Arsenal begin another difficult run of fixtures, but the FA Cup quarter-final against Everton was possibly the most important. It remains the Gunner best chance of success, and after being held to a 1-1 draw in the league encounter, it was a huge source of relief of joy to Gooner that Arsenal prevailed, winning 4-1.
Lukasz Fabianski - 7 – He could do little with the goal, but was pretty competent otherwise. Will probably be pretty busy on Tuesday night.
Bacary Sagna – 8 – He was a key attacking outlet in the first-half, although he eagerness to attack left Arsenal exposed for the Everton equaliser. His second-half performance was even more impressive, defending doggedly, and providing a superb assist for the third goal.
Per Mertesacker – 7 – The German had his hands full dealing with Romelu Lukaku and Kevin Mirallas, but he always managed to keep them on a relatively short leash. His positioning and organisation was to its usual standard, and he made more clearances (12) than any of his teammates.
Thomas Vermaelen – 7 – Something of a mixed bag. It shouldn't be forgotten that this was the captain's first match since January, and he didn't look too rusty. However, he had one horror moment that should have resulted in Everton going 2-1 ahead, which could have resulted in elimination. But for the most part, he was solid.
Kieran Gibbs – 7 – At times, he combined nicely with Mesut Ozil in the first-half, although his distribution was mediocre. But he did better than most this season when having to defend against Seamus Coleman.
Mathieu Flamini – 7 – As the deeper of the two centre-midfielders, Flamini didn't start the match well ,being booked, and he was unable to snuff out the ever-present threat of Ross Barkley. However, the Frenchman was much improved after the break, helping Arsenal to hold firm when the match was still in the balance.
Mikel Arteta – 7 – Arteta played an unusually advanced role, and didn't always use the ball as well as he could. However, he was arguably the decisive player in the contest. Don't underestimate the pressure he was under when having to take a penalty at 1-1. Then double that pressure when he had to retake it. Arteta proved up to the task.
Santi Cazorla – 7 – Cazorla was probably Arsenal's most demonstrative attacking threat in the first-half, exemplified by his assist for the first goal. Always a willing outlet, and he worked back diligently on both flanks to help Sagna and Gibbs.
Mesut Ozil – 8 – One of Ozil's finest displays for Arsenal, and a timely one. As I've said before, Ozil's role in this team is to make the difference in the final third, not to constantly be on the ball. A well-taken first goal, a fine pass to Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain that led to the penalty, and a sharp assist to create the fourth goal. That's what the £42.5 million is for.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain – 8 – One felt that Oxlade-Chamberlain was champing at the bit today. He was a constant source of energy and dynamism, although his overzealousness led to him conceding possession at times. But there was a lot more good than bad from him. And his winning of the penalty was pivotal in Arsenal's victory.
Yaya Sanogo – 6 – With rawness and inexperience comes inconsistency. Sanogo's effort couldn't be faulted, but he looked short of the necessary quality today. He failed to control the ball under pressure, and didn't give his teammates much of a reference point in attack.
SUBS
Olivier Giroud – 8 – Added a much-needed cutting edge. Took his goals well, especially his first.
Tomas Rosicky – N/A – He contributed some much needed energy and incisiveness. Played his part in the third goal.
Carl Jenkinson – N/A – Was brought on for Gibbs late on.
This was a hard-fought contest, and a 4-1 result is harsh on a good Everton side. However, Arsenal showed a bit more nous and stronger mentality in the crucial moments. If the club are to reach April without their season in tatters, they will have to replicate this level. They are tougher tests to come, but it's been an impressive start from the team.
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