Sunday, December 8, 2013

Arsenal - Everton 1-1: Two points dropped

Arsenal were unable to extend the lead following the 1-1 draw against Everton. Arsenal opened the scoreline via Mesut Ozil but Everton managed to equalize via Gerard Deulofeu few minutes later. This result, however, still made Arsenal sit on the top off the table, 5 points from Liverpool and Chelsea on the second and third place.
How EPL stands as Gameweek 15.
 Photos from Arsenal - Transfers & Analysis 

Arsenal were not having their best performance in the first half, as Everton pressed hard and dominated the game. They got more possession, especially in the early 20 minutes. Arsenal only started to get the feet on the game after 30 minutes, and they managed to create two 1-on-1 chances, but Tim Howard was brilliant to deny Giroud and Ramsey. Kieran Gibbs could've scored had he react quicker to Santi Cazorla's cross. Everton, despite their dominance, didn't have clear cut chances in front of goal in the first half.

On the second half, Arsenal played better stuff, and slowly pressing Everton. They wasted few chances  to open the scoreline. Koscielny mistimed a volley kick via freekick from Cazorla and Giroud was unable to shoot it either on one occasion. Finally Mesut Ozil finally finds the net on 81st minute and everyone thought it's Arsenal victory.  However, after that goal, they switched off and let Everton to find their game and Arsenal were punsihed, and concede that goal. I have to say the Everton's goal was pure class, it's just flair of Gerard Deulofeu. No chance for Szczesny to save that, but I think Arsenal should not let Everton re-take the control of the game. 

I was really disappointed with this result, and consider this "2 points dropped", but fair play to Everton. They played good football and deserved points also from this match. They created more shot than Arsenal, and had more possession. They proved that the win in Old Trafford is no fluke and they have quality to mount for Champions League spot. I expect them to be better than Sp*rs this season, looking on how they play here.

Maybe Arsenal was a bit jaded? With just few days after the Hull game and with almost no change to the line up, and the fatigue might have crept in. Arsenal didn't look sharp in this match, and misplaced some passes and didn't find the decisive pass, especially in the first half. Ramsey and Wilshere seems to pick up a knock but I hope they would be okay for this month. We need some depth to tank this festive period.

On the Good Side? Rosicky proved he has that pass, and we can rely on him should we need to rest Wilshere or Ramsey. In addition, Arsenal still hold the top of the table, albeit not save for next few weeks, considering Arsenal next two match would be away game to Manchester City and home game against Arsenal. And before that, an away game to Naples. What a tough month for Arsenal. We have survived November, I hope we can survive December too.

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