FA Cup holders Arsenal dug out from a deficit to record an agreeable third-round win against Premier League strugglers Sunderland at Emirates Stadium.
The guests took an amazement lead when Jeremain Lens struck inside the crate.
Arsenal balanced through Joel Campbell’s half-volley before Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain hit the woodwork.
Substitute Aaron Ramsey tapped in late on to put Arsenal ahead before Olivier Giroud’s short proximity complete wrapped up a thirteenth successive win in the FA Cup.
Arsenal, who beat Aston Villa 4-0 in last season’s last, have won the FA Cup 12 times – more than whatever the other side.
Six of those have gone under Arsene Wenger, who will end up being the opposition’s best chief with one more triumph.
Arsenal might be top of the Premier League, however, Wenger underlined his aim to consider the FA Cup important by naming a solid side, with first-group regulars Petr Cech, Oxlade-Chamberlain, Giroud and Theo Walcott all included.
It was a choice that paid off. After Sunderland’s surprising opener, Walcott gave the help to Arsenal’s equalizer and Hector Bellerin assumed a key part in their next two objectives as the hosts’ accomplished men conveyed them forward while the guests’ blend of periphery and youth players withered.
Sunderland’s need is clear – Premier League survival – and that was reflected in Sam Allardyce’s group choice, with the Black Cats demonstrating seven changes.
After five progressive thrashings, Sunderland secured an assurance boosting 3-1 win against Aston Villa last time out.
They hoped to have proceeded with their force when they paralyzed Arsenal to lead the pack, Lens exploiting some unique reluctance in the Gunners’ safeguard to score.
That was just Lens’ third objective in 17 appearances for Sunderland, yet his general play will have been empowering for Black Cats fans as his pace and physical vicinity brought about the hosts various issues.
He has the capacity to be an essential player for Sunderland in their fight against transfer.
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger: “It was a test for us to come from behind. There was a great mental response and there is a special solidarity in the team.
“You always worry because, no matter how long you are in this job, you never know what is next. The experience we had up front today helped. I am very happy overall.”
Sunderland manager Sam Allardyce: “In the end they had better finishers than we had today. We were fine for 70 minutes and I am just a little sad at the goals we allowed Arsenal to score. We made it easy for them in the end.
“We move on. The squad has shown they can play at this level. Lens is strong on the ball as well as talented. Hopefully, we can push on and see a bit more from him.”
