Arsenal get through to the fourth round but it can be described as lucky after a poor performance in that first half. Arsenal fell behind in the 7th minute and was lucky not to be losing by around three goals at half time. However, Ramsey scored straight after half time before Giroud scored the winner in the 89th minute.
Ospina – 6 – Didn’t do much wrong and was quick off his line which was needed at times.
Maitland-Niles – 6 – A difficult night for the young lad who struggled in the first half defensively however, was much better the second half.
Mustafi – 6 – His worst performance in an Arsenal shirt in the first half which showed with his poor distribution. Much better in the second half.
Gabriel – 6 – Poor defensively and dived in frequently which allowed Preston to get in behind.
Monreal – 6 – Added to the defensive woes but improved as the game went on. Attacked well down the left.
Xhaka – 6 – A poor performance in midfield but improved as the game went on.
Ramsey – 7 – Scored the important equaliser which changed the match. Good in patches and made them late runs into the box.
Perez - 7 – Tried to make things happen throughout the match and is not afraid to shoot. Grabbed an assist for the winner with a neat flick.
Iwobi – 6 – Got an assist for the first goal and looked tidy when in possession.
Oxlade-Chamberlain – 6 – A poor performance and hardly got into the game.
Giroud – 7 – Much better in the second half and started to hold the ball which allowed Arsenal to get men forward. Also, scored the important late goal.
Subs
Welbeck – 6 – Welbeck returned after 9 months out injured and nearly scored at the end. Will be important in this second half of the season.
Holding – N/A – Didn’t have much time to influence the game.
Reine-Adelaide – N/A - Didn’t have much time to influence the game.
Overall, Arsenal progress to the next round but in all honesty it was a poor performance. Arsenal need to take the competition seriously as it may be the only realistic piece of silverware. Additionally, Arsenal need to start games better and sort out their mentality when playing smaller teams. Arsenal have no right to be arrogant and expect to win.
