A brace each from Aaron Ramsey and Lukas Podolski earned Arsenal a 4-1 win over Galatasary in Istanbul. Podolski opened scoring in the 3rd minute before Ramsey doubled Arsenal’s lead in the 11th minute. The Welsh Jesus scored a superb goal in the 29th minute from a half volley off a corner. Sneidjer grabbed a consolation for the Turks in the 88th but Podolski scored with the last kick of the match.
The Five:
1. Ramsey Finds his boots
Aaron Ramsey grabbed a brace tonight days after scoring a consolation for Arsenal at the Brittania. The midfielder had failed to score in 16 games before the Stoke game but showed his clinical skills in Turkey. Well taken goals especially the 2nd. Even the opposition fans had an applause for him with Podolski romancing his boot and Szczesny hands on head.
2. Podolski Finishes as Expected
Lukas Podolski opened and ended scoring for Arsenal in the 3rd and 92nd minute respectively. The former was a trademark thunder bolt, the latter a cool finish. How this brace will increase hid chances of having more games under hid belt is only known to Arsene Wenger. He is undoubtedly the best finisher.
3. Welcome Debuchy and Szczesny.
Debuchy returned from his injury layoff after a 3 month absence. The french right back showed what Arsenal has missed and will sure grab his starting shirt against Newcastle with the suspension of Chambers.
Szczesny also returned to his poles and picked up all lose balls but could do little as Sneidjer roofed his free kick for a consolation. Is this the end of the Martinez era?
4. Debutants.
Ainsley Maitland-Niles and Stefan O’Connor made their Arsenal debut today. They put up a modest display and would be glad to play a part in today’s win. Zelalem also made his Champions League debut. They all had little impact on the game but gave opportunities to rest the more senior players. Niles came on for Ramsey, Zelalem for Flamini and O’Connor for Debuchy.
5. Second Best.
The 4-1 win was not enough for the gunners to finish tops with Dortmund and Anderlecht settling for a 1-1 draw. The gunners will continue to rue the 3-3 draw against Anderlecht at the Emirates. Arsenal would be hoping for a good draw and may face the big shots.
Other mentions includes the pressure invitation in the 2nd half, Sanago’s quest to be a footballer, Campbell’s game etc.
Waiting for Newcastle.
Enjoy.
SoccerGunz 