It was a good all round team performance from Arsenal against Crystal Palace yesterday and there were some notable showings from the likes of Alexis Sanchez, Iwobi, Xhaka, Elneny and both full backs, but even though his overall contribution was perhaps not the best of the lot, I just have to give Olivier Giroud the Man of the Match for one of the best goals you will ever see.
Cech 7 – Spectator until called on to make a string of vital saves to curtail any comeback hopes.
Bellerin 7.5 – Both full backs key to game as they kept Zaha and Townsend pinned back and unable to counter.
Gabriel 7 – Solid and aggressive but rarely troubled.
Koscielny 7.5 – Such a commanding presence at the back these days.
Monreal 8 – Just edged Bellerin as he set up second goal and was more dangerous in attack.
Elneny 7.5 – Amazing work rate and commitment.
Xhaka 7.5 – Really starting to look comfortable and control games as well as getting stuck in.
Iwobi 8 – Excellent in unusual number 10 role. Star in the making and scored important second goal.
Lucas 6.5 – Some good stuff on rare outing but very one footed.
Alexis 8 – Great effort as usual and assist but did not quite happen for him in front of goal.
Giroud 8.5 – Take a bow Olly. He also made a great flicked pass in the build up to his wonder goal and worked hard.
subs:
Ramsey, Coquelin and Chamberlain 6 – All three did well off the bench.
Bob.