Although Arsenal ran out of steam and just held on for the away win at Newcastle, there was a lot of fight from the Gunners. Ospina, the two central defenders, Coquelin, Ramsey and Welbeck were all contenders but my Man of the Match was Olivier Giroud for taking his two chances on top of his overall contribution. That is why Arsenal took the points.
Ospina -7- He really saved us today with at least one amazing save and plenty of good work to back it up after a slight mistake early on.
Chambers -6- Can´t used the tired excuse but actually got better as the game went on. He still has a lot to learn defensively and positioning nearly cost us in the first half but did improve and was a threat going forward.
Gabriel -7.5- Really impressive from the new man under serious pressure. BFG should worry.
Koscielny -7.5- The usual committed game we have come to expect from him and well needed yesterday.
Monreal -6- Struggled at times and was partly to blame for their goal after rushing and missing tackle on Cabella. He did look tired.
Coquelin -7.5- The beast made a few small errors but considering the circumstances and how often he broke up moves and how well he read the game I am not going to criticise our midfield warrior.
Ramsey -7- Would have got a better score if not for taking chances and making the wrong decisions when we needed to get some control. Never stopped and did some very good work though hence the score.
Cazorla -5.5- Worst game for a while from the Spaniard who looks like he needs a rest. Still tried hard but struggled to impose.
Alexis -6- You cannot fault his desire but perhaps fatigue or need for a goal is affecting his class at the key moments.
Welbeck -7.5- Really impressed again today in helping the team defend as much as looking to break. Danny is becoming a very important player for us.
Giroud -8- Continued to make up for his misses against Monaco by winning yet another game for us and doing lots more besides in a tough game. We need his form to continue to have any chance of pushing the top two.
Rosicky -7. I thought the Czech made a difference coming on and restored some much needed calm and control to our passing game.
Flamini – 5.5- Almost cost us with his first touch but made up for it.
Bellerin -6- Little time but helped defensively when coming on and almost got in for a killer goal.
Considering how Arsenal struggled you might think these are generous but I am allowing for fatigue and that Newcastle were driven and relentless.