Zimpapers Logo

LONDON. — Arsenal must learn from their disastrous start in last year’s FA Cup final to avoid an upset against Aston Villa, says Ray Parlour.

The Gunners were stunned by two goals inside the opening eight minutes from Hull City last season, before recovering to win 3-2 in extra-time.

They were also nearly upset in the semi-finals of the competition this year as they were taken to extra-time by Championship side Reading.

“If Arsenal play like they did in the semi-final against Reading and Villa play like they did in the semi-final, it’s probably really close and Villa might shade it,” said former Arsenal midfielder Parlour.

“But with the experience of winning last year, Arsenal’s players will know how important it is and the start to the game this season will be so different to last season.

“Losing two goals in 10 minutes to Hull City you thought ‘what’s going on?’ I don’t think they will start like that again. They’ve got to start on the front foot and put the pressure on Villa.”

While Arsenal start as firm favourites, Villa have already beaten three Premier League sides to reach the final, including Liverpool in the semi-finals.

“With Villa, you are always wary of Benteke. He’s a player in demand,” said Parlour.

“If Arsenal turn up and their big players play, they should win. But the FA Cup final is so off the cuff. It’s not like a normal league game.

“Arsenal are going into the game after a good win against West Bromwich Albion while Villa are going into it after losing 6-1 and then losing at home to Burnley, so Arsenal are in a better situation in that respect.

“Whether Villa will say they rested players, but I don’t think you turn it on and off. But the other side of the coin is that for the Villa players it’s their first time in the cup final and they could raise their game. So I think it will be a good final.” — Sky Sports.