Arsenal 6 Southampton 1: Wenger hails ‘top quality’ performance

Arsène Wenger hailed his side’s “top quality” performance as Arsenal hit six past Southampton to record their first home win of the season.

Wenger, whose side’s back-to-back victories hoists them up into third place in the table, said: “We had a first half of a very high level.

“We were a bit lucky as well with the two own goals but overall we were top quality. We moved the ball at a very high pace and gave Southampton lots of problems.”

The Gunners took the lead in fortuitous circumstances when Kieran Gibbs’ shot was deflected in off Jos Hooiveld in the 11th minute, before Lukas Podolski curled home a delightful free-kick to double the home side’s lead.

Gervinho then drilled in to make it three after being fed by Mikel Arteta and Nathaniel Clyne then inadvertently deflefted Gibbs’ cross into the net.

Danny Fox pulled one back for Nigel Adkins’ men before the break after a Wojciech Szczesny error, but Gervinho and substitute Theo Walcott capped off an impressive display by the north Londoners.

After following up two goalless draws against Sunderland and Stoke City with victories over Liverpool and Southampton, Wenger called on his side to find the consistency needed to mount a title challenge.

“We have a chance for the title but first we must show consistency,” he continued. “We have the quality to do it but we have to show how much we can do it.”

Wenger also admitted his disappointment at watching his side concede their first goal of the season following Szczesny’s mistake, and hinted Vito Mannone could force his way back into contention for the No1 jersey at The Emirates.

“It is disappointing to concede a goal, especially the way we did, but you have to let one in at some point,” he continued. “A goal for Olivier Giroud is missing but it will come.

“Vito Mannone is very very close to staying in the team. A fight is there for the shirt with Wojciech Szczesny.”

The Arsenal boss also reserved special praise for playmaker Santi Cazorla, who has impressed in his first few appearances in the Premier League.

He said: “When you love football you love to watch players like Santi Cazorla. His attitude is first-rate and he is technically brilliant. You can see already that he is at the heart of all our moves.”

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