Gunners break gritty resistance

A comfortable-looking win in the end for Arsenal but the game was in the balance for an hour. From the kick-off Leadbitter had an audacious effort but in truth that was the height of Ipswich's ambition. The away side did as predicted and 'parked the tractor', defending deep with their back four very deep and narrow. The midfield 5 operated not very far in front of the defence and closed Arsenal down quickly and aggressively. This condensed the space between the lines and Arsenal were unable to get their normal fluid passing play. Fabregas was being well marshalled by Kennedy.

Ipswich's approach was working but they were unable to keep possession and they were not creating anything offensively. Obviously they were trying to protect their first-leg lead but I can't help but think that had Ipswich committed a few more men to counter-attacking earlier in the game they could have taken advantage of the tense atmosphere in the stadium. Ipswich's main threat was from set pieces with Leadbitter's delivery causing some problems (and causing the Sagna injury).

The first clear opportunity came when Van Persie headed Bendtner's cross onto the bar (how/why does he hit the woodwork so regularly?). Arsenal were unable to put any concerted pressure on Ipswich's goal (as they had done to Wigan) and Ipswich went into the break with their clean sheet intact. Arsenal were missing a better link between the midfield and attack with Arshavin out of form and Bendtner lacking the mobility to drag the defence out of shape.

The second half began much the same way the first half had ended with Arsenal pushing for a breakthrough and Ipswich unable to take advantage of Arsenal's high defensive line with long, direct balls. When Arsenal did get the breakthrough it was a top quality goal. Ipswich's defence got sucked across the pitch and Wilshere picked out Bendtner in acres of space with a great 40 yard pass. Bendtner took a great touch, cut inside and struck the ball sweetly into the far corner. 

The relief amongst the fans and players was palpable and the Ipswich players looked deflated and tired. The second goal followed quickly as Koscielny seized on Fulop's error to head just inside the near post. After that goal Paul Jewell changed to a 4-4-2 as Ipswich looked to get back in the game but this left the midfield open and Arsenal duly took advantage. It was a good counter-attacking move with Arshavin collecting the ball just outside the area, moving inside cleverly and playing a good pass to Fabregas who slotted the ball through the keeper's legs. Arshavin had been poor in the majority of the game but this was a top assist and he finished the game with 2 assists despite his average display.

Sometimes statistics don't tell the whole story and the Russian looks bereft of confidence but worked hard and must surely find some form soon. The quality of Arsenal shone through in the end but Fabregas and Bendtner rightly praised Ipswich for their valiant effort.