THEO WALCOTT HAT-TRICK SET ARSENAL ON FIRE

21 August, 2010

ARSENAL pull of a remarkable scoreline with a thumping 6-0 home win over Premier League newcomers Blackpool at the Emirates Stadium. Hat-trick by Theo Walcott (12,38,57min) saw The Gunners runs riot to equal Chelsea 6-0 win drubbing of West Bromwich Albion last week. 

The home team made



a flying start when they grab a 1-0 lead as early in the 12th minute from a great build up. Tomas Rosicky started the move from the left and Andre Arshavin deliver the perfect pass for Wallcot coming from the blind side to hit low past goalkeeper Joe Gilks.

Just past the half hour mark, Blackpool suffered a severe blow when they were down playing with 10-men after defender Ian Evatts were given the red card by referee Mike Jones. The defender brought down Maroune Chamakh on the edge of the box and the referee pointed towards the penalty spot.

Andrei Arshavin made it 2-0 from the resulting penalty kick.

Two minutes later, Chamakh should have double the lead but Gilks made a good spread to block the Morrocan's international effort. In the 38th minute, Walcott shows he is back to his best  with his second goal after he made a fine turn to bury home before the break.

Arsenal brimming with confidence added another goal three minutes after restart when Bacary Sagna cross met by Abou Diaby, strike it first time with a terrific finish. The home team showed no sympathy to depleted visitor sides as they continued to pile up more pressure. Theo Walcott completed his hat trick in the 57th minute showing a wonderful composure with a low drive at the far post with his left foot.

Arsene Wenger made two quick changes with Cesc Fabregas and Robin Van Persie coming in for Theo Walcott and Andrei Arshavin. 

After a few near misses earlier, Maroune Chamakh then showed his prowess in the air with a fine header from Robin Van Persie corner to make it 6-0 to complete the rout.