Following today’s clash between Southampton and Arsenal, here are the instant reactions from both managers.
Southampton hosted Arsenal at St Mary’s Stadium on Sunday December 10, with both sides playing out a one all draw on the afternoon.
A slow start from the visitors saw Charlie Austin gain advantage for the hosts in the third minute of the game and Southampton did have opportunities to extend their lead. Failing to do so though, Arsenal reacted better in the second half and substitute Olivier Giroud saved the point with two minutes remaining on the clock as he won his battlw with Virgil van Dijk to head home an Alexis Sanchez cross.
The point sees Arsenal move level on points with fourth placed Liverpool, although they are behind on goal difference and Southampton now move into the top half of the table.
Teams
Southampton:
Forster, Stephens, Yoshida, van Dijk, Bertrand, Romeu, Hojbjerg, Ward-Prowse, Tadic (Davis 88), Redmond (Boufal 74), Austin (Gabbiadini 86).
Substitutes:
Hoedt, McCarthy, Lemina, Pied.
Arsenal:
Cech, Koscielny, Mertesacker (Welbeck 64), Monreal, Bellerin, Ramsey, Xhaka (Wilshere 69), Kolasinac, Ozil, Sanchez, Lacazette (Giroud 72).
Substitutes:
Ospina, Iwobi, Maitland-Niles, Coquelin.
Speaking to the BBC’s cameras a short time after match day referee Robert Madley blew the final whistle, Southampton manager Mauricio Pellegrino explained.
‘When you play against Arsenal you need to be 100% excellent at almost everything. We didn’t control the ball much but we controlled the game. We had to reduce the space because they have quality in key areas, we competed well but it’s a pity we conceded at the end. We are upset about that but it’s part of football. Against Arsenal, in one action, everything can change.’
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger in his comparitive interview explained.
‘It was a difficult game and I felt that we paid a heavy price for a slow start. We kept going. Overall, I think the spirit was great. We were relentless to the end. I consider Olivier Giroud as a regular player. We have to be grateful that he is part of a great team and one who can come on and make a difference with the right attitude and ability. He is a talent.’
