Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has named Petr Cech as the saviour from today’s disappointing draw with Middlesbrough.
The Teesiders travelled to the Emirates to take on a strong in-form Gunners side today, but will feel a little disappointed not to have come away with all the points.
Petr Cech made a number of stops to keep out Adama Traore and Gaston Ramirez, who were both in top form in tormenting our goal.
Alexis went closest to breaking the deadlock at the other end forcing Victor Valdes to make at least two top draw saves, and the two shot-stoppers will both have their arguments for the Man of the Match award.
Arsene Wenger has now named Cech as ‘saving’ us from a loss, and claim we were nearly punished for having tired legs.
“It is a game where you had a lot of possession but there were tired legs and you are prone to counter-attacks. You make it difficult for yourself. 75% possession but you could have lost the game, that is modern football,” Wenger said.
“When you are not sharp, you lack creativity in the final third. I must say, we gave everything but we did not have the legs today. The energy levels were a bit down but we were intelligent enough not to lose it. We were exposed at times. When you cannot win, you must not lose.
“They had chances but our goalkeeper saved us today. Petr Cech had a good performance in decisive phases. We tried. You don’t win on command though. We lacked our creative potential around the box. That is part of it.
“At least you can have a drink on your birthday. When you win you deserve it, when you don’t you need it.”
Can we take solace in having moved to the top of the table? Was Cech, Valdes or someone else your Man of the Match?
Pat J