Stage 6: Astons and Citeh spoil the fun
It looked good. Really good as Arsenal thrashed a sorry Wigan side 3-0 in the Carling Cup.
Then came Aston Villa, supposedly the main contenders for a top 4 finish for the first time in the BPL.
Defeat was nothing compared to what followed. William Gallas was stripped of captaincy with alleged criticism against team-mates Eboue and Robin van Persie, with pictures of Gallas himself with a cigarette in his mouth.
City quickly dominated the game. Passes were misplaced by Arsenal, and the chances came at a premium. Song missed an easy chance and after Nasri's free kick was carelessly spilled by Hart.
Then the goal came. A mix-up at the back between Clichy and Toure sent Ireland on goal. He buried it top-corner.
The second half was an absolute shambles. Arsenal barely stringed 3 passes in City's half and their chances were promptly ended when Robinho expertly flicked the ball past a flapping Almunia. An absolute peach of a finish.
Then came the killer. Elano was given a penalty and he disposed Arsenal, sending Almunia the wrong way.
The victory was a deserved one for City had dominated the game.
(Aaron Ramsey)
