ARSENAL dig deep to snatch an important 1-0 win against the battling Stoke City side thanks to defender Sebastien Squillachi header to close the gap on Premiership League leaders Manchester United within a point at Emirates Stadium last night.
Certainly the win did give a huge confidence to Arsene Wenger's side as they prepare to win their first ever trophy on Sunday after six season barren spell to face another Premier League side Birmingham City in the Carling Cup final at Wembley.
And also the Gunners paid a heavy price for the win with Theo Walcott and Cesc Fabregas after both suffering injuries in the match. Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas lasted for 14 minutes in the match and was replaced by Andre Arshavin. While Theo Walcott with an ankle sprain after he was hacked down by the combative Stoke City midfielder Dean Whitehead in the second half.
Arsene Wenger rested Robin Van Persie and Koscielny for the match. The home side had a couple of chances early in the match through Theo Walcott to give Arsenal the lead but Stoke goalkeeper Asmir Begovic stood well and also with the help of the post prevented the ball from going in.
In the eight minute then came the winning goal. From Jack Wilshere corner kick, Nicklas Bendtner guided the ball back into the goalmouth for the unmarked Squillachi to nod home from close range for his second goal for Arsenal.
Tony Pulis's men did gave some anxious moment late in the match and from their trademark long throw in with Ryan Shawcross and former Arsenal's Jermaine Pennant came close. But this time the Gunners defended very well from those set pieces to hang on for the win.
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