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#4 Arsenal defense stood firm on the night but needs a lot of work
The first leg in Belarus again shed light on the Gunners’ propensity to concede at the drop of a hat. However, at the Emirates, Arsenal managed to shut out the visitors.
For large parts of the game, the Gunners’ rearguard wasn’t troubled. Yet, whenever the away side attacked with pace, the hosts looked uncomfortable.
Early in the first half, BATE scythed through Arsenal’s left side and delivered a wonderful cross to the far post. However, Stephan Lichtsteiner was on hand to thwart the visitors’ attempt.
In the second period too, BATE spurned a golden opportunity. In the 49th minute, Arsenal made a mess of a routine free-kick and found themselves in a penalty box scramble. But, the away side could only muster a tame shot at Cech.
At times, the Arsenal boat was indeed shaken up by the visitors. Fortunately for the Gunners, they came through the game unscathed and even kept a clean sheet.
And while Arsenal still have a long way to go defensively, they ensured that they papered over their defensive cracks, for now.
