Theo Walcott put Arsenal up 2-0 against Hull after a clever back heel assist from Alex Iwobi.
Theo Walcott’s a striker. Theo Walcott isn’t a striker. Theo Walcott started as a winger for Arsenal’s game against Hull today, but he has got himself on the scoresheet in the second half.
The Englishman was assisted by a delightful Alex Iwobi back heel. That goal put Arsenal up 2-1, but the lead has since been cut in half.
.@theowalcott has reached the BIG 100!! Watch as he doubles @Arsenal's lead and get his 100th overall goal. https://t.co/BiBTghU5u0
— NBC Sports Soccer (@NBCSportsSoccer) September 17, 2016
Arsenal took the lead in the first half through Iwobi, whose deflected shot beat Hull keeper Eldin Jakupovic. Arsenal had a chance to double their lead from the spot. Jake Livermore was sent off for handling in his own area, denying Arsenal a goal. Alexis Sanchez stepped up to take the spot kick, but Jakupovic saved low to his right.
It was a good save and kept Hull in the game, but it seemed like getting reduced to 10 men might put an end to Hull’s chances. Walcott’s goal seemed to confirm that, but the Tigers found a way back into the game with a Robert Snodgrass penalty.
Finally, Alexis Sanchez put the game to bed for Arsenal, who have now won three games in a row. The Gunners sit on 10 points and move level with Liverpool and Chelsea. It will be interesting to see how the race for the top four pans out, with those three plus Everton all looking strong.
Hull will be disappointed with the loss, but have otherwise been solid this season. The fact they were able to stay in a close game with 10 men may even be an encouraging sign for Mike Phelan. Given Hull were favorites to get relegated this season, seven points from their opening five games is good form.
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They probably weren’t expecting much from a match against Arsenal anyway. After Livermore went off, it seemed their chances of a point were all but gone.