Tabs is joined by special Christmas guest Steff from The North Bank Pod (@northbankpod) to break down Arsenal’s tense and very on trend 2–1 win over Brighton — a match full of chances, missed chances, defensive chaos, and one world‑class save that kept the points at the Emirates. They discuss Odegaard’s superb opener, Gyökeres’ frustrating finishing, the ongoing injury crisis in defence, and the nervy spell that nearly cost Arsenal control. With Brighton threatening late and Arsenal underperforming their xG yet again, the pair explore whether this is simply variance or a growing concern. They also look ahead to a huge clash with Aston Villa, where both teams’ statistical trends could collide in dramatic fashion.

🎙️ Topics covered:

• Arsenal’s 2–1 win over Brighton: dominant first half, nervy second
• Odegaard’s lovely goal and improved form since returning
• Gyökeres’ big miss, confidence issues, and the growing debate around him
• Raya’s world‑class save to deny Brighton an equaliser
• Arsenal’s xG underperformance: concern or just variance?
• Defensive injuries piling up again — Timber, Calafiori, and rotating back fours
• Rice at full‑back, MLS’ high‑risk style, and the impact on structure
• Substitutions, fatigue, and the 15‑minute spell where Brighton took control
• The importance of ruthlessness with City’s goal difference in mind
• Three‑word reviews from listeners
• Early thoughts ahead of Aston Villa and what Arsenal must improve

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This is The Grove, and everyone is welcome. COME ON YOU GUNNERS!--

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The North Bank Pod : @northbankpod on the socials, YouTube & podcast apps

🔴 #Arsenal #AFC #COYG #ArsenalPodcast #gunners #EPL #Arteta #ARSBHA #ARSBRI #odegaard #eze #madueke #gyokeres #saka #trossard #martinelli #zubimendi #raya #hincapie #jesus #rice #gabriel #arsast

(VIDEO EDIT)

Tabs and Jamie dive into Arsenal’s dramatic 8–7 penalty shootout win over Crystal Palace in the EFL Cup quarter‑finals, a night that delivered rotation, chaos, late frustration, and ultimately a place in the semi‑finals against Chelsea. On a festive Christmas Eve pod, they break down a heavily rotated Arsenal side, standout performances from Nørgaard, Martinelli and MLS, and the impressive combinations down the left with Calafiori and Eze. They also discuss the disappointment of conceding yet another late equaliser, the debate around Ethan Nwaneri’s lack of minutes, and the quality of Arsenal’s penalties. The episode wraps with a look ahead to Brighton at home and what Arteta might do next.

🎙️ Topics covered:

• Arsenal 1–1 Crystal Palace (8–7 on pens) reaction
• Nørgaard’s standout performance and calm control in midfield
• Rotation working well: Calafiori, Eze, Lewis‑Skelly, Martinelli
• MLS’ high‑risk style; when it works and when it doesn’t
• Martinelli’s electric first half and Noni's chances created
• Palace’s late equaliser and Arsenal’s growing trend of conceding late
• Ethan Nwaneri debate: should he have played?
• Penalty shootout excellence: technique, composure, and stats
• Kepa’s penalty‑saving approach and Arsenal’s 92% shootout conversion rate
• Early thoughts ahead of Brighton at home

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Find us on socials: @thegroveafc

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM ALL OF US AT THE GROVE PODCAST!

THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! COME ON YOU GUNNERS!

@ The Grove Everyone is Welcome!

--

Follow, rate, and subscribe on your favourite podcast app. @TheGroveAFC

Follow, rate, and subscribe to The Grove Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube @thegroveafc

Find us on Bluesky, Threads, TikTok, Instagram and YouTube: @thegroveafc

Email us here: [email protected]

🔴 #Arsenal #AFC #COYG #ArsenalPodcast #gunners #EPL #EFLcup #Arteta #ARSCRY #ARSBRI #odegaard #eze #madueke #gyokeres #saka #trossard #martinelli #zubimendi #raya #hincapie

Tabs and Ian jump on live moments after Arsenal grind out a tense 1–0 win at Everton's new Hill Dickinson stadium on Arteta’s sixth anniversary in charge. It wasn’t pretty, it wasn’t fluid, and it certainly wasn’t comfortable — but Arsenal leave Merseyside with three points after a thunderous Viktor Gyokeres' penalty settled a scrappy, low‑quality affair. The pair break down a game where Everton created almost nothing, Arsenal struggled for rhythm, and nerves crept in late on despite near‑total control. From Trossard’s big miss to Gyökeres’ penalty moment, Tarkowski’s antics, and Jesus’ impact off the bench, this instant‑reaction pod captures the relief, frustration, and small positives from a hard‑fought away win.

🎙️ Topics covered:

• Arsenal’s 1–0 win at Everton and why it felt more stressful than it should have

• Gyokeres' emphatic penalty and the bizarre handball that led to it

• Everton’s lack of threat and Arsenal’s dominance after the goal

• Trossard’s huge missed chance and concerns about finishing

• Gyökeres’ performance: penalty composure vs ongoing questions

• Jesus’ cameo and his hold‑up play in key moments

• Tarkowski’s constant moaning and Everton’s physical approach

• Arsenal’s slow tempo, sloppy passing, and attempts to control the game

• The nervy late free‑kick and VAR moments

• Line‑up reflections and why it made sense

• Mental resilience, game management, and the importance of grinding out wins

• We also preview the game v Palace in the Quarter Finals of the EFL Cup - how much do we want to win this trophy?

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THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! COME ON YOU GUNNERS!

@ The Grove Everyone is Welcome!

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Email us here: [email protected]

🔴 #Arsenal #AFC #COYG #ArsenalPodcast #gunners #UCL#Arteta #gyokeres #saka #rice #odegaard #zubimendi #evears

Tabs is joined by Jamie for a reflective episode that mixes festive chat with football concerns. The pair begin by reacting to the Carabao Cup draw that could pit Arsenal against Chelsea, before diving into a new segment where Tabs shares his current worries and hopes about the team. They discuss the Wolves performance, Gyökeres’ struggles and trust issues within the squad, and whether Arteta’s recent team selections have been the right calls. The conversation balances frustration with optimism, highlighting areas for improvement while recognising the resilience of the side. The episode closes with a preview of Saturday night’s trip to Everton.

🎙️ Topics covered:

• Carabao Cup draw reaction: Palace first, Chelsea potentially next

• Reflections on the Wolves win: relief vs frustration

• Gyökeres as a lightning rod for criticism and trust issues in attack

• Arteta’s team selections: concerns over recent line‑ups and rotation

• Technical quality, confidence, and adapting to different striker profiles

• Balancing worries with hopes for the rest of the season

• Preview of Everton away under the lights

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THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! COME ON YOU GUNNERS!

@ The Grove Everyone is Welcome!

Follow, rate, and subscribe to The Grove Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube @thegroveafc

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Email us here: [email protected]

🔴 #Arsenal #AFC #COYG #ArsenalPodcast #gunners #EPL #Arteta #ARSWOL #odegaard #eze #madueke #gyokeres #saka #trossard #martinelli #zubimendi #raya #hincapie #saliba #jesus #MLS #white #EVEARS #EFLCup

(VIDEO ED)

Let's not forget, we did win! Tabs is joined by Ian (@ArseCannonPics) to dissect Arsenal’s scrappy 2–1 win over Wolves at the Emirates. Despite frustration at the performance, two own goals secured the points and reminded us that champions often grind out results even when below par. The pair reflect on the highlights and lowlights, including Ben White’s injury setback, the passive spell that led to Wolves’ equaliser, and the curious lineup choices with Hincapié at left‑back and Odegaard left on the bench. They debate Martinelli’s struggles against low blocks, Madueke’s absence, and the need to rediscover intensity. The episode closes with a look ahead to Saturday’s late kickoff away at Everton in their new stadium.

🎙️ Topics covered:

• Arsenal’s 2–1 win over Wolves and the relief of a late winner

• Changing emotions in game, after game and the day after.• Ben White’s hamstring injury and ongoing defensive rotation

• Wolves’ low block tactics and Arsenal’s passive response

• Frustration at Martinelli vs low blocks and Madueke not featuring

• Odegaard and Eze selection decisions, midfield balance, and rotation

• Match stats: possession dominance but limited attacking threat

• Champions grind: why ugly wins still matter in title races

• Preview of Everton away under the lights

(VIDEO ED)

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THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! COME ON YOU GUNNERS!

@ The Grove Everyone is Welcome!

Follow, rate, and subscribe to The Grove Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube @thegroveafc

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Email us here: [email protected]

🔴 #Arsenal #AFC #COYG #ArsenalPodcast #gunners #EPL #Arteta #ARSWOL #odegaard #eze #madueke #gyokeres #saka #trossard #martinelli #zubimendi #raya #hincapie

Tabs is joined by Kuziva and Jamie to reflect on Arsenal’s 3–0 win away at Club Brugge, making it six wins from six in the Champions League group stage. The conversation centres on squad rotation, with Nordgaard filling in at centre‑back and Rice/Timber rested and the different profiles of Gyökeres versus Jesus. They debate Gyökeres’ output, Jesus’ emotional return from injury, and how Arsenal managed the game despite conceding more shots on target than usual, and stats showing both dominance and vulnerability. The trio then look ahead to what should be a a comfortable, goal laden win v Wolves in the late evening kick-off on Saturday.

🎙️ Topics covered:

• Arsenal’s 3–0 win at Brugge and perfect group stage record
• Squad rotation: Nordgaard at centre‑back, resting Rice and Timber
• Gyökeres’ role, comparisons to Jesus, and frustrations around his output
• Gabriel Jesus’ return from ACL injury and emotional impact
• Zubimendi’s influence and midfield balance
• Match stats: Arsenal’s attacking efficiency vs defensive concessions
• Overall reflections on performance and what it means for Wolves at home

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THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! COME ON YOU GUNNERS!

@ The Grove Everyone is Welcome!

Follow, rate, and subscribe to The Grove Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube @thegroveafc

Find Holly, Steff and Chris from The North Bank Pod - @northbankpod

Find us on Bluesky, Threads, TikTok, Instagram and YouTube: @thegroveafc

Email us here: [email protected]

🔴 #Arsenal #AFC #COYG #ArsenalPodcast #gunners #EPL #Arteta #ARSWOL #odegaard #eze #madueke #gyokeres #saka #trossard #martinelli #zubimendi #raya #ucl

The Grove Podcast : Tabs and Jamie go LIVE straight after Arsenal’s 3–0 win at Club Brugge in the Champions League. In this inaugural Hot Off The Pitch episode, they share raw, instant reactions to a comfortable but not spectacular performance. From Madueke’s brace and Martinelli’s thunderbolt to Raya’s key saves and Hincapié’s front‑foot defending, the duo break down the key moments, squad rotation, and the tenth different centre‑back pairing of the season. They also highlight Zubimendi’s second‑half surge, Jesus’ lively cameo, and the importance of securing top‑two in the group. Listener three‑word reviews and listener comments add colour to the conversation.

🎙️ Topics covered:

• ​Madueke’s double and Martinelli’s stunning strike
• ​Raya’s calm presence and crucial saves
• ​Hincapié and Nordgaard impressing in defence
• ​Odegaard’s minutes and match sharpness
• ​Jesus’ return and impact off the bench
• ​Brugge’s attacking threat and standout individuals
• ​Arsenal’s squad rotation and depth on display
• ​Fan three‑word reviews and live chat reactions
• ​Importance of securing top‑two in the Champions League group

Follow, rate, and subscribe on your favourite podcast app. @TheGroveAFC

Follow, rate, and subscribe on your favourite podcast app. @TheGroveAFC

THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! COME ON YOU GUNNERS!

@ The Grove Everyone is Welcome!

Follow, rate, and subscribe to The Grove Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube @thegroveafc

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Email us here: [email protected]

🔴 #Arsenal #AFC #COYG #ArsenalPodcast #gunners #UCL#Arteta #madueke #nordgaard #hincapie

Tabs is joined by Holly from the North Bank Pod (@northbankpod) to pick apart Arsenal’s gut‑wrenching 2–1 defeat at Aston Villa. Recorded the morning after, the episode captures the raw frustration of conceding late, the impact of missing Saliba and Gabriel, and the tactical struggles that left Arsenal exposed. Odegaard’s return offered a glimmer of positivity, but questions remain over the left‑hand side and squad balance. The duo also share listener three‑word reviews (including some cheeky Villa fan infiltrations) and look ahead to the midweek Champions League tie against Club Brugge.

🎙️ Topics covered:

• Odegaard’s performance and right‑side dominance with White and Saka

• Arsenal’s left‑hand side issues: Martinelli, Trossard, and Eze's role

• The late Villa winner and defensive lapses without Saliba/Gabriel

• The knock‑on effect of missing the first‑choice centre‑backs

• Villa’s home strength and credit to Emery’s side

• Arsenal’s away support and atmosphere at Villa Park

• Listener & follower three‑word reviews and fan reactions

• Quick preview of the Brugge Champions League fixture

Follow, rate, and subscribe on your favourite podcast app. @TheGroveAFC

THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! COME ON YOU GUNNERS!

@ The Grove Everyone is Welcome!

Follow, rate, and subscribe to The Grove Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube @thegroveafc

Find Holly, Steff and Chris from The North Bank Pod - @northbankpod

Find us on Bluesky, Threads, TikTok and YouTube: @thegroveafc

Email us here: [email protected]

🔴 #Arsenal #AFC #COYG #ArsenalPodcast #gunners #EPL #Arteta #ASTARS #odegaard #eze #madueke #gyokeres #saka #trossard

Tabs is joined by Kuziva to reflect on Arsenal’s 2–0 win over Brentford at the Emirates. Merino’s early header capped a flowing 10 man, 14‑pass move, while Saka’s stoppage‑time strike sealed the points and collective relief. The duo share highlights and lowlights, from Ben White’s overlapping assist to Raya’s crucial save, and discuss how Brentford’s brave approach kept nerves jangling despite limited threat. They analyse Martinelli’s quieter night, squad rotation decisions, and the growing case for Merino as Arsenal’s leading centre‑forward. The episode closes with a look ahead to the weekend trip to Villa Park and a reunion with Unai Emery, and his over performing Aston Villa side.

🎙️ Topics covered:

• Merino’s opener: 14‑pass move and Ben White’s assist
• Saka’s late goal and the relief of killing the game
• Raya’s reflex save and his claim as Premier League’s best keeper
• Martinelli’s struggles against Brentford’s defensive setup
• Squad rotation: White, Odegaard IN, Madueke, and Saka OUT
• Brentford’s brave approach vs Spurs’ fear at the Emirates
• Merino’s evolution into Arsenal’s top centre‑forward option
• Listener & follower 3 Word Reviews
• Premier League standings and inconsistent rivals
• Preview of Aston Villa away and Emery’s in‑form side
• ...and why the underlying metrics are a house of cards waiting to collapse

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THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! COME ON YOU GUNNERS!

@ The Grove Everyone is Welcome!

Follow, rate, and subscribe to The Grove Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube @thegroveafc

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🔴 #Arsenal #AFC #COYG #ArsenalPodcast #gunners #EPL #Arteta #ASTARS #ARSBRE #MERINO #benwhite #odegaard

Recorded just minutes after the final whistle at Stamford Bridge, Tabs and Kuziva deliver a raw, emotional reaction to Arsenal’s 1–1 draw with Chelsea. From the frustration of a disjointed performance to the relief of extending the unbeaten run at the Bridge, the duo break down the highs and lows of a fiery derby. They discuss the impact of missing both Saliba and Gabriel, the red card for Caicedo, and how Arsenal’s lack of composure shaped the game. With reflections on discipline, squad depth, and Chelsea’s setup under Maresca, the episode closes by looking ahead to Brentford at home.

🎙️ Topics covered:

• Extending Arsenal’s unbeaten streak at Stamford Bridge

• Emotional and psychological toll of three big games in a week

• Missing Saliba and Gabriel: how it affected control and build-up

• Caicedo’s red card and Chelsea’s aggressive approach

• Arsenal’s discipline record and managing the derby intensity

• Key moments: Rice’s tackle, Martinelli’s chance, Sanchez’s saves

• Evaluating subs, squad depth, and player performances

• Preview of Brentford at home

Follow, rate, and subscribe on your favourite podcast app. @TheGroveAFC

THANK YOU FOR LISTENING! COME ON YOU GUNNERS!

@ The Grove Everyone is Welcome!

Follow, rate, and subscribe to The Grove Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube @thegroveafc

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Email us here: [email protected]

🔴 #Arsenal #AFC #COYG #ArsenalPodcast #gunners #EPL #Arteta #CHEARS #ARSBRE