The first-ever FA Cup final to be played behind closed doors saw the red side of London victorious, and they managed to carry on a strong tradition of winning this famous old trophy. It was a vital game for both managers as they had the chance to lift their first trophy as a manager. But it was Mikel Arteta who triumphed over Frank Lampard, who made some interesting decisions before the game. Still, many Arsenal fans will be hoping this is a stepping stone for the club whilst embracing the fact they have picked up some silverware.
The game was not without its talking points, so what were the standout moments to come out of the game.
Was Martinez Out of the Area?
This was a game-changing moment from VAR who did not study the contentious decision in that much detail, but it was decided that the Argentine did not leave the area. Chelsea were adamant that he left his area to grab the ball ahead of an advancing Tammy Abraham. With the lack of replays shown live, the Chelsea fans were not happy about the decision. However, it was an incredibly close call, but ultimately, he had just managed to stay in his area…just!
On the subject of Emi Martinez, he was brought to tears in an interview after the win for his side. For a man who has been loaned out six times to win the F.A Cup with Arsenal, especially after an impressive performance, it was a real joy to see him so happy and that the F.A Cup can still capture the hearts of players and fans alike.
Should Kovacic Been Sent Off?
Mateo Kovacic has been influential for Chelsea since he arrived and has become one of the first names on the team sheet. However, he saw red in the final and VAR did not overturn his second yellow card after on-field referee Anthony Taylor decided to show the Croatian international his second yellow.
His first yellow was not contentious but the second showed minimal contact on Granit Xhaka, who made the most of how much he was fouled to convince Taylor that Kovacic should be shown his marching orders. VAR saw the tackle again and decided that Taylor was right. However, it was an incredibly poor decision from all associated with sending the Chelsea man off.
That Could Have Aubameyang’s Swansong
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang lit up the cup final with two goals; his second was a joy to behold as he dragged the ball away from Antonio Rudiger and dinked it over the top of Willy Caballero. His first goal was not bad at all after he was floored by Chelsea captain César Azpilicueta he picked himself up and smashed home the resulting penalty.
However, with speculation surrounding his future due to him entering the final year of his contract that could have been his last game. If Arsenal are unable to get Aubameyang’s contract over the line he played one hell of a final match to help Arsenal win their fourteenth FA Cup.
