Arsenal ended a run of 4 games without a win with a 3-1 victory over West Ham in East London.

Despite being far from their best the Gunners managed to make the game look comfortable after suffering a shaky start to the second half which saw them fall behind to a Carlton Cole goal, only for a brace from Theo Walcott and a goal from the returning Lukas Podolski to claim the 3 points.

Szczesny – 5 – was at fault for West Ham’s goal after spilling a shot which was straight at him. Other than that mishap, had very little to do all afternoon.

Sagna – 6 – not his greatest game. Was not great offensively, and defensively allowed Matt Jarvis too much time.

Mertesacker – 7 – defended admirably as usual, barely putting a foot wrong

Vermaelen – 6 – proved to be a capable replacement once again for Koscielny, however, was a bit slow to react on occasions in the second half.

Gibbs – 6 – a good performance from the Englishman in attack as he made some great runs on the overlap, in addition to defending well.

Arteta – 6 – solid, but unspectacular.  Went about his job quietly, though lacked his usual incisiveness.

Ramsey – 6 – after a disappointing few games seemed to be rejuvenated before succumbing to injury. Played a wonderful ball through to Walcott who should’ve scored.

Walcott – 8 – his two goals turned the game in Arsenal’s favour after West Ham had opened the scoring. Showed his scoring prowess once again with two goals, one very fortuitous, however, should’ve scored in the first half when played in by Ramsey.

Ozil – 6 – not his greatest game, though did show occasional moments of class. Should have scored, though the attempt was well saved by Adrian, created an excellent opportunity for Giroud.

Cazorla – 8 – the liveliest spark in the Gunners attack and the West Ham defence just didn’t seem to be able to handle him. Showed he deserved a recall to the side.

Giroud – 5 – a poor performance from the French international. He looked off the pace all day and in a desperate need of a break and some confidence. Missed a handful of good chances.

Subs

Podolski – 7 – came on for the injured Ramsey for his first appearance since August and capped his return with a fine goal and an assist for Walcott’s second goal. Should’ve scored another after being played in beautifully by Santi Cazorla.

Flamini – N/A – brought on late on to see the game through; made little impact.

Bendtner – N/A – replace Giroud late on, fired a shot wide.

While it was good to see Arsenal return to winning ways, it was not a vintage performance against a poor West Ham side who offered little in attack, bar a 10 minute flurry early in the second half.

Hopefully Podolski’s return to fitness will allow Giroud to get the rest he needs which will hopefully give him the rejuvenation he needs.

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