Manchester City v Arsenal - Player Ratings

Last updated : 28 October 2004 By Mike Bohndiek

Key Incidents

Goal (Arsenal) (78) - Some good build up play down the left hand side saw a steaming Arsenal attack cruise through on goal. The final chance fell to Robin Van Persie who had the easiest of tasks.

Goal (Arsenal) (90) - A bursting run forward from Karbassiyoon saw him charge into the area, where he squeezed his shot home from a tight angle.

Goal (Man City) (90+1) - Robbie Fowler , despite slipping, hit a thunderbolter into the top corner of the net with a late free kick. It proved to be a conselation goal.

Player Ratings

Manuel Almunia - 7 - Had a very solid game. Was sharpe whenever called upon and dealt with everything that was thrown at him. A worthy understudy to Jens.

Sebastian Larsson - 8 - A high class performance. Strong at the back, and kept Shaun Wright-Phillips very quiet. Was also very adventurous with his forward movement.

Pascal Cygan - 8 - The skipper for the night. Did what was required of him and didn't put a foot wrong.

Philippe Senderos - 7 - Was rarely troubled but was always ready to stick his foot in. A player of the Adams and Keown mould. A bright young prospect

Justin Hoyte - 6 - Had a fairly quiet game, but this was mainly due to City's lack of attacking football.

Jermaine Pennant - 7 - Did what he does best. Used his pace to good effect and got into some promising positions. Showed some good touches.

Mathieu Flamini - 7 - Kept control of the midfield along side Fabregas. A fantastic acquisition for Arsenal, especially on a free.

Cesc Fabregas - 7 - Continued his rich form. Kept control of the midfield and was strong in the tackle.

Ryan Smith - 7 - Ran down the wing relentlessly. The sheer energy was amazing. A good performance from the young man.

Robin Van Persie - 9 - MOTM. Took his goal well and worked hard for the team all night. Tracked back whenever he lost possession and showed good pace when moving forward.

Arturo Lupoli - 5 - Was very quiet for the most part. One major grumble was his two blatant dives. He'll have to eradicate that from his game to get on in England (Unless your names Wayne and you are a scouser)

Subs:

Johan Djourou - 5 - Made little impact on the game and was quiet throughout.

Quincy - 8 - A shorter version of Kanu is the only way to describe this guy. He has all the flare and skill, he just needs to refine his game to be come a first team player.

Daniel Karbassiyoon - 7 - Scored a great solo goal, and made some tidy passes from the left side.