Mohamed Elneny and Eddie Nketiah struck for Arsenal in a 3-0 victory over hosts Oxford United in the third round of the Emirates FA Cup.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
A tense first half at the Kassam Stadium saw both sides struggle to create chances, with neither team able to produce a moment of magic when it mattered, reports thefa.com.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
However, the second half showed renewed intent from the 14-time champions and Elneny's header and Nketiah's brace saw them seal a deserved victory on the night.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Arsenal were largely in control in the opening 20 minutes and ultimately throughout the first half, though neither side were able to generate an early opportunity.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
It was the hosts who eventually produced the first shot on goal 25 minutes in, though Cameron Brannagan's long-range strike was easily blocked.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The Gunners were able to generate some chances and there were appeals for a penalty when Albert Lokanga's shot appeared to be blocked by Elliott Moore's arm, though any appeals were waved away.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
A lack of clinical play in the final third affected both sides, and Eddie Nketiah's 43rd-minute flick sailed over the bar in what was probably the best chance of the opening 45 minutes.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
A string of corners went Arsenal's way though some stern defending, particularly from the likes of Lewis Bate, saw the U's stay on level terms.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
However, just after the hour mark Elneny rewarded Arsenal's pressure with a goal.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The Egyptian was left unmarked in the box and headed home from Fabio Viera's freekick for his first goal in over 18 months and give his side the lead.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
And Nketiah put the Gunners firmly in the driving seat seven minutes later, rounding the 'keeper after a superb break and calmly slotting home to double Arsenal's advantage.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
It didn't take too long for Nketiah to seal victory, a second superb strike putting the game out of sight and setting up a tantalising fourth round clash between Arsenal and Manchester City.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
And Nketiah put the Gunners firmly in the driving seat seven minutes later, rounding the 'keeper after a superb break and calmly slotting home to double Arsenal's advantage.<\/p>\r\n\r\n