and take on Hull City. Arsenal dominated the first half and with two Alexis Sanchez goals punctuated by one from Aaron Ramsey it was game over by half time. Hull did get one back in the second half but 1-3 it ended and Arsenal went back level with 2nd place Manchester City on points. Chelsea had secured the Premier League title the day before.

[arsenalhistory]

May 3rd in Arsenal's History

On this day in 1872 left back Patrick Farrel was born in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Farrel spent one season with Woolwich Arsenal in 1897/1898 signing from Glasgow Celtic. He played 22 times and scored 3 goals before leaving or Brighton United.

At the Invicta Ground today in 1893 nearing the end of their final non-league season, Royal Arsenal lost to Grimsby Town. Despite two goals by Duncan Gemmell and one from Bernard Shaw it ended 3-5 to the Marriners.

The Manor Ground was the venue today in 1896 when Woolwich Arsenal played a friendly against Scottish side Dundee. Patrick O'Brien scored and Henry Boyd hit a brace for a 3-1 win for the English side.

This date in 1897 saw Woolwich Arsenal play a home fixture with Newton Heath. The Plumstead side failed to score and were defeated 0-2. Gavin Crawford had one reason to celebrate though as he became the first player to play in 100 matches for the club.

It was also on this day in 1898 that Arsenal star David Jack was born in Bolton, England.

It was a further defeat for Woolwich Arsenal today in 1899 when once again they couldn’t score and were beaten 0-1 by Manchester City. It was centre forward David Hannah’s final match before he retired. He played 50 matches and scored 17 times.

Woolwich Arsenal played their second ever home match with Chelsea today in 1909. It was a repeat of the first meeting after it ended 0-0 in front of 30,000 spectators.

In 1914 today the word ‘Woolwich’ was officially dropped from the team name. We became ‘The Arsenal’.

At Ashton Gate today in 1915 it ended 1-1 between Bristol City and Arsenal. Thomas Winship got the goal in his last appearance for the club. The outside left had two spells at the club, the first from 1910 until 1913 when he left and signed for Fulham. He was only there for five months before he re-signed for Woolwich Arsenal and by the time he left to join Darlington later this year he had made a total of 56 appearances and notched up 7 goals.

Fred Pagnam scored at Turf Moor today in 1920 but Arsenal went on to lose 2-1 to Burnley.

John Ollerenshaw was born on this date in 1925 in Stockport, England. He signed for Arsenal from Manchester City in 1946 but never made it into the first team with the Gunners. In 1950 he was released and joined Hartlepool United where he made just two appearances and in 1951 he went to Oldham Athletic.

At Highbury on this date in 1926 the Gunners got a 4-2 win over Blackburn Rovers. Billy Blyth, Alf Baker, Charlie Buchan and Herbert Lawson all got a goal a piece. Tom Parker made his debut today. It was the start of run where he would play 172 consecutive matches. After joining from Southampton for £3,250 he went on to amass 294 appearances and score 17 goals as a right back for the club. He retired as a player in 1933.

A Cliff Bastin goal kept things all square at Fratton Park today in 1931 as Arsenal drew 1-1 with Portsmouth.

Thanks to goals by Robert Davidson and David Nelson goals today in 1937, Arsenal got a 2-0 Highbury win over West Bromwich Albion.

Arsenal had no difficulty today when they travelled to play Southend United in the Footbal League South 'A’ Division in 1940. Goals from Eddie Hapgood, Reg Lewis (2), Leslie Compton and Cliff Bastin made it a convincing 0-5 victory.

In the Football League Cup South today in 1943 Arsenal were at Vicarage Road. Reg Lewis scored to earn the Gunners a 1-1 draw with Watford.

Arsenal said goodbye to a former player on this day in 1946. Former Woolwich Arsenal centre forward Alf Common died aged 65. Born in Sunderland, the England international played 80 times for the club and scored 23 goals between 1910 and 1912.

Blackburn Rovers were in Islington on this date in 1948. Jimmy Logie and Ronnie Rooke got the goals to give Arsenal a 2-0 win.

This date in 1953 saw Arsenal draw 1-1 with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. Peter Goring got the goal to save a point. Arsenal played 8 games in April including 5 straight wins, and won the league.

Cliff Holton’s goal today in 1954 was mere consolation after Arsenal were beaten 3-1 by Bolton Wanderers at Burnden Park.

24,469 spectators at Leeds Road today 1956 saw just one solitary goal. It was the travelling fans that enjoyed it the most as it was scored by Danny Clapton to give Arsenal a 0-1 win over Huddersfield Town.

Two goals each for John Barnwell and Jackie Henderson gave the Gunners a 4-2 Highbury victory over London neighbours Fulham today in 1961.

When George Eastham scored today in 1965 it earned a point for Arsenal in a 1-1 draw with West Bromwich Albion in London.

Remi Garde celebrates his birthday today. He was born in L'Arbresle, France in 1966. Garde joined Arsenal along with Patrick Vieira in 1996. The centre back came from Strasbourg and played in 43 matches (16 as a substitute), being used at either centre back, filling in for Lee Dixon at right back and at times as cover for Vieira or Emmanuel Petit. Constant niggling injury problems saw him retire from football in 1999 and after working as a pundit on French TV he joined his first club Lyon as a coach in 2003. On the 2nd of November 2015 Garde became manager of struggling Aston Villa but any hope of keeping them in the Premier League was soon all too apparently misguided.

Today in 1971 it was the highest attendance of the season at Highbury when 62,087 spectators watched Arsenal beat Chelsea 2-0 with both goals coming from Ray Kennedy. This was League match 33 of the first Double season and start the run of 10 games in one month.

Not a good day today in 1976 as Arsenal were beaten 0-2 on their own turf by the shitty Middlesex club. A day best forgotten.

A Highbury draw today in 1979 when Coventry City were in London and Sammy Nelson’s goal made the final score 1-1. Sammy (picture top right) celebrated his equaliser by dropping his shorts and baring his ass to the fans. The move cost him a two week ban from the F.A. but he seemed to enjoy it. He had been getting grief from certain sections of the crowd after it was his own goal that gave the Sky Blues the lead. He was suspended and fined by the club.

That was the scoreline today in 1982 aswell when Paul Davis hit the back of the net for a 1-1 draw with Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux.

Another former player died on this date. The great Jimmy Bloomfield died today in 1983 in Chingford, England aged just 49. The London born centre forward joined the club from Brentford for £10,000 in 1954. He racked up 227 appearances in his six years at the club and scored 56 goals. He left in 1960 to join Birmingham City.

At Roker Park on this day in 1984 it ended in a 2-2 draw between Sunderland and Arsenal with Charlie Nicholas and Tony Woodcock on target to earn the point for Arsenal.

Arsenal had a convincing 5-0 win against Aston Villa today in 1991. Paul Davis hit the target and Alan Smith and Kevin Campbell both hit the net twice. After Aston Villa keeper Nigel Spink was injured in a clash with Kevin Campbell, David Platt took over in goal as the Villans had no substitute keeper. It would be unfair to blame Platt for the scoreline as it was already 4-0 when he was asked to put on the gloves.

On this date in 1999 the Gunners went to the home of the Saints. 15,255 spectators watched a 0-0 draw between the two sides.

The Gunners were dumped out of the FA Cup at the semi-final stage today in 2004. On neutral territory at Villa Park, Arsenal were unable to score and lost 0-1 to Manchester United.

On this date in 2006 the Arsenal Under-21’s played Norwich City Reserves. The match ended 2-2 with Sebastian Larsson and Fabrice Muamba getting the goals.

On this date in 2008 keeper Manuel Almunia signed an extension to his contract saying “Hopefully, I can end my career here”. We know how that went.

In the Premiership in 2010 Arsenal scraped a narrow 1-0 win against Wolverhampton Wanderers with a 90th minute Nicklas Bendtner goal.

Defeat for the Under 21’s today in 2014 as despite the Ainsley Maitland-Niles goal they went 2-1 down away to Everton.

Finally, on this day in 2015, on loan striker Chuba Akpom made his debut for Nottingham Forest in the Championship. Alongside former Arsenal player Henri Lansbury and up against Benik Afobe it was Afobe who scored for new club Wolverhampton Wanderers. Chuba was on the losing side at the City Ground as the Wolves won the match 1-2.

[arsenalhistory]

May 2nd In Arsenals History

On this day in 1891 Royal Arsenal played their final friendly of the season at the Invicta Ground. In one of their many matches against military teams they beat the 1st Highland Light Infantry 5-1. Two goals each for Croxen and Linton and one for McHardy. In the penultimate match of Division 1 today in 1921 Arsenal drew 0-0 with Liverpool at Highbury. Centre forward Jack Peart (picture top left) played his final match for the club before moving on to Margate. He played 66 matches between 1910 and 1921 in a career interrupted by World War I. He did briefly join Croydon Common in 1914 but rejoined in June 1919 after the war. This date in 1925 saw Arsenal lose the last match of the season away from home against Bury. They failed to score in the match and it finished 2-0. Arsenal finished 20th narrowly avoiding relegation and Leslie Knighton had taken charge of his last match as manager of the club. Midfielder Arthur Roe played in his one and only first team match during his shortest of short stays. He signed the day before this match from Luton Town but his contract was cancelled just nine days later and he was gone. Jimmy Brain got the Arsenal goal that made it 1-1 and earned a point against Sheffield Wednesday at Highbury today in 1928. On this day in 1931 Arsenal beat Bolton Wanderers 5-0 in London. Alex James scored, David Jack got two as did Jack Lambert which made him top scorer for the season with 39. Arsenal were champions for the first time in their history and they did it with a record breaking 66 points and had only four defeats during the campaign. The final match of the season on this day in 1936 ended in a 2-2 draw at Highbury with Leeds United. Cliff Bastin and Alf Kirchen got the goals. It was the second and final match for midfielder Ernie Tuckett before he left to join Bradford City. After winning the title for the previous three years running Arsenal finished a disappointing 6th and had to settle for winning the FA Cup. In a friendly today in 1938 Arsenal were at the Dell. Gordon Bremner hit a brace and George Drury's goal meant it ended 2-3 against Southampton. In the London War Cup today in 1942 Arsenal travelled the short distance to Griffin Park to play Brentford. It ended in a 0-0 draw between the Bees and the Gunners. On this date in 1951 Don Roper got the only goal of the match at Bloomfield Road today giving Arsenal the 0-1 win over Blackpool in the final match of the season. Arsenal finished in 5th position in the league. Midfielder Jimmy Harvey was born today in 1958 in Lurgan, Northern Ireland. He joined Arsenal from Glenavon in 1977. He only made 4 senior appearances at the club before he was released 1980 and joined Hereford United. On the same day in Stoke Newington, London another future Arsenal player was born. This one would go past the four appearances for the club and become club's record appearance maker. David O'Leary joined as an apprentice in 1973 and by the time he finished his Arsenal career he had notched up 722 matches and 14 goals. After 20 years he left the club on a free transfer and signed for Leeds United in 1993. Arsenal played their second match of a tour in Italy today in 1961. Tommy Baldwin and George Armstrong both scored at the Stadio Olimpico for a 0-2 win over Lazio. Another Arsenal legend was born on this date. David 'Rocky' Rocastle was born in Lewisham, London in 1967. He joined Arsenal's academy in 1982 and played 277 times for the club scoring 34 goals. When he inally left as fans' favourite in 1992 he signed for Leeds United for £2m. No longer here to celebrate his birthday after his untimely death in 2001 the Arsenal supporters keep his memory alive year after year. Today in 1970 Arsenal couldn't score down the road at the home of the enemy and lost 1-0 to the shitty Middlesex club in the final match of the season. Arsenal finished a lowly 12th that season but that disappointment would be slightly eased by winning the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup. The Gunners enjoyed a win on the final day of the season today in 1981. Brian McDermott and Willie Young got the goals that beat this season's champions Aston Villa 2-0 at Highbury. Arsenal finished in 3rd position which was the highest finish achieved under manager Terry Neill. Frank Stapleton was the season's top scorer at the club with 16 goals. Manchester United were in Islington today in 1983 and were comfortably beaten 3-0 by Arsenal. Birthday boy David O'Leary scored and Brian Talbot got the other two goals. Martin Hayes got both the goals today in 1987 as Arsenal beat Aston Villa 2-1 at Highbury. In 1988 Arsenal could draw at home. Brian Marwood scored for Gunners in a 1-1 finish with visitors Coventry City. Yet another home match on this date and in 1989 it ended 2-0 against Luton Town. Perry Groves and Alan Smith got the goals for the three points. In another 2-0 home win today in 1990 Lee Dixon was on target and David Rocastle got a goal on his birthday to beat Southampton. Midfielder Kevin Richardson played the last of his 122 matches for the club in which he scored 8 times. He signed from Watford for £200,000 in 1987 and when he left in 1990 he went to Spain where Real Sociedad signed him for £750,000. Centre forward Brian Marwood was also playing for the last time. He spent two seasons at the club after signing from Sheffield Wednesday in 1988 for £800,000. He played 66 matches hitting the net 17 times before moving on to Sheffield United this summer for £350,000. Today in 1992 was the final match of the season and the final match ever in the First Division. The new season would be in the Premiership but in the final Division 1 match Arsenal went out on a high at Highbury. Kevin Campbell scored, Alan smith was on target again and Ian Wright got a hat trick to beat Southampton 5-1. David Rocastle gets his third mention today as this was his final match for Arsenal before his move to Leeds United. Ian Wright beat Gary Lineker to be top scorer in the league with 29. Having built up the event prior to the match the BBC sports programme then drop the topic. This was a sad day too for many supporters of a certain age as this was the last match in front of the old North Bank. A hardy group stayed on the North Bank after the match chanting “We’re here to save the North Bank,” but stewards left them alone until they slowly drifted away. So a legendary “end” died. Into the Premier League era and a Nicolas Anelka goal today in 1999 was enough for a 1-0 win over opponents Derby County. Yet another home match, yet another Highbury win on this date. West Ham United were beaten 2-1 by Arsenal today in 2000 thanks goals from Marc Overmars and Emmanuel Petit. Not Highbury on this date in 2005! Arsenal were at the Hawthorns where Robin van Persie and Edu got the goals that made it a 1-2 win over West Bromwich Albion. Finally, at Fratton Park today in 2009 Arsenal scored three goals for the fifth away match in succession. Two for Nicklas Bendtner and one for Carlos Vela made it a 0-3 victory over Portsmouth.

[arsenalhistory]

MAY 1ST IN ARSENAL HISTORY

On this day in 1902 two players joined the ranks of Woolwich Arsenal. Midfielder Roddy McEachrane  signed from Thames Ironworks (now West Ham United). He stayed for 13 years and played in 346 senior matches. Thames Ironworks and Woolwich Arsenal were his only two clubs as he retired from playing in 1915. Tim Coleman joined from Northampton Town. The centre forward scored 84 goals in 196 matches before being sold to Everton in 1908 for £700.

Before the First World War the season was always over in April so the first time Arsenal played on this date was today in 1920. It was the final match of the Division 1 season and Arsenal welcomed Bradford Park Avenue to Highbury. In a 3-0 Gunners' win it was Frank Bradshaw, Fred Pagnam and Fred Groves that got the goals as the Gunners finished 10th in the league. An unusual day to make a debut on the final day of the season but this match was a first appearance for full back George Pattison. He was still an amateur when he played in this match and signed his professional papers in August. Pattison only played 10 matches in total in his two seasons and was sold to West Ham United for £100 in May 1922. For right winger David Greenaway it was a final appearance before leaving on a free. Greenaway joined from Shettleston in 1908 and played 170 matches scoring 13 goals.

On the last day of the 1925/1926 and Herbert Chapman's first season in charge, Arsenal were at home to Birmingham. Jimmy Brain scored twice and Tom Parker got on the score sheet in a 3-0 victory. After narrowly avoiding relegation the previous season Arsenal finished 2nd in the league behind Huddersfield Town. It was thus far their highest finish in the top flight. Outside right Herbert Lawson put on the Arsenal shirt for the last time. He only played 16 times in his three seasons and scored two goals. He left the club in March 1927 to join Brentford.

The final match of the season today in 1937 saw Arsenal meet Bolton Wanderers at Highbury. 22,875 fans watched a 0-0 draw as Arsenal finished 3rd behind Charlton Athletic in 2nd and champions Manchester City. Captain and midfielder Alex James  played this last match and subsequently retired. Signed by Herbert Chapman from Preston North End for £8,750 in 1929, James played 261 times for the club scoring 27 goals in the process. He was one of the finest players to grace a football pitch and arguably the Dennis Bergkamp of his day. Alex James was a star of his time and a pivotal figure in Arsenal's domination of the 1930's. He was inducted into the English Football Hall of Fame in 2005 in recognition of his contribution to the English game.

At Wembley Stadium today in 1943 Arsenal took on Charlton Athletic in the Football League Cup South final. 75,000 spectators watched the Gunners destroy their opposition. Denis Compton scored, Ted Drake struck twice and Reg Lewis banged in four goal for a 1-7 demolition of Charlton and Arsenal lifted the trophy.

On the final day of the season on this date in 1948 Grimsby Town were in Islington. Denis Compton got to goals today, Alex Forbes and Jimmy Logie both scored and for good measure Ronnie Rooke put four past the Marriners' keeper for a rousing 8-0 victory as Arsenal celebrated winning the league by seven points in Tom Whittaker's first season in charge. Not a bad way to make your debut. Left back Lionel Smith got his first taste of playing the first team today. It was something he would go on to do 181 times before moving on to Watford in 1954.

The Gunners were at Hendon for a friendly today in 1950. Hendon scored and own goal and Doug Lishman was on target in a 1-2 win for Arsenal.

Lishman was on target again today in 1953 in the last match of the season. His goal was added to by Alex Forbes and Jimmy Logie in a 3-2 win over Burnley at Highbury. With Arsenal and Preston North End topping the league on 54 points each the champions would be decided on goal average. Preston's average was 1.417. Arsenal's was 1.516 and so the Division 1 trophy would come to Highbury for the seventh time. The match was a final bow at Arsenal for centre back Ray Daniel. He ended one short of his century on 99 matches played and scored 5 goals for the club and was sold to Sunderland for £27,500.

Highbury was the venue today in 1959 for a Representative match between England and Young England. The youth side were beaten 2-1 by the seniors.

The Gunners were at the Galgenwaard ground in the Netherlands on this date in 1961 for a post season friendly against DOS Utrecht (now merged as part of FC Utrecht). Arfon Griffiths and John Barnwell both scored for Arsenal in a 2-2 draw.

Final day of the season again and this day in 1962 saw Arsenal beaten 2-3 at Highbury by Everton and Arsenal finished in 10th place. George Armstrong got one of the Arsenal goals and the other was scored by Arfon Griffiths who was playing his last match for the club. Midfielder Griffiths signed from Wrexham in 1961 for £15,500. He played in 15 matches and scored twice before rejoining Wrexham in September for £8,000. For a few players it was a last hurrah at Arsenal. Right winger Danny Clapton played for the last time. He played 225 times and scored 27 times. He and his brother Dennis are the last brothers to have played for the club at the smae time. Johnny Petts had joined as a trainee in 1954 but with National Service interrupting his career he only played 32 times in Arsenal's midfield before signing for Reading in October for £5,000. This was also a farewell to adoring fans from legend Jack Kelsey (picture bottom left). Kelsey was between the post for this his only club, 352 times. He is still to date the only goalkeeper to represent Wales in a World Cup finals tournament. He dislodged two vertebrae playing for Wales and had to retire from football. He became Commercial Manager at Arsenal until he retired in 1989 and sadly died iin March 1992. It was also the final match in charge for manager George Swindin who resigned shortly after and was then replaced by Billy Wright.

Arsenal were at Hillsborough for the concluding match of the season today in 1969. The Gunners put five past Sheffield Wednesday thanks to Bobby Gould and Jon Sammels' goals and a hat trick from John Radford. The 0-5 win meant that Arsenal finished 4th in the league and qualified for the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup along with Liverpool, Southampton and Newcastle United.

Eddie Kelly got the Highbury goal today in 1971 that gave Arsenal the 1-0 win over Stoke City in the penultimate match of the season. The Gunners would finish the season at the home of the noisy neighbours. The result today left Arsenal one point behind with one game in hand and a goal average 0.01 goals better than Leeds United. A 0-0 draw in the final match would win the League, but not a scoring draw.

At Highfield Road today in 1972 Arsenal beat hosts Coventry City 0-1 thanks to a Frank McLintock goal.

Centre back Scott Marshall celebrates his birthday today. He was born in Edinburgh, Scotland in 1973. He joined Arsenal as a schoolboy in 1988 but didn't sign his professional papers until 1991. He made his first team debut in 1993 and all in all he played 26 times scoring once. He was named club's Young Player of the Year in 1996 but with no chance of dislodging Tony Adams or Martin Keown the Scotsman left on a free transfer to Southampton in 1998.

This date in 1980 saw Arsenal and Liverpool meet for the fourth time to find a winner in the FA Cup semi-final. This third replay was at Highfield Road and finally the deadlock was broken. Brian Talbot scored the only goal to make it a 1-0 Arsenal victory and the Gunners would play West Ham United in the final at Wembley.

Another former Arsenal player celebrates today. Aliaksandr Paulavich Hleb was born in Minsk, Belarus on this date in 1981. He was signed by Arsene Wenger from VfB Stuttgart in August 2005 and immediately was on show in the Community Shield season opener. The midfielder played 130 matches for Arsenal and scored 11 times. He left at the end of the 2007/2008 season and signed for Barcelona.

West Ham were the opponents today in 1982. Graham Rix and Alan Sunderland both scored for a 2-0 Gunners' win over the Hammers.

No problems for Arsenal on this date in 1989. Norwich City were brushed aside 5-0 in Islington and the Gunners took the points. David Rocastle, Alan Smith (2), Michael Thomas and Nigel Winterburn getting the goals.

Into the Premiership era and 19,044 spectators watched Arsenal and Everton play out a 0-0 draw at Goodison Park today in 1993.

More of the same on this day in 1996 when neither team could score at Highbury and it ended 0-0 between Arsenal and Liverpool.

On this day in 2001 Arsene Wenger signed 19 year old Brazilian left back Juan Maldonado Jaimez Junior. Juan only appeared twice for the first team, once in the League Cup and once in the FA Cup. He played well in the reserves but with Ashley Cole and Gael Clichy ahead of him in the pecking order he went for a brief loan spell with Millwall before returning to Brazil, joining Fluminense in 2004.

Yet another Premier League 0-0 draw today when Arsenal took on Birmingham City at Highbury in 2004. It was the 35th league game of the unbeaten season. With the title already won but four games to go the nerves on making it unbeaten all season started to show.

At the Stadium of Light today in 2006 Arsenal beat Sunderland 0-3. Sunderland put through their own net from a Thierry Henry free kick on 29 minutes. Cesc Fabregas chipped a goal in the 40th minute and only 3 minutes later Thierry Henry planted a free kick in the net. The only dark side to the day was an horrendous two footed challenge by Smith of Sunderland potentially ended Abou Diaby's career in the dying minutes of the match.

On this date in 2008 Danny Fiszman was seen to be instrumental in the sacking of Managing Director Keith Edelman. Edelman's legacy will be Arsenal's move from Highbury to the impressive 60,000-seat Emirates Stadium as it was he that primarily was responsible for overseeing the project.

This date in 2009 saw Stan Kroenke become largest shareholder in Arsenal with 28.3% of the stock.

Finally, on this day in 2011 Aaron Ramsey was the hero of the day at the Emirates as it was his goal that gave Arsenal the 1-0 victory over Manchester United.