After a tough game against Newcastle United, Arsenal vice-captain, Per Mertesacker admitted he was proud of the concentration and grit shown by the Gunners.
Yesterday was an ‘ugly’, yet essential three points for Arsenal. While the home side did not play very well, and could have easily lost, the fact they won the game remained an impressive feat. The quick tempo and passing was absent from their game, but it is often these tough games that can decide titles.
At the turn of the year, Arsenal now sit two points clear of second place Leicester City. The win was key in keeping the pressure on the Gunners’ rivals. After the game, Mertesacker explained how important the win was, as well as how pleased he was with the attitude of the team.
We put in everything and we had to because Newcastle were good on the break and could have taken the lead as well. When you dig in and fight for you team-mates you get your reward.
After a confident start, Arsenal could have easily been one or two goals down. The second half was much the same, if not for an Aleksandar Mitrovic miss, and a Petr Cech save, the north London side could’ve dropped another three points. Laurent Koscielny, however, poked in Arsenal’s goal in the 72nd minute, helping them to a win and a clean sheet – something Mertesacker was very proud of.
We never lost our lost our focus or our passion, and neither did the fans. We believe we can be a good team if we put the effort in. That is what it is all about. That is what I kept saying to the lads. To keep a clean sheet as long as possible and we did it all the way through.
We are a threat offensively and could have scored more in the end. We need to share the ball better at times in front of the goal. We are pretty delighted with the performance where we did well and now we are looking forward to 2016 and having a successful season.
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