Thomas Partey’s quick thinking in Wolves game saved Arsenal

Arsenal defeated Wolverhampton Wanderers 2-1 on Thursday, but the visitors might have scored two if Thomas Partey hadn’t made a quick decision.

To win Arsenal’s midweek encounter against Wolves, Alexandre Lacazette forced a Jose Sa own goal in the final seconds, although the visitors might have had a two-goal advantage at halftime.

In the early minutes of the game, Romain Saiss thought he’d given Wolves the lead with a flick past Aaron Ramsdale. However, the assistant raised his flag for offside, which was confirmed following a long VAR review.

Following the original corner, Thomas Partey pursued Conor Coady into the six-yard box, and for a little while, he had three Wolves attackers onside.

Luckily, Partey reacted swiftly, sprinting out to join the defensive line and play Saiss offside. It would have been a goal if he had taken a fraction of a second longer.

Partey played well in the end, especially in the second half. He generated three opportunities in 90 minutes, accomplished three take-ons, won six duels and two free-kicks, and recovered 13 balls.

Take-ons, duels won, free-kicks won, and ball recoveries were all at an all-time high for any Arsenal player on the night.