It was a much needed and ultimately comfortable win for Arsenal in the FA cup quarter-final against Lincoln City, but we really struggled to get going in the first half. Theo Walcott almost got my nod for Man of the Match because of his all round performance, especially before the break when his goal really set us on the way, but he was not so influential after the restart and Alexis Sanchez was dazzling at times, scoring a great goal and providing a lovely assist, so once again the Chilean was the main man for Arsenal.
Cech 7 – Very good and vital save to keep it level. Busier than expected but commanding.
Bellerin 7 – Should have scored but a real threat going forward.
Mustafi 5 – Struggled in first half and not much to do afterwards.
Koscielny 7 – Never a booking. Marshalled our defence well under pressure.
Gibbs 7 – Slow start but improved and linked up very well down the left.
Xhaka 5 – Daft booking. Struggling to show why we paid so much for him.
Ramsey 6 – Redeemed himself with good goal and some good play late on. Pretty poor before that.
Oxlade-Chamberlain 6 – Looked up for it before an another unlucky injury.
Walcott 8 – Good goal, very lively and intelligent. Best player before the break.
Alexis 8.5 – Really pulled out the fancy footwork in the second half. Sweet strike and had Lincoln chasing shadows.
Giroud 7 – Put himself about, scored, linked up play well. Decent game.
subs:
Ozil 7 – Had an impact and took control as visitors tired.
Lucas 6 – Looked sharp but missed a chance or two.
Coquelin 6 – Did his job well and even went on a mazy dribbling run.
Bob.