David Moyes and Arsene Wenger have the final word on Saturday’s Premier League clash between Sunderland and Arsenal at the Stadium of Light.
The managers discuss the moments that mattered and look forward following the Gunners’ 4-1 success, with a trip to AFC Bournemouth next on the Black Cats’ agenda.
POST-MATCH VERDICT
Moyes: "I think it was tough and I certainly don't think we deserved to lose 4-1. We worked hard, really hard, to stay in the game first half when Arsenal were very good. I think the score line is a little bit harsh on us. I don’t think we deserved to have lost by three goals."
Wenger: "Overall I feel it was important for us to win today, because we had won six [in a row] and then drew at home last weekend, which was disappointing. So to have another game without a win would maybe have created some uncertainty so it was important to win the game."
ON THE SPOT
Moyes: "We frustrated Arsenal and I think the time when we got the goal we were the better team. We warranted a goal and we looked more likely to score a goal than at any time during the game. So you hope from that you kick on and win it if you can. But at least come away with a point."
Wenger: "I would have signed for a 2-1 at that time, but the last 10 minutes were relaxing. We also showed we can bounce back in a game when it doesn’t go our way, so overall I believe that it can convince the team that we playing the right way. I think Sunderland were surprised by the strength of our push again.”
SUPER SUB
Moyes: "I think our defending was poor at times. I think it was more disappointing, our defending of crosses. We lose the first one to a cross, we lose the second one to a cross. Arsenal can score some great goals but when it's down to crosses you hope that you'll defend well and deal with that."
Wenger: “Olivier Giroud is mentally fantastic. Every time he is questioned he gives you the right answer. He was absolutely brilliant. He’s such a great option to have on the bench and overall you could see in training already that he was sharp, this week he is back to sharpness.”
CHARACTER
Moyes: "We stuck at it and I thought we grew into the game second half. And at that point I thought we were the better team when we got back into the game at one each. But their quality all over the pitch is always going to cause you a problem. The minute they open you up then they've got that chance of scoring.”
Wenger: “At 1-1 you think you have the chance to lose a game that should be over, but we kept going again and had another go. At some stage we were questioned with our spirit as well, because we missed many chances. In the end we won in a comfortable way. I am happy with the performance, with the result.”
FORWARD THINKING
Moyes: “Once we get one or two of the injured players back that will give me a few more options. We were quite limited today to what we could do and the changes we could make so hopefully we get a few of those players back and that will give us a better chance. The message is the players are giving everything they can. You can see that today. It wasn't for the lack of effort or the lack of trying. They played against a team with good quality."
Wenger: “That’s where everybody wants to be, so I will not complain. But it’s too early and it’s too tight as well. There are so many good teams in the league. We go game after game and it’s a good feeling when you play first and you win. At least you have one good day!”