Premier League 2017/18: 3 reasons why Arsenal won against Cardiff City

#2 Lack of finishing from Cardiff City

Harry Arter missed a glorious opportunity to open the scoring in the first half

The North London side's four-man defence was caught in possession as well as on the counter many times through the 90 minutes, but the hosts failed to capitalize on the mistakes from the Gunners.

They did score their first goal(s) of the season against the frail Arsenal defence but primed to get more, especially in the first 45 minutes.

Petr Cech looked uncomfortable with the ball on his feet and made a glaring error when trying to get rid of the ball, passing it straight to Harry Arter in the six-yard box. The Irish midfielder couldn't pounce on the golden opportunity, though, and shot the ball straight to the stands.

What. A. Chance. Petr Cech passes straight to Harry Arter, but he blasts over the bar. #CARARS

— Michael Pearlman (@MPearlo) September 2, 2018

Cardiff created ten chances but could manage just four shots on target through them. It seems as if promotion to the top-tier has overwhelmed their forwards. The two strikes today might give them the self-assurance they need in front of the goal in future games.