News

Santi - We defended with spirit

14/15: West Ham United 1-2 Arsenal - Santi Cazorla

Santi Cazorla has praised Arsenal’s defence after the 2-1 victory over West Ham United on Sunday.

The Spaniard and Danny Welbeck put Arsène Wenger’s side in control at half-time, but Cheikhou Kouyate halved the deficit just after the break.

Arsenal had chances to make the game safe in the second half but were indebted to a gutsy rearguard display in the closing stages.

"The second ball was so important because they have so many tall players, but our team was very focused today"

“I’m very happy [with the win]”, said Cazorla. “It’s a difficult game and an important one for us.

“West Ham are a good team and our team defended with a good spirit and were compact. Now we have a rest because we have a big game at Southampton.

“We need to play better every time because we have the example against Stoke City. The second ball was so important because they have so many tall players, but our team was very focused today.

“The team are in a good mood because we won the last game at home against QPR and now we won again against West Ham. It’s a good moment for us and now we need to continue to play the same.”

Having relinquished penalty-taking duties against QPR on Boxing Day, Cazorla converted from the spot at Upton Park. The 30 year old was pleased to score and has set his sights on breaking into the top four.

“The most important thing is to score,” he said. “I took it because Arteta is out, but the most important thing is to help the team.

“I am confident [of a top-four finish]. We have a very good team and we have so many players out now but they are recovering all the time.

“So many players, like Theo Walcott and Mesut Ozil, [are on their way back] and we have a very good team.”

 

Santi Cazorla

Santi Cazorla

 

See Full List

Fixtures & Results

Premier League
Ticket Info