It was a tough start for Arsenal as Monaco began well and for the first 10 minutes or so, it was the home side that looked more likely to score. But we had not thrown all caution to the wind and defended well befoe gradually getting a grip on the game.
Cazorla was linking up the play well in the centre and our three forwards were starting to give the Monaco defence a lot to cope with. They did for most of the first half, with a bit of luck going their way as well. But our tempo was much better and the chances kept coming for us while Monaco were not really threatening at the other end.
It really was game on after 35 minutes when we forced their right back to give the ball away and Welbeck found Giroud for the French striker to fire in after his first attempt was saved. We were so close to a second minutes later with Abdennour having no idea but getting a lucky block on a well struck Welbeck shot.
There was also a penalty claim before the break which may have been harsh but there was no call to book Alexis as he was touched. So we had 45 minutes to get two more.
We came out with real intent and were pushing hard but Monaco have not got a great defensive record by luck. An Ozil free kick was tipped over but we were struggling for clear cut chances and the more we pushed forward the more open we were to a counter. After we survived one or two and Monaco were looking comfortable, Wenger brought Ramsey on for Coquelin.
It was a throw of the dice and it nearly paid off. Walcott came on as well and hit the post which let Ramsey double our lead with just over 10 minutes left. We were camped in their half but even with five minutes of stoppage time we could not get that crucial third. Out in a blaze of glory again!!