Arsenal lost 2-1 to Barcelona in the Amsterdam Arena on Thursday night, in a game which had 'friendly' written all over it, but proved reasonably entertaining nonetheless.

No point in arguing about Martin Keown's edge-of-the-area foul which gave Barcelona a penalty, and a 1-0 lead thanks to Guardiola. But well done to Baltic triallist Tomas Unpronounceable for a fabulous equaliser.

Cutting across the 18 yard line, Tomas took his time as the Barca defender dived across him, taking an extra step before curling his shot beyond Dutruel's reach and inside the far post.

A goalkeeping abomination from David Seaman restored Barca's lead. Dave flapped at a corner, allowing Gerard to nod one up in the air for (Gooner-to-be?) Philip Cocu to head into an empty net. A shame, as Seaman had a great game, making several magnificent saves.

Lauren (wearing 12) looks to be a good signing, causing some problems in the Barca defence as Arsenal took charge of the later stages of the first period. Robert Pires (wearing 7) came on as a second half sub, and was constructive but unspectacular. It wasn't as distressing as it might have been to see Overmars, and then Petit turning out against us - but MarcO gave Lee Dixon a bit of a fright!

And for those interested in tonsorial matters... Thierry Henry's shaved his head even closer for this season, it makes him look even younger; and Dave Seaman's going for some kind of Gothic Horror image, as the hair gets slicker, longer and (yes) kinkier.