Santi Cazorla came to Arsenal’s rescue with a 92nd-minute winner after a disappointing performance by the gunners. Southampton was robbed of a point as a controversial penalty gave the North London side all three points at the Emirates.
Wenger gave debuts to both Mustafi and Perez, while Alexis Sanchez and Olivier Giroud were on the bench. Mustafi was solid alongside Koscielny but Perez will need time to settle in the EPL.
The saints started off positively as the away side was taking the game to the gunners. Arsenal players were guilty of playing slowly and Southampton punished the hosts.
Southampton led courtesy of an own goal by Petr Cech. Tadic took a beautiful free-kick from the edge of the box and the goalkeeper did well to deny the midfielder with his fingertips. However, Cech was unlucky as the ball was deflected from the bar, came back and went in after touching the keeper.
Arsenal managed to equalize soon with a magnificent bicycle from Koscielny. The defender pulled off the spectacular after the saints failed to clear their line from the corner. The first half ended with nothing to split either side.
Wenger was a frustrated figure at the touchline as his side was far from convincing. Southampton came very close to regain their lead but poor finishing and good saves from Cech saved Arsenal.
On the other hand, Arsenal also got a few chances as well but lacked the killer instinct. Alexis was brought on for the final 30 minutes and the Chilean changed the course of the game.
Despite Arsenal knocking at the door, there was no end product and the game was headed towards a draw.
However, there was some pushing and shoving in the box between Giroud and Fonte and the referee gave Arsenal a penalty. The replays showed that there wasn’t much in it and it was a very harsh call.
Santi Cazorla stepped up and converted the penalty for his team. It was an important victory for the gunners as Wenger and co look to reduce the gap from the top.
Cazorla was the hands down the best player on the pitch as the Spaniard was involved in every Arsenal move. The midfielder’s passing was spot on as usual and Saints failed to come close to his dancing feet. Moreover, the player even did his defensive duties by making a few timely interceptions and breaking down the play at times.
Although Arsenal came out with a victory, but the fans weren’t convinced as it was touch and go for their side. The gunners will have to put a better show on Tuesday when they take on PSG in the UCL group stage opener.
Words By: Adil Afzal
