Arsenal laid down its marker for the English Premier League season by beating reigning champion Chelsea 1-0 to claim the FA Community Shield at Wembley Sunday.
A goal from Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in the first half settled the all-London affair and gave Arsene Wenger his first victory over Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho in 14 meetings.
It was also a sweet moment for 33-year-old Petr Cech, keeping a clean sheet against his old club following his $15.6 million move to the Gunners this summer.
Mourinho brought on new signing Radamel Falcao for Loic Remy after the break, but the Colombian failed to sparkle and the Blues were clearly missing the injured Diego Costa up front.
It was Arsenal that almost increased its lead in the closing stages when Santi Cazorla’s shot was saved by Courtois and Aaron Ramsey’s follow-up was blocked.
Kieron Gibbs was also denied by Courtois just before the final whistle.
The EPL season starts next weekend with Chelsea and Arsenal due to meet in league action on September 19.
Credits: CNN
