Van Persie admits Gunners got lucky

18 August 2009 22:37
William Gallas deflected in the opener while an own goal from Gary Caldwell settled matters in the 71st minute.[LNB]Dutch striker van Persie told Sky Sports: "If you look at the first goal, it was a good free-kick and William's run made that goal. But it was very lucky.[LNB]"The second goal was a good attack and in the end their centre-back needed to make the touch. Again it was lucky.[LNB]"They played really well but you know if you score just before half-time it is a setback for them. We kept going and it was a good result."[LNB]Van Persie insisted there was still all to play for in the second leg at the Emirates next week but admitted the Gunners are firmly in control.[LNB]"Nothing is impossible but it's looking good for us," he added.[LNB]Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger paid tribute to the efforts of the hosts, saying: "It was a fierce fight where Celtic have given absolutely everything.[LNB]"Overall I think we controlled the game but were lucky with the two goals we scored. Their energy tonight was sensational. Defensively they did very well and they never gave up.[LNB]"We are in front after 90 (minutes) so let's make sure we are in front after 180."[LNB]Wenger's opposite number Tony Mowbray bemoaned the nature of Arsenal's goals but insisted his side can still reach the group stages.[LNB]"The nature of the goals was very disappointing, it sort of knocks the stuffing out of what you're trying to do," Mowbray told Sky Sports.[LNB]"But Arsenal were very good on the night; exceptional with the ball but brilliant without the ball. It was a frustrating night.[LNB]"We've got to go there next week and score the first goal and if we do that it might make it interesting."[LNB]Caldwell believes Arsenal's performance provided a guide for where Celtic need to be if they are to really challenge in Europe.[LNB]"They were better than us, they passed the ball better," Caldwell said.[LNB]"We've seen how far we have to go to get to that level. They're one of the best teams in the Champions League."[LNB][LNB]

Source: Team_Talk