Arteta on Arsenal's Lead: 'Arsenal is Going Through a Great Period'

Defending champions Arsenal extended their lead at the top of the English Premier League over their pursuers, Manchester City, after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Hull City in the tenth round, while the “Citizens” suffered their third consecutive defeat, losing 1-3 to Nottingham Forest. Enzo Maresca’s side desperately needed the win at the City Ground to keep pace with the outstanding champions, who had collected 27 points out of a possible 30, but the loss widened the gap to six points. Maresca said, “It’s very clear. We weren’t good enough in the first half to match the pace required in such matches.” He added, “We conceded two goals and then tried to respond, but in most cases in football, when you find yourself trailing 2-0, it’s too late.” After the win, Mikel Arteta expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance but called for greater effectiveness in front of goal, as they secured their third 1-0 victory in their last four league matches. Speaking to the BBC, he said, “I think it’s time to praise my players. What they’ve delivered isn’t just today, but since the international break. It’s been exceptional given the matches they’ve played.” He continued, “We’re going through great periods in games, but we need to convert the chances we create into goals on the scoreboard. That’s the aspect we need to improve.”