Chapter 44: 42. Againts Newcastle United PT.3
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As the game continue, Arsenal's dominance was undeniable. The Gunners maintained possession, showing both discipline and flair, embodying Wenger's vision of beautiful football. The Emirates faithful applauded each pass and tackle, fully aware they were witnessing a masterclass performance.
As the game continued, Newcastle's spirits were visibly dampened by Santi Cazorla's sensational goal. With the scoreline now 3-0, their players dropped back, conceding ground to Arsenal and adopting a more passive stance, seemingly resigned to defending and limiting further damage. Alan Pardew's sideline instructions were to reorganize, but Arsenal's intensity and momentum proved difficult to counter. Arsenal sensed this shift, fully aware that Newcastle's energy was fading with each passing minute.
Arsenal, encouraged by their lead, continued to press with the same tenacity that had overwhelmed Newcastle in the first half. Santi Cazorla, now playing with a newfound freedom, drifted across the midfield, orchestrating attacks and exploiting every gap in Newcastle's defense. Chamberlain and Flamini kept the midfield tight, cutting off any rare counter-attacks before they could take shape, while Alexis and Francesco took advantage of the extra space, making probing runs along the flanks and into the penalty area.
In the 58th minute, Arsenal's relentless pressure produced another opportunity. Hector Bellerin, who had been charging up and down the right flank with his characteristic speed, received a pass from Rosicky just outside Newcastle's half. Bellerin immediately advanced, using his pace to surge past Newcastle's left-back Paul Dummet and into a dangerous crossing position. With a quick look up, he spotted Olivier Giroud making a run into the box.
Bellerin didn't hesitate. He delivered a low, driven pass into the penalty area, threading it past two Newcastle defenders who were scrambling to cover Giroud. The Frenchman timed his run to perfection, arriving just in time to connect with the ball. With one deft touch, he shifted it onto his left foot, and in an instant, he unleashed a powerful strike. The ball flew past Alnwick, who could only watch helplessly as it rocketed into the back of the net.
The Emirates Stadium erupted once more, the fans on their feet as Arsenal celebrated their fourth goal. Giroud, clearly thrilled, threw his arms up in triumph, his teammates surrounding him with pats on the back and high-fives. Bellerin received equal praise for his contribution, his speed and vision having set up the chance perfectly. The scoreboard now read 4-0, a scoreline that underscored Arsenal's complete dominance over their opponents.
For Arsenal fans, the joy was palpable. The atmosphere inside the Emirates was electric, the stands filled with chants and cheers celebrating the team's fluid, attacking style. Arsene Wenger watched from the sideline, visibly pleased with how his side was executing his philosophy of beautiful, relentless football. His players were not only maintaining the lead but showcasing their technical mastery and tactical discipline, all while keeping Newcastle pinned back in their own half.
Newcastle, in contrast, seemed deflated. Pardew's players were visibly fatigued and dispirited, struggling to muster any significant response as Arsenal continued to dictate the tempo. Their passive approach, intended to minimize the damage, was instead allowing Arsenal's players even more freedom to move the ball as they pleased. Newcastle's midfield could hardly intercept a pass, while their defenders were consistently pulled out of position by the movement of Giroud, Alexis, and Francesco.
With each pass, Arsenal chipped away at any remaining confidence Newcastle had. Cazorla and Chamberlain, exchanging quick one-twos in the center, looked almost effortless as they shifted Newcastle's defensive line from side to side. Every Arsenal player seemed intent on keeping the momentum going. Flamini's physicality in midfield continued to neutralize Newcastle's limited attempts at counter-attacks, his positioning and timing spot-on as he intercepted passes and redirected possession back to Arsenal's attackers.
The Gunners, sensing Newcastle's resignation, opted to enjoy their control of the game, carefully crafting each attack without rushing to score. Their possession was measured, their passes precise, as if each player understood the value of savoring this moment. The fans, too, appreciated the spectacle, breaking into applause with every clever flick and interception. They knew they were witnessing a memorable performance—an Arsenal masterclass.
In the 65th minute, Wenger made his first substitution, bringing on Joel Campbell in place of Alexis Sanchez. Sanchez, who had run tirelessly for over an hour, received a rousing ovation as he made his way off the pitch. Campbell's entry added a fresh burst of speed to Arsenal's right flank, injecting even more dynamism into their attack. Campbell immediately linked up with Giroud, their chemistry evident as they combined to stretch Newcastle's defense.
In the 67th minute, Newcastle managed to earn a free kick on the left flank, about 30 yards from Arsenal's goal. Jack Colback stepped up to take it, sensing an opportunity to cut into Arsenal's commanding lead and give Newcastle a glimmer of hope. The Arsenal defenders lined up, maintaining a high line to catch Newcastle's players offside, while Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny positioned themselves in the heart of the defense, ready to clear any incoming ball.
Colback, known for his set-piece delivery, took a few steps back and focused intently on the box. With a smooth run-up, he sent a curling cross into the crowded penalty area. The ball soared over the initial line of defenders and began to dip just as it reached Ayoze Perez, who had timed his jump to perfection. Rising above the Arsenal defenders, Perez connected with the ball, directing his header low and toward the far post.
Wojciech Szczesny, the Arsenal keeper, reacted quickly, diving low to his right, but Perez's header was placed with precision. The ball bounced past Szczesny's outstretched fingertips and nestled into the corner of the net. Newcastle had pulled one back, making it 4-1.
Though still trailing by a significant margin, the Newcastle fans in the away section erupted with cheers, celebrating their team's determination. Ayoze Perez, fist raised in brief triumph, was congratulated by his teammates, who looked slightly more invigorated with the goal. Colback, who had delivered the assist, exchanged a quick nod with Perez as they jogged back to their positions.
The Emirates crowd, meanwhile, maintained their support for Arsenal, unfazed by the goal. Arsenal's lead was still comfortable, and the fans were confident their team would retain control. Arsene Wenger, from the sideline, clapped his hands and shouted a few words of encouragement, reminding his players to stay focused and continue their disciplined approach.
Back on the pitch, Arsenal reset quickly, unfazed by the minor setback. They knew they were still firmly in control, with a three-goal cushion. The players exchanged a few nods and words of encouragement, and as they kicked off again, it was clear they intended to regain their rhythm and continue dominating the game.
Santi Cazorla, leading Arsenal's midfield, called for the ball immediately, eager to reestablish control. Chamberlain and Flamini moved into their positions, staying tight and focused, ready to intercept any attempts by Newcastle to capitalize on their recent goal. The Gunners resumed their patient buildup play, passing the ball with precision and purpose, determined to keep the game in their hands and close out a convincing win.
As the clock ticked into the 72nd minute, Arsene Wenger decided it was time for a tactical adjustment to ensure Arsenal retained control over the match. The intensity Newcastle had shown in their recent goal reminded Wenger of the importance of closing out the game with fresh legs in midfield and attack.
Wenger signaled for two substitutions: Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain would make way for Francis Coquelin, adding a defensive presence to the midfield, while Francesco Lee would be replaced by Danny Welbeck to maintain Arsenal's pressing up front with added energy and pace.
When Francesco saw his number on the fourth official's board, he turned toward the sideline, his expression a mixture of satisfaction and pride. He had contributed to Arsenal's commanding performance, and now he would rest, confident that his teammates would secure the victory. As he approached the sideline, he exchanged a high-five with Danny Welbeck, who patted him on the back before jogging onto the field.
Francesco then made his way to Wenger, who offered him an approving nod and a quick pat on the shoulder in recognition of his performance. Francesco smiled, acknowledging the applause from the fans as he moved toward the bench. He took his seat beside Emiliano Martinez, Arsenal's backup goalkeeper, who congratulated him on his efforts. The two shared a quick exchange, Martinez complimenting Francesco's off-the-ball movement and positioning.
Back on the pitch, the arrival of Coquelin injected an added layer of defensive solidity. Known for his tenacity and ability to break up play, Coquelin quickly found his rhythm, making his presence felt in midfield by disrupting any Newcastle attempts to regain control. Paired with Flamini, the two defensive-minded players formed a solid wall, giving Cazorla the freedom to focus on orchestrating Arsenal's attack while maintaining a balance between defense and offense.
Welbeck, with his characteristic speed and work rate, immediately began pressing Newcastle's defenders, applying pressure high up the pitch. His movement allowed Arsenal to maintain their fluidity, linking up effectively with Giroud in the final third. With Welbeck's entry, Arsenal had a fresh attacking option, and Newcastle's defense struggled to keep up with his agility and quick turns.
The Gunners, bolstered by the changes, continued to control possession, dictating the tempo and creating passing triangles to retain the ball and wear down Newcastle's defense. Coquelin's presence allowed Cazorla to push slightly higher up the field, where he continued to find spaces to exploit, while Flamini worked tirelessly, shuttling between defense and attack with seamless energy.
As Arsenal continued to dominate, the Emirates crowd responded enthusiastically, cheering each pass and applauding every tackle. The fans recognized that this wasn't just about securing a win; it was about delivering a performance that showcased Arsenal's resilience, style, and tactical maturity. Even with a comfortable lead, Wenger's side refused to let up, demonstrating the very philosophy of relentless, beautiful football that he had instilled in them.
In the following minutes, Arsenal's players, fueled by the fans' energy, maintained their composure, looking for opportunities to strike again but remaining patient. They were in no rush, content to play their brand of football, passing with precision and discipline. Every player appeared synchronized, and the chemistry between them was evident as they continued to keep Newcastle chasing the ball.
Sitting on the bench, Francesco watched with satisfaction, a slight smile on his face as he observed the team's continued dominance. Martinez nudged him, sharing a quick word about the control Arsenal had maintained throughout the match. Francesco nodded in agreement, both of them appreciating the team's cohesive play. He knew that every player on the field was dedicated to ensuring the game ended in Arsenal's favor, sealing the victory they had worked so hard for.
With the substitutions paying off and Arsenal's structure holding firm, the match proceeded with a sense of control. Coquelin and Flamini remained vigilant, preventing Newcastle from building any momentum. Meanwhile, Cazorla orchestrated play, Welbeck and Giroud keeping Newcastle's backline under constant pressure.
As the match neared its end, Arsenal continued to assert their dominance, content to control possession and keep Newcastle on the defensive. Newcastle, deflated by the earlier goals and fatigued by Arsenal's relentless pressing, found it increasingly difficult to mount any meaningful counter-attacks. Arsenal's defense remained organized, with Coquelin and Flamini effectively shielding the backline, intercepting passes, and breaking up play whenever Newcastle attempted to advance.
In the 88th minute, the Gunners set up another attack as Cazorla drifted forward, receiving the ball from Welbeck near the edge of Newcastle's penalty area. With his trademark close control, Cazorla danced past two defenders, threading his way into the box. Daryl Janmaat, struggling to keep up with the Spaniard's quick feet and low center of gravity, reached in to stop him. Unfortunately for Janmaat, his timing was just a split-second off; he clipped Cazorla's ankle, and the Arsenal playmaker went down under the challenge.
The referee wasted no time, immediately pointing to the penalty spot. The Emirates Stadium erupted in cheers, the fans delighted at the prospect of another goal to seal the game. Janmaat looked frustrated as he received a yellow card, knowing that his team was on the verge of an even larger defeat. The Arsenal players, meanwhile, gathered around Cazorla, congratulating him for his dribble and urging him to take the penalty himself, as he had won it for the team.
Cazorla stepped up to the spot, placing the ball carefully as he prepared to take the shot. The stadium fell into a brief hush, the fans holding their breath in anticipation. Alnwick, Newcastle's goalkeeper, stood on his line, bouncing slightly as he tried to read Cazorla's intentions. Cazorla took a few steps back, his eyes locked on the ball, exuding calm and confidence. Then, with a gentle approach, he began his run-up, moving slowly toward the ball.
As he neared the spot, Alnwick anticipated a shot to his left and dove that way, stretching out in an attempt to save the penalty. But Cazorla, with an expertly executed shot, had directed the ball low and to the right, perfectly placed beyond Alnwick's reach. The keeper, diving in the opposite direction, could only watch as the ball slipped into the net, sealing Arsenal's fifth goal of the evening.
The Emirates Stadium exploded in celebration, the fans chanting Cazorla's name as he jogged back toward his teammates, a wide grin on his face. His teammates surrounded him, congratulating him on both his composure and the way he had won and converted the penalty. Cazorla's joy was infectious, his enthusiasm lifting the team's spirits even higher as they basked in the satisfaction of an outstanding performance.
Arsenal's lead now stood at 5-1, an emphatic scoreline that reflected their dominance and showcased the skill, cohesion, and flair that had characterized their play. The players returned to their positions, each one visibly energized by the prospect of closing out the game with a memorable win. Wenger, from the sideline, watched with quiet satisfaction, his arms folded as he observed the execution of his philosophy on the field.
In the final minutes, Arsenal continued to hold possession, carefully passing the ball around to see out the game. Newcastle, resigned to their fate, made no serious attempts to press, their players simply conserving energy as they waited for the final whistle. The Arsenal fans, sensing the game's conclusion, began chanting and clapping, celebrating a masterclass performance that had displayed the team's best qualities.
As the referee blew the final whistle, the Arsenal players embraced, savoring the moment. The fans rose to their feet, applauding their team's efforts and celebrating a comprehensive 5-1 victory. Wenger shook hands with his coaching staff, pleased with how his players had managed the game from start to finish. The players made their way toward the fans, clapping and acknowledging the support that had carried them through the match.
Francesco, who had watched the final minutes from the bench with a look of satisfaction, joined his teammates on the pitch, congratulating each one on their efforts. He shared a quick exchange with Cazorla, praising his skill in earning and converting the penalty, and the two laughed together, sharing in the joy of the moment. Martinez, who had been beside Francesco on the bench, walked over to congratulate the team as well, joining in the camaraderie that was evident among all the players.
In the dressing room afterward, Wenger took a moment to address his squad, commending them for their professionalism and resilience. He highlighted the way they had maintained control, even when Newcastle had briefly threatened with a goal. Each player felt a sense of pride, knowing they had executed their roles with discipline and flair, delivering a performance that represented everything Arsenal stood for.
As they left the stadium that night, the players knew they had achieved something special, a victory that would be remembered by the fans and one that underscored their potential for the rest of the season. For Wenger, it was a confirmation that his team had the spirit, talent, and unity to take on any challenge, and he looked forward to building on this success in the games to come. The night ended with smiles, handshakes, and a collective belief that Arsenal was on a path to greatness.
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Name : Francesco Lee
Age : 16 (2014)
Birthplace : London, England
Football Club : Arsenal First Team
Championship History : None