A tight first half was edged by the hosts as Di Natale showcased his finishing ability with a well directed header past Wojciech Szczesny. However the Pole got the better of the legendary Italian 'keeper for the rest of the game and two great moves saw Arsenal seal victory in a vital game.
The first goal came after a brilliant run by Gervinho who picked out van Persie six yards out and the Dutchman slotted home. Wojciech Szczesny then pulled off one of the best saves many fans will have ever seen an Arsenal goalkeeper make. A handball from Vermaelen gifted Udinese a penalty and Di Natale's powerful strike was heading for the top corner before Szczesny launched himself at the ball and tipped it over. It was an inspirational moment. The goal that sealed the tie followed and Theo Walcott made up for a poor miss in the first half by playing a one two with Sagna and running 40 yards before calmly slotting the ball past the 'keeper at his near post.
We had struggled to dominate the game in the first half and the game was very stretched. A midfield of Frimpong, Song and Ramsey were getting overrun and none of the trio appeared to be sure of their role. Wenger noted the problem and at half time replaced Frimpong with Tomas Rosicky. It was a superb move which was initially ridiculed by many fans. The midfield balance was restored and we completely dominated from the moment the Czech international entered the fray. Our passing fluidity returned and Song, Gervinho and Walcott all excelled.
Wenger has been in the dock for much of the summer but he proved his worth this evening and we can now look forward to seeing how well he can strengthen with the huge windfall Champions League qualification will bring on top of the enormous profit we have made in the transfer market.
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