Saka Keeps Arsenal Perfect
Bukayo Saka scored the only goal as Arsenal beat Aston Villa 1-0 at Villa Park to maintain their perfect start to the Premier League season.
Saka settles tight contest
Bukayo Saka scored in the 59th minute to give Arsenal a 1-0 win over Aston Villa at Villa Park.
The winger finished from close range after Riccardo Calafiori sent a low ball across the six-yard area. Calafiori had been released by Eberechi Eze following a flowing Arsenal move.
Saka’s goal was his second in as many Premier League matches and provided the decisive moment in a close contest.
Villa threaten in first half
Aston Villa hit the woodwork through Emiliano Buendía during the first half, while Arsenal also created opportunities from set pieces.
Zion Suzuki, making his Villa debut, was tested by Arsenal corners but the match remained scoreless at the break.
Arsenal had a penalty award overturned early in the second half. Referee Jarred Gillett initially pointed to the spot after Ian Maatsen challenged Saka, but a review determined that the foul happened outside the area. Arsenal received a free-kick instead.
Arsenal see out win
Mikel Arteta introduced Eze at half-time, and the substitute helped to create the winning goal. Arsenal later brought on Mikel Merino and Bruno Guimarães to add control in midfield.
Bruno Guimarães made his Premier League debut for Arsenal, while Ezri Konsa also came on for his first league appearance for the club. Arsenal defended their lead in the closing stages to preserve the clean sheet.
The victory was Arteta’s 250th Premier League match in charge of Arsenal and gave his team two league wins from two fixtures.
Source: arsenal.com | Photo: arsenal.com