Theo Walcott scored three goals and set up two more as Arsenal beat Newcastle. How did the players perform?
Wojciech Szczesny – 7 - Despite conceding 3 goals, he was relatively blameless. Made a good save to deny Marveaux in the 1st half, and claimed a series of crosses with aplomb.
Bacary Sagna – 6 - Normally Arsenal's Mr. Dependable. But had one of his poorer games of the season. Offered little going forward and was beaten too easily by Obertan for Newcastle's 2nd goal.
Laurent Koscielny – 6 - Had an enthralling tussle with Demba Ba, but the fact that the Senegalese scored twice indicates who got the better of that exchange. His propensity to try and nick the ball off Ba left Arsenal exposed at times.
Thomas Vermaelen – 6 - Looked more composed than his centre-half partner, but didn't lead the back four in the way that Per Mertesacker has done during this season.
Kieran Gibbs – 6 - Gave an excellent display in the 1st half, both in attack and defence. However, in the 2nd half, while he remained a useful part of Arsenal's attacking play, he was left wanting in defence, especially for Newcastle's 3rd goal.
Mikel Arteta – 6 - While some of his passing was skillful and adroit, he didn't provide the defensive shield that Arsenal needed whilst defending. This was partly due to the lack of help he received.
Jack Wilshere – 6 - While Wilshere remains an untouchable in the eyes of many fans, this was not a good performance. His passing and decision making often left a lot to be desired. But his effort was faultless and he deserves credit for his part in the 3rd goal.
Santi Cazorla – 6 - The Spaniard was pretty anonymous in the 1st half. He was a stronger influence in the 2nd, but we saw more perspiration than inspiration from "Santi Claus" tonight.
Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain – 7 - Continued his recent good form with another fine display. Was a menacing presence and scored an excellent goal that will probably be forgotten amongst the madness that followed.
Theo Walcott – 9 - Personally I felt that his all-round display was inconsistent. However, the criticism that has often been aimed at him was the lack of end product. Well, he had 3 goals & 2 assists. His technique may remain average, but he's fast becoming Arsenal's key matchwinner.
Lukas Podolski – 7 - Something of a mixed bag from the German. But his contribution was pivotal; he gave a fine assist for the opening goal and showed his natural eye for a finish as he tapped in the 3rd goal.
Olivier Giroud – 8 - May be overlooked in the praise that will be showered on Walcott, but it was the Frenchman who made the game safe with the 5th & 6th goals, and nearly had a hat trick late on.
Aaron Ramsey – 7 - Was played out of position on the left-flank, but played well, and nearly set up an 8th goal when Giroud hit the post.
Francis Coquelin – 6 - Was brought on to shore up the lead, and didn't let anyone down.
Latest:
