The first Carling Cup at Wembley

Birmingham City 2 Arsenal 1

Birmingham City outplayed and outclassed Arsenal for 94 minutes to win the Carling Cup.

Zigic’s the giant striker headed Birmingham into the lead after 28 minutes. His presence in his opponents box was a threat to Arsenal throughout the game.

Van Persie equalised for Arsenal by blasting a volley beyond the reach of the keeper six minutes before half-time.

In the second half the game went back and forth and threatened to climax in a penalty shoot out.
However, a typical Arsenal defensive mix-up two minutes from time let in Obafemi Martins who pounced on his opportunity scored and helped Birmingham City to earn their first silverware since 1963.

Arsenal crumbled in the 89th minute just as they often do in these important games to let Birmingham go ahead 2-1.

The Birmingham fans were well rewarded with a spirited display from all their players and spot on tactical decision making by their manager Alex McCleish.

Congratulations to all Birmingham City fans!