The Gunners boss praised Olivier Giroud’s winner in the wake of Monday’s 1-0 victory over West Brom and labeled the result vital for their title bid
Arsene Wenger acknowledged that Arsenal needed “something special” as they saw off West Brom 1-0 on Boxing Day, adding that a win was crucial following two defeats.
The Gunners were largely dominant against Tony Pulis’ men at Emirates Stadium, but the Baggies defence remained resolute.
However, Arsenal – who had lost their previous two Premier League matches 2-1 – eventually made the breakthrough with four minutes remaining when Olivier Giroud expertly headed home Mesut Ozil’s brilliant cross.
His winner left Wenger pleased with the way his side bided their time to bring down the visitors, with the manager stating how crucial it was to regain momentum with all three points.
“In the end we had to be patient against a well-organised West Brom side,” Wenger told reporters.
“They were tenacious, well-organised and we needed to keep patient and not make a defensive mistake. When you do not score early, you cannot rush.
“We had a high level of possession, plenty of shots at goal and we needed something special in the end. It was a special cross and a special header.
“We knew we had to win after two disappointing defeats.”
Match-winner Giroud credited Ozil for his brilliant assist, while emphasising the importance of returning to winning ways.
“It was a very good cross from Mesut Ozil and I just tried to finish the job,” Giroud told reporters.
“We were strong together, a strong mentality, it was important to win and we showed a lot of strength.
“At home you have to win and even more so after two disappointing results so it was a very important game, we needed the three points. It is a big relief.”
