LONDON: Mikel Arteta described Arsenal players as enjoying their mission to win at Anfield after ending a 14-year wait to beat Liverpool at the hallowed ground with a 1-0 victory early this morning.
Kai Havertz’s goal in the 16th minute was enough to secure a narrow victory for the Gunners in the fierce action, thus widening the gap to three points at the top of the English Premier League (EPL) over Manchester City.
Liverpool put on great pressure after falling behind, but Arsenal displayed a more controlled performance in the second half to curb the home side’s pressure.
The Reds squad finished the match without a single shot on target for the first time in a home game in EPL history.
Arteta said his players were relishing the challenge of breaking the poor record at Anfield, which had previously seen Arsenal lose eight of their last 13 league games there.
“They really enjoyed this mission. It was a mission we had failed to achieve for 14 years, and there was a reason behind it.
“Some of it is psychological, while others stem from the quality of the game, certain moments or decisions made.
“We know we have to do everything perfectly. We also have to be prepared for difficult periods because Liverpool are very good at launching quick attacks and creating chaos even from seemingly harmless situations.
“You have to enjoy the situation. Otherwise they will punish you. The way we competed, played and created chances was amazing. I am very happy,” he said.
Arsenal bounced back from the disappointment of being knocked out of the League Cup by Division Two side Fleetwood Town in midweek to continue their excellent campaign in the EPL with eight wins from nine matches.
Arteta said the victory was very meaningful after his team faced criticism following their previous defeat to Liverpool.
“We are very proud of what the team and the players did, especially with the conditions when we arrived at this match. After the defeat to Liverpool, it seemed like everything was over.
“However, you have to rise up and understand that this is the beauty of football. It can put you in very difficult situations, but four days later, you have the opportunity to create something historic and we managed to do it,” he said.