Arsenal's season is in serious danger of falling apart after FA Cup exit against Man Utd
Arsenal's season is in serious danger of falling apart after FA Cup exit against Man Utd
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They rolled back the years to deliver brilliant FA Cup drama at the Emirates. And, ultimately, it was some fairytale for Joshua Zirkzee who went from being booed off and in tears just 13 days ago to becoming the hero in the shoot-out. This had so many similarities from the FA Cup classic in 1999 when Manchester United beat Arsenal in the semi final replay at Villa Park before going on to win the Treble.
Just as with 26 years ago, United had a man sent off, Arsenal missed a penalty and there were numerous bust-ups from the days of Sir Alex Ferguson and Arsene Wenger. After a woeful first half, this game was a brilliant advert for the FA Cup even if Arsenal will probably wish there were still replays because their season is now in serious danger of falling apart.
Arsenal played against ten men - after Diogo Dalot was sent off for a second yellow card in the 61st minute - for more than an hour and still could not take advantage. Kai Havertz missed two sitters and then also saw his penalty saved in the shoot-out. But who seriously thought it was a good idea letting him take one? He was dying in front of our eyes.
Martin Odegaard missed a penalty after 72 minutes to effectively win it for Arsenal in normal time and yet United keeper Altay Bayindir made a super save and made at least three super stops. United’s heroes raced to the 8,000 away fans after the shoot-out and it was a particularly sweet moment for Zirkzee who, against Newcastle last month, was jeered after being substituted. But Zirkzee showed great courage and it was the same fight United summoned up to fight like warriors as they holders refused to lose their grip on the trophy.
