CaughtOffside rates the Arsenal players for their performances against Southampton…
Arsenal 1-0 Southampton – Alexis Sanchez scored a dramatic late winner to snatch a crucial three points at the Emirates Stadium. The result was harsh on Saints keeper Fraser Forster, who put in a heroic performance in goal.
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Olivier Giroud and Danny Welbeck both game close to breaking the deadlock in the second-half, only to be denied by Forster. But a late injury to Toby Alderweireld – which left the visitors with ten men – invited pressure, pressure that eventually took its tool.
Read the full Arsenal ratings below:
GK) Emiliano Martinez – 6
Had little to do in the way of saves, but dealt well with several high crosses and looked comfortable throughout.
RB) Calum Chambers – 7
Bombed forward down the right hand side, and caused Southampton plenty of problems. Did his defensive duties well – impressive.
LB) Nacho Monreal – 6
Recovered well from an early knock that might have forced him off, and put in a solid shift.
CB) Per Mertesacker – 6
A fairly comfortable night for the big German, who did well when called upon.
CB) Laurent Koscielny – 6
Looked solid considering his recent injury issues and defended well. Arsenal fans will be pleased to have their first choice centre back pairing back together.
CM) Mathieu Flamini – 6
Anchored the midfield well, breaking up the play and ensuring Arsenal kept moving forward.
CM) Aaron Ramsey – 7
A strong performance in the Arsenal midfield, with some slick passing and several threatening bursts forward.
AM) Alexis Sanchez – 8
Once again the standout player in an Arsenal shirt, he caused Southampton constant problems with his pace and trickery. His tireless runs kept the Gunners going right till the end, and he deservedly got the goal.
RW) Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain – 7
Unlucky to be withdrawn early after a decent hour’s work. Looked impressive linking-up with Sanchez and carried the ball well.
LW) Santi Cazorla – 6
The Spaniard had a quiet night by his standards, failing to influence the game as much as Sanchez and Ramsey. Needed to be involved more.
ST) Danny Welbeck – 6
Came close to putting Arsenal ahead, forcing one excellent save from Southampton goalkeeper Fraser Forster.
Manager: Arsene Wenger – 7
A slice of fortune with Southampton going down to ten men in the closing stages, but his team fully deserved the points.
Subs:
1) Olivier Giroud – 7 – Impressed coming off the bench, forcing a smart save from Forster soon after his arrival, and another with five minutes remaining.
2) Lukas Podolski – 6 – Came on for Welbeck for the final ten minutes, came close late on.