Review: Arsenal 1-2 Chelsea

Saturday’s game at the Emirates saw an end to Arsenal‘s unbeaten run, while Chelsea proceeded with what can only be described as an outstanding start to the Premier League season, picking up 15 out of their possible 18 points.

Arsenal had just one change to the starting line-up which drew 1-1 with champions Manchester City; Per Mertesacker dropped to the bench to bring in captain Thomas Vermaelen. 3rd choice goalkeeper Vito Mannone started for the 5th time this season to replace the injured Wojciech Szczesny. Midfielders Theo Walcott and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain were also on the bench alongside summer signing Olivier Giroud – last season’s top scorer in the French league. Chelsea started Eden Hazard as well as their new £20mil signing Oscar, who produced two magnificent goals in their Champions League game against Juventus.

The first 15 minutes started well for Arsenal, with the Gunners dominating possession. What was to follow came as a shock, as inattentive defending from Vermaelen lead to an impulsive tackle, resulting in Chelsea being awarded a free kick. Mata swung the ball in to the box, all the while Arsenal’s defence was in chaos. Laurent Koscielny’s lack of concentration on the ball soon became clear, as Fernando Torres managed to effortlessly hook the ball into the top corner. The score 1-0.

The rest of the first half displayed shots galore from both side, as well as some midfield artistry. One name which kept propping up was the same one many people have already given the title ‘Best Signing Of The Summer’ to; Santi Cazorla. The Spanish midfielder made his mark in English football, and rightfully so. At times, it is difficult to work out whether he is a right footed or left footed player as he is equally exquisite with both. Santi Cazorla and Mikel Arterta’s newly developed midfield partnership was demonstrated at its finest. However, this was overshadowed by the fact that the first half was almost coming to an end and Arsenal were still 1-0 down. The home fans were anticipating a goal, as it was evident that Arsenal would struggle in the second half if their priority was solely to attack, as defending against Chelsea is a challenge on its own. However, Arsenal’s fighting quality was displayed once again, as Oxlade-Chamberlain fired a cross to Gervinho, who turned and hammered the ball into Chelsea’s net. The score at half-time was 1-1.

The second half demonstrated the well known disappointing side of Arsenal. Again, Vermaelen found himself at the centre of a clumsy and unnecessary tackle. Mata took an accurate shot, which took a slight deflection off Koscielny. The score read 1-2.

Manager Arsene Wenger felt a more attacking approach was needed and brought on Walcott and Giroud. Instead Arsenal gave him wasted shots in their accustomed manner. Giroud was presented with several chances to score the equaliser for Arsenal, but failed to hit the target even after a few attempts. The game ended 1-2 with Arsenal’s effort in the second half far from satisfactory.