The Ginger Reaction

Last updated : 03 February 2002 By Christian Kelly

Gordon Strachan comments on Saints excellent away point at Arsenal. Strachan said: "The second half was progress, the first half we were in reverse - there is no doubt about that.

"We gave ourselves our own problems and we didn't look like a team that believed they could win here.

"We looked like a team that hoped Arsenal would play badly, but in the second half the players made a decision that they wanted to make an impression on the game both as a unit and as individuals.

"Before this it was like playing on a computer because I've never had a run of games like this, it was like the Champions League, we played Liverpool twice, Man United twice and Chelsea, Spurs, Arsenal and West Ham and to get the points we've got is quite satisfying."

Arsenal's boss, Arsene Wenger said: "We had many chances in the second half, but we must learn to keep a clean sheet at home.

"The players are giving me everything and this group of players are absolutely fantastic.

"I felt that we were lacking a spark today, but that was due to our efforts in the last couple of weeks. It was certainly not due to a lack of effort or commitment on the players' part."

Gordon went on to explain more of his football philosophy saying: "You won't believe this but we played far better as a team at Old Trafford, when we lost 6-1 just before Christmas."

"I just enjoy football. It's easy for the top managers to sit there and look cool, they've got world-class players who all know their jobs and can improvise within their system," revealed Strachan.

"I've got a system that has to be adhered to as, if we don't, we are in trouble. The players can lose their focus and attention but if you do the right things then you will eventually get the just rewards."