Apart from a 10 minute spell mid way through the first half our sparkling football saw us deservedly maintain our 100% record in this year's competition with another excellent headed goal by Henry & a superbly worked move & Hleb drive for our decisive second.
Only downside was an apparent hamstring pull to the excellent William Gallas & two ridiculous cautions for Rosicky & Gilberto by a fuss pot of a referee that seem all too common at AG this season.One final thing, how annoying is it that the club do not give the ticket sales stats out for the game rather than the actual sit down attendance? I would think the fans that could not get tickets for a “sold out game” would find this frustrating as well as saving us the laborious effort of explaining to our less illustrious London neighbours that we did in fact sell out weeks ago!!
Lehmann - 5 - Not one of his best nights between the sticks. Flapped at an early cross that could have proved costly. Then shortly after, punching when catching would have been the easier option during a period of Porto pressure. Went on to spill a shot late on. You're allowed one Jens!
Eboue - 9 - By far his best performance for Arsenal. Superb all round display & stunning cross for our opening goal. MOTM
Toure - 8 - Would surely be captain of the team if it were not for the best player in the world being present, solid as always.
Gallas - 8 - Switched to his strongest position & now we can see why! Excellent performance including a great run in the build up to our second goal. Let's hope his hamstring is as tough as him. (Song 90).
Hoyte - 7 - Did really well worked hard & always keen to go forward.
Hleb - 7 - Tricky, hard working performance & when he shoots more often he will become a cult hero. Great finish to a lovely move that included Gallas & Henry. (Walcott 85).
Fabregas - 7 - Only 19 yet played every minute of every game for us this season what an example to men 10 years his senior.
Gilberto - 7 - The usual consistent performance & used his experience to help those around him.
Rosicky - 7 - The number 7 shirt & an almost similar name to Rocky (R.I.P) & a performance of hard work combined with skill that Rocastle would have been proud of.
Henry - 8 - I think we can safely say he is back in business! Some great runs, tricks & gesticulations to the crowd not to mention another headed goal & a hand in our second.
Van Persie - 7 - Poor Robin he deserved a goal, two good saves at each post by Helton & a shot blazed over denied him. (Ljungberg 74).
Used subs:
Ljungberg - 5 - Looked threatening but serious lack of pace.
Walcott - Unfair to rate him after 5 minutes
Song - A two minute cameo!!
Subs Not Used: Almunia, Baptista, Adebayor.