3/18/2009

Arsenal comes back late to secure semifinal with Chelsea


Arsenal's William Gallas challenges for the ball with Hull City's Peter Halmosi (C) challenge for the ball during their FA Cup quarter-final soccer match at Emirates Stadium in London March 17, 2009.

LONDON, March 17 -- Arsenal set up an FA Cup semifinal against Chelsea after they beat Hull city 2-1 with two late goals and a controversial William Gallas strike on Tuesday.

Hull was left appealing in vain for offside as Gallas scored the winner after 84 minutes.

It confirmed Arsenal's first visit to the new Wembley for the semifinal and ended Hull's dream of reaching the tournament's last four for the first time in 79 years.

Nick Barmby's deflected shot gave Hull the lead after 13 minutes and they held their advantage for more than an hour.

Robin van Persie capped a sustained spell of Arsenal pressure when he slammed home Andrey Arshavin's pass from close range with 16 minutes remaining.

Gallas, who appeared to be in an offside position, then headed in from close range to seal the victory.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger made six changes to the side that beat Blackburn 4-0 on Saturday, but Russian playmaker Arshavin was fit start, despite having stitches in a foot injury.


Arsenal's William Gallas (2nd R) turns to celebrate after scoring against Hull City to make it during their FA Cup quarter-final soccer match at Emirates Stadium in London March 17, 2009.



Arsenal's Robin Van Persie (R) has his shot blocked by Hull City's Peter Halmosi (L) during their FA Cup quarter-final soccer match against Hull City at Emirates Stadium in London March 17, 2009.



Arsenal's Robin Van Persie (R) has his shot blocked by Hull City's Peter Halmosi (L) during their FA Cup quarter-final soccer match against Hull City at Emirates Stadium in London March 17, 2009.



Hull City's Nick Barmby celebrates with teammates Peter Halmosi (C) and Andy Dawson (R) after scoring against Arsenal during their FA Cup quarter-final soccer match at Emirates Stadium in London March 17, 2009.
(Xinhua)

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