A321 speedbrakes are not the most effective in the industry. They are 1/2 the angle of the A320 and can only be used through Flap 2. If you are in a slam/dunk situation, the gear is the only way you can make a rapid descent. Depending upon speed restrictions, the gear may be extended before flaps to slow down and increase the descent rate. The latter situaiton was probably normal when the gear is extended after Flap2 or 3, depending upon company procedures and you do not get the wind noise of the higher speed extension.