Match Report – Player Ratings – Infographic – Video Highlights
Crystal Palace v Arsenal
Barclays Premier League
Crystal Palace Park
Kick off: October 26, 2013 12:45 PM BST
10-man Arsenal managed to keep out a battling Palace side who would have at least equalized had it not been for the heroics of Wojciech Szczesny. The Gunners started the match fluently, keeping Palace in their own half for long periods at a time which was reflected in Arsenal’s 87% possession during the opening stages. Despite their early domination they struggled to find a breakthrough while Palace threatened at times on the counter.
It took a darting run from youngster Serge Gnabry shortly after the halftime break that earned the visitors a penalty, converted coolly by captain Mikel Arteta. The Spaniard only lasted another 18 minutes however after he was given his marching orders (rather harshly) for taking down ex-Gunner Chamakh (there was plenty of hair-wax swapping during that collision). The red card sparked Palace back into life and threatened a number of times. However a late Olivier Giroud goal, his fifth in the Premier League this season, courtesy of a delightful chip from Aaron Ramsey finished off the game and calmed the visitors nerves after what has been a challenging week.
Still top of the league. Love it!
Here is the match report infographic:
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