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ARSHAVIN SINKS REDS
Andrey Arshavin returned to Anfield to haunt
Liverpool again as his smart finish gave Arsenal a 2-1 victory which heaps
more pressure on Reds manager Rafael Benitez.
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Photo express.co.uk
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Arshavin, who scored all four goals in the draw on this
ground last April, capitalised on Glen Johnson's error to fire in off
a post in the 58th minute.
Johnson's own goal just after half-time had handed Arsenal an equaliser
after Dirk Kuyt had put Liverpool ahead four minutes before the break.
The hosts enjoyed much the better of the first half and almost went in
front early on when Fernando Torres exchanged passes with Steven Gerrard
before scuffing a tame shot at Manuel Almunia.
The Reds then saw a strong appeal for a penalty turned down early on after
Gerrard had been sent tumbling by William Gallas. Gerrard had already
prodded the ball out of play for a goal-kick, but Gallas was still fortunate
to get away with a robust challenge on the Liverpool skipper.
Although Arsenal occasionally threatened on the break, they fell behind
four minutes before half-time. Fabio Aurelio lifted a free-kick into the
six-yard box, where Almunia, under intense pressure in the air, managed
only a weak punch and Kuyt fired home from 10 yards.
Arsenal came out after the break fired up for the challenge and were level
after 50 minutes. Samir Nasri tore down the right and fired in a low cross
that Johnson turned past Pepe Reina for an own goal with Theo Walcott
lurking behind him.
It was soon to get worse for Liverpool, and especially Johnson. Cesc Fabregas'
cross after 58 minutes eluded Johnson, who then failed to stop Arshavin
turning to fire in off the post from 18 yards.
Liverpool huffed and puffed thereafter, but rarely looked like claiming
an equaliser.
Daily
Express, December 13, 2009
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