Rivals in Red: London Red Edge Manchester Red

in hive-100604 •  2 months ago 

images (21).jpeg
image source

Despite losing the penalty shootout 4-3 with misses from Kai Havertz and Jakob Kiwior, I feel the overall performance by Arsenal was good, also given we won the game in regular time 2-1. The shootout was just for practise sake as has been the practice in recent tours.

It was a good outing for all the Hale End boys on show from Nwaneri, who showed glimpses of why he was integrated into the first team last season, to Oulad M'hand who came on in the second half, as well as Lewis-Skelly, playing at left back again and Josh Nichols.

I was finally happy to see Ayden Heaven in full action even as he played just 45 minutes. For a 17-year old, I was really impressed with his showing. His composure, poise and ball carriage reminded me of Saliba, who is yet to resume following France's exploits at the Euros.

Although I believe his inexperience was responsible for the goal we conceded as he allowed Hojlund too much room without covering his post, it doesn't take away the shine on his overall performance.

It felt like Nelson was auditioning not to be sold as that was one of his best performances I've seen in an Arsenal shirt

Should Martinelli go on like he did today, I think he should dwarf his six goals last season as long as he stays fit. His energy burst and change of pace was a game-changer as he scored the winning goal, even though I feel another inexperienced defending from Rhys Bennett allowed him time to score the winner.

After initially being critical of Josh Nichols in the game against Bournemouth, where I felt he was a little bit overpowered and helpless, he put in a great show this time. Particularly was his covering run to stifle a United counterattack, before standing his ground and winning the ball cleanly off Jason Sancho in a 1-v-1 situation.

I'm happy with what I've seen so far, despite the team not being at full capacity and some of the fringe players able to get play time, as well as the academy guys. Hopefully, we'd get to see Calafiori in the next game against Liverpool.

Authors get paid when people like you upvote their post.
If you enjoyed what you read here, create your account today and start earning FREE STEEM!