A span of 192 seconds put away the game, only in the first half. Arsenal beat Aston Villa 3-0, and they didn’t need much time to do so, with Ozil and Welbeck finding the back of the net, in addition to an own goal by Aston Villa.
Ozil finally silenced critics and Arsenal fans alike, reminding everyone of his superstar ability. He struck in the 33rd minute, sending the ball past the goalkeeper’s right side. A minute later, Ozil assisted on a beautiful cross to new boy Welbeck, who scored his first for the Gunners today.
If that wasn’t enough, Gibbs sent in a low cross from the left, one that Villa’s Cissokho mistakenly sent in for Arsenal.
This victory will prove to be huge for Arsene Wenger’s men, especially after this past week’s loss to Dortmund. Arsenal hasn’t won a game since their narrow opening-day win over Crystal Palace, and after three straight draws, the players’ confidence and morale seemed on the decline. But a win like this will surely raise them again.
However, this was more than just a nice, comfortable 3 points for Arsenal. It was significant for the stars, Mesut Ozil and Danny Welbeck, who seemed to have found their place after looking lost the past several games. Ozil played a lot better playing directly behind Welbeck, creating more opportunities and controlling tempo of the game. He didn’t seem to have many defensive lapses, either.
Danny Welbeck looked like the striker Arsenal bought him for, to score and lead the offense in the absence of Olivier Giroud. Not only was his goal contribution but his relentless energy running back on defense proved to be special. If Welbeck can continue to score goals, he will be crucial to the squad.
In all, Arsenal looks to be back in what is an early but already intense beginning of the Premier League race. Don’t get me wrong, the Gunners weren’t perfect; Aston Villa actually had control of the game leading up to the three goals. But with new players and injuries, only time will mold chemistry on the pitch together.
As for Aston Villa, Paul Lambert’s side are still in it. A loss puts them equal with Southamptom for second, two of the biggest surprises at this stage. Today’s loss marks their first, and with the play they’ve shown, they will no doubt bounce back for sure.
Photo Credit: Adrian Dennis/AFP