Arsenal v Blackburn Rovers - Player Ratings

We started in the best way possible; with Cesc curling in a sweet right footed effort before the clock had hit five past three. This would normally see us assert total control on the game, but this was not the case as Blackburn still looked threatening and managed to get in behind our back line far too easily. It was another day where our defence played their way into trouble, and this time we can't even blame Cygan who had a much improved display (even if he did look shaky at times) It was a collective problem which needs to be addressed and soon!

We grabbed a second before the break, after a pin point pass from Pires set Henry free and he placed the ball into the far corner with a typical finish.

So into the second half and after creating a few small openings we seemed to lose focus which gave Blackburn the opportunity to push forward. They deserved a goal for their efforts, but some last ditch defending and some well taken crosses saved us, as well as a Pires clearance off the line.

Enter Robin Van Persie. He ran for every ball and helped relieve some of the pressure before he scored his goal, and what a goal it was. Having just about kept the ball in play on the right hand side, he cut back inside, took the ball pass two defenders, evaded Savage's attempts to foul him and then slammed a beautiful shot into the far corner with the ball cannoning in off of the post! It was amazing to see, and easily the goal of the game and you can be sure that it will be in the running for goal of the month.

Jens Lehmann (7) Two smart stops in the first half and good catching ability in the second. His kicking however is still letting him down.

Pascal Cygan (6) His positioning could still be called into question, but his passing and tackling were much improved today.

Sol Campbell (6) He seemed static at times, with his decision making not being quick enough.

Kolo Toure (7) He was everywhere today, sweeping up other peoples mistakes while giving a solid performance himself.

Lauren (6) Pederson had the beating of him too often in the second half, but he was still able to keep most attacks at bay.

Jose Reyes (6) He is still putting all the effort in and getting little reward.

Cesc Fabregas (7) An excellent goal got us on our way and he stood up to Savage in the middle.

Gilberto (6) Not at his usual best, but he still managed to frustrate the Blackburn attack as he broke the play up.

Robert Pires (7) Seemed to be up for this one, and he also looks far better on the right of late. His excellent through ball from just inside the Blackburn half sent Henry clear for the second and a goal line clearance helped us survive a rocky spell.

Dennis Bergkamp (5) It saddens me to say it, but he really shouldn't be starting anymore. He added little to the team, with only a few flicks coming off. He is best coming off of the bench for a 20 minute spell rather than starting and playing 70 minutes.

Thierry Henry (7) He mystified the Blackburn right side, and broke another record; he has now scored 100 league goals at Highbury.

Subs:

Freddie Ljungberg (6) Gave us an added option on the counter.

Mathieu Flamini (5) Rarely saw the ball

Robin Van Persie (7) Chased down lost causes, pushed Blackburn further back and scored an amazing goal.