Arsenal 2-0 Hull: Instant Reaction

Arsenal barely had to get out of first gear as they swatted away Hull City 2-0. Goals at the start of both halves were enough, and Arsenal were able to play out the rest of the match fairly straightforwardly, and give minutes off to some key players.

Nicklas Bendtner, starting for Olivier Giroud, opened the scoring after 90 seconds. A lovely build-up then saw Aaron Ramsey slip Carl Jenkinson down the right, who's fantastic cross was met by Bendtner. He had another chance 12 minutes later, but couldn't quite latch onto the ball after Allan McGregor spilled possession. There were well taken shots from Aaron Ramsey that were saved, and somehow, despite some beautiful, intricate build-up play, Arsenal were only a goal up at half time.

Mesut Özil changed that, though, 2 minutes into the second half. After another lovely move, Aaron Ramsey played a sparkling, no-look reverse through ball for Özil, who passed the ball into the back of the net. 2-0, and, despite some loose play towards the end, it was very much game over.

That Arsenal were able to win so comfortably despite making five changes was impressive. There's a level of confidence in this team that allows those sorts of disruptions, and with Ramsey and Özil really playing well together, there is always a creative threat. The one concern for Arsene Wenger will be that Santi Cazorla had another so-so performance, and the Spaniard really needs a goal or great pass to get back into the swing of things. But when that's your main concern, you can see things are going really well.

NICKLAS BENDTNER YO