St James' Park, Saturday 9th March 2002

AXA Sponsored FA Cup

Almost a case of deja vu on Tyneside as Arsenal rode an early Newcastle storm before taking the lead. This time though there was to be no second goal. The Magpies got themselves back into the game, and Arsenal were perhaps fortunate to earn a replay.

With Tuesday's game against Deportivo in mind, Arsene Wenger rested several players and the changes seemed to inspire Newcastle who were quick out of the blocks. Alan Shearer tested Richard Wright's reflexes early on with a stinging free-kick, but shortly afterwards Arsenal broke away to open the scoring.

Wiltord was the provider, surging past Distin before whipping in a good low cross which Edu turned into the net. The Brazilian was certainly happy with his goal showing scant regard for the sub-zero conditions by whipping his shirt off in celebration.

The goal couldn't disguise the fact that Newcastle were on top though and Bobby Robson's men continued to push Arsenal back. Laurent Robert hit the bar and Lee Dixon saved us with a great goal-line clearance. Given the pressure it was no surprise to see Newcastle haul themselves back into the game after the break.

The lively Robert was the Toon army's saviour. Shearer capitalised on a slip by Igor Stepanovs to flick the ball on, and Robert surged through the middle of Arsenal's defence to drill a fine shot past Richard Wright.

From then on it was just a question of holding on. Le Boss threw Bergkamp and Pires into action, but although we created a few opportunities, Bobby Robson's men continued to look the likelier winners.

Thankfully a second Newcastle goal failed to materialise, so it's time for part four of what is turning into an epic series of games against Newcastle this season. The replay will be at Highbury on March 23rd meaning that the West Ham game will be postponed.