1.Saka’s Reward!
Saka’s undoubtedly been a bright spark in our otherwise dull season. He has shown of both his ability and his flexibility. Today the youngster looks to star at right wing, probably due to Pepe’s absence. The Ivorian had found some good recent form but misses the game to see the birth of his first child. Enough of an excuse? Maybe.
Arsenal's youngster has been outstanding, and it’s great to see him rewarded with a goal. The ball is switched out to Tierney on the left of the penalty box; he puts a cross in, but it’s deflected and bounces up to Saka. Side on, he swings his leg at it and casually guides the ball into the top corner. A lovely bicycle kick on the half-volley, which he made look so simple.
2. Pleasantly Surprised by Tierney
Although most Arsenal fans will pretend they knew Tierney’s qualities the very second he signed for the club, others will admit they had only heard opinions. We are now in game week 33, and the Scotsman has started just nine Premier League games. Regular injuries have played a significant part in his absences. Persistent injuries, at some point, create doubts that creep in regarding whether a player can perform at this level. There had been rumours he could be sold. Some fans would have been disappointed, but it’s hard to miss you never really had.
Happily, we are now seeing what all the hype was about. Over these last few games, we have seen what Tierney can bring to the team. He works hard, is rarely beaten, gets in great crossing positions and delivers well. His crosses will become more effective as his team mates learn to read him better. A couple of time tonight he put good balls in only to find no one making a run.
3. A Classic Lacazette Goal
Ah the Frenchman, what does the future hold? Because of the hectic schedule, there has been plenty of changes all over the pitch. Which makes it hard to judge exactly how Arteta rates his players. The “Was he dropped or was he rested?” conundrum. Nketiah’s rise enviably means someone will miss out.
The goal was a Lacazette’s trademark and a reminder of his qualities. Mustafi heads the ball out with authority. Lacazette hold the ball up and plays it to Willock, who goes on a run to the right flank and crosses low, back to the striker. He touches the ball round the defender and smashes it into the bottom far corner.
4. Three in a Row
Southampton, Norwich City and now Wolves. It doesn’t sound amazing, but definitely feels like progress. There’s been times in our glorious history when those fixtures would have been a given, but in recent years it hasn’t been the case. In particular, our away form has regularly replicated relegation form.
Wolves are three points above us, and this was our first away win to a team above us since 2015. It was also our third clean sheet in the last four games. The team looked sturdy, well-position and comfortable; they looked like a team again.
5. What’s up Next?
Leicester, Tottenham and Liverpool! Bring ‘em on… Well, perhaps not as confident as that. On their own, the first two seem winnable and when you consider Liverpool have nothing to play for and just got thrashed 4-0 by City, it’s possible but very unlikely.
If City are banned from Champions League football, fifth place could be enough to qualify for the elite competition. For qualification, Arsenal need to better United by two wins in their last five games or better Chelsea by three wins in their last five games. Getting into the Europa League is much more achievable with Wolves now just three points above us. Yay!?
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