Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger felt his side were a little bit lucky as they recorded a valuable 2-1 win against Aston Villa.
Wenger admits Villa deserved a point
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger felt his side were a little bit lucky as they recorded a valuable 2-1 win against Aston Villa.
Arsenal striker Robin van Persie equalled Thierry Henry's club record - 34 - for the most Premier League goals in a calendar year before Marc Albrighton scored the 20,000th goal in the Premier League to level matters.
However, substitute Yossi Benayoun earned the visitors victory at Villa Park with an 87th-minute decider.
Wenger admits his side rode their luck before taking all three points.
"The draw was maybe fair but we kept going and we took our chance when we had the opportunity," Wenger told
Sky Sports News. "We have to give credit to Villa who had an outstanding commitment and quality. They're a good side when they play with that kind of attitude.
"Our formidable spirit got us through and Yossi Benayoun got us three more points from the corner - which is unusual for us. And we're very happy.
"We've had two very difficult away games over Christmas. First Manchester City and now Villa.
"Mentally and physically we gave everything on Sunday. You could see that some legs were tired tonight."
Wenger was surprised that the Gunners' winner came direct from a corner kick, but believes there is more to come from his team and the Frenchman gave special praise to Van Persie, adding: "To go level with Thierry Henry is something exceptional. The year is not over and he can still score a few more. We must prepare well for Wolves on Monday."
