Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta says Reiss Nelson’s last-gasp winner against Bournemouth is his favourite moment of the month.
At the start of March, the Gunners were staring down the barrel of an embarrassing defeat to the relegation-battling Cherries.
Arsenal got off to the worst possible start, conceding within the first 10 seconds of the match.
Mikel Arteta’s defence was caught napping as Philip Billing fired home from point-blank range at the far post.
Things then got even worse for the Gunners just before the hour as they conceded another soft goal.
On 57 minutes, Marcos Senesi got the better of Thomas Partey and nodded home from a corner.
However, Arsenal fought back, as the Ghana international netted from close range in the 62nd minute.
Then, Nelson – who had come off the bench – provided the delivery for Ben White to equalise in the 69th minute.
Seven minutes into injury time, the 23-year-old provided an outstanding half-volley to seal a euphoric win.
Arsenal kicked on with emphatic league wins against Fulham and Crystal Palace to go eight points clear at the summit.
Now, the Gunners return to action on Saturday when they host Leeds United at the Emirates Stadium.
Arteta goes into the match as the reigning Manager of the Month, the fourth time he has won the accolade this season.
Ahead of the match, the Arsenal media team asked him what his favourite March moment was.
“Probably Bournemouth,” replied Arteta.
“Reiss’ goal, that moment, that celebration, that hype we all had in the moment.
“But I’m especially pleased with the consistency the boys are showing every single day.
“The way they train, the way they behave and the way they are playing, and the willingness and hunger to keep winning and winning.”
Going down in history
Nelson is a top talent who hasn’t been lucky with regards to game time at Arsenal of late.
However, he might have just secured a spot in the Gunners history books.
If Arsenal win the title, Nelson’s contribution could well be deemed the moment that turned the time back in their favour on the home straight.
Nelson also seems keen to stay put at Arsenal, so hopefully he’ll get a new contract.
If such a talented player is happy to stay and fight for his place, then that’s just the sort of attitude you want in your dressing roon.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
