It has been quite a while since Olivier Giroud got anything but a hefty slating in my Arsenal player ratings, but fair play to the big striker today as he scored a very good hat-trick and gave Arsenal the perfect send off to a season that once again flattered to deceive. Other notable performances came from the returning Santi Cazorla and our midfield rock Francis Coquelin but there really was only one choice for Man of the Match.
Cech 7 – Rarely troubled but did nothing wrong.
Bellerin 7 – Another solid game from our super young Spaniard.
Gabriel 6 – Defensive slip nearly let Villa score at 1-0. Is it just me that gets nervous when he’s in action?
Koscielny 7.5 – Commanding and in control as usual.
Monreal 7.5 – Very good game with vital save after Gabriel’s error.
Coquelin 8 – Excellent aggression and reading of the game. Key player in our talented but lightweight team.
Cazorla 8 – Oh how we have missed the vision, technique and all round ability of Santi.
Wilshere 7 – A little short of fitness but in general a positive game from Jack.
Ozil 7.5 – Not an obvious impact but he makes Arsenal tick and came so close to that assist record.
Alexis 7 – Lots of industry and desire but decision making could be better.
Giroud 9 – Get in there big man. Arsenal will keep him and he is quality but we need other options.
subs:
Elneny 6 – Okay but nothing spectacular.
Campbell and Arteta – No time for a score apart from Arteta’s farewell goal, if they give it to him.