Another chance to see Arsenal’s future in action. There were some 1st teamers included like Almunia, Sagna, (Captain) Clichy, Theo and Bendtner. They were joined by the Hoyte brothers, Wilshere, Denilson, Ramsey and Carlos Vela.
Arsenal conceded first again! A ball over the top of Justin Hoyte left him for dead. One of the opposition’s players latched on to the ball, lifted it over Manuel, Gavin Hoyte looked to have cleared the ball before it went over the line, but the ref’s assistant flagged otherwise. 1-0 to them. Before the opening goal Arsenal were playing some tidy football, as usual, with some good link up play between Bendtner, Vela and Walcott. Walcott had a couple of chances but this final shots were quite tame.
Just before half time the Gunners equalised with a good finish from Theo. Bendtner laid on a great pass to put Walcott through, Theo looked up saw the far side of the goal open, and placed the ball there via the post. Their goalkeeper must have thought the ball was going wide because he didn’t move!
The second half saw a few changes, Mannone on for Almunia, Traore on for G Hoyte, Wilshere gave way for Francis Coquelin, Lansbury on for Ramsey, Simpson on for Bendtner and Randell swapped for Vela. Because of these changes the game became a bit stale and you could see the fitness of the players was waning. Clichy had a direct freekick go just wide and Lansbury had a shot well saved by their keeper but not much to report.
After the match, Clichy and Wenger gave quick interviews for Arsenal TV. Clichy looked happy being captain and said that it’s good to be back on the pitch and playing, he’s also happy for the new boys joining the squad. If Clichy’s behaviour is anything to go by then hopefully the younger members will be just as level headed as he is. Wenger explained his decision to play full backs in the centre back position, he said it’s to get them to know the responsibilities of a centre back. He went on to say that he can only try these things in a friendly. I thought that was a very good point and exercise.
It has been reported that Kolo Toure has contracted Malaria and could be out for a few weeks. I’ve always been of the opinion that we need another defender so this might trigger a new signing at the back?
