Match Report: Southampton 1-0 Arsenal

Disappointment was the overwhelming feeling among Arsenal fans today as Southampton beat us 1-0. It's not even 18/19 anymore it's worse especially when you look at the remaining fixtures. Less than a fortnight ago even the most pessimistic of fans had started to dream. Now only disillusionment reigns over the fan base. 

Jan Bednarek gave Southampton all three points with a sharp finish leaving Ramsdale with no chance. It was a disappointing goal to concede as we did not clear our lines well. Mohammed Elyounoussi reacted  quickest after a poor clearance from Arsenal to square the ball to Bednarek. Scoring before halftime can only boost your confidence especially after a 6-0 thrashing so it was always going to be a difficult afternoon for Arsenal after that goal. 

There was growing disenchantment with Arsenal's play in the final third. Lack of creativity had left us playing crosses from the right in hope that someone would get at the end of them. When Cedric becomes your go to guy when trying to get back into the game then you're definitely in trouble. His delivery from set pieces was awful. Fans were left bewildered as to how Cedric has become first choice free kick taker at Arsenal. It was no surprise when he was substituted in the second half.

The loss will frustrate Mikel as Arsenal were seemingly in control of the game. We had limited Southampton's attacks and were feeling confident in our play. Eddie Nketiah had caused Southampton a few worries with his movement and pressing. His pressing created our best chance of the half. He did well to win the ball near the edge of the box laid it out for Martinelli who squared to Saka only for Forster to save. A little bit more pace on that ball from Martinelli and Saka would have had an easier finish. 

The second half was a one sided affair. A carbon copy of Arsenal's last two games. Southampton lined up at the edge of their box daring Arsenal to break them down. Mikel ,like has become the norm, switched to a back 3 in a bid to try and come back into the game. The statistics were ridiculous at times. We finished with 76 percent of the ball but could only get manage 6 shots on target all game. Fraser Forster came to Southampton's rescue when we managed to get shots away. Arteta brought on Nicholas Pepe but he struggled to impose himself on the game. 

All fingers will be pointed at Arsenal's inactivity during the January transfer window. The squad depth at the moment is not anywhere near Champions League quality and it has all come down to that unfortunately. Pressure is piling on Mikel Arteta. Chelsea and Manchester United lay in wait next week and those two fixtures will likely be the final nail or our Champions League hopes.