Arsenal moved into the top four after victory against Stoke. Arsenal ran out comfortable winners in the end after scoring their first goals at home in the new season. The score line did not reflect Arsenal dominance and for long periods looked like Arsenal would not score that all important second goal. Arsenal’s goal scorers were Walcott and Giroud.
Cech – 7 – A third consecutive clean sheet for the goalkeeper Cech. Although, he didn’t have a lot to do he dealt with everything comfortably.
Bellerin – 7 – A good performance by the young Spaniard who looked a threat on the attack often providing width on the right hand side.
Gabriel – 7 – Another solid performance by Gabriel who dealt with everything well.
Koscielny – 7 – Another solid display from the French centre halve who continues to be Arsenal’s rock.
Monreal – 7 – Monreal was his usual self with a solid defensive display and provide the overlap when needed.
Coquelin – 8 – Coquelin provided another great performance and was key in the first goal. Winning the tackle which allowed Ӧzil to pick up the ball and create a goal. Coquelin put himself around and won the ball consistently.
Cazorla – 8 - Cazorla looked a constant threat for Arsenal often providing a key pass as well as dictating the midfield. It was Cazorla along with Sanchez who drove Arsenal forward.
Ramsey – 7 – Ramsey had a good game on the right hand side. Often kept the ball moving and provided movement.
Ӧzil – 7 – Ӧzil played his natural game and grabbed an assist for the first goal. He should have done better with one chance but made an impressive Butland work.
Sanchez – 8 – Sanchez looked dangerous all afternoon and fully deserved a goal. Sanchez was particularly dangerous within the first 20 minutes which was reflected by Butland pulling off two great saves.
Walcott – 7 – A dangerous Walcott scored his first goal of the season but should have had two or three. In bigger games Walcott must become more clinical.
Subs
Giroud – 7 – Giroud grabbed himself a goal from a Cazorla free kick which was much needed for his confidence. This came shortly after missing a sitter.
Oxlade –Chamberlain – N/A – Didn’t have much time to influence the game
Arteta – N/A - Didn’t have much time to influence the game
Overall, it was a convincing win for the Arsenal who now move onto a massive fixture. Next Saturday sees Arsenal play Chelsea in their biggest test of the season. The match will show many fans how far this team has come forward or not.