Well, that was nerve-wracking ... a hard-fought win over an Everton side that is improving at the same rate as Arsenal are.
February 24, 2020 17:31And there are, as always, both positives and negatives to take from the performance. On the positive side; another (exquisite) assist from Bukayo Saka, the cross turned in sublimely by Nketiah; an Henry-like run and finish (on the end of a Bergkamp-like pass from David Luiz) from the free-scoring Aubameyang; and some resilience as the team tired against a pretty good Everton forward line (in particular Richarlison, who is not only strong and tricky on the ball, but possesses electric pace).
On the negative side, an unfortunate injury for the returning Kolasinac, and some horrendous defending at set-pieces that must be addressed were the lowlights.
For Arsenal fans' delectation, here are two photos that will assuredly appeal - kudos to the man who put these together:
And so to the match. Firstly, Arteta's team selections never fail to surprise (but not in the worrying way that Emery's used to), but it's difficult to argue with the inclusion of Eddie Nketiah as while he has some way to go to become as useful to the side as Lacazette, whose role as first line of defence should not be understated, he did well enough in general play and scored a beauty. As for the other changes - well, the game in Athens did much to influence that as players were judiciously rested.
On the whole, it would be difficult to single out too many players for particular praise; with the exception of Aubameyang, who as we all know and as the rest of the football is starting to realise is world-class. And on top of his movement and finishing ability, he works very hard. Admirable.
I did have concerns during the match that with Xhaka continually splitting out to the left into an auxiliary left-back position, thus giving first Kolasinac and then Saka the opportunity to bomb forward, that Ceballos was being left isolated two or even three to one in central midfield. But the latter got to grips with this as the match wore on, and his ability on the ball made this less of an issue than it may have been.
Anyway, it was something of a strange game with goals scored so early and late in each half, and Arsenal looked to manage their 3-2 lead for what felt like an eternity instead of perhaps looking to exploit Everton on the break.
However, if we attribute that to Everton's greater reserves of energy having not played for a fortnight, then that is perhaps understandable. Suffice to say that Arsenal rode their luck to claim three precious points.
And so, with more winnable game to follow, it looks like the gap to the top 4/5 is going to narrow over the next month. On to Europa League (following a decent performance result away from home), a tricky-looking FA Cup tie at what will be a vibrant Fratton Park, and then three eminently winnable League games. Things are looking up under Mikel Arteta.
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