The Gunners’ seven game winning streak came to an end after a determined performance from Queens Park Rangers at Loftus Road.

QPR’s ground is the smallest in the Premiership, but it is some kind of giant killer when it comes to games like this. Both Chelsea and Liverpool failed to take any points away in their visits, Manchester City had to work very hard to sneak out with a win, and yesterday it was Arsenal’s turn.

Coming off a 3-1 defeat at Sunderland and facing an in form Arsenal side, a home win was definitely not on the cards. Even the flying Dutchman, Van Persie, seemed to be subdued by the QPR defence, whilst Vermaelen had one of his worst games in an Arsenal shirt, being at fault for both goals.

Arsenal started with confidence but that soon drifted away as the home side began to press. Bobby Zamora headed over the bar from a Taarabt cross and Onuoha’s goal bound volley was blocked by Alex song. It wasn’t long until Taarabt skinned Vermaelen with quick feet and clever thinking to then curl a powerful shot past Szczesny. The Moroccan international had taken more shots than anyone else in the Premiership at that point without scoring, but you wouldn’t believe it after his finish. To celebrate he put a fez on his head, but he must have brushed the dust off it first if he’s being carrying it around all this time.

QPR fans were in full song cheering on their players neat passing as Arsenal were frustrated. However a lapse in concentration allowed Rosicky to slide the ball to Van Persie who skilfully turned Ferdinand and delivered an exquisite ball to Walcott through Clint Hill‘s legs. The Englishman’s first shot hit the post but it rebounded straight back to his feet to simply slot in the back of the net for his 10th goal of the season.

With 25 minutes left to go QPR managed to go ahead once again after Fraser Mackie was given the ball down the right side of the penalty box. He skipped past Vermaelen after the Arsenal defender slipped and couldn’t recover, allowing Mackie to lay the ball off to Samba Diakite. Very questionable Arsenal defending left Diakite with all the time in the world to stroll into the box and send the ball into the back of the net with an impressive finish. With Vermaelen on the floor, Koscielny marking his man, and Song no where to be seen Arsenal could not argue about the goal.

It was a huge match and an even bigger three points for the relegation threatened side. The result is a surprising one and Wenger must be scratching his head, but that is what makes this league the best in the world… anything can happen.  

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About the author
Ed Jones
Ed is a UK based journalist. He has produced and co-presented the breakfast show on BFBS Radio and has TV and Radio presented for Forge media. An Arsenal FC supporter, and keen follower of all world Football.