It wasn't pretty, it wasn't vintage, but it was three points. Arsenal labored to a 2-1 victory over a stubborn Wolves side at the Emirates, relying on late drama and a slice—or two—of good fortune to keep their title charge on track. In a game where fluid attacking play was at a premium, the Gunners showed resilience to find a way to win when not at their best.
Mikel Arteta: "We have periods where we were passive, really poor defensive habits that are not acceptable for our level. We need to improve that. But at the end, you rely on character and sometimes an individual action to win the game. We found a way."
The first half was a frustrating affair. Wolves came with a clear game plan to frustrate, sitting deep and denying Arsenal space. The Gunners struggled to break down the gold wall, with neither side registering a shot on target until nearly the half-hour mark. It was a stalemate at the break, with anxiety beginning to creep into the Emirates crowd.
The breakthrough finally came in the 70th minute, and it was a bizarre one. Bukayo Saka whipped in a dangerous corner that eluded everyone, struck the far post, and ricocheted off Wolves goalkeeper Sam Johnstone's back and into the net. It was a fortuitous opener, but Arsenal didn't care.
However, Wolves refused to lie down. In the 89th minute, they silenced the home fans when substitute Tolu Arokodare rose highest to head home a cross from Mateus Mané. 1-1. It looked like Arsenal were about to drop two vital points in the title race.
but this Arsenal team doesn't know when it's beaten. In the 93rd minute, with seconds ticking away, Saka again turned provider. His teasing cross into the corridor of uncertainty caused panic in the Wolves defense, and Yerson Mosquera, under pressure, headed the ball into his own net. The Emirates erupted. It was the second own goal of the game in Arsenal's favor—a Premier League rarity—but it secured a massive win.
Mikel Arteta: "It was an emotional rollercoaster. We shouldn't have been in that position late on, but the reaction to conceding was excellent. We kept going, kept believing, and put the ball in the right area. Sometimes you need that bit of luck, but you have to earn it."
Bukayo Saka: "It was an amazing feeling to see that go in. We've been on the receiving end of last-minute goals this season, so to be the ones celebrating at the end is special. It shows our character. We never give up."
The Man of the Match award goes to Bukayo Saka. While not credited with the goals, he created both. His delivery for the corner led to the first, and his cross forced the panic for the winner. On a day where creativity was stifled, Saka was the spark that ignited the victory.
Arsenal now have a full week to prepare for their next challenge, a trip to face Everton on Saturday, December 20, as they look to be top of the table at Christmas.
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