Four things we learned: Arsenal 2-0 Sunderland
A job is never done until it’s actually done for Arsenal, as was evident in their 2-0 win over Sunderland, the Gunners having to wait for about 75 minutes before the first of Alexis Sanchez’s goals put them ahead.
The win keeps Arsenal’s top-four hopes alive with the gap between them and Liverpool down to one point again, though the Gunners would have to put up a much better performance against Everton if they are to take advantage, shall they get the chance to. So here are the lessons (and things) learned:
1. But for Alexis Sanchez
Alexis’ 23rd goal of the Premier League was yet another reason to celebrate the Chilean prodigy, not just for his footballing abilities but the way he has carried the burden of a pathetic, at times embarrassing Arsenal.
While the North Londoners were thankfully far from embarrassing, they seemed lost for answers. As always, Alexis was in a league of his own, so was Mesut Ozil.
2. Arsenal’s Complacency a Reason to Worry
It wasn’t the first time that we saw a complacent Arsenal turn up at The Emirates Stadium – it’s been a regular feature. The hosts failed to finish the game inside the first-half, when, in all honesty, that shouldn’t have been the case.
Loads of chances spurred and that back pass from Nacho Monreal only sent one message. They’ll need a big performance against Everton if they have any chance of getting into the top four. A quick start is essential on Sunday.
3. Rob Holding the Man to Build the Defence Around
Rob Holding put in another huge performance, further adding to his growing reputation as England’s best young centre-back, maybe the best – arguable.
As assertive as he seemed in Arsenal’s conventional back-four, the 21-year old has been even better under the new system, may it be as a ball player or as the man to drag the side out of trouble at the back. Watch out for him next season.
4. UEFA Champions League Hopes Still Alive
It all comes down to the last day of the season with Arsenal playing “Ronald Koeman’s” Everton and Liverpool playing the relegated Middlesbrough. The difference only being a point, all that the Gunners would need is a win against the Toffees as well as anything other than a win for Liverpool.
If it doesn’t go their way, remember, Arsenal would have missed the UCL by one point. It will be the first time we haven’t qualified for the Champions League since Wenger has been manager, let’s pray Liverpool draw on Sunday.
