It was interesting to see the match odds before this game today. Newcastle United have surprised many and yes they may have just been promoted but they are a class act and at odds of 12/1 there was value to be had.
Before the game today Andy Carroll had hit the headlines again for the wrong reasons but after the game and in front of the England manager Fabio Capello Carroll made sure he made the headlines for the right reasons.
Arsenal may have hit the woodwork twice but even the most ardent gooner would admit they were below par. There reliable passing was left in the dressing room while the Toon Army rolled up their sleeves and got down to business.
The opening exchanges saw Newcastle start well but Arsenal gradually gained momentum and Samir Nasri must have thought he had put the Gunners in front when a Nasri shot look destined for the keepers top left hand corner but somehow Tim Krul got a fist to the shot for an unbelievable save.
Then in the 45th minute a long ball from Joey Barton was met by Andy Carroll who rose higher than the flapping Fabianski and headed into an empty net. Perfect timing to score as Arsenal had not time to put any pressure on Newcastle as the half time whistle went.
In the second half Arsenal put the pressure on Newcastle and it was looking like an equalizer was just around the corner, Walcott hitting the crossbar, Chamakh should have done better when put in by Song and a run by Arshavin saw him in the penalty area and just when a goal looked likely Fabricio Coloccini put in a match saving tackle.
Towards the end of the game Newcastle sub Nile Ranger managed to turn defender Koscielny and as he headed towards goal the french man brought the striker down. Some thought a yellow card was coming out but referee Mike Dean deemed it a professional foul and for the second time this season Koscielny saw red ending Arsenals chances of getting anything out of the match.
Newcastle walk away with the three points and also become UNOFFICIAL PREMIER LEAGUE CHAMPIONS.
Next up for the champions a home match v Blackburn Rovers on Wednesday
Line Ups:
Arsenal: 21-Fabianski, 03-Sagna, 04-Fabregas, 06-Koscielny, 08-Nasri, 14-Walcott, 17-Song, 18-Squillaci, 19-Wilshere, 22-Clichy, 29-Chamakh Subs Used: 10-Van Persie, 23-Arshavin, 52-Bendtner
Newcastle United: 26-Krul, 02-Coloccini, 03-Jose Enrique, 04-Nolan, 06-Williamson, 07-Barton, 09-Carroll, 12-Simpson, 18-Gutierrez, 23-Ameobi, 24-Tiote Subs Used: 30-Ranger
Todays Other Scores:
Liverpool 2-0 Chelsea - LI-Torres (2)
West Brom 0-2 Manchester City - Balotelli (2)
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