The players were under pressure as well, knowing a loss would resurrect the criticism from frustrated fans. All in all, a great effort in a fixture that has not been easy in recent seasons.
Szczesny 7. Another solid game from Szczesny who made a number of good saves and commanded the area. He will be disappointed conceding the goal as he could have done a little better dealing with Berbatov’s shot.
Jenkinson 7. A good game from Jenkinson whose confidence is increasing with all of the playing time he’s getting. Several of his crosses could have been better, but he links well with Walcott and is involved on the Arsenal attacks.
Sagna 8. Another good game from Sagna, who made some timely interceptions and increasingly convinces Wenger not to buy a centre back.
Mertesacker 7. A good game from the German who kept Berbatov under wraps for most of the game.
Gibbs 7. A decent game for Gibbs, although there were a couple of giveaways. He also had a good chance to score, but his finishing wasn’t of the quality he showed midweek.
Ramsey 8. Tireless worker, who harried Fulham all day and was involved in a lot of the attacks. I was worried about his early yellow card, but he lasted the game.
Rosicky 7. Looked quite tired in the second half, but he was always involved in the Arsenal attack.
Cazorla 8. One of my men of the match. Work rate was better than recent outings, he was involved throughout the match and gave Fulham lots of headaches trying to contain him.
Walcott 7. Several efforts were hit at the keeper, but he assisted on the second goal, after his sharp effort was parried at Podolski. Was dangerous throughout the game.
Giroud 7. A fine first goal, he linked up well with his teammates and he was excellent battling Hangerland in the air.
Podolski 8. After his disinterested midweek outing, he came back and showed why we should keep him this season. Two great goals, both finished with aplomb, are why I’m awarding him co-man of the match. A late chance squandered in the first half could have been his third goal.
Substitutes:
Wilshere 7. A solid half hour for Jack. He made one great move after a good defensive takeaway.
Monreal 6. Some good minutes for Nacho, who continues to return to full fitness.
Sanogo n/a. Not enough time for Yaya to register a mark, but Theo almost set him up for a debut goal.