ARSENAL’S red-card run has me worried — but not for why you might think.

If the likes of Declan Rice, Leandro Trossard and William Saliba had been sent off for violent conduct, aggressive behaviour or arguing with refs, I could understand.

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These things happen, move on.

But in Arsenal’s case, none of them were for tackles. They were simply for petulant, lazy and stupid actions — things that manager Mikel Arteta cannot account for.

In all fairness, Rice’s red against Brighton for kicking the ball away was mental. The ref handled that badly.

But Trossard’s against Manchester City was incredibly petulant.

And with Saliba’s at Bournemouth, he has got credit for reacting to a poor pass — ironically from Trossard — but I would have backed him to get back and for David Raya to save it.

It is something that keeps happening.

My other concern is the Arsenal players are starting to feel there is an agenda against them from the Prem refs — which there is NOT.

I have seen it in dressing rooms — you can find an excuse if you are looking for it. As players, it is never our fault.

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And if you are hearing it on social media and begin talking about it then it will seep in.

I am also worried that when these red cards have been given, I haven’t seen or heard of anyone screaming or shouting, pointing fingers.  That’s maybe a sign of the times.

I was sent off five times in my professional career and every time in the dressing room after the games, I’ve got hammered for letting the team down.

I have experienced all of the emotions. Sometimes you feel hard-done-by and there is an element of smashing the dressing room up because you are angry, and sometimes I felt like a kid again getting told off by my parents — there is so much shame.

I don’t sense that has happened at Arsenal; more: “Unlucky, mate. Better luck next time.”

Arsenal players are starting to feel there is an agenda against them from the Prem refs — which there is NOT.

Troy Deeney

You need accountability, you need players to show their frustration.
When Saliba was sent off and the team then lost 2-0, I would expect someone to at least ask: “Why did you do that?”

You are supposed to have conflict. You are allowed to hold people to a high standard.

Arsenal have obviously been doing that to get to the position they are at, challenging for the title.

But in these situations, if they are going into games without their best players — especially an avoidable one in Saliba — then that should rightly boil over behind the scenes.

And do not underestimate the toll it takes on you playing with ten men on several occasions in quick succession.

It is almost impossible physically to pull it off just once, let alone three times, as well as the psychological damage of not having the ball.

When that is the case, it becomes a long, hard slog.

You can still see what that draw at Man City did to them — it is still in their legs, in their heads.

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Drawing 2-2 so late on. You’ve played for so long with ten men, defended so well, contained them, and then someone scores and the whole emotion leaves your body.

City now have an effect on Arsenal whereby if they are not six or seven points ahead going into the last ten games of a season, they know they will be caught.

At the start of this campaign, they put a lot of pressure on themselves — maybe too much.

Bukayo Saka came out and said: “This is our year, we can do it.” I liked it.

I don’t see Arsenal getting a result but, for their sakes, I hope they do.

Troy Deeney

But with great expectation comes great responsibility and I don’t remember a game this season where they have looked like the Arsenal of the previous two years.

They have looked clunky and looked like they are forcing things.

And they are now in a position already this season where they have to go out and attack and win games, like against Liverpool on Sunday.

I don’t see Arsenal getting a result but, for their sakes, I hope they do. And as a neutral fan, I don’t want them to be done. Seven points adrift is huge.

So Arsenal have to deliver. And I am beginning to think of the question: When is Arteta under pressure?

Maybe if they drift away from the title race by Christmas?

It is a harsh question given what he has done for the club but you have to deliver at some point.

Arsenal ratings vs Shakhtar: Jesus reminds fans of his quality but Trossard flops for poor Gunners

ARSENAL continued their unbeaten run in the Champions League with a 1-0 win over Shakhtar Donetsk – but it was far from a convincing performance.

Gabriel Martinelli orchestrated the decisive goal when his low-driven strike hit the post and deflected in off the back of goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk.

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Here’s how SunSport’s Tony Robertson rated the Gunners…

DAVID RAYA – 7

Seldom asked to do much aside from recycle the ball to Gabriel or Saliba until the final stages

Pushed a potentially dangerous cross out of danger in the 84th minute. Pulled out a magnificent low save in injury time before claiming a dangerous cross to keep his clean sheet.

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BEN WHITE – 6

Back in at right-back today and played as if he had never been out of the team. 

Received a yellow card in the 34th minute. Subbed at half-time for Mikel Merino.

WILLIAM SALIBA – 7

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In the team after his red card against Bournemouth, played like his typically assured self marshalling the defence.

One or two sloppy passes late in the second half but otherwise can have no complaints with another solid performance.

GABRIEL MAGALHAES – 5

Sloppily gave the ball away to hand the visitors a dangerous chance out of nothing. Had another lapse just after the opener but in the end he was bailed out by Calafiori.

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Marked improvement in the second half.

RICCARDO CALAFIORI – 6

Skied a golden chance over the bar after six minutes. Tested the goalkeeper again after 24 minutes.

Dragged his foot and went down injured after skipping under a tackle in the 67th minute. Replaced by Myles Lewis-Skelly in 71st minute.

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THOMAS PARTEY – 6

Comfortable evening in midfield for him. Recycled the ball well when at his feet and kept play ticking over.

Moved to right back as White was hooked but didn’t have too many worries. When he was caught out of position Rice was able to cover.

DECLAN RICE – 6

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Like Partey, he had a quiet night in midfield with Shakhtar unable to retain meaningful possession.

Moved into the six as White was hooked and Partey moved to right-back. Cut out a dangerous low cross at the edge of the area. 

LEANDRO TROSSARD – 4

Nothing quite went right for him all night with some sloppy touches ending attacks and putting Arsenal in trouble.

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Summed up his night by missing a 77th minute penalty and was hooked in the 88th minute.

GABRIEL JESUS – 8

Wore the captain’s armband and looked bright down the right wing.

Denied a well-deserved goal by the feet of the keeper in the 43rd minute after Havertz played him in.

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Second half saw more good link play, but never had another chance to end his goal drought as he was replaced by Sterling in the 68th minute.

GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 7

Grew into the game following a quiet start and was rewarded with a goal, of sorts, after 30 minutes.

Brazilian cut inside from the left wing before firing a shot to the near post before the shot rebounded off the woodwork and hit the goalkeeper Dmytro Riznyk to go in the net. 

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KAI HAVERTZ – 7

Centimeters away from getting Arsenal’s second in the 39th minute after Jesus squared a volley back across goal.

Returned the favour to set up his team-mate moments later only for the goalkeeper to prevent a goal.

Won a free-kick at the very end of the game to run the clock down.

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SUBS

Mikel Merino (on for White HT) – 6

Some nice touches and stitched play together well. A solid yet unspectacular performance.

Raheem Sterling (on for Jesus 68 mins) – 6

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Tried to play on the shoulder of the last man but did not have the pace find the clear cut chance he would have liked.

Myles Lewis-Skelly (on for Calafiori 71 mins) – 6

Slotted in at left-back and was not afraid to show for the ball but often did not receive it while tucking infield.

Jorginho (on for Trossard 88 mins) – N/A

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Focus in the build-up to the match this week was on Wiegman’s team selection, with several regular starters struggling for domestic form.

Williamson, who lifted the European trophy two years ago, kept her place despite calls for Manchester City centre-back Alex Greenwood to come in.

She struggled before being taken off in a planned substitution in the second half, while in-form United midfielder Grace Clinton did not get on the pitch.

Goalkeeper Hampton fought off competition from Mary Earps for her place – but it is not secure after a mixed performance.

Wiegman was pressed on her team selection but said she had no regrets and was “happy” with the starting XI she chose.

“That’s always easy to say after a game. If we had won then the question is different. I’m happy with the starting line-up and the team,” she said.

“What we wanted is to see other players, which we did, and we know there is huge competition going on. That is good for the team.”

Tottenham’s Jess Naz, Manchester City’s Jess Park and United captain Maya Le Tissier were among those to come on as substitutes, while Greenwood replaced Williamson an hour in.

But it was the same starting XI that drew 0-0 with Sweden in July, and seven of the 11 players had lined up to face Germany in the Euro 2022 final.

This was the first of four friendly matches in 2024, giving Wiegman plenty of opportunity to experiment with her team selection.

She may still do that with South Africa to come on Tuesday, but this felt very much like the tried and tested – and it ultimately failed to impress.

All in all, England will leave Wembley Stadium with more questions than answers.

Shara Magomedov and Armen Petrosyan meet Saturday on the main card of UFC 308 at Etihad Arena in Las Vegas. Check out this quick breakdown of the matchup from MMA Junkie analyst Dan Tom. 

Last event: 2-4
UFC main cards, 2024: 89-81-3

Shara Magomedov vs. Armen Petrosyan UFC 308 preview

Off to a 3-0 start in his UFC tenure, Magomedov (14-0 MMA, 3-0 UFC) is yet to taste defeat in his career. A win here would give Magomedov is third win of 2024. … Petrosyan (9-3 MMA, 3-2 UFC) is coming off a first-round submission loss to Rodolfo Vieira this past February. Prior to that setback, he’d won two fights in a row.

Shara Magomedov vs. Armen Petrosyan expert pick, prediction

Despite having fights like Myktybek Orolbai vs. Mateusz Rebecki on the prelims, the matchmakers decided to kick off the paid portion of the card with a middleweight matchup between Magomedov and Petrosyan.

I get that this should be a stand-up affair on paper, I’m just still having a hard time with the fact that the UFC is trying to shove “Shara Bullet” down our throats.

Aside from looking like a James Bond villain who can throw kicks with solid power, there isn’t much to speak of when it comes to well-rounded skills or a depth of process from Magomedov.

Petrosyan, on the other hand, is a more consistent and proven commodity inside the cage.

The Armenian may not wield the same flash or flare as Magomedov, but Petrosyan possesses solid fundamentals that allow him to get off offense at a decent clip.

Petrosyan also appears to be the better grappler by a decent stretch, which is more than enough for me to side with him in this spot.

The pick is Petrosyan by unanimous decision.

Shara Magomedov vs. Armen Petrosyan odds

The oddsmakers and the public are favoring the more hyped product, listing Magomedov -168 and Petrosyan +136 via FanDuel.

Shara Magomedov vs. Armen Petrosyan start time, how to watch

As the main card opener, Magomedov and Petrosyan are expected to walk out to the cage at approximately 2:15 p.m. ET (11:15 a.m. PT). The fight will stream on ESPN+ pay-per-view.

Stirling is gearing up to host thousands of visitors from around the world for the much-anticipated Highland Games this Saturday. This annual event, deeply rooted in Scottish tradition, is expected to be a spectacular showcase of highland games competitions, culture, and community. With its origins dating back to 1818, the Highland Games have become a globally recognised celebration, drawing participants and spectators from across the globe.

This year’s Stirling Highland Games, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Wallace Monument and the Ochil Hills, promises to be one of the most memorable yet. Visitors can expect a full day of thrilling competitions, including traditional events like the caber toss, 90m sprint and highland dancing. These events are not just about physical strength but also require a great deal of skill and precision, with athletes competing fiercely for top honours.

Stirling’s highland games will be overseen by former international rugby player Kevin McKenzie, who accepted the honorary role of Games Chieftain this year. He joins other famous sons and daughters of Stirling as Chieftain, who have achieved great success in their chosen fields such as Ally Hogg [International rugby player]; Simone Lahbib [Film/TV actress] and Kathryn White [International cricket player].

The event will also host 50 Scottish traders, offering locals a rich variety of experiences. Visitors can indulge in delicious offerings from food trucks featuring traditional Scottish fare, as well as craft beers and spirits. The Traders Village will also feature market traders showcasing handmade goods, artisanal crafts, and unique souvenirs. This bustling marketplace will provide a vibrant addition to the Games, allowing attendees to enjoy the best of Scotland’s culinary and craft heritage while soaking in the lively atmosphere of one of the country’s most celebrated cultural events.

It has attracted significant international attention, with over 3000 tickets sold online, beating the previous year’s sales at that point. This marks a notable increase in international interest, with visitors expected from countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and even parts of Asia, highlighting the global appeal of Scotland’s heritage.

Local businesses will benefit greatly from the influx of tourists, as the organisers encourage more of its visitors to take some time to explore Stirling for the weekend. Pubs, restaurants, and shops throughout Stirling are expected to be bustling with activity, contributing to the festive vibe that will envelop the city.

The Stirling Highland Games are more than just a day of entertainment for the local community; they are a celebration of Scottish heritage and a chance for residents to come together and support the not-for-profit. Organisers are hopeful for a strong turnout from the local community, whose support is crucial to the event’s success. The participation of Stirling residents not only boosts attendance but also helps create a welcoming atmosphere for the many international visitors.

For locals, the Games provide an opportunity to engage with others attending the international gathering, whether by participating in the events, cheering on the athletes, or simply enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. The strong ticket sales from overseas visitors are a testament to the global fascination with Scottish culture and traditions, and they underscore the importance of the Highland Games as a key event on Scotland’s cultural calendar.

As Saturday 17^th
approaches, excitement is building for the Stirling Highland Games committee to see if they can replicate the success of last year’s event. The combination of world-class athletic contests, cultural showcases, and a picturesque setting promises to make this year’s Highland Games an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a Stirling resident or a visitor from afar, the Stirling Highland Games offer a unique chance to experience the very best of Scotland’s heritage and community spirit.

Find out more by visiting www.stirlinghighlandgames.com or walk to Stirling Sports Village on Saturday 17th August and buy your tickets at the gates.

Lerone Murphy and Dan Ige meet Saturday on the main card of UFC 308 at Etihad Arena in Las Vegas. Check out this quick breakdown of the matchup from MMA Junkie analyst Dan Tom. 

Last event: 2-4
UFC main cards, 2024: 89-81-3

Lerone Murphy vs. Dan Ige UFC 308 preview

Since fighting to a draw in his UFC debut in 2019, Murphy (14-0-1 MMA, 6-0-1 UFC) has rattled off six wins in a row and remained unbeaten. He’s coming off the biggest win of his career in May, when he won a five-round main event vs. Edson Barboza by unanimous decision in the Fight of the Night. … Ige (18-8 MMA, 10-7 UFC) has a sub-.500 record since 2020, although he remains a tough out when he’s on top of his game. He’s coming off a unanimous decision loss to Diego Lopes this past June, when he took the fight on hours’ notice at UFC 303.

Lerone Murphy vs. Dan Ige expert pick, prediction

Between not giving Ige the spot he wanted on the UFC’s Sphere show to making him fly across the world to take on an undefeated contender with little-to-no name value, it doesn’t exactly feel like Ige’s getting rewarded for making one of the most gangster walks in the promotion’s history back at UFC 303 earlier this year.

That said, Ige has never been a walkover for anyone, and I suspect he’ll make a good account for himself regardless of the result here.

It would probably serve Ige well to go more to the body and counter in this fight, but I’m betting that the Hawaiian has a solid game plan coming into this contest considering he has Xtreme Couture’s Eric Nicksick in the corner.

Speaking of which, I’m too biased toward the Ige side due to my ties to his camp and corner, so don’t expect too much objectivity from me in this section.

Don’t get me wrong: I’m incredibly impressed with Murphy, who deserves to be the favorite and will likely have a bright future in this sport. I just can’t help but biasedly back Ige in this spot.

Lerone Murphy vs. Dan Ige odds

The oddsmakers and the public are favoring the English fighter, listing Murphy -300 and Ige +225 via FanDuel.

Lerone Murphy vs. Dan Ige start time, how to watch

Murphy and Ige are expected to walk out to the cage at approximately 2:45 p.m. ET (11:45 a.m. PT). The fight will stream on ESPN+ pay-per-view.

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