We made it 9 points out of a possible 9 in our Europa League group, as we defeated Molde 4-1 at the Emirates.
Goals from Pepe, Willock and two own goals helped Arsenal to a comfortable victory. We conceded the first goal of the game from a long range effort. However, we went level before half time after good work from Willock to force a Molde own goal.
In the second half, we took the lead with another Molde own goal from a Willock cross. From then onward, we were on cruise control, as Pepe finished off a Saka square ball beautifully.
Willock wrapped it up with a goal, a deserved one after such a great performance.
Mikel Arteta spoke after the game, expressing his delight at their performance of the young players and he reserved special praise for MOTM, Joe Willock.
On the win…
Yes, it was really important for us to win tonight and go on top of the group with a very convincing victory. The boys tried to go for them from the first minute, we went a goal behind and then it was about the reaction, being patient. We generated a lot of chances and we won the game.
On his side’s creativity…
I think we got in very good spaces on a lot of occasions. If they’d not scored the own goal, we had all the time somebody behind for the tap in. We improved a lot today our combinations in the final third, we were able to sustain attacks much better. This is what the game required. Obviously, don’t let them run on the counter because they are a threat.
On the youngsters…
Yeah, they are really doing it [the job], I really like their approach in every game, to make the difference. They don’t want to play just to be there, they want to make the difference, they are playing with a lot of personality. I’m really happy with them.
On Willock…
He could have scored more! He was all the time there in goal scoring situations, he created a few goals as well, I think he had a really good performance. Keep doing what he’s doing and consistently and his chance [in the Premier League] will arrive.
On the offside goal…
I was told that he was onside, the referee did not have VAR so we can’t complain too much.
We welcome Aston Villa to the Emirates in the premier league this weekend. Hoping to welcome Emi Martinez back to the Emirates with loads of goals.
