Arsene Wenger heaps praise on Arsenal defence after Burnley win

Arsene Wenger watches his team play during their Premier League match against Burnley

London, April 12 (IANS) Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has said his team's defence played a decisive part in the 1-0 win against Burnley in the Premier League.

"Our defence was a very important factor because our back line played very well defensively and anticipated a lot. Overall, they certainly played a big part in the win, goalkeeper included," Wenger was quoted as saying by arsenal.com on Sunday.

Arsenal's back line were tested with long balls and high pressing throughout but remained calm and focused to keep a clean sheet on Saturday. Midfielder Aaron Ramsey scored the decisive goal in the 12th minute.

It was Arsenal's fourth clean sheet in their eight-game winning streak and the manager was impressed by his team's resilience.

"We played against a side that is very well organised, who play for survival and who are also very fit. That's the improvement in recent years, that the team you play in the second half of the Premier League are top quality as well, and that every win is a battle," the 65-year-old said.

"It was a little bit scrappy but combative, and was more down to desire and organisation than fluency. That's the kind of win we need in this league and I'm happy that we did it," Wenger concluded.

Arsenal are currently second on the standings with 66 points from 32 matches, behind Cheslea (73 from 31 games).