Arsene Wenger had been preparing the Arsenal players for a tough test against Ludogorets and it was just as well, as the visitors started well and could have caught us out if we had not been ready for them. We had already seen a couple of big defensive moves from Koscielny and Cazorla in the early stages so it was a reliefg when we got an early opener.
What a goal it was as well, with Alexis Sanchez showing great composuer along with the skill to loft a perfect chip over the helpless keeper. After that you might have thought we would be well on top and Arsenal did continue to create chances but too often the final ball was poor and the Bulgarians did not crumble.
Both teams had good chances to add to the scoreline before Theo Walcott produced another stunner, striking a fierce and swerving shot that doubled the lead just a few minutes before the break to make the manager’s team talk a lot easier. Maybe the timing of that goal or their exertions in the first half took their toll on Ludogorets, but the second half was much more comfortable foe Arsenal.
Ozil carried on his recent scoring form with a great hat-trick after the Ox made it three soon after the restart, as the Gunners ran riot and cut the opposition to shreds time and again, with any little chance for them being snuffed out, with Coquelin and Mustafi excelling.
Six goals and a clean sheet with Wenger able to bring Walcott, Cazorla and Alexis off early. Happy days and a perfect night for Arsenal.
Bob.