'Well deserved' - Former Nigeria striker lauds Ghana star Partey after first EPL goal for Arsenal

Published: October 22, 2021

Arsenal extended their unbeaten run to seven games in all competitions after an impressive 3-1 win over Aston Villa in a Premier League clash at the Emirates Stadium on Friday night.

Goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo and Folarin Balogun were not involved in this one as they were in action for the U23s, while Aston Villa midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka was also on duty in the Premier League 2.

Thomas Partey netted his first goal in Arsenal colours midway through the first half when he glanced a header past goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.

The nature of Arsenal's second goal was very controversial after Targett's tackle on Alexandre Lacazette was looked at by the VAR and then Craig Pawson in the referee review area, before a penalty was awarded in first half stoppage time.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang slotted in the rebound after the Aston Villa goalkeeper saved his first effort, Emile Smith-Rowe extended the lead early in the second half before Ramsey reduced the deficit in the 82nd minute.

Speaking during commentary on the Premier League world feed, retired Nigeria international and 1994 Africa Cup of Nations-winning striker Efan Ekoku lauded Partey after his first-ever goal for the Gunners.

Ekoku said : "It's a good header from Thomas Partey but where on earth was John McGinn? He's got to thrown himself at that ball.

"It's a clever header, isn't it? Martinez wasn't able to keep it out, never easy when it is headed into the ground like that.

"As you said Jim fully deserving of that first goal for Arsenal. Well deserved."

Following their fourth win of the season, Arsenal are up to ninth in the Premier League table, one of four teams on fourteen points.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit : arsenal.com

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