Match Report – Match Highlights – Post-Match Press Conference
Final Result: Aston Villa 0-2 Arsenal (Trossard 67′, Partey 77′)
Arsenal XI (4-3-3): Raya; Timber (Calafiori 79?), Saliba, Gabriel, White; Rice, Partey, Odegaard; Martinelli (Trossard 65?), Saka (Nelson 88?), Havertz
The start of the game was marred with injuries, as Aston Villa had a couple of players with Amadou Onana having an injury scare, while Matty Cash had to be yanked off. Arsenal drew first blood when Bukayo Saka curled a beautiful ball that was parried by Emiliano Martinez. There were more injury trouble for the home side when Leon Bailey rolled on his ankle and hit the deck with no pressure from an Arsenal player.
Aston Villa had the biggest chance to take the lead when Morgan Rogers created a chance for Ollie Watkins but he inexplicably sent his effort wide with David Raya rooted to the spot. Raya was on fire again when Onana’s shot deflected off the cross bar with Watkins sending his header to a gaping goal but Raya was on hand to make an incredible save.
With Aston Villa failing to take initiative, Arsenal had a chance when Martin Odegaard fashioned a chance for Saka but Martinez charged down on him before he could make any meaningful effort with the ball. Gabriel Martinelli had a stinker and was replaced by Leandro Trossard and with just two minutes on the pitch, Trossard showed off his elite finishing, latching up to a loose ball and side-footing his effort home. The Gunners sealed the victory when Saka teed up Thomas Partey at the edge of the box, and his curler slipped past Martinez to make it two.
There was even time for Riccardo Calafiori to make his long awaited debut as a substitute for Jurrien Timber and Arsenal held on to gain their revenge over Aston Villa. This result was also important with Manchester City’s win over Ipswich, giving Arsenal a chance to keep up with the defending champions ahead of their blockbuster clash in GW5.
Arsenal hosts Brighton next and we will focus on the transfer window before the clash with Mikel Merino’s imminent arrival, and Eddie Nketiah’s potential departure to Nottingham Forest.
Till then, enjoy your Sunday.
Sayonara.
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