Everton 0 - 2 Arsenal
The game was basically over when Don Hutchison was sent off on 18 minutes, just two minutes after we had taken the lead through a powerful shot from England hopeful Ray Parlour. The only bad thing to come of this game was that Petit was also sent off, for the third time this season. Mr. Wenger put's him in the runnings for player of the year along with the likes of Yorke, Ginola (only there beacuse he shines in the poor quality around him in my opinion), and Desailly, but surely this is too much of a disiplinary problem to put him there. With Manchester United winning at Newcastle, the Gunners remain four points behind Alex Ferguson's side having welcomed back Winterburn and Petit - briefly - for this afternoon's clash.
We had the better of the game for the entire 90 minuets, Everton only pressurising in brief spells.
We edged into the lead after 16 minuets when a superb 50 yard ball from Overmars found Parlour who did well to finish. Proceeding this were numerous Arsenal chances up until the half time whistle. Arsenal started brighter in the second as well and continued to pressurise but failed to capitalise. Petit was then booked for a second time and was sent for an early bath. Little did it matter though as five minutes later Parlour was sent tumbling in the Everton penalty area and we were duly awarded a spot-kick, which Bergkamp cooly finished.
So a great result for us, despite Manu's red card. We are definately sill very much in the title race and wont let go without alot of resistance. Chelsea's loss at home only strengthens our chances, but United remain in the driving seat still four points ahead. I understand that Petit will not miss the FA cup semi final against Man U on April the 11th which is more good news, but can we cope without him for the league games he will miss? only time will tell.