Arsenal 2-1 Burnley: the Positives and the Negatives – on Sanchez, Rosicky, Elneny
Arsenal have defeated Burnley in the FA Cup fourth round 2-1, and they continue their bid for a third consecutive trophy. The fixture gave Arsene Wenger the opportunity to give Mohamed Elneny his Arsenal debut, and game time to Ospina and Kieran Gibbs. Tomas Rosicky also made his comeback from injury as a substitute.
The game started with Arsenal scoring the opening goal, with Callum Chamber’s powerful shot past Burnley’s goalkeeper, in the 19th minute. The away team, responded with their equaliser in the 30th minute, just as Arsenal’s defence started to crumble.
There were instances where Burnley looked extremely dangerous, scoring a second goal but Arsenal held on.
The second-half started with Arsenal in control and finally found the lead in the form of none other than Alexis Sanchez. The Chile international scored in the 56th minute with the help of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s cross. Arsenal held on to their lead until final whistle and they are through to the next round.
Mohamed Elneny who was a happy sighting considering his debut, seemed a little out of place. The Egyptian had an average performance, at times reacting a moment too late. He also lacked the aggressiveness, and will take time to adjust to the style of football in England. The midfielder also needs to adjust to Arsenal’s quick counter-act where he was too slow to react and needs to be on his toes. He also made attempts at goal but seemed too eager at most.
Olivier Giroud, who will most likely not get any added competition for his place, played too casually. The Frenchman’s position in Arsenal line-up is safe from competition as Wenger has turned down any possibility of adding any new player from the transfer market. His inability to retain possession and losing the ball too often in the box was only frustrating to watch.
Alexis Sanchez played until the 70th minute, was impressive as usual. Leading the attack, and creating chances. The most determined player on the pitch, his spirit is what Arsenal needs to win trophies. The Chile international was the driving force in Arsenal’s attack, and his substitution clearly showed the impact he has on the field.
Mikel Arteta and Tomas Rosicky also made an appearance, and their return to action is a positive sight for the Gunners. Hopefully more of them will be seen in the Premier League now that they have recovered from injury.