I think to be fair for a few of those games we could have dropped points really (Sunderland, Chelsea, etc) and our luck just runs out.
The Arse, on the other hand, are winning their games in a convincing style - 3-0 first 15 minutes, 2-0 first 10 minutes, etc.
I think the key is in the midfield -- we don't have enough creativity and sometimes it is difficult to keep the ball. If we are to challenge the best we have to work on that.
Having said all that it is a brilliant season and we are keeping on improving, and that is the key. However I think we need 2 midfield players coming in (to replace Macca and Redknapp) -- and if the likes of Berger / Smicer / Barmby is not ready to step up a gear they can only warm the bench.