FA Cup — 07 January 2013

Luis Suarez was again involved in controversy as Liverpool defeated MansfieldYesterday’s FA Cup third round ties produced two superb clashes. In the early kick-off Swansea and Arsenal drew 2-2 at the Liberty Stadium. The first half was a tentative affair, but the second half produced a far more exciting fare.

Swansea had rested star player Michu, but Swans boss Michael Laudrup decided to throw his top scorer on and within minutes of his entry had paid dividends. Michu broke through the Arsenal defence and fired Swansea into a 58th minute lead.

It was another substitute that levelled the scores up in the 81st minute, Lukas Podolski firing low past Michel Vorm in the Swansea goal. The Gunners were ahead two minutes later. Full-back Kieran Gibbs played a one-two with Olivier Giroud, before smashing a superb volley past Vorm.

Just as the North London side looked to be advancing into the fourth round of the FA Cup, the home side equalised. Ki Sung-Yeung’s ball found Danny Graham, who turned the ball past Wojciech Szczesny.

Arsenal went close late-on, but Michel Vorm produced a fantastic save from a header from centre-back Laurent Koscielny. The two teams will now to replay the fixture at the Emirates Stadium.

Premier League Liverpool defeated non-league Mansfield 2-1 at the One Call Stadium. Liverpool took the lead after just seven minutes. Daniel Sturridge was put through by Jonjo Shelvey and the former-Chelsea man fired home on his debut.

Mansfield came out much brighter in the second half, but it was Liverpool that struck next. Substitute Luis Suarez had a shot saved by Stags keeper Alan Marriott, before appearing to handle the ball and scoring from close-range. The goal was given despite protests.

Mansfield got a goal back in the 79th minute, Matthew Green rifling an effort past Brad Jones in the Liverpool goal. The home side pushed for an equaliser, but Liverpool held on for a controversial victory.

Did Luis Suarez deliberately handle the ball for Liverpool’s second goal?

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David Nugent

David is a 29 year-old football fan and journalist, who is passionate about the beautiful game. He is a lifelong supporter of Premier League Everton and likes nothing better than a healthy discussion about the world's favourite sport.

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