Arsenal Gun Down Toffees

October 20, 2008

An alarmingly slow start from Arsenal was turned around at half, as Theo Walcott’s introduction sparked life into the side as the Gunners ran out 3-1 victors at the Emirates on Saturday.

Arsenal struggled to find their pace early on, and were punished for it as Everton took a 1-0 advantage on a Leon Osman goal from a Steven Pienaar cross in the 9th minute. Following the goal, Everton continued to thwart Arsenal attempts to move up the pitch, and remained threatening in front of Almunia’s goal throughout the first 45.

The Gunners weren’t completely without offence however, as several classy saves were required by Everton keeper Tim Howard in the first half; particularly against Robin van Persie, who came close twice but was unable to find an equalizer. Frustrated by their inability to build up any consistent attacks with their trademark passing play, Wenger’s side resorted to using the long ball to find target man Adebayor, which had limited success.

Everton nearly took a 2-0 lead into the break, as a Jolean Lescott header in the 37th minute sailed over Almunia looking destined for goal; it was not to be though, as Gael Clichy intervened on the line to clear the ball out of the Arsenal area.

Despite the 1-0 score and the few key Arsenal opportunities, the half clearly belonged to the Toffees, who appeared ready to capture an unlikely away win at the Emirates. Wenger responded with a half-time switch, bringing on the speedy Theo Walcott to replace Kolo Toure, who would prove to be a key difference maker in the second half.

With the Everton defence seemingly nervous after quickly realizing the sheer pace of Walcott, Arsenal’s attack went to work, as Samir Nasri slotted home the equalizer in the 48th minute. The flow of play was heavily against Everton from there, and Arsenal capitalized again in the 70th, with a van Persie header scoring on a rebound following a Cesc effort.

Theo would get a deserved goal to conclude the game, firing a shot between Howard’s legs in the 90th minute, capping off a strong comeback by the Gunners at home.

Missing for Arsenal were captain William Gallas, along with Bacary Sagna, Nicklas Bendtner, and Johan Djourou. Abou Diaby returned as an 83rd minute sub, his first game for the Gunners this season after being sidelined by injury. He replaced Nasri, who took a knock and limped off the pitch favoring his thigh. Kolo Toure also took an injury to his shoulder late in the first half.

Arsenal’s next match is an away fixture against Turkish club Fenerbahce, a Champions League clash on October 21.

Justin Barrie

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