In the end Arsenal were hanging on, consequence of having too few quality offensive players on the bench. We had to throw on our fullbacks and we lost some of our shape.
Szczesny 7. A solid performance from Szczesny who had to make several good saves. Looked in command of his area most of the time.
Jenkinson 6. Had a tough time dealing with Chadli in the early part of the game, but he improved as the game went on. Not very effective coming forward today.
Gibbs 7. Also had a hard time in the first half dealing with Townsend. Was effective coming forward though and he also improved in the second half.
Mertesacker 7. A good game from the German who won most of his duels in the air. Did make a couple of errant clearances though.
Koscielny 8. Largely kept Soldado quiet and made a number of timely interceptions. His best game of the season so far.
Ramsey 8. Worked like a dog, defensively and offensively. Spurned a good chance, but he was everywhere.
Wilshere 7. Until he went off sick he was having a good game. Closed down Spurs midfielders and was always looking to spring forward.
Rosicky 7. A good game for Tomas who was involved in the buildup for the only goal. Started to run out of gas in the second half, but he was always involved in the Arsenal attacks.
Cazorla 9. My man of the match. He was everywhere and always looked dangerous. Came close with two free kicks in the first half.
Walcott 8. Assisted on the only goal, was robbed by Lloris twice, and always kept Spurs nervous. His best game of the season.
Giroud 8. Lovely goal and worked tirelessly throughout the game. Continues to combine well with others.
Substitutes.
Flamini 7. Well, it’s a good thing we signed him this week. Worked hard and did the gritty work. A careless challenge earned him his yellow card.
Monreal 6. Probably should have scored after he came on. Played a tidy last twenty minutes to help solidify the defence.
Sagna n/a. Played less than five minutes and made a vital clearance. Our squad is too thin when you think that a sick Sagna was included on the bench.
Now is the time to make some purchases, Arsene. Let’s see what you can do in just over a day.