Gunners pick up three points thanks to two goals in first half
Arsenal are top of the Premier League as it stands thanks to a 2-0 win against Aston Villa at Villa Park this afternoon.
The Gunners went into the game off of their impressive win in Greece on Wednesday, and knew that with another victory today, they would be top of the table ahead of Leicester City‘s clash with Chelsea tomorrow evening.
Things weren’t looking so good for their opponents however, who are rooted at the bottom of the table with just six points.
It was a reunion for Arsene Wenger and Remi Garde, as the Villa boss used to play for Arsenal back in the late-90s, but it was a day to forget for the former-player as his side fell to yet another defeat.
Match Summary
Things started badly for the hosts as Arsenal were rewarded a penalty after just eight minutes when Alan Hutton tussled with Theo Walcott and hauled him down to the ground.
The referee took his time, but eventually rewarded the Gunners a spot-kick, which Olivier Giroud calmly slotted home.
Chances were few and far between during the whole 90-minutes, but when half-chances did come, it was Arsenal who took them, and they doubled their lead in the 38th minute thanks to Aaron Ramsey.
It was a breathtaking counter-attack from Wenger‘s side as Theo Walcott played through a delightful pass to Mesut Ozil, who then selflessly put it on a plate for Ramsey.
It was Ozil‘s 13th assist of the season and Arsenal’s three-point sewed up.
Boos rang out at half-time as the home fans voiced their displeasure and although the score remained the same, their side did put up a bit of a fight in the second-half.
There were limited chances for the rest of the game, with Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain coming close for Arsenal, and Adama Traore coming closest for the hosts.
The win puts Arsenal top of the table for now, while Villa remain bottom after just one win all season.
Match Reaction
Arsenal goalkeeper Petr Cech, speaking to Sky Sports: “We have done really well to be resolute at the back and to control the game to get the three points.”
Arsenal midfielder Aaron Ramsey, speaking to Sky Sports: “We believe we have an opportunity to win the title. We have shown what we are capable of and have to continue now, in what is a busy part of the season. We have to maintain our focus and belief. Who knows what will happen but we believe we can challenge for trophies.”
Written by Alex Batt – @AlexBatt
