Arsene Wenger's side are back to winning ways, but it was a tough encounter at The Emirates. Reading put up a real fight and it was a pleasant surprise to see a team play 'real football' or the free-flowing attacking style, whatever you want to call it. This win was just what Arsenal needed, three points and a big boost for Wednesday's Champions League showdown with PSV.
The Gunners started brightly. Theo Walcott had an effort saved within a minute and looked really lively, partnering Julio Baptista up front. Then on 13 minutes, Baptista swiveled and fired a low shot just wide of Marcus Hahnemann's post. Arsenal clearly had the upper hand and showed it with lots of quick, neat passing through midfield. However, just before half time, a huge chance went begging. Baptista surged into the box, shrugging off defenders in the process, and had only the keeper to beat. The Brazilian unselfishly passed to Fabregas who, unbelievably, miscued his shot and wasted a golden opportunity. The goal was gaping. A simple tap-in, but the young Spaniard had made a hash of it. However, this had overshadowed another stunning performance by the midfielder.
And he proved it early on in the second period. He had a magnificent, curling shot saved brilliantly by the Reading keeper, Hahnemann. Just minutes later, Gael Clichy galloped forward from left back and was clipped by Andre Bikey in the area. Penalty! At last a decision had gone Arsenal's way! Stand-in skipper, Gilberto stepped up and cooly slotted the spot kick into the bottom corner. Then, 10 minutes later, Denilson sprinted from inside his own half before finding Baptista. He outmuscled Murty before poking his shot home to make it 2-0. You could tell by the Brazilian's recent performances that he was going to score. Finally, The Gunners had time to relax.
Until the 86th minute. A corner was flicked on by Ingimarsson for Cesc Fabregas to turn into his own net. The pressure was on. And in stoppage time, former gooner, Steve Sidwell nearly equalised. His shot was saved remarkably by Lehmann to ensure that Arsene Wenger's men would go home happy, with three points in the bag.
Match Ratings:
Lehmann: Not tested until the end. Super save to deny Sidwell (7)
Djourou: Looked comfortable despite being out of position. Solid at the back (7)
Gallas: Brings vital experience to the defence. A rock at the back (7)
Gilberto: Placed his penalty perfectly but was rather quiet during the game (7)
Clichy: Made some brilliant runs from the back, such an attacking threat (8)
Hleb: Excellent first half, faded in the second (7)
Denilson: Showed glimpses of his class but was very quiet (6)
Fabregas: Despite two major errors he was superb. Pulled all the strings from midfield (8)
Ljungberg: Worked his socks off. Fantastic display (8) MAN OF THE MATCH
Baptista: So pleased for him. Turning into a very good player (7)
Walcott: Was brilliant early on but eventually faded (7)
Diaby: Showed some sensational footwork when he came on. A huge prospect (6)
Aliadiere: Struggled to get into the game, but then again, had little time (5)
Senderos: Not enough time. Perhaps at fault for the goal? (5)
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