Hull City Unlucky to Lose at the Emirates

Arsenal reached the semi finals of the FA Cup last night with a 2-1 victory over Hull City, but once again the Tigers caused problems at the Emirates.

The game itself was poor. Arsenal gave the ball away on a number of occasions and reverted to playing the long ball over the top, assuming that Van Persie was going to get on the end of them and stick the ball into the back of the net.

Hull though in their usual fashion fought throughout the game and took the lead after Nicky Barmby's shot deflected off Johan Djourou to beat the despairing arm of Fabianski. To be honest after this it looked as though Hull were going to close out the game.

Giovanni's free kick troubled the Gunners, forcing Fabianski to save brilliantly and then Barmby had the ball in the back of the net again after he turned in Dawson's shot. Barmby though to Arsenal's relief was offside.

The second half was rather different. Arsenal dominated and created a number of chances. Hull's Sam Ricketts frustrated Arshavin with a number of spectacular blocks and then Van Persie headed the Russians corner against the bar.

Twenty minutes to go and it was time for a change. Bendter and Nasri came on and the Gunners looked far better spreading the ball across the park. And it was the Dane who created the equaliser. After a miss kick, Bendter forced his way towards goal and crossed to find Arshavin who calmly set up Van Persie for a relieved goal.

After a couple of high fives, Arsenal were back on the attack and in the last ten minutes, former skipper, William Gallas put the Gunners on their way to Wembley.

So were Hull unlucky to lose?

Well not really no. Although it was an awful game and Hull showed the fight and spirit only worthy of an FA Cup tie, Arsenal were professional in their approach. Although they were unconvincing at times, the Gunners won due to their continuous pressure and at the end of the day their quality.

Phil Brown's comments at the end of the game were controversial. Whether or not Fabregas did spit at his assistant is a story for another day.