Arsenal managed to secure 8th in the league today with a 3-2 win over now relegated Watford. It was a tough game. We knew Watford would be up for it but we got off to a flying start, being three goals up within 33 minutes. After that, Watford really grew into the game, managing to pull back two goals. In all honesty, they were unlucky not to complete the comeback with Martinez pulling off a string of top saves. The defeat for Watford succumbed them to relegation and they will be playing Championship football next season.
We had the perfect start, winning a penalty within the first two minutes. There was an incredibly lengthy delay as VAR reviewed the action. There was no real appeal from any Arsenal players but it did look a very clumsy challenge from Dawson. I mean, it’s not cricket, you don’t have to appeal for every decision. I think it was definitely a penalty as he came from behind and did not win any of the ball. The sweetest part of it all was the look on Mike Dean’s face as he realised he had to award Arsenal a penalty. He was desperate for some final day drama and to make it all about himself. I’m very surprised he didn’t give Xhaka another yellow card to rule him out for the final. He was itching to do it but thankfully, Xhaka didn’t give him any opportunity. Aubameyang made no mistake from the spot and we were off to the perfect start.
We doubled our lead a little while later, Tierney scoring his first goal for the club. It certainly wasn’t the cleanest strike but I’m sure he won’t be complaining. Aubameyang then doubled his tally for the day with an overhead kick following a long throw from Tierney. It was really bad defending from Dawson again as he failed to intervene to prevent the goal. Aubameyang was only one goal away from the golden boot but he was unable to complete his hat-trick before the final whistle.
So we’re 3-0 up, everythings going swimmingly, we’re not playing the best football but at least we have a healthy lead. Then just before the break, some horrific defending from Luiz gifted Watford a way back into the game as he brought down Welbeck inside the box. That was actually a record as it was the 5th penalty he’d given away this season. No player has ever conceded that many in a season in Premier League history. Congratulations David! In fairness, he wasn’t helped by Holding who also had a stinker today. A poor pass from him led to Welbeck being brought down. Deeney also made no mistake and gave Watford a lifeline.
The school boy defending wasn’t done there as Welbeck scored a tap in to reduce the deficit to just the one goal. Who was at fault? The record-breaking Luiz who switched off at the front post to allow Welbeck to finish an easy chance. We really have seen the good and the bad David Luiz this past week. From a Man of the Match performance against City to an abysmal display today. He really is the most frustrating footballer. When he’s on it, he’s very, very good. When he’s not, I’d rather have Joe Mullins (Codicote F.C legend) at CB. I just hope we get the former version of Luiz when we play Chelsea next week. Seriously though, the defending today was pathetic and we desperately need another CB. Maybe even a proper defensive midfielder who can provide adequate protection. I love Xhaka but that’s really not his best role.
From then on, we were just about able to see the game over the line. Martinez made a world class save to deny Welbeck and Deeney missed a free header following a free kick. We got the win but we’re really going to have to step up when we face better opposition next weekend. I felt the game was far too open at times and this gave Watford far too many opportunities to score. I’ll tell you who was good today: Maitland-Niles. Credit to him, he was very good defensively and going forward. He’s more than earned a start for the final if you ask me.
Player Ratings-
Martinez 8
Was very good yet again. Made two high quality saves and looked calm with the ball at his feet. Providing real competition for Leno for number one. I just worry that we’ll lose one of them as neither will be content with being on the bench having now proved themselves.
Holding 4
Very poor from him. Was so sloppy on the ball and I can’t remember him winning any aerial duels against Deeney. I didn't feel confident with him at the back and I wonder if he’s good enough at the moment.
Luiz 4
Also very poor from an experienced defender. Honestly, I’m not surprised at his performance but how does he manage to lose concentration so often as a professional defender. Will have to improve next week.
Tierney 7
Not his best game but still looked relatively solid at the back. Going forward, he needs to work on his final ball a bit but got a goal so fair play to him.
Maitland-Niles 8
Very impressed with AMN. Good at the back, positioning looked sound and was decent going forward. Hopefully he gets a start in the final.
Ceballos 8
The consistent Ceballos put in another good display. Very tidy on the ball as usual and his defensive contribution has clearly come a long way. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, sign this man.
Xhaka 7
A solid game. Like Ceballos, very comfortable on the ball and improving defensively. I’d like to see us sign a quality defensive minded player to sit alongside them.
Willock 5
Very limited contribution. Was his big chance to impress so he’ll be disappointed he couldn't take advantage. Not good enough to play for Arsenal in my opinion.
Pepe 7
I thought Pepe had a decent game. Looked good going forward and worked hard defensively which would have pleased the manager.
Lacazette 6
Not at his best but still won us the penalty early on. Didn’t get on the ball as much as he would’ve wanted but still worked hard off it. Surely will start in the final.
Aubameyang 8
Agonisingly close to the golden boot but still, two well taken goals shows just how valuable he is to our team. Not sure where we’d be without his goals. I hope he signs a new contract.
Subs- Nelson looked relatively lively when he came on but his final ball was horrific. Needs a loan. Nketiah should've scored but oddly opted to pass to Aubameyang. I know he was trying to get Auba his hat-trick but come on, you’re a striker. The rest had no real impact.
I was also very close to my bet of 3-1, Aubameyang first goalscorer and Xhaka to be carded. Luiz will be the death of me.
JH
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