Arsene Wenger has praised his side’s mental fortitude and refusal to lose after their late fightback to snatch a 2-2 draw against Everton.
Trailing 2-0 with seven minutes to go at Goodison Park, Aaron Ramsey’s goal and a last-gasp equaliser by Olivier Giroud sealed a hard-fought point.
Wenger was pleased with the response and felt his side had answered questions about their ability to handle away games against their biggest rivals.
"We refused to lose this game. I'm very proud of the way we responded"
“It was a game played at a high pace where we started a bit nervously because of the memories of last year - but when we were 1-0 down we started to create chances and play with full power,” he told Arsenal Player.
“We were unlucky to concede a second goal just before half time and then in the second half we took over and came back in a strong manner and in a very convincing way.
“Maybe it was a good point because it was at a place where last year we were swept away. This year we have shown a great mental response. We refused to lose this game. I'm very proud of the way we responded.”
Wenger also underlined the importance of the result ahead of the Gunners’ Champions League play-off against Besiktas.
“It doesn't give us a down - it makes us strong in our belief and that's an important quality for Wednesday night,” he said. “Let's recover now because this game was very physical, let's prepare well and then I believe we have a good chance.
“The task is clear, we want to win the game at home. It's the Champions League so it will be a thriller because [Besiktas] are a good side.”
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