Andrei Arshavin (pictured in the center) scored four goals in Tuesday’s Premier League thriller pitting Liverpool against Arsenal at Anfield Road. No Russian playing in a prestigious foreign league had ever accomplished such a feat. Alexander Mastavoi, Valery Karpin and others had had hat-tricks.
Arshavin fired his first into Jose Reina’s net after an excellent assist from Cesc Fabregas. This was followed by a spectacular solo performance, with the Russian firing into the far post to find the net. Arshavin had his third after an example of abysmal defending by the Reds. The Russian’s fourth found the near post, despite Reina’s best efforts.
“I cannot describe how happy I am,” said Arshavin. “I never dreamed of something like this! The only sore spot is that we did not win. We were so close to victory…”
“Arshavin demonstrated he is a superb player,” said manager Arsene Wenger (pictured in the far left) after the game. I cannot express how happy I am. He practically solely decided the game, and that tells us a lot…”
© FTBL