Arsenal’s away record in early Saturday kick-offs have been awful but they nicked a point from Old Trafford on Saturday. It was a game that had so many records against the Gunners – most of which stood on. But, the Gunners were lucky to share the spoils.
Many thought it would be the day that Wenger gets his 1st league win over Mourinho but it ended up as one that the professor was lucky not to have lost. Jenkinson replaced injured Bellerin and Cazorla was replaced by El Neny. The Spaniard’s trickery and ambidextrous feet were sorely missed. Iwobi was left on the bench but Sanchez saw all of the 90 with a strap on his thigh.
The Gunners couldn’t test United’s makeshift defence which was bitter to watch. Upfront, Marshall and Rashford were causing problems in Arsenal’s backline. Passes were poor and shots were poorer. Cech was called upon on different occasion to keep the Red Devils at bay. There were shouts for a penalty in the 1st half when the referee waved play on after it looked like Monreal had tripped Marshall. Mourinho was furious. it was fun watching him furious.
Arsenal started the second half flat footed and they were punished. United increased pressure paid off when an unmarked Mata guided a low cross beyond Cech. Wenger took off Coquelin, El Neny and Jenkinson for Xhaka, Giroud and Chamberlain. The latter’s cross was guided home in the 82nd minute for the equalizer.
Relief. Another defeat may have started a meltdown or the rise of the WOB but the Gunners are beginning to nick late pointers. A draw was a fair result because Arsenal were poor.
They can now focus on finishing the UEFA Champions League group as winners with victory over PSG on Wednesday. Hopefully , Sanchez is rested and Ozil returns from Ludogorets.
Enjoy
SoccerGunz 