Arsenal bounce back with win over Everton

After the shambles in mid-week against Monaco it was crucial that Arsenal responded at the weekend against an Everton team who had also played during the week. It was important that the defeat in the Champions League hadn't left the team without confidence and despite a timid start we managed to retain our spot in 3rd place after United's win yesterday. Olivier Giroud opened the scoring before Tomas Rosicky scored late on to ensure all three points in a top four race that is incredibly tight. Changes were inevitable after such a poor performance against Monaco and they came at the back and also in attack. Gabriel started in the Premier League for the first time, replacing Per Mertesacker, whilst Oxlade-Chamberlain came in for Danny Welbeck.

Olivier Giroud was back among the scorers against Everton

As I said, our start to the match was very timid, and you can't really blame them after the horror show last time out. Against Monaco everything that could have gone wrong went wrong. However this time we bounced back with a very professional performance. There were a few moments that left me with similar feelings as to the ones I bitterly felt in the week but overall it was a very pleasing display. Those feelings only came in the first 20 odd minutes though. Gabriel let a ball bounce instead of clearing it which almost lead to an Everton goal and we were also misplacing passes all over the place. It was a very slow start to the game and it seemed as though Everton could get a result. Giroud and Rosicky made sure that wasn't going to happen though.

Olivier Giroud was on the end of some ruthless comments after his display against Monaco; he continued to get in the right positions before proceeding to stick the ball wide or high of the target. Today was a different display though, it showed exactly why Wenger shows so much belief in his French striker and also why he's been in such good form for the majority of the season. My previous two blogs have showed varied viewpoints from myself on Giroud, both praising and criticising him. Against Palace I commented on his conversion rate improving which was hugely ironic after he played so poorly against Monaco. Today against Everton though he bounced back brilliantly and indeed showed why he's so important to this side, steering home well from a Mesut Ozil corner. He also showed great strength inside the penalty area and held the ball up well which lead to a few chances. That's not to say we don't need a top class striker that can do it all though.

Mesut Ozil was non-existent against Monaco, but like Giroud, he bounced back positively against Everton. At times he was carried through the game by Santi Cazorla who controlled the game nicely but the German managed to bag himself two assists. He of course supplied the corner from which Giroud scored, and then set up Rosicky as we sealed the points late on. Rosicky wasn't on for long but showed great willingness to involve himself in play. The finish did take a deflection but it capped off a lovely little cameo from the Czech midfielder. He could well play against QPR on Wednesday night.

David Ospina came under some scrutiny for his performance against Monaco and also against Crystal Palace slightly. He started off his Arsenal career in fine form after he replaced Szczesny almost two months ago now, but that form has begun to slightly peter out. He potentially could have tipped Carrasco's effort which led to a goal in the week wide of the post but like numerous other players he bounced back brilliantly against Everton and was one of our key players in the win. After Gabirel let the ball bounce instead of heading clear in the first half, Ospina managed to race out and deny Lukaku what probably would've been a goal. He also made another vital stop from Lukaku in the second half and was brave coming out of his goal to meet crosses.

Despite Gabriel Paulista having a shaky start to today's match he actually had a very good game in what was his first Premier League start. Arsene Wenger claimed that the reason Mertesacker was left out was due to the amount of games he's played this season, but after his display against Monaco you wouldn't excuse Wenger for leaving him out on that basis. Gabriel made a vital tackle in the first half to deny Lukaku before putting himself about well in the second half. His acquisition in January could prove vital, especially after our failure to sign a recognised centre half last summer cost us points during the early parts of the campaign.

Hector Bellerin also deserves a mention. He was dragged in far too much against Monaco and therefore left Martial with a lot of space but against Everton he was back to his usual best. What I like about him is if we lose the ball down that right hand side he's quickly snapping on the heels of the opposition to win the ball back. He has great determination and that's why he's quickly becoming a fan favourite.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain was meanwhile at the heart of most our attacks. He marked his return from injury in the week with a goal and was a real bright spark down the right. Chamberlain's energy, drive and willingness to take on a man make him a very tricky player to deal with and he really does deserve more goals and assists to his name than he already has.

This part of the season is absolutely vital, and after QPR in the week we face Manchester United in the FA Cup; a huge clash.

The team's line-ups:

Arsenal: Ospina, Bellerin, Gabriel, Koscielny, Gibbs, Coquelin(89), Cazorla, Oxlade-Chamberlain(82), Ozil, Sanchez(87), Giroud.
Subs: Szczesny, Mertesacker, Chambers(89), Monreal, Rosicky(82), Welbeck(87), Walcott.

Everton: Howard, Coleman, Stones, Jagielka, Garbutt, McCarthy, Barry(84), Besic(76), Barkley, Mirallas(62), Lukaku.
Subs: Joel, Alcaraz, Osman, Gibson(84), Lennon(62), Naismith(76), Kone.

My man of the match: Olivier Giroud.

Referee: Andre Marriner.
Attendance: 59,925.

Arsenal rescue point but same problems still remain

Arsenal once more put in a far from convincing display as their slow start to the season continued. The Gunners had to come from two down against Everton at Goodison Park on Saturday evening as late strikes from Ramsey and Giroud rescued a point. It was a game of two halves and it took Wenger to make some bold changes in order for the game to turn around. Over the years matches between Everton and Arsenal have been very interesting and this was no different! Arsenal made a few changes from the opening day win as Ozil and Mertesacker returned whilst Flamini came in for the injured Arteta. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain also started ahead of Santi Cazorla.

Olivier Giroud scored a vital late equaliser as Arsenal drew with Everton

It is difficult to describe exactly what Arsenal fans feel like after the draw with Everton. In some ways it feels like a win, and there is a mass sense of relief. However, you can't be happy with the way the side played. It was bold of Wenger to play quite an experimental line-up, as Alexis started up top with Ozil on the left. It was an experiment that didn't quite pay off, especially with Mertesacker playing with Chambers at the back for the first time.

It was clear to see the defense had been shuffled about and ultimately that led to our down fall, as well as the fact we had no runners when it came to our attacking phases of play. The first goal was poor marking at the back post as Ozil allowed Coleman to get round the back of him and head home a cross. As for the second one, Mertesacker was bullied by Lukaku before Chambers dived in and Flamini didn't go to his man. That all allowed Naismith to fire home despite looking slightly offside.

What was encouraging though and for the second week running was Arsenal's will and determination to not give up and to keep going. Arsenal had to go down and make some changes and the main one was that of Olivier Giroud. Sanchez hadn't particularly played as well as he could've done upfront and as a result was subbed at half time. Giroud completely changed the game around and gave us a different dimension up top and showed how valuable he can be at times. He did miss a big chance with his first touch at the beginning of the second half, blazing a volley over from close range. However he made up for that by scoring a vital headed equaliser from a Monreal cross in the dying embers of the game.

Aaron Ramsey was the player to yet again make the difference though. Another of the subs Santi Cazorla played well when he came on as he swung in a low cross to Ramsey who couldn't miss with six minutes remaining. The midfield combination of Wilshere and Ramsey hasn't seemed to work yet and it wasn't until Jack was brought off that Ramsey seemed to have more of an effect on the game. The question remains over Wilshere and he's going to really have to pick up his own game for the good of the team, and for his overall performance levels.

Arsenal's attacking play with Giroud on the pitch was very encouraging but like with all games there are negatives and despite the way we came back the defence does need addressing when it comes to these big games. Hopefully we'll see Koscielny back for the game against Leicester next weekend. First up is the second leg against Besiktas and following a 0-0 draw in Turkey, we simply have to win.

The team's line-ups:

Everton: Howard, Coleman, Distin, Jagielka, Baines, Barry, McCarthy, Mirallas(84), Pienaar(9), Lukaku(74), Naismith.
Subs: Joel, Alcaraz, Stones, Besic, Osman(9), Atsu(84), McGeady(74).

Arsenal: Szczesny, Debuchy, Chambers, Mertesacker, Monreal, Flamini, Wilshere(74), Oxlade-Chamberlain(74), Ramsey, Ozil, Sanchez(45).
Subs: Martinez, Koscielny, Bellerin, Rosicky, Cazorla(74), Campbell(74), Giroud(45). 

Referee: Kevin Friend
Attendance: 39,490. 

Arsenal suffer another defeat as persuit for top four halters

A few months ago we were top of the table and fighting on all fronts for the Premier League title. At one point we were even seven points clear at the top. Now, we're in a fight for actually finishing in the top four. I was in Tuscany, Italy last week and therefore missed Arsenal's best result in a while with the draw against City. It was typical that I was away and couldn't write up about it. I came back though and my mood was immediately ruined by another shocking performance from the Gunners. We've picked up 13 points from our last 33 available. We've had players injured but that's no excuse for the kind of form we're in.

Arsenal were dealt another blow with defeat at Goodison

We knew our tough run throughout February and March would determine our season, and that's certainly what's happened. We've still got an FA Cup semi-final to look forward to but I'm seriously starting to worry about whether or not we'll get Champions League football next season. Everton have a game in hand but the tougher fixtures. Each of our last five games we should easily win and with the Toffees having to play City and United hopefully it'll be us playing in next season's Champions League for the 17th successive campaign. One thing's for sure though, where we finish in the league is out of our hands.

One key difference from the game with Manchester City was that Nacho Monreal was playing instead of the once again injured Kieran Gibbs. Nacho Monreal started his career at Arsenal in early 2013 in great form and looked to be a very good rotation option along with Kieran Gibbs. However this season he's been a different player, and not in a positive way. He's struggled for any consistency and whenever he's played I've been worried. He gets targeted by players and therefore a lot of the goals we've conceded start off down that left hand side. His partnership with Vermaelen yesterday was terrible. They failed to close down properly for the first goal whilst Nacho got dragged in too much for Lukaku's goal which then led to Vermaelen putting in a rather tame challenge.

Thomas Vermaelen has put in some solid displays this season but looks out of depth next to Mertesacker. Laurent Koscielny was one of the main reasons we were challenging for the title and he formed a formidable partnership with Mertesacker. The pair conceded hardly any goals apart from against the big teams as we know only too well. Against Everton though Per and Vermaelen looked as though they'd never played a game of football with each other. They have had limited time together in the side but they seem to have no chemistry and it appears as though they're confused as to who should take control of the back line. In Vermaelen's absence that was Mertesacker's job to organise the team but now that the club captain is back, it's disrupted the team's flow a little.

It looked as though this season we'd finally sorted out the defensive problems but it's clear from several games this season that it still needs addressing.

The blame for these types of defeats can't be heaped on the defence though. Wenger has picked the wrong line-ups and wrong tactics far too often. There hasn't been a change in formation for as long as I can remember. That's something that makes it so easy for the big teams to defeat us. We don't keep our opponents guessing and we only have one game plan. To pass the ball around and hope that it'll get us into some dangerous areas in the penalty area. Liverpool are doing well this season, not just because of their players but because of the excellent management of Brendan Rodgers. He's changed his tactics around and when something isn't working then he'll change the formation. Not every game for them is set up in the same way and that's one of the reasons they've been so successful as they're keeping their opponents guessing.

The age old debate has been brought upon us again of whether or not a mass change is needed at the club. I've said before that the FA Cup could decide Wenger's future. He has yet to sign a new deal and it's becoming increasingly likely that this could well be his last season at the club.

One individual I'd like to pick up on again is that of Mikel Arteta. In the FA Cup fixture against them a few weeks back he was brilliant and deserved his goal. However this season he's been way off in terms of quality. He was a good signing but is aging and it could be time to replace him with someone younger in the Summer. He gives the ball away too often and it summed up his afternoon that he scored an owl goal back at his old club. This is being a little harsh but the most productive thing he did all game was wave his finger at Baines and Barkley.

The only positive from the game was that of Aaron Ramsey's return to action. He added a much needed drive to the game that was missing. Someone with driving runs has been missing for a while with the likes of Ozil, Wilshere and of course Walcott our injured.

West Ham, Hull, Newcastle, West Brom and Norwich are our remaining fixtures. Drop points and we can say goodbye to a top four finish for definite.

The teams line-ups:

Everton: Howard, Coleman, Stones, Distin, Baines, McCarthy, Barry, Naismith(81), Osman(9),  Mirallas, Lukaku(87).
Subs: Joel, Hibbert, Garbutt, Alcaraz, McGeady(81), Barkley(9), Deulofeu(87).

Arsenal: Szczesny, Sagna, Mertesacker, Vermaelen, Monreal, Arteta, Flamini(66), Rosicky, Cazorla, Podolski(66), Giroud(71).
Subs: Viviano, Jenkinson, Bellerin, Kallstrom, Ramsey(66), Oxlade-Chamberlain(66), Sanogo(71).

Referee: Martin Atkinson.

Wembley beckons as Arsenal beat Everton

Arsenal bounced back from their defeat against Stoke with a brilliant performance in the FA Cup on Saturday. Mesut Ozil, Mikel Arteta and Olivier Giroud all scored goals as Arsenal comfortably beat Everton as the Gunners reached the semi-finals for the first time in five years. Following our recent run in the high pressure matches, it was a huge relief to see us put in a such a great performance. We've had perhaps the luck of the draw in a sense that we've played every game at home, but we have now knocked out both Merseyside clubs, and Spurs. With Bayern Munich in the week in mind, Wenger made a few changes. Lukasz Fabianski continued as our FA Cup keeper whilst Thomas Vermaelen came in for the injured Koscielny. Sanogo got a chance up top whilst Ozil and the Ox both came back into the starting line-up. Flamini meanwhile replaced the injured Wilshere.

Giroud and Ozil were on the score-sheet as Arsenal reached the semi-finals

This was perhaps our most crucial game of the season, one that would determine the character of this side and would show whether we could finally put our Spring hoodoo behind us. Although we still have some tough games to come, reaching a semi-final of a Cup having just beaten a resilient Everton side should fill the squad with confidence. After the disappointing defeat last weekend it was important to bounce back like we have so many times this season, and that's exactly what we did.

One of the most pleasing aspects of our win was the performance of Mesut Ozil. He's been widely criticised recently and was even jeered off the pitch when he played for Germany in the week. However what he did on Saturday was a perfect response to his critics and to anyone who doubted him. He got the ball rolling with the first goal just seven minutes in. Cazorla led a break away and then fed the German who rolled the ball home. It was a precise finish from a man who now looked to have a new burst of life. It was the German play-makers first goal for exactly three months where he scored against the same opponents. He meanwhile assisted the fourth goal with a brilliant bit of awareness to pick out Giroud after a typical counter attacking move.

Moving onto Giroud it was good to see him bounce back too. He was brilliant against Sunderland but then truly awful against Stoke. Yaya Sanogo started yesterday and didn't do himself any harm but Giroud offered us something different. I don't know why, but he always seems to play better at home and make a lot more runs. His first goal was a brilliant piece of work down the right by Sagna and Giroud was then left with a tap in, meanwhile he also got himself into a good position to finish the game off for his second. It was a very good performance and should bring him confidence going into the game against Bayern.

The decision to play Arteta and Flamini together caused a bit of a stir because so far this season they've been incapable of playing beside each other. I don't know whether it was because he was against his old club but Arteta played one of his best 90 minutes all season. It was great to see him in his more preferred position, driving forward from midfield rather than holding back. He was busy in and around the penalty area and deserved his goal. However he was forced to take his penalty twice after Giroud was encroaching for the first one. Both were taken superbly though. Thomas Vermaelen meanwhile put in a solid performance in place of the injured Koscielny and shows the good squad depth we have.

Next up of course if Bayern Munich in the week. Last year's performance in Germany gives me the confidence that we can go there and achieve a result. Man City have already done so in this years Champions League so why can't we? It'll be a very tough game and one where we'll have to stop Bayern scoring, but score three times ourselves if we're to reach the quarter-finals.

The teams line-ups:

Arsenal: Fabianski, Sagna, Mertesacker, Vermaelen, Gibbs(88), Flamini, Arteta, Oxlade-Chamberlain(78), Ozil, Cazorla, Sanogo(61). 
Subs: Viviano, Jenkinson(88), Rosicky(78), Miyaichi, Gnabry, Podolski, Giroud(61). 

Everton: Joel, Coleman, Stones, Distin, Baines, McCarthy, Barry, Mirallas(76), Barkley(84), Pienaar(76), Lukaku. 
Subs: Howard, Hibbert, Browning, Osman(76), McGeady(76), Deulofeu(84), Naismith.

My man of the match: Mesut Ozil.

Referee: Mark Clattenburg.
Attendance:

Ozil goal not enough as Arsenal draw with Everton

Arsenal were made to work for a tough 1-1 draw with Everton on Sunday afternoon in what turned out to be our toughest test of the season so far. Mesut Ozil found the net before young Spaniard Gerard Deulofeu scored all in the space of 4 minutes as the Gunners extended their lead at the top to five points. It was far from comfortable and on the bases of chances we should've won. However, Everton had played so well in the first half meaning a draw was probably a fair result. Having made 5 changes in the week against Hull, 4 of the players that missed the game came back in to face the Toffees. Gibbs replaced Monreal whilst Giroud and Wilshere came in for Bendtner and Rosicky respectively. There was also a start for Mikel Arteta against his former side having missed the game against in the week.

Laurent Koscielny was a rock at the back

Everton have only lost one game in the Premier League this season, they've also got one of the best defensive records following a fine string of clean sheets. Arsenal had only lost twice and also had a pretty good defence to bolster as well. It had all the characteristics to be a classic and that's exactly what we got. Everton had turned up to win, and following strong performances against Liverpool and Manchester United recently, why wouldn't they? They dominated us in the first half and had pretty much all of the possession, we hadn't struggled that much since Villa on the opening day. The second half was a different story though and despite Arsenal having the better chances on the day, it took 80 minutes for the deadline to be broken. Ozil coolly found the net after Walcott had headed the ball back across goal for the opener. The tempo then upped itself once more as Everton came back firing and scored a deserved equaliser through some individual brilliance from Deulofeu.

Both sides defence was in top form during this game so it was no surprise as to why the goals came so late. The Gunners built on their impressive form at the back by only conceding one in an especially strong display from Laurent Koscielny. He seemed to have been given the job of marking the improbable Romelu Lukaku who he had an absolute stormer up against. Lukaku had been in prolific form this season but Koscielny made him look ordinary with a performance that outlined just how good the French defender is. Mertesacker and Koscielny can now add Lukaku to the list of attackers such as Suarez, Sturridge and Lewandowski they've had in their 'back pocket'.

I don't often pick up on individual performances on the oppositions side but I think some of Everton's players deserve a mention. In my opinion we witnessed four of the most solid centre backs in the league on display yesterday. Jagielka and Distin were fantastic and managed to prevent us from getting in through our classic little passes on the edge of the penalty area. If it wasn't for the convincing displays at the back we would've witnessed more than one goal a piece. Another player that caught many peoples eyes was that of Ross Barkley. He was sensational in the middle of the park. I hadn't seen him play a full 90 minutes until now and I must be honest, I wasn't entirely convinced with him until he played us. However, having now seen him properly he really is a special talent. He's good on both feet and isn't scared to take people on and play a killer pass or have a shot on goal.

Back to Arsenal and the few negatives from the game that can be picked out. Mikel Arteta, despite being against his old team, unfortunately didn't have the best of games. He's been playing pretty well recently but on Sunday he was quite wasteful in possession and was bullied by Barkley in midfield. Perhaps its time to give Flamini another run in the team after his cracking start to the campaign. Flamini and Rosicky when they came on completely changed the game in my opinion. Ramsey and Wilshere who have been brilliant recently were outshone and were wasteful, something that we haven't been used to from the pair lately. Olivier Giroud was slated by some sections of the fans but I thought he did well and he's a key reason as to why our midfielders have been in such good form. His lay-offs and link up play is probably second to none in the Premier League. Giroud was desperately close with seconds left on the clock to winning the game too. He took the ball down and then fired an incredible effort that crashed against the crossbar from 25 yards out. Had it gone in, it would've been goal of the season without a doubt.

It was a missed opportunity to go seven points clear at the top. With our next two games against City and Chelsea, that would've been amazing. However a draw against an inform Everton side is nothing to be ashamed off and we'll go into our next game 5 points clear.

The teams lineups:

Arsenal: Szczesny, Jenkinson, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Gibbs, Arteta, Ramsey(68), Wilshere(68), Ozil, Cazorla(68), Giroud.
Subs: Fabianski, Vermaelen, Monreal, Flamini(68), Rosicky(68), Walcott(68), Bendtner. 

Everton: Howard, Coleman, Jagielka, Distin, Oviedo, Barry, McCarthy, Pienaar(77), Barkley(90), Mirallas(79), Lukaku. 
Subs: Joel, Heitinga, Stones, Osman(71), Naismith(90), Deulofeu(79), Jelavic. 

My man of the match: Laurent Koscielny/Mesut Ozil.

Referee: Howard Webb.
Attendance: 60,001.

Arsenal held to goalless draw with Everton

Arsenal were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw with Everton on Wednesday night as the Gunners missed the chance to extend their lead over Chelsea and Spurs in the race for Champions League football next season. It was a hard fought point for the Gunners, but both sides indeed had chances to win the game and Arsenal will be unhappy not to have taken their chances in such an important game. There were plenty of positives to take from the game though despite the result. Another clean sheet had been kept as Szczesny returned to the side whilst the ever improving Aaron Ramsey earned himself a second man of the match performance in as many games. There were a few changes to the side that had beaten Norwich as Walcott replaced Gervinho and Mertesacker came in for Vermaelen. Rosicky also returned from injury as he was on the bench.

 Giroud missed two great chances that would've won the game for Arsenal

The first chance of the match fell to Everton as the ball was slipped through to Pienaar but he put it over the bar.

Arsenal's first good attempt on goal came from an unlikely source as Gibbs made room for a shot on the edge of the area but it failed to find the target.

Theo Walcott was then to come under some aggression from the Everton players as he was on the end of a nasty tackle from Gibson and was then obstructed by the same player and Pienaar.

Everton were looking the most likely to score and they almost broke the deadlock as Barkley tried curling a shot from range but Szczesny was equal to it.

The best chance of the half fell Arsenal's way though. Ramsey got down the right hand side and then centered the ball brilliantly for Giroud but he somehow slid wide.

Arsenal were to create the first chance of the second half as a good build up led to Cazorla hitting a shot from outside the box which Howard managed to beat away.

Giroud then missed another fairly decent chance as Gibbs did well down the left to then lay off the Frenchman but he fired over from the edge of the box.

Ross Barkely was proving to be a very good player as he then worked off a shot as he had done in the first half. This time though, the ball flew inches wide.

Arsenal then really should have scored as they broke away on the counter with Cazorla who then played in Oxlade-Chamberlain. However instead of shooting, he fired the ball across goal towards Giroud but the defender was in the way to make a crucial interception.

All the chances seemed to be falling to Giroud as he then wasted another one, firing over from a few yards.

The final score finished Arsenal 0-0 Everton.

The teams lineups:

Arsenal: Szczesny, Sagna, Mertesacker, Koscielny, Gibbs(90), Ramsey, Arteta, Wilshere(68), Walcott(68), Walcott(68), Cazorla, Giroud.
Subs: Mannone, Vermaelen, Monreal(90), Rosicky, Oxlade-Chamberlain(68), Gervinho, Podolski(68). 

Everton: Howard, Coleman, Jagielka, Distin, Baines, Barkley(76), Fellaini, Pienaar, Gibson, Mirallas(90), Anichebe(90).
Subs: Mucha, Heitinga, Oviedo(90), Neville, Hitzlesperger, Naismith(90), Jelavic(76). 

My man of the match: Aaron Ramsey

Referee: Neil Swarbrick
Attendance: 60,071

Arsenal held again in draw to Everton

Arsenal drew for the second time in a week as they picked up just one point from their midweek trip to Goodison Park. It was a hard fought point as Theo Walcott, back from injury, proved once more why it's vital he stays, as he opened the scoring early on. However after some sloppy play in the midfield, Walcott's goal was cancelled out by in form Marouane Fellaini midway through the first half. It was an improved performance from the draw against Villa last Saturday but there is still much work ahead after failing to create many clear cut opportunities. Wenger once more ringed the changes as Vermaelen, Sagna and Wilshere all came back after being benched at the weekend, whilst Tomas Rosicky was back from injury and was named amongst the substitutes.

Theo Walcott returned from injury to open the scoring for Arsenal

The first chance of the match brought a goal from Arsenal. Theo Walcott ran through the midfield and then gave the ball to Ramsey. He then played it back to Walcott, who curled the ball home via a deflection from the left hand side of the penalty area and into the far corner of the net. 

Arsenal's bright start then suffered a set back as Koscielny had to go off injured with Gibbs replacing him.

Everton's first shot on target came from a corner as Baines' delivery met the head of Fellaini but it ended up as a comfortable save for Szczesny.

The hosts were now starting to dominate and almost found themselves a second as Pienaar tried to slip in Jelavic but Szczesny was out quickly to deny the Croatian from getting on the end of the pass.

However Everton then finally managed to find the net after sloppy play from Arteta and Sagna. Sagna's clearance went straight to Fellaini who with his left foot curled the ball past Szczesny for the equaliser.

Seven minutes before the break Jelavic had a fantastic opportunity to put his side ahead as he turned Mertesacker easily before blasting the ball over the bar and into the crowd.

The score at half time was 1-1.

The first shot on goal in the second half fell Everton's way as Mertesacker gifted the ball to Pienaar but Szczesny got down well to keep the ball out at his near post.

From the resulting corner Baines' cross met the head of Distin but Szczesny made a fantastic save to palm the ball away.

Ten minutes later Arsenal had a good chance to put themselves back in front as Walcott's cross found Giroud but his header bounced inches wide of the post.

Tim Howard hadn't really been tested in the match but then Santi Cazorla found room to hit a left footed shot but the American keeper was unfazed and managed to beat the ball away.

Arsenal then really should have taken the lead as Walcott played Giroud down the left and then attempted to pick out Gervinho but instead of rolling the ball across to him, the pass was a lofted one and it went over his head.

The final score finished Everton 1-1 Arsenal.

The teams lineups:

Everton: Howard, Hibbert, Jagielka, Distin, Baines, Gibson(73), Pienaar, Osman, Fellaini, Naismith(62), Jelavic.
Subs: Mucha, Heitinga, Oviedo(62), Hitzlsperger(73), Barkley, Gueye, Vellios.

Arsenal: Szczesny, Sagna, Mertesacker, Koscielny(4), Vermaelen, Arteta, Wilshere, Cazorla(90), Ramsey(80), Walcott, Giroud. 
Subs: Mannone, Jenkinson, Gibbs(4), Coquelin(90), Rosicky, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Gervinho(80). 

My man of the match: Theo Walcott

Referee: Michael Oliver
Attendance: 37,141

Vermaelen goal sends Arsenal third after victory

Arsenal moved up to third place in the league as they beat Everton 1-0 at Goodison Park on Wednesday night. The win came courtesy of an early goal from Thomas Vermaelen, meaning he had scored the match winner in two successive games having scored against Newcastle the previous week. It was a key win as the Gunners leapfrogged their rivals, Spurs, into third place whilst also extending their lead over Chelsea who were in fifth place. It was a game in which Mikel Arteta made his return to Goodison Park having moved from Everton to Arsenal in the summer. There was only one change to the side that beat Newcastle as Aaron Ramsey came in for Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain who was rested as he dropped to the bench.

Vermaelen scored the games only goal as Arsenal came away with all three points

The first chance of the match fell to the visitors, as Rosicky's ball was knocked down by Van Persie into the path of Ramsey, who sliced the ball over the bar when it looked easier to hit the target than to miss.

Ramsey then got another chance as he picked the ball up just inside the penalty area before driving a shot which took a deflection and went out for a corner.

From the resulting corner, Arsenal took the lead. Van Persie's inswinging ball was met by the head of Vermaelen who found the net from 6 yards out for a deserved opening goal. 

Van Persie then nearly had a goal of his own as Arteta poked the ball through to him but Howard came out and saved the shot.

Everton's first chance fell to Osman as Fellaini headed the ball back into the area from a free kick and into Osman who stooped down low to head the ball wide of the goal.

The hosts then thought they had scored as Cahill found Drenthe who put the ball past Szczesny for what looked to be an equaliser, but for the linesman who had his flag raised for offside and the goal was ruled out.

Tim Howard was forced into making a great save shortly after the disallowed goal as Rosicky stung the palms of the American goalkeeper as he managed to keep the Gunners from extending their lead.

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

The first chance of the second half fell to Everton. Leighton Baines whipped in a free kick from the left which found the head of Fellaini but Szczesny was in the way to keep Arsenal in the lead.

Arsenal's first chance of the half fell to Van Persie who came incredibly close to scoring as Song's ball was knocked down by Gibbs, into the path of Van Persie, who struck the post with his effort.

Ramsey then came close to extending the Gunners lead as Walcott played the ball into Ramsey who cut inside before striking a shot which forced Howard into getting down low to pull off the save.

The Gunners were looking the most likely team to score and had two great chances in quick succession as first Van Persie pulled his shot wide and then Rosicky smashed a shot against Howard, both from close range.

Most of Everton's chances were coming through the impressive Baines as the hosts next chance was knocked down by Distin, from a Baines corner, into the path of Drenthe, who fired his shot over the bar and into the crowd.

Arsenal were desperately looking for that second goal which would surely see out the match and they got a good chance as Gervinho caught Everton on the break and got down the left hand side, before cutting the ball into Van Persie, who blazed his shot high and wide of the goal.

The final score finished Everton 0-1 Arsenal.

The teams lineups:

Everton: Howard, Hibbert, Heitinga, Distin, Baines, Osman(79), Cahill(88), Fellaini, Pienaar, Drenthe(79), Jelavic.
Subs: Mucha, Jagielka, Neville, McFadden, Stracqualursi(88), Gueye(79), Anichebe(79).

Arsenal: Szczesny, Sagna, Koscielny, Vermaelen, Gibbs, Song, Arteta, Ramsey, Rosicky(88), Walcott(79), Van Persie.
Subs: Fabianski, Djourou(88), Santos, Benayoun, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Gervinho(79), Chamakh.

My man of the match: Thomas Vermaelen

Referee: Lee Mason
Attendance: 30,330

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 - 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