West Brom vs. Arsenal review – Young Guns go through on penalties

Arsenal travelled to the Hawthorns to face West Brom in the Capital One cup, but most people would not have recognised them, because Arsene Wenger made nine changes, with lots of young players and back up players coming in. The big news was the return of Nicklas Bendtner, who has been given a chance to redeem himself. The Arsenal defence was the most recognisable part of the team, with Fabianski in goal behind a back four of Jenkinson, Mertesacker, Vermaelen and Monreal. Arteta returned, but in a more advanced position than usual, with young Isaac Hayden as the main defensive midfielder. Eisfeld, Gnabry and Miyaichi made up the midfield with Bendtner up top. The first half was a fairly scrappy affair, with neither team really threatening. Both teams were a bit disjointed, which is hardly surprising given that West Brom also made eight changes. The second half came to life a bit more, with both teams creating more and looking lively. It was Arsenal who took the lead, though, with the young German Eisfeld finishing well and Bendtner with the assist. The lead didn’t last long, however, although the Gunners has another couple of chances first. Berahino headed the hosts level with 20 minutes to play. More chances came and went but the match went into extra time. Akpom and Olsson were on for Hayden and Eisfeld and Arteta came off soon after the restart to be replaced by Bellerin. Bendtner had grown into the game, and looked like he would have a chance to score on his return, but Dawson got back with a great challenge. Akpom was impressive as Arsenal pushed for a winner, but we couldn’t quite find the final ball. Then West Brom hit the bar after failing to put the ball out for an injury, shortly followed by a great block from Rosenborg’s shot, and it went to penalties. The five Arsenal penalty takers were Bendtner, Gnabry, Olsson, Akpom and Monreal. Gnabry’s was saved, but West Brom missed two and the Young Guns made it 11 away wins in a row and can be really proud of themselves. It’s Chelsea at home in the next round.