Arsene Wenger commended his team’s spirit after a thumping 4-1 victory against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.
Arsenal took the lead through a clinical header by Alexis Sanchez after an incredible string of 22 passes from the Gunners, but Defoe’s penalty at the hour mark cancelled the visitor’s opening lead. Things were heading towards a bitter end but the arrival of Olivier Giroud changed the game eventually leading to a three goal deficit against David Moyes’ side.
Speaking post-match, Wenger expressed his delight at the favourable result.
“I am happy with the performance, with the result,” said Wenger, according to Arsenal’s official website.
“At some stage we were questioned with our spirit as well, because we missed many chances.
“At 1-1 you think you have the chance to lose a game that should be over, but we kept going again and had another go.
“In the end we won in a comfortable way.”
The Gunners are now unbeaten for the last 14 games in all competitions and the Frenchman emphasised the importance of the result.
“Overall I feel it was important for us to win today,” Wenger added.
“Because we had won six [in a row] and then drew at home last weekend, which was disappointing.
“So to have another game without a win would maybe have created some uncertainty so it was important to win the game.”
The Gunners strength in depth couldn’t be emphasised more with several key players missing and the ability for Wenger to introduce a top class centre forward such as Giroud from the bench.
But let’s be honest, Arsenal had to beat Sunderland given their woeful form.
The Gunners now turn their attention to the Champions League as they have an upcoming fixture in midweek where they travel to face Ludogorets Razgrad with the massive 6-0 victory fresh in their minds from Emirates Stadium.