Arsenal miss chance to go fourth after draw with Wolves

Arsenal dropped two points and missed the chance to overtake Chelsea and move into the top four on Tuesday as they drew 1-1 with Wolves. Gervinho's goal early on was cancelled out by Fletcher's fortuatous equaliser before half time. It was a game of missed chances for the Gunners as they looked to be comfortable for the majority of the game but failed to take their goal scoring opportunities. Arsene Wenger made three changes to the side that beat Aston Villa as Djourou came back from injury in place of Coquelin whilst Rosicky came in for the rested Aaron Ramsey. Walcott was out of the game due to illness so Benayoun took his place.

Wolves goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey was on top form to deny Arsenal from getting 3 points

The first real chance of the game was the opening goal in the match. Arsenal broke from inside their own half before Benayoun found Gervinho who rounded the goalkeeper and fired the ball home.

Arsenal then had a great chance to double their lead as Gervinho ran at the defence before finding Van Persie who put the ball wide of the target.

The Arsenal captain then worked another chance as he got into the penalty area before seeing his near post shot saved by Hennessey.

Seven minutes before the break Wolves equalised. A corner came out to Hunt on the edge of the box who struck a shot which was deflected into the path of Fletcher who headed the ball into the back of the net from 6 yards out.

Arsenal responded well as Arteta found Rosicky who spun and then fired a shot from distance which Hennessey managed to keep out.

The score at half time was 1-1.

Robin Van Persie then got Hennessey to pull off a brilliant save. The Dutchman unleashed a free kick from the left which looked to be curling in but for the goalkeeper who tipped the ball over the bar.

The Gunners were desperately trying to find a goal which would put them into the lead as first Rosicky's cross found Mertesacker's head which was once again kept out brilliantly by Hennessey. The ball eventually came out to Van Persie but his took a slight deflection and went wide.

Rosicky then got a chance as Ramsey did well to intercept the defender before playing the ball back to Rosicky on the edge of the area who curled the ball wide of the goal.

Wolves were then sent down to 10 men as Milijas lost control of the ball and then brought down Arteta on the edge of the box which the referee deemed to be a sending off offence.

Arsenal were looking to take advantage of playing against 10 men and they almost did as Arshavin played a one-two with Van Persie before hitting a looping shot which just went wide.

Hennessey was tested again by a Van Persie freekick as he struck the ball from the right which was parmed away by the Welsh goalkeeper.

The Wolves keeper was proving to be unbeatable as he then kept out another Van Persie attempt. This time it was kept out with his foot as the Gunners captain hit the ball from a tight angle.

Hennessey had one more vital save to make as Vermaelen got into the penalty area but his effort was saved by the chest of the goalkeeper.

The final score finished Arsenal 1-1 Wolves.

The teams lineups:

Arsenal: Szczesny, Djourou(85), Koscielny, Mertesacker, Vermaelen, Song(71), Arteta, Rosicky, Benayoun(64), Gervinho, Van Persie.
Subs: Almunia, Miquel, Coquelin, Ramsey(71), Arshavin(64), Oxlade-Chamberlain, Chamakh(85).

Wolves: Hennessey, Zubar(51), Berra, Johnson, Ward, Forde(71), Henry, Milijas, Hunt(85), Jarvis, Fletcher.
Subs: De Vries, Elokobi, Stearman(51), Guedioura(71), Hammill, Ebanks-Blake, Doyle(85).

My man of the match: Tomas Rosicky

Referee: Stuart Attwell
Attendance: 59,686

Late Benayoun goal rescues Arsenal

Substitute Yossi Benayoun came off the bench to rescue Arsenal as three minutes from the end the Isreali struck to give the Gunners a 2-1 victory over Aston Villa on Wednesday night. It was far from comfortable as Villa played better than in recent games. However Robin Van Persie's goal early on from the penalty spot set the tone for an exciting match, but it was then cancelled out by Marc Albrighton's equaliser. Arsenal had the majority of the chances on a night they perhaps did not deserve all three points as the on loan Chelsea midfielder, Benayoun, scored his most important Arsenal goal to date. The game ended on a sour note as Aston Villa's Alan Hutton was shown a second yellow card and was sent off. Arsenal were forced into making two changes as Emmanuel Frimpong came in for the suspended Alex Song whilst Coquelin came in at right back for the injured Djourou.

Yossi Benayoun came off the bench to win the game for Arsenal

The first chance of the game went Villa's way as N'Zogbia swung in a ball from the right onto the head of Agbonlahor but Szczesny was in the way to beat the ball away.

Arsenal's first chance was a goal. It came from the penalty spot after Walcott managed to turn smartly past Clark and then was pulled back and the referee gave a penalty. Van Persie stepped up to smash his penalty high into the roof of the net to equal Thierry Henry's record of goals in a calendar year of 34.

The visitors next chance fell to Walcott as Van Persie played the ball through to him but Guzan came racing out of his goal to deny the wingers attempted chip.

Arsenal then wasted another chance as again Van Persie cut open the Villa defence with a ball through to Ramsey but with Warnock closing him down he flashed his shot wide of the goal.

The score at half time was 1-0 to Arsenal.

The first real opportunity of the second half saw Aston Villa equalise. A long ball was put down forward by Guzan in the Villa goal which was flicked on only as far as Vermaelen who's weak header towards Mertesacker was cut out by Albrighton who raced clear of the defence and comfortably slotted the ball past Szczesny and into the back of the net. That goal was to be the 20,000th goal in Premier League history.

The Gunners almost struck back immediately as Van Persie's corner broke to Mertesacker who managed to get a shot away but Guzan managed to save well from the German's attempt.

Arsenal then had a strong claim for a penalty turned down as Van Persie got into the box and then collided with Warnock before the referee turned down the claims and booked the Gunners captain for supposedly diving.

Arsenal were desperately looking for a goal which would put them ahead as Van Persie picked the ball up outside the box and then struck a shot which went miles over the bar. 

Andrey Arshavin then managed to work a shooting opportunity as he troubled Albrighton before firing a shot which took a deflection and went out for an Arsenal corner. The resulting corner was to result in a goal. Van Persie swung in the ball towards the back post and onto the head of Benayoun who headed home from 6 yards out to give Arsenal all three points.

Mikel Arteta then drove an optimistic attempt from far out but it was comfortably kept out by Guzan.

Aston Villa were then sent down to ten men as Alan Hutton got himself sent off for a second bookable offence after a late challenge on Thomas Vermaelen.

The final score finished Aston Villa 1-2 Arsenal. 

The teams lineups: 

Aston Villa: Guzan, Hutton, Cuellar, Dunne, Warnock, Albrighton(88), Petrov, Ireland(45), Clark, N'Zogbia, Agbonlahor. 
Subs: Marshall, Collins, Williams, Delph, Bannan(45), Weimann, Delfouneso(88).

Arsenal: Szczesny, Coquelin, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Vermaelen, Arteta, Frimpong(66), Ramsey(81), Walcott, Gervinho(81), Van Persie.
Subs: Almunia, Squillaci, Rosicky(66), Benayoun(81), Arshavin(81), Oxlade-Chamberlain, Chamakh.

My man of the match: Yossi Benayoun

Referee: Jonathan Moss
Attendance: 35,818     

Silva goal wins game as Arsenal lose to league leaders

Arsenal lost their first game in the league for over two months on Sunday afternoon as league leaders Manchester City grabbed a 1-0 victory thanks to a second half goal from David Silva. The game was fantastic to watch for the neutral as both sides attacked each other and Arsenal even had a goal ruled out for offside, and a strong claim for a penalty turned down. However it was Manchester City who managed to bounce back from their defeat against Chelsea the week before to take all three points. Arsenal were unchanged for the visit to the Etihad as once again all recognised full backs were out of the game with injuries so Vermaelen continued at left back. However the Gunners did suffer another defensive setback as Djourou limped off (expected to be out for 3 weeks) and was replaced by Ignasi Miquel. Ex-Arsenal players Kolo Toure and Samir Nasri started for City.

Samir Nasri was playing for Mancheser City against the club he left in the summer

The first chance of the game came to Manchester City as Zabaleta was played down the left hand side, before playing the ball into the middle into the path of Aguero who one on one with Szczesny put his shot over the bar when he should have at least hit the target.

Arsenal's first chance fell to Gervinho as Song played him in but the Ivorian's shot was straight at Hart who saved rather unconvincingly but still managed to put the ball out for a corner. From the resulting corner the ball was layed all the way back to Ramsey on the edge of the box who struck a curling effort which Hart had to get down well to keep the score level. 

City then were gifted a great chance to take the lead but Szczesny saved brilliantly to stop them. Richards cross looped up off Koscielny's head straight to Balotelli who brought the ball down between Djourou and Mertesacker before turning and firing an effort which was kept out. 

The hosts then managed to create another chance as Aguero played a one-two on the edge of the box with Silva before cutting inside and hitting a shot which Szczesny was forced into making another save from. 

The score at half time was 0-0.

Seven minutes into the second half Man City took the lead. Nasri played the ball out wide to Balotelli who cut inside and hit a shot which was too hot to handle for Szczesny and then the ball broke to Silva who tapped the ball in from close range.

Arsenal responded quickly as Koscielny found Walcott who from just outside the box struck a fierce shot with the outside of his boot bringing out a brilliant save from Hart to deny Arsenal from equalising. 

The Gunners then had a goal disallowed as Ramsey fed Van Persie who dinked the ball over Hart and into the back of the net, however the linesman judged the Arsenal captain to be offside when he looked to have been on. 

It was end to end football and City then came within inches of doubling their lead as the ball came out to Aguero who hit a shot with his left foot which curled just inches wide of the far post. 

Arsenal were playing with confidence and Van Persie had a decent chance to equalise. Gervinho beat his man before cutting the ball back to Van Persie who struck a shot which was saved easily by Hart.

The Gunners were then saved by the post as Koscielny gave the ball away to Zabaleta who then broke forward and smashed a shot which hit the post and bounced back out. 

Vermaelen then had two shots which troubled Hart and almost found the net. The first came from a free kick as Arteta layed the ball off to the Belgian on the edge of the area before striking a powerful effort which Hart saved well. The second was also struck from outside the box as he looked to curl a shot from distance but went just wide. 

The final score finished Manchester City 1-0 Arsenal. 

The teams lineups:

Manchester City: Hart, Richards, Kolo Toure, Kompany, Zabaleta, Yaya Toure(86), Barry, Nasri(86), Aguero, Balotelli(73).
Subs: Pantilimon, Lescott, Savic, De Jong(86), Milner(73), Johnson, Dzeko(86).

Arsenal: Szczesny, Djourou(47), Mertesacker(82), Koscielny, Vermaelen, Song, Arteta, Ramsey, Walcott(69), Gervinho, Van Persie.
Subs: Almunia, Miquel(47), Frimpong, Rosicky, Benayoun, Arshavin(69), Chamakh(82).   

My man of the match: Thomas Vermaelen 

Referee: Phil Dowd
Attendance: 47,303 

Van Persie stunner seals win on anniversary day

Robin Van Persie scored a brilliant volley on Saturday as Arsenal beat Everton 1-0 at the Emirates on a day which saw the club celebrate 125 years of existance. The Gunners broke into the top four for the first time this season thanks to the skipper's wonder goal and also ensured they remained three points behind rivals Tottenham. The famous scoreline of 1-0 to the Arsenal could have been many more had they finished their vast amount of chances as Everton made it difficult for the hosts as they were happy to sit back and defend for most of the game. Arsenal were forced into making two changes for the match as injured Andre Santos was replaced by Djourou who went to right back with Vermaelen shifting out wide to left back as Mertesacker and Koscielny partnered each other at centre half. Mikel Arteta was playing against the club he signed from for the first time since his move to the Gunners. Manuel Almunia was in the team for the first time this season due to the injuries to Fabianski and Mannone as the Spaniard was on the bench. Rosicky was also on the bench after returning from injury.

Van Persie was once again the difference as he scored a stunning volley

The first chance of the game came early on. Arteta dispossessed Fellaini who then found Walcott who raced towards goal but instead of shooting he decided to pass the ball over to Gervinho. However he did not make contact with the ball and the chance was gone.

The next chance came to Arsenal again as Song found Ramsey, who then brought the ball onto his left foot but fired the ball just over the crossbar.

Gervinho then had a good opportunity to give the Gunners the lead as he got clear of the Everton defence but stuck his shot straight at Howard who kept out the shot comfortably.

Everton's only real sight of goal in the first half fell to Saha as the ball looped up into the path of him but he tried a shot from distance which went wide and was never going to trouble Szczesny.

The score at half time was 0-0.

Robin Van Persie was then presented with a decent opportunity to score as Walcott flashed the ball across the box but the ball had too much pace on and the captain could only put the ball way over the bar. 

Theo Walcott then created another chance but this time for himself, as he got past Baines before unleashing a shot which Howard was forced into making another good save.

Everton then started to commit men forward as first from a Baines cross Cahill almost put the ball in the net. Another chance then came as Vermaelen's header out of the box only went as far as Coleman, who set the ball back to Neville who hit a shot which only just went over Szczesny's crossbar.

With 20 minutes left Arsenal finally got the goal which they deserved. Song picked the ball up in the middle of the field before finding Van Persie. He then hit the ball first time on the volley which found the bottom corner of the net. That was the Dutchman's 33rd goal in 32 Premier League games in 2011, one short of Thierry Henry’s club record for a calendar year.

Everton substitute Conor McAleny then managed to create a chance as the 19 year old struck a looping shot from just inside the penalty area which bounced just wide of the far post.

The final score finished Arsenal 1-0 Everton.

The teams lineups:

Arsenal: Szczesny, Djourou, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Vermaelen(83), Song, Arteta, Ramsey, Walcott(90), Gervinho(83), Van Persie.
Subs: Almunia, Miquel(83), Frimpong(90), Rosicky(83), Benayoun, Arshavin, Chamakh.

Everton: Howard, Hibbert, Jagielka, Heitinga, Baines, Neville(76), Fellaini, Coleman, Bilyaletdinov(76), Cahill, Saha(63).
Subs: Mucha, Distin(63), Barkley, Stracqualursi, McAleny(76), Gueye(76), Vellios.

My man of the match: Alex Song

Referee: Howard Webb
Attendance: 60,062   

Arsenal celebrate 125 years - Commemorating Legends

Arsenal Football club have honoured three Arsenal greats by unveiling three statues outside the Emirates Stadium.Former manager Herbet Chapman, defensive rock Tony Adams and goal scoring hero Thierry Henry have all been commemorated in bronze statues which were unveiled by Arsenal Chairman, Peter Hill-Wood. The unveiling of the three statues forms part of Arsenal’s 125th anniversary celebrations which is set to continue before todays game against Everton.

Joined by Peter Hill-Wood, Arsene Wenger and Thierry Henry for the event was a large crowd to witness the unveiling around the stadium. The first statue to be revealed was Herbert Chapman who was Arsenal manager between 1925 and 1934. Chapman's Arsenal teams won the league four times in five years whilst his management developed and advanced diets, fitness, tactics and brilliant football. His time, however, at Arsenal was cut short as he died in 1934 aged just 55. Herbert Chapman's statue has been placed underneath the clock close to the Danny Fiszman Bridge and sees him looking towards the Stadium as a symbol of the Club’s achievements and importance whilst he was at Highbury.

Herbert Chapman

The second statue to be unveiled was of defender Tony Adams which has been located outside the Northbank at the Emirates. Adams spent 19 years at the club as he made a total of 669 appearances, becoming Arsenal's second all time appearence maker behind David O'leary. He is also the most successful captain in the Club’s history, leading Arsenal to ten major competition victories.

Tony Adams

The third and final statue to be unveiled was Thierry Henry. Henry is Arsenal's all time leading goal scorer with 226 strikes during his 8 years at the club. Henry won several major honours winning the Premier League and FA Cup twice, the Premier League 'Golden Boot' four times and the PFA Player of the Year award on two occassions. The Frenchman has always been renowned as an Arsenal legend as he also scored the last ever goal at Highbury in May 2006. Thierry Henry's statue has been placed in the south-east corner of the Emirates Stadium, next to the Spirit of Highbury mural.

Thierry Henry

The statues to commemorate these Arsenal legends were designed and created by MDM. They have been cast in bronze and are all life size and a half of the individuals. Having taken around 625 hours to create and weighing approximately 200kg each. The figures were lifted into place on Wednesday, ahead of Friday’s ceremony.

Also to celebrate the Club's anniversary, referee for Arsenal's game against Everton, Howard Webb, will use a sixpence in the coin toss to commemorate how the club started out. A group of workers at Dial Square armaments factory in Woolwich decided to form a football team, each giving a sixpence - two and a half pence in today's money - for the purchase of a football.

Arsenal celebrate 125 years - A history of the club

Arsenal Football Club celebrated 125 years of existence on December 1st and will celebrate the anniversary before their game with Everton on December 10th. The Gunners have had a long and successful history as they have won 13 First Division and Premier League titles, 10 F.A Cups and 2 League Cups. Arsenal also holds the record for the longest uninterrupted period in the English top flight and is the only side to have completed a Premier League season unbeaten. In this post I have picked out some of the most important parts in the club's long history.

Starting Out:
Arsenal FC originally started out as ''Dial Square'' in 1886 when they were founded by workers at the Royal Arsenal in Woolwich. Shortly after, the club was renamed to ''Royal Arsenal''. In 1893 the club was then renamed again, this time to ''Woolwich Arsenal''. In the same year Woolwich Arsenal became the first southern member of the Football League, starting out in the Second Division and then winning promotion to the First Division in 1904. However their football was watched in lower attendances than those of other clubs. This led to the club being faced with financial problems and effectively bankrupt by 1910. They were then taken over by businessmen. The take over wanted to move the club and in 1913, soon after relegation back to the Second Division, Arsenal moved to the new Arsenal Stadium in Highbury, they dropped "Woolwich" from their name the following year to become just ''Arsenal''. Arsenal only finished in fifth place in 1919, but were elected controversially to rejoin the First Division at the expense of local rivals Tottenham Hotspur.  

The club under Herbert Chapman:

Herbert Chapman

Herbert Chapman, one of Arsenal's most famous managers was appointed in 1925. Chapman had experienced previous success having won trophies with Huddersfield and brought Arsenal's first period of success and led them to dominate English football throughout the early 1930's. He guided the club to victory in the 1930 FA Cup Final and also won two League Championships in the seasons 1930/31 and 1932/33. In addition to the success that Chapman brought to Arsenal he was also key in the renaming of the local London Underground station from ''Gillespie Road'' to ''Arsenal'' which made it the only tube station to be named specifically after a football team. However Herbert Chapman's time at Arsenal was ended suddenly as he died in 1934, from pneumonia, aged just 55. This left assistants Joe Shaw and George Allison to carry on with Chapman's success. They were successful in continuing his work as they won more titles with Arsenal.
 
The Club under Bertie Mee:  
Bertie Mee was also another manager to achieve huge success with Arsenal. He was manager at the club for ten years between 1966 and 1976. He started off his success with winning the Gunners first European trophy, The Inter-Cities Fairs Cup. The following season the clubs European achievement was followed by a greater triumph, their first League and FA Cup double in 1970–71. Arsenal managed to beat Leeds to the championship with a victory over Tottenham Hotspur at White Hart Lane. Arsenal then went on to beat Liverpool after extra time to win the FA Cup at Wembley.

Recent Times: 

After former player George Graham's successful time managing Arsenal and Bruce Rioch's one season in charge, Arsene Wenger was appointed manager in 1996. This was to be the start of something special. Under the Frenchman's reign so far, he has guided the club to three League titles, four FA Cups and 3 Community Shields. One of the three league titles came in the season of 2003/04 in which they went unbeaten for the entire league season. Arsene Wenger also guided Arsenal to the 2006 Champions League final, however they lost 2-1 at the hands of Barcelona. Wenger has managed many great players during his 15 years in charge but none better than Thierry Henry and Dennis Bergkamp who played a pivotal role in the Gunners success. Arsene was vital in his teams move to the Emirates Stadium in 2006 after 93 years at previous ground Highbury. During his time as manager of the club he has also turned young players into fantastic players that are still becoming better. Players such as Cesc Fabregas(now at Barcelona), Robin Van Persie, Bacary Sagna, Alex Song and Theo Walcott all started out as not very well known players. They are certainly well known now. More recently though players such as Jack Wilshere, Aaron Ramsey and Laurent Koscielny are all players that are becoming greater players due to Arsene's work.

Arsene Wenger

Arsenal suffer defeat in final group game

Arsenal suffered a 3-1 defeat to Olympiacos in their final Champions League group game. Poor goalkeeping and bad defending led to all three goals. Benayoun offered hope late on for an unbeaten group stage but the Greek side were too strong on the night. However the loss did not matter as Arsenal were already through to the knockout stages of the competition and were also guaranteed top spot in Group F. Because of the guarantee of knockout football in the new year, Arsenal rested key men and played their second team as the likes of Chamakh, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Squillaci and Miquel all featured. However despite the loss the biggest defeat on the night seemed to be the injuries to Santos and to Fabianski who was stretchered off early on in the game.

Defensive and goalkeeping errors cost Arsenal the game

The first chance of the game came to Arsenal and Arshavin. Chamakh was played through down the right hand side; he was then allowed time to play in Arshavin who was unmarked but fired his shot straight at Megyeri in the Olympiacos goal when he should have scored.

Arsenal's next chance fell to Emmanuel Frimpong as Chamakh again was allowed to provide an opportunity for a team mate as he found Frimpong but he could only curl his shot into the side netting.

However fifteen minutes in and with Olympiacos' first chance of the game they took the lead. The ball was slipped through to Djebbour who went round Fabianski and put the ball into an empty net.

Olympiacos then could have doubled their lead. First Mirallas went close with an effort from outside the box which had Fabianski backpedalling. However with the second chance Djebbour could not make contact with the ball, instead smashed into Fabianski. As a result of the clash the Arsenal keeper was substituted in place of Vito Mannone who made his first appearance of the season.

Arsenal were still looking to threaten as Oxlade-Chamberlain got past his man before crossing the ball back to Benayoun who on the volley hit his shot wide.

With 10 minutes to go until the break Olympiacos doubled their lead through an error from Mannone in the Arsenal goal. Mannone raced out of goal to head the ball clear, however the ball bounced straight to Fuster who struck a shot which found the net in weird circumstances. Mannone had not realised he was back in his box and tried to clear the ball with his feet but missed it and the Greek side found themselves 2-0 up.

Djebbour then had a good chance to get his second of the night as he got to a corner at the front post but to only to see his header hit the side netting.

The Greek side were playing the better football and almost scored another. Djourou gave the ball away to Maniatis who could only find the hands of Mannone who made an easy save.

The score at half time was 2-0 to Olympiacos.

Olympiacos started the second half just as they had finished the second. The first chance fell to Modesto after Santos' header could only find him. Modesto then drove the shot but it was kept out comfortably and the ball went out for a corner.

From the resulting corner Olof Melberg rose the highest to get to the ball but unluckily for him saw his header clip the bar and go out.

Arsenal finally did manage to create another chance as minutes before the hour mark Yossi Benayoun scored to put the Gunners back into the match. Miquel found space on the left hand side before picking out Chamakh inside the box. He then chested the ball back to Benayoun who fiercely smashed a shot towards goal which found the back of the net.

However Olympiacos were still pushing for a third goal. The ball was cleverly clipped over the Arsenal defence and with Mannone slow coming out of his goal Modesto got to the ball first but only to waste another chance and his header went wide once again.

The Gunners managed to create another chance as the ball was played through to Rosicky but his attempted effort on goal was kept out by Megyeri.

Olympiacos who needed to win and hope that results went their way were still on the attack. This time Mirallas went close after cutting inside past Miquel but his shot went untroubled and hit the side netting.

With a minute left to play, the hosts got a deserved third goal as Mellberg's header came back off the post and straight to Modesto who scored from close range to seal the victory.

The final score ended Olympiacos 3-1 Arsenal.

The teams lineups:

Olympiacos: Megyeri, Maniatis, Modesto, Mellberg, Holebas(37), Papadopoulos, Marcano, Torosidis, Fuster(64), Djebbour(90), Mirallas.
Subs: Costanzo, Papazoglou(90), Poutouridis, Orbaiz(37), Fetfatzidis, Abdoun(64), Pantelic. 

Arsenal: Fabianski(25), Djourou, Vermaelen, Squillaci, Santos(51), Frimpong, Coquelin(67), Benayoun, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Arshavin, Chamakh.
Subs: Mannone(25), Yennaris, Miquel(51), Eastmond, Ozyakup, Rosicky(67), Park.

My man of the match: Yossi Benayoun

Referee: Alberto Undiano Mallenco
Attendance: 32,000

Arsenal return to winning ways with win over Wigan

Arsenal returned to winning ways as they beat Wigan 4-0 on Saturday afternoon at the DW Stadium. Goals from Arteta, Vermaelen, Gervinho and Robin Van Persie sealed the win as Arsenal extended their unbeaten run to seven league games. The Gunners dominated the game from start to finish as they rose to fifth in the table above Newcastle and Liverpool. It was important that Arsenal showed that not just the captain, Van Persie could score goals but others could aswell. The cleansheet was also important as it helped their goal difference rise to 7. There were two changes from the team that faced Fulham the week before as Koscielny came in for Djourou and Gervinho came in for Arshavin. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Francis Coquelin were on the bench.

Arteta scored his third Arsenal goal as the Gunners got back to winning ways

 The first chance of the match fell Wigan's way. Jones putting a ball into the box which was beaten away by Szczesny but straight to Gomez who looked as though he was going to score but Santos got an important touch on the ball to send it wide.

Arsenal hadn't really been able to create anything as Wigan looked the more likely in the first part of the match. However 28 minutes in a special strike from Mikel Arteta broke the deadlock. The Spaniard drove a shot from range which beat Al Habsi and found the back of the net.

A minute later Arsenal made it 2-0. Van Persie swung in a corner which found the head of Vermaelen at the back post to double the Gunners lead and for his second goal in as many games.

It was then almost 3-0 as Gervinho found Van Persie inside the box but he saw his effort brilliantly kept out by Al Habsi. Walcott then found the ball at his feet but he could only curl the ball over the bar with his weaker foot.

The score at half time was 2-0 to Arsenal.

The first action of the second half saw a strong penalty claim from Arsenal turned down. Ramsey got into the penalty area and was dragged back by Gohouri but the referee did not give the penalty.

Wigan almost found a way back into the game as Diame cut inside and hit a shot from outside the box but Szczesny was untroubled as the ball bounced just wide.

An hour into the game the Gunners made it 3-0. Van Persie played a one-two with Song before wrong footing two players and unleashing a shot. Al Habsi could only parm the ball away but straight to Gervinho who tapped the ball into an empty net from close range.

Arsenal's next chance fell to Van Persie after the referee played an advantage after Song had been brought down. The captain then managed to find space but only to slice his effort wide of the target.

The game though would not be complete without Van Persie scoring and he did just that with 12 minutues still left to play. Walcott sprinting clear down the right hand side and then beating Caldwell before cutting the ball back to Van Persie to fire home for 4-0 on his 250th Arsenal appearence.

The substitute Yossi Benayoun almost made it five as Arteta played the ball into him but he saw his attempted chip headed away by Caldwell.

The final score finished Wigan 0-4 Arsenal.

The teams lineups:

Wigan: Al Habsi, Gohouri, Caldwell, Figueroa, Stam, McCarthy, Gomez(59), Diame(89), Jones, Moses, Sammon(59).
Subs: Pollitt, Lopez, McArthur(89), Watson, Crusat(59), Di Santo(59), Rodallega.

Arsenal: Szczesny, Koscielny, Mertesacker, Vermaelen, Santos, Song(80), Arteta, Ramsey, Gervinho(80), Walcott(80), Van Persie.
Subs: Fabianski, Djourou, Coquelin(80), Benayoun(80), Arshavin(80), Oxlade-Chamberlain, Chamakh.

My man of the match: Mikel Arteta

Referee: Mark Clattenburg
Attendance: 19,280

Late Aguero goal ends Arsenal's Carling Cup hopes

Arsenal were knocked out of the Carling Cup on Tuesday night through a late Sergio Aguero goal as the Gunners were beaten 1-0 at the hands of Manchester City. A dominant Arsenal side were caught out on the break as City's first shot on target resulted in a goal to end their hopes of reaching the Semi-Finals of a competition they reached the final of last year. Arsenal again played an understrength team as the likes of Oxlade-Chamberlain, Frimpong, Coquelin and Miquel all played. Park and Chamakh got their chances in the team as Benayoun captained the squad on the night as Djourou was the only survivor from the draw against Fulham at the weekend. Squillaci was also given his chance at the heart of defence whilst Fabianski played in goal. Ex Gunners, Samir Nasri and Kolo Toure played against their former clubs for Man City.

Oxlade-Chamberlain shone throughout the game as he carried most of the threats going forward

The first good chance of the game fell to Manchester City. The ball was spread out wide to Johnson who beat Miquel and cut inside before unleashing a shot from outside the box which only just looped over the bar.

A minute later came Arsenal's first chance. Francis Coquelin managed to swing in a great low cross towards the back post and into Park who from 6 yards out, somehow saw his effort kept out brilliantly by Pantillimon.

Just before the half hour mark Pantillimon was forced into making another great save. Chamakh laying the ball back to Oxlade-Chamberlain who from outside the box struck a fierce left footed shot which was flying into the top corner but for the City goalkeeper.

Samir Nasri almost created an opportunity for the visitors as he tried playing in Johnson but Fabianski rushed out of his goal to beat him to the ball.

Oxlade-Chamberlain was then granted an opportunity to stretch his legs as he beat his man before being fouled by Savic. Chamberlain took the free kick but it was safely headed out of the danger area.

The score at half time was 0-0.

City created the first chance of the second half as Dzeko was found on the edge of the area before hitting a shot from just outside the box which went just wide of Fabianski's goal.

Arsenal's first opportunity of the half came to Chamakh as Benayoun played him through but from a tight angle the Moroccan put his shot high and wide of the goal.

Oxlade-Chamberlain was then given room to break as he got forward down the right before cutting inside and finding Gervinho. He got into the box but Toure got the challenge in to deny his Ivory Coast team mate from creating a chance to score.

The Gunner's next opportunity was provided by Gervinho as he slid a ball in towards Benayoun but the defender got there just ahead of the Isreali to put the ball out for a corner.

The resulting corner was headed out and Manchester City countered. Dzeko got down the left and played Johnson through the middle. He held the ball up and then found Aguero who got into the penalty area and buried a shot beyond Fabianski to give the visitors the lead with seven minutes still to play.

Arsenal hadn't given up yet though as Gervinho worked a chance after finding space but his shot ended up in the stands.

The Gunners then had a fantastic chance to equalise as Gervinho fired a ball in across the face of goal but neither Chamakh or Squillaci could get to the ball.

The final score finished Arsenal 0-1 Manchester City

Arsenal: Fabianski, Djourou, Koscielny, Squillaci, Miquel(80), Oxlade-Chamberlain(87), Frimpong, Coquelin, Benayoun, Chamakh, Park(67).
Subs: Mannone, Vermaelen(80), Yennaris, Eastmond, Ozyakup, Arshavin(87), Gervinho(67).

Manchester City: Pantillimon, Onuoha, Savic, Toure, Zabaleta, De Jong, Hargreaves(79), Kolarov(32), Johnson, Nasri, Dzeko.
Subs: Taylor, Richards, Bridge, Razak(79), Suarez, Rekik, Aguero(32).

My man of the match: Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain

Referee: Lee Probert
Attendance: 60,028

Vermaelen scores at either end to see points shared

Thomas Vermaelen scored at both ends to see that the points were shared as Arsenal drew 1-1 with Fulham at the Emirates. The vice captain scored eight minutes from time to ensure Arsenal got no more than they deserved as a draw seemed to be a fair result at the end of the game despite both keepers being on top form. For the match Arsene Wenger rested both Laurent Koscielny and Gervinho as Djourou and Arshavin took their places in the starting lineup. Abou Diaby returned to league action for the first time this season. Ex Arsenal man Phillipe Senderos who played 64 league games for the Gunners started in defence for Fulham against his former club.

Vermaelen scored at both ends to see that the points were shared at the Emirates

 In the opening minutes of the game Arsenal thought they had scored as Van Persie played Arshavin through who scored but it was ruled out as the Russian was in an offside position.

Arsenal's first proper chance fell to Aaron Ramsey. Song playing the ball to Van Persie and then to Ramsey who got into the penalty area before hitting a shot which was clawed away by Mark Schwarzer.

Fulham's first chance came to Bobby Zamora who managed to turn Thomas Vermaelen before curling a shot just over the cross bar.

Aaron Ramsey was then presented with the Gunners next chance. Theo Walcott did brilliantly down the right hand side, beating two players before playing the ball to Ramsey who blasted his shot over the bar.

However Fulham continued to stay positive and Moussa Dembele forced a good save out of Szczesny as he saw his fierce drive kept out by the Polish international. From the resulting corner the visitors created another opportunity as Hangeland rose the highest in a crowded penalty area, however only to see his header go over the bar.

Despite good chances for both sides the score would remain 0-0 at half time.

The first chance of the second half came to Robin Van Persie. Arteta found him on the edge of the box, he then cut inside before curling a shot which looked to have been going in but for Baird who was on the line to stop a certain Arsenal goal.

Despite the Gunners slight dominance in the game Fulham took the lead just after the hour mark. Danny Murphy swinging in a ball into the box which found Riise but he lost control and the ball bounced towards the sliding Vermaelen who put the ball into his own net.

Schwarzer in the Fulham goal was then forced into making a brilliant save from the head of Djourou. Van Persie delivered a corner from the right hand side right onto the head of Johan Djourou who's header was going in but for the Australian goalkeeper who dived to his left to keep the effort out. 

The captain provided Arsenal's next chance as Santos swung in the ball which found Van Persie who brought the ball down but fired his shot way over the bar.

Eight minutes from time the Gunners finally managed to equalise as Walcott found Vermaelen's head from six yards out to give Arsenal no more than they deserved as the Belgian made up for his earlier error.

Arsenal continued to attack as substitute Gervinho did well down the right, beating two men before cutting inside and firing a shot which was straight at the Fulham keeper.

The final chance came to Van Persie who from Arteta's corner could only find the hands of Schwarzer as Arsenal dropped two points on a day they should have arguably won.

The final score finished Arsenal 1-1 Fulham.

The teams lineups: 

Arsenal: Szczesny, Djourou, Mertesacker(68), Vermaelen, Santos, Song, Arteta, Ramsey(68), Walcott, Arshavin(76), Van Persie.
Subs: Fabianski, Koscielny, Frimpong, Diaby(68), Benayoun, Gervinho(68), Chamakh(76).

Fulham: Schwarzer, Baird, Hangeland, Senderos, Riise, Murphy, Etuhu, Dempsey, Dembele, Ruiz(75), Zamora(79).
Subs: Etheridge, Briggs, Hughes, Gecov, Frei, Kasami(75), Johnson(79).

My man of the match: Thomas Vermaelen

Referee: Mike Dean
Attendance:  60,043

Van Persie double sends Arsenal into knockout stages

Robin Van Persie scored twice as Arsenal beat Borussia Dortmund 2-1 on Wednesday night in the Champions League. The win ensured knockout football for the Gunners for the 12th successive time as they ensured top spot in group F with a game left to play. Arsenal are the only English side to qualify for the knockout round so far and were also the only English side to win this week in Europe. The team that played was unchanged from the weekend's side that faced Norwich, as the skipper, Van Persie continued his brilliant form leading the line and Koscielny once again played at right back. Meanwhile Abou Diaby made his comeback from a lengthy spell on the sidelines as he played the last four minutes after coming on as a substitute.

Van Persie was the difference as Arsenal reached the knockout stages

The first chance of the match found its way to Arsenal. Song played Walcott in on goal but as he went to take the ball around Weidenfeller in the Dortmund goal, he managed to intercept the ball.

Dortmund's first chance fell to Lewandowski who drove a shot from outside the box just wide of Szczesny's goal.

The German side's next chance came to Schmelzer who also hit a shot from outside the box but his effort was straight at the Arsenal goalkeeper.

Arsenal then almost managed to take the lead as Walcott swung in a cross which almost found its way to Van Persie but Weidenfeller came out and stopped the ball from reaching the Arsenal captain.

The score at half time was 0-0.

The first chance of the second half came to Kagawa and Borussia Dortmund. The Japanese international got down the left hand side and then tried to beat Szczesny at his near post from a tight angle but his shot was tame and straight at Szczesny.

Arsenal were then ahead four minutes into the half. Alex Song did brilliantly in beating three players before crossing the ball onto the head of Van Persie to make it 1-0 to Arsenal.

Gervinho then had a great chance to make it 2-0 as the ball was poked through to him by Ramsey but as he tried to round the Dortmund keeper, Hummels came across and stopped Gervinho from what would have been a goal.

Arteta then tried a shot from outside the box from a freekick after Hummels had brought down Van Persie. Arteta struck the free kick but it hit the wall and went out for a corner.

Four minutes from the end Arsenal doubled their lead and Van Persie had his second of the night. Arteta swung in a corner which was flicked on by Vermaelen and into the path of Van Persie who tapped the ball in from close range.

However in the last minute Borussia Dortmund did managed to pull a goal back. Song gave the ball away to Perisic who then found Lowandowski. He then set the ball up for Kagawa who slotted the ball past Szczesny and into the back of the net.

The final score finished Arsenal 2-1 Borussia Dortmund. 

The teams lineups:

Arsenal: Szczesny, Koscielny(83), Mertesacker, Vermaelen, Santos, Song, Arteta, Ramsey, Walcott(86), Gervinho(74), Van Persie.
Subs: Fabianski, Djourou(83), Frimpong, Benayoun(74), Arshavin, Diaby(86), Chamakh.

Borussia Dortmund: Weidenfeller, Hummels, Kruse, Schmelzer, Santana, Grosskreutz, Kehl(64), Kagawa, Gotze(29), Bender(25), Lewandowski.
Subs: Langerak, Blaszczykowski, Gundogan, Owomoyela, Perisic(29), Leitner(25), Barrios(64).

My man of the match: Alex Song

Referee: Frank De Bleeckere
Attendance: 59,531 

Arsenal come from behind as Van Persie grabs a brace

Arsenal had to come from behind against a brave Norwich side to win 2-1 on Saturday at Carrow Road, thanks to goals from Van Persie as he continued his fine run of form. Van Persie's two goals meant he has scored 31 goals this calendar year. The international break clearly hadn't upset the Gunners rhythm as Arsenal picked up their fifth successive win in the league, and Arsene Wenger's 200th away win in charge of his side. Arsenal made two changes from the side that played West Brom two weeks ago as Mertesacker came in at centre back and Koscielny played at right back due to the injuries of Sagna and Jenkinson. Marouane Chamakh and Coquelin were both on the bench.

Van Persie continued his terrific form to seal the points for Arsenal

The first chance of the match came early on and it fell to Arsenal. Walcott was set free down the right hand side before playing the ball into Van Persie who with his weaker foot slid his shot wide.

Arsenal's next chance came down the left hand side as Santos got forward from defence and played in Van Persie who fired his shot just wide of the goal.

Walcott then must have thought he had scored as he cut inside onto his left foot before hitting a shot which was somehow cleared off the line by Martin.

Norwich with their first chance of the match took the lead. A long ball was lofted over the defence which looked to be an easy ball for Mertesacker to deal with, however he failed to clear his lines and Morison outmuscled him and put the ball past Szczesny for 1-0.

Gervinho then had a great chance to score as Van Persie played him clean through on goal but the Ivorian saw his shot saved by the goalkeeper and then cleared off the line once more by Martin.

Arsenal then managed to equalise. Walcott beat his man with pace before firing in a low cross which found Van Persie who tapped the ball into the goal from close range to level the game up.

The score at half time was 1-1.

The first chance of the second half came to Arsenal. Vermaelen surged forward from centre back to pick out Gervinho inside the area but he could only manage to direct his header straight into the hands of Ruddy in the Norwich goal.

The Gunners' next chance was created by Walcott. A long ball was put over the top and into the path of the England winger who put in a cross to the near post where Ramsey was. However he could only glide his shot wide and into the side netting.

Gervinho then again had a great chance to give Arsenal the lead and should have scored but like in the first half saw his shot saved. Van Persie slipped the ball into Gervinho who rounded the goalkeeper but Ruddy managed to get back and block the effort on goal.

An hour into the game Arsenal finally managed to take the lead. Song won the ball back in midfield before playing the ball to Van Persie who got into the penalty box and chipped the ball over Ruddy for his second of the game.

Norwich hadn't created many chances but had still managed to keep the Gunners at bay and finally managed to create a chance. Bennett crossed the ball in towards Pilkington who got ahead of his marker but stabbed his effort wide.

Walcott then had a decent chance late on to seal the game for Arsenal as he drove a shot from a tight angle which struck the post and went out for a goal kick.

The final score finished Norwich 1-2 Arsenal.

The teams lineups:

Norwich: Ruddy, Martin, Barnett, Tierney, Naughton, Crofts, Johnson, Hoolahan(69), Fox(46), Pilkington(82), Morison.
Subs: Rudd, Drury, Surman, Bennett(46), Holt(69), Jackson(82), Wilbraham.

Arsenal: Szczesny, Koscielny, Mertesacker, Vermaelen, Santos, Song, Arteta, Ramsey, Walcott(90), Gervinho(77), Van Persie.
Subs: Fabianski, Djourou(90), Coquelin, Benayoun(77), Rosicky, Arshavin, Chamakh.

My man of the match: Theo Walcott

Referee: Phil Dowd
Attendance: 26,801 

Goals from Van Persie, Vermaelen and Arteta give Arsenal win

Arsenal proved they are not a one man team as they beat West Brom 3-0 at the Emirates. Van Persie was once again on the scoresheet but was not the main man, as Vermaelen got his first of the season whilst Arteta got his first goal in an Arsenal shirt at home. The Gunners also grabbed a clean sheet which means that they are getting much better defensively as Mertesacker was rested whilst Koscielny took his place and Vermaelen returned from injury. Jenkinson also returned at right back as Djourou missed out.

Arteta scored his first Arsenal goal at the Emirates

The first chance of the game brought a goal, 22 minutes in. Ramsey set Walcott free down the right hand side who got forward and hit a shot which was parmed away by Foster but straight at Van Persie who tapped the ball in.

Six minutes before the break Arsenal went 2-0 up. Song playing the ball into the box to Van Persie who pulled it back into the path of Vermaelen who then slotted his shot past Foster to extend the Gunners lead. 

It was a half of little chances as Arsenal dominated the possession. West Brom had no shots at the Arsenal goal so the score at half time remained 2-0.

The first chance of the second half came Arsenal's way. Jenkinson got forward from right back before delivering the ball into the box towards Gervinho on the edge of the six yard box. However McAuley got to the ball first and  put it out for a corner. From the resulting corner Vermaelen had a great chance to get his second of the game as Van Persie whipped in a corner but the Belgian defender put his header wide.

Gervinho then set up a chance for Ramsey. Gervinho received the ball and then found Ramsey who took a touch and stabbed his left footed shot across the face of goal but wide of the target.

The next opportunity for the Gunners fell to Gervinho as he got past his man and then played a one-two with Arteta before firing a shot from a tight angle which was saved comfortably by Foster in the West Brom goal.

Gervinho was creating lots of scoring opportunities for his team mates and next he was able to set up another one for Song who tried to curl his shot past Foster but he was equal to it and beat the ball away.

West Brom were not at their best, and Walcott was able to run at the defence. He cut inside and found Van Persie who skied his shot miles over the bar and for once the Dutchman failed to hit the target.

17 minutes from the end Arsenal went 3-0 up. Rosicky picked up the ball and then found Van Persie who layed the ball off to Arteta on the edge of the box who curled a shot past Foster for his second of the season.

Near to the end of the game West Brom eventually found some life as Jerome Thomas fired a shot at goal which was deflected and went out for a corner. From the corner they managed to get their first attempt on target. Brunt swung in the ball and picked out Steven Reid but his header was straight at Szczesny.

Albion then had another chance to get a consolation goal as Song brought down Thorne which resulted in a freekick. Morrison took the set piece but smashed his shot high and wide.

The final score finished Arsenal 3-0 West Brom.

The teams lineups:

Arsenal: Szczesny, Jenkinson, Koscielny, Vermaelen, Santos, Song, Ramsey(71), Arteta, Walcott(78), Gervinho(72), Van Persie. 
Subs: Fabianski, Djourou, Mertesacker, Benayoun(72), Rosicky(71), Arshavin(78), Park.

West Brom: Foster, Reid, Olsson, McAuley, Jones, Brunt, Morrison, Dorrans(81), Gera(63), Thomas, Cox(71).
Subs: Fulop, Shorey, Thorne(81), Dawson, Mulumbu(71), Fortune, Tchoyi(63).

My man of the match: Thomas Vermaelen

Referee: Michael Oliver
Attendance: 60,091

Arsenal held to goalless draw by Marseille

Arsenal were held to a goalless draw against Marseille at the Emirates on Tuesday night. If Arsenal had won the game they would have qualified for the knockout stages of the Champions League, however they could only manage a draw but still sit at the top of Group F with 8 points. Neither side looked as though they wanted to score as plenty of chances went begging throughout the game. Carl Jenkinson returned from injury at right back whilst Vermaelen came in for Koscielny. Ju Young Park made his European debut for the Gunners as Van Persie was rested and started on the bench.

Ju Young Park was making his Champions League debut

The first chance of the game fell to the visitors, Marseille. Andre Ayew got to the byline before feeding his brother Jordan who flicked his shot just wide.

Arsenal had started slowly and Marseille managed to create another chance as Remy slid the ball into the box but Andre Ayew poked his shot wide.

The French side then created another chance. Santos giving the ball away to Valbuena who then found Remy who cut inside and fired his attempt over the bar. The shot, however, did take a deflection off an Arsenal man and the referee gave a corner.

Arsenal's first chance then finally came as Gervinho raced forward before finding Walcott who shot at goal but saw his shot saved by Manadanda in the Marseille goal. 

The Gunner's next chance fell to Gervinho who again ran at the defence before firing a shot at goal which was straight at Mandanda who made the easy save.

Aaron Ramsey then had a great chance to give Arsenal the lead. Santos got forward and played the ball to the back post where Ramsey was but he put his shot high and wide from not far out.

Loic Remy was causing the Arsenal defence plenty of problems throughout the night and was inches away from giving Marseille the lead. Remy cut inside from the right hand side and played a one-two with Cheyrou before curling a shot which went just past the post. Szczesny wouldn't have had a chance had the shot been on target.

Gervinho was Arsenal's main man on the night and he managed to create another chance for Arsenal as he stung the hands of Mandanda from a shot from outside the area. However the ball still couldn't find the net.

Arsenal were looking desperate to score and Ramsey should have done again as he found himself in space inside the box. Ramsey took too long with his shot though and the defender was allowed to come across and block the attempt.

The second half saw pretty much the same as neither side could again convert their chances. One of the best of the second half fell to substitute Van Persie. He went clean through on goal but tried to chip the goalkeeper, however he failed in his attempt and the ball was caught easily by the Marseille keeper.

Marseille wanted all three points and almost got it as Amalfitano broke into the penalty area before hitting a shot which went wide.

The final score finished Arsenal 0-0 Marseille.

The teams lineups:

Arsenal: Szczesny, Jenkinson, Mertesacker, Vermaelen, Santos, Song, Arteta, Ramsey(66), Walcott, Gervinho(77), Park(62).
Subs: Fabianski, Djourou, Koscielny, Rosicky(66), Benayoun, Arshavin(77), Van Persie(62). 

Marseille: Mandanda, Fanni, N'Koulou, Diawara, Morel, Diarra, Cheyrou. Andre Ayew, Jordan Ayew(84), Valbuena(74), Remy(68). 
Subs: Bracigliano, Azpilicueta, Traore, Kabore, Gonzalez(74), Amalfitano(68), Gignac(84).

My man of the match: Thomas Vermaelen


Referee: Paolo Tagliavento
Attendance: 59,961 

Van Persie hat-trick helps Arsenal to suprise win over Chelsea

Arsenal proved their critics wrong as they managed to beat Chelsea 5-3 at Stamford Bridge on Saturday afternoon. A Van Persie hat-trick and a goal each for Santos and Walcott proved that the Gunners can beat the big teams away from home as Arsenal picked up a surprise 3 points. In a very open game both sides were much better going forward than they were defensively and the Arsenal skipper once again showed why he is one of the best strikers in the world right now. It now meant that he had 28 goals in his last 27 Premier League games. For the match Carl Jenkinson and Thomas Vermaelen were back from injury and came off the bench whilst Chamakh missed out all together as Van Persie started and Park was on the bench.

Van Persie again helped Arsenal to 3 points in the league

The first chance came in the opening minute to Chelsea as Lampard played Cole down the left who then found Torres inside the box but Koscienly just managed to get ahead of him and put the ball out for a corner.

Arsenal's first chance was similar to Chelsea's as Walcott was set free down the right hand side. He then got the beating of Cole before playing the ball into Gervinho who looked set to score but slid his shot wide of the goal.

A few minutes later Van Persie also missed a great chance as Walcott played the ball into the skipper but he put his chance over the bar from close range. 

Then on fourteen minutes Chelsea took the lead. Mata cutting inside and crossing the ball into the box where Lampard was waiting and headed home from just outside the six yard box.

Chelsea then could and should have been 2-0 up. Lampard curling the ball over the Arsenal defence with another great through ball into the path of Sturridge who sliced his shot wide when he should have scored.

Nine minutes before half time Arsenal equalised through Van Persie. Ramsey finding Gervinho who  unselfishly slid the ball past the oncoming Cech in the Chelsea goal over to Van Persie who comfortably put the ball into the back of an empty net.

Shortly after the Arsenal equaliser the Blue's thought they had regained the lead as Ramires did well down the right hand side before finding Strurridge who put the ball into the back of the net but found himself offside and the goal was not given.

On the stroke of half time Chelsea did regain their lead. Lampard swinging in a corner towards Terry who got a foot to the ball and it crept beyond Szczesny and into the corner of the goal.

The score at half time was 2-1 to Chelsea.

Arsenal started the second half much livlier than their opponents as Gervinho beat Boswinga before creating a chance for Ramsey who from 6 yards out and a crowd of players around him put the ball over the bar.

Four minutes into the half Arsenal equalised once again. Song turning past his man and then finding Santos who had lots of space to run into before firing a shot past Cech for his first goal in the Premier League.

Szczesny then could have been sent off and Arsenal down to ten men as he raced out of his goal and then brought down Cole on the edge of the area but the referee only showed him a yellow card. Lampard took the free kick and tested Szczesny who dived across to his left to keep out the shot which looked to have been curling inside the far post.

The Gunners then found themselves in front for the first time in the match. Cole brought down Walcott but then managed to get up and wriggle his way past another challenge before getting past two Chelsea players and smashing a shot past Cech and into the back of the net for 2-3 to Arsenal.

With ten minutes left to play Chelsea found their way back into the match through Juan Mata. Santos giving the ball away to Meireles who then found Mata who drove a shot from distance which found its way into the goal and the score was level again.

Five minutes later Arsenal were ahead once more. Malouda attempting to play the ball back to Terry who slipped. Van Persie seized the opportunity and picked up the loose ball, he then rounded Cech in the Chelsea goal before once again slotting the ball into an empty net.

Into injury time and the Gunners sealed the win as Van Persie netted once more to pick up his hat-trick. Arsenal won the ball back on the edge of their own penalty area before breaking down the other end of the pitch. Arteta then picked up the ball in the middle of midfield and found Van Persie who smashed a swurving shot beyond the Chelsea keeper and the ball nestled in the back of the goal.

The final score finished Chelsea 3-5 Arsenal. 

The teams lineups: 

Chelsea: Cech, Bosingwa, Terry, Ivanovic, Cole, Mikel(76), Lampard, Ramires(73), Mata, Sturridge(62), Torres. 
Subs: Blackman, Bertrand, Luiz, Romeu, Meireles(76), Malouda(62), Lukaku(73).

Arsenal: Szczesny, Djourou(76), Mertesacker, Koscielny, Santos, Song, Arteta, Ramsey, Walcott(79), Gervinho(88), Van Persie.
Subs: Fabianski, Jenkinson(76), Vermaelen(88), Frimpong, Rosicky(79), Arshavin, Park.

My man of the match: Robin Van Persie

Referee: Andre Marriner

Attendance: 41,801    

Arsenal come from behind to reach quarter finals of League Cup

Arsenal had to come from behind to reach the quarter finals of the Carling Cup. Goals from Arshavin and Park secured the Gunners passage to the next round of the cup after beating Bolton 2-1 at the Emirates on Tuesday night. Arsenal's most experienced players carried them over the line as Vermaelen returned from injury to captain the side; he was partnered by Squillaci who also returned from injury. Nico Yennaris who started and Daniel Boateng who came off the bench both made their first team debuts.

Ju Young Park (Middle) scored the winner for Arsenal

Arsenal managed to create the first chance of the game as Park cut inside from the left hand side and drove a shot from outside the box which tested Bogdan in the Bolton goal but it was kept out.

The Gunners were applying the early pressure and Yossi Benayoun managed to create a chance as he cut inside but curled his shot wide of the post.

Their next chance came from a freekick as Arshavin layed Vermaelen off on the edge of the area who struck a fierce effort towards goal which was parmed away by Bogdan.

Bogdan was then tested again as Arshavin found Park on the edge of the box. He then tried to pass the ball into the back of the net but he slipped in the attempt and he scuffed his shot but Bogdan was still forced to make a diving save to his left.

The score at half time was 0-0.

Ryo comes on for Oxlade-Chamblerlain

Two minutes into the second half Bolton took the lead through former Arsenal man, Fabrice Muamba. Muamba won the ball back off Frimpong who then found Prately who played the ball back to Muamba who slid his shot into the roof of the net for 1-0 to Bolton.

Bolton were only ahead for 6 minutes as Andrey Arshavin equalised for Arsenal. The Russian was allowed to run at the defence and then poked a shot past the goalkeeper and into the goal.

Just three minutes later the Gunners were ahead. Arshavin once again ran at the defence and then played Ju Young Park in on goal who curled his shot into the back of the net to seal Arsenal's passage into the next round of the cup.

Bolton almost managed to grab an equaliser as Eagles drove a shot from range which Fabianski could only parm the ball away but almost into the back of his own net. Luckily for the Arsenal keeper the ball went over the bar.

The Trotters were now creating the chances and Klasnic went through on goal but Fabianski came out of his goal to save the shot.

Bolton then created another chance as Eagles swung in a corner which was met by the head of Cahill who saw his shot saved on the line by Fabianski.

The final score finished Arsenal 2-1 Bolton.

The teams lineups: 

Arsenal: Fabianski, Yennaris, Squillaci, Vermaelen(84), Miguel, Frimpong(76), Coquelin, Benayoun, Arshavin, Oxlade-Chamberlain(73), Park.
Subs: Mannone, Meade, Boateng(84), Ozyakup(76), Aneke, Ryo(73), Watt.

Bolton: Bogdan, Steinsson, Cahill, Knight, Gardner, Kakuta(71), Prately(61), Muamba, Davies, Klasnic, Tuncay(85). 
Subs: Jaaskelainen, Wheater, Reo-Coker, Riley, Eagles(71), Blake(85), Ngog(61).

My man of the match: Ju Young Park

Referee: Anthony Taylor
Attendance: 56,628