EPL 2016/17: Arsenal 2-1 Southampton - 5 Talking Points
The new faces were on show at the Emirates, as Perez and Mustafi both made their debuts in the Arsenal colours. The London rain made the surface slick as Arsenal looked to take advantage of it. The Saints, on the other hand, were fierce competitors in their black and grey colours.
Tadic gave Southampton the lead via an excellent free-kick in the 18th minute, but it was another set piece that finally decided the game. The energy and enthusiasm in the game translated on to the crowds as Arsenal pressed and harrowed their opponents.
A late penalty ensured Arsenal ran out winners at the Emirates, capping an impressive comeback which Koscielny set in motion with an acrobatic finish in the first half.
It was indeed a very uplifting day for the Arsenal fans, in the end, although they left it nerve wrenchingly late via a Cazorla penalty.
#1 Defenders lead from the front
Apart from a late Shane Long shot in the second half, the defensive pairing of Koscielny and Mustafi were pretty convincing. The full backs with the central defenders formed an excellent unit as well, with Bellerin coming very close to scoring with a beautiful drive across the goal after smooth interplay by the Gunners.
Laurent Koscielny’s goal on his birthday was an icing on the cake, in what was a very good defensive display on a personal front for the defender.
Having lost their opening game of the season at the Emirates, there was no doubt that Arsenal were looking to kickstart their season. The defenders did their bit, as they contributed to the pressure that eventually led to the penalty.
Mustafi also had the vision to pick players with the long back from the back and his passing from defence was impressive.