Arsenal boss praises Southampton after draw

Tuesday, January 1, 2013
10:18 PM

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger was quick to praise a Southampton side vastly improved from one beaten 6-1 at the Emirates Stadium in September.

The Gunners started 2013 with a whimper on the south coast, rarely threatening in a game the relegation-threatened hosts looked more likely to win.

Gaston Ramirez opened the scoring for Saints after 34 minutes but Guly do Prado’s own goal seven minutes later saw Arsenal secure a 1-1 draw.

“We prepared normally, we prepared well, and Southampton deserved some credit as well,” the Frenchman added.

“We have to give them credit as well, they fought for every ball and were on their toes.

“They were fighting until the last second for every single ball.

“We did not have enough quality to take them out of position and take advantage of that.”