EFL Cup Aftermath: Arsenal Defender Says Opening Goal Was Key

Arsenal defender Rob Holding has disclosed that Southampton’s opening goal in the EFL Cup quarter-final clash between both sides was key to the eventual outcome of the game.

Arsene Wenger’s side were convincingly beaten 2-0 at the Emirates Stadium as they crashed out of the competition and also had a 19-game unbeaten run ended while Southampton progressed to what was their first semi-final for the first time in 30 years as far as the competition is concerned.

Holding, who sealed a £2m transfer to the North London side from English League One side Bolton Wanderers during the summer, is adamant that Dutch international Jordy Clasie’s fine first half strike was a turning point in the game paving the way for English left back Ryan Bertrand to add a second goal on the stroke of halftime.

The youngster was speaking during an interview with his club’s official website. In his words, he said: “They had something to hold on to then. Away from home, they’re going to sit back. And to be fair, Southampton defended well. They had something to hold on to, which helped them.”

“You look at the players we had out tonight, there were some big players and you think with the strength of the squad, a second string team can get all the way – but it wasn’t to be. It was a chance to get some silverware at the end of the season, so I’m disappointed to be out of the competition.

“There’s not much more I can say really. We’ve just got to learn from it and it’ll only help us in the coming years.” he further added.