A disappointing afternoon for Arsenal who had a tough task after going down to 10 men early on. Costa was running through on goal when Mertesacker went to ground and fouled the striker. Costa then scored and after that point Arsenal gave it their best but couldn’t find a way through.

Cech – 7 - Made some crucial saves to keep Arsenal in the game. Cech showed his leadership at the end going round to pick up the deflated Arsenal players.

Bellerin - 7 – One of Arsenal’s better player often troubling Chelsea down their left hand side.

Mertesacker – 1 – A one because he effectively cost Arsenal the game and even before his sending off he looked a liability giving the ball away.

Koscielny – 7 – A spirited performance and defended well for most of the game although he did look shaky at the start.

Monreal – 7 – Looked dangerous down the left hand side and defended well for most of the game. However, if I am going to be critical he should have done better with the cross for the opening goal as he leisurely just jogged out to the ball.

Flamini – 6 – Didn’t have the best of games as he kept giving the ball away and didn’t really stop the attacking Chelsea players. However, he probably had the best Arsenal chances.

Ramsey – 6 – Another poor performance by Ramsey who again was sloppy in the centre which kept breaking up moves.

Campbell – 7 – Worked hard like he usually does and had a chance early on.

Ӧzil – 7 – Wasn’t at his very best but most good things came through him. Wasn’t helped by Arsenal going down to 10 men and had to play the false nine position.

Walcott – 6 – Made Arsenal captain today after 10 years at the club but had another poor performance. Had a couple of chances but didn’t capitalise.

 Giroud – N/A – Didn’t get a chance to make an impact as he was substituted for Gabriel after the red card. The disappointment could be clearly seen from the player and fans which is credit to him after some excellent performances.

Subs

Gabriel – 7 – Came on early after the red card and did well.

Sanchez – 7 –Sanchez returned to the Arsenal match day squad and made an instant impact. His work rate and drive will be crucial over the coming weeks.

Oxlade – Chamberlain – 6 – Looked effective in some cases but failed to deliver, however, he only got 15 minutes.

Overall, it is more points dropped and Arsenal need to get back to winning ways. Arsenal worked hard after going down to ten men but lacked the quality the level it up. Next up is Burnley in the FA cup. After a poor run of results Arsenal are still level on points with Manchester City and three behind Leicester. The fans need to get behind the team for the rest of the season and believe.