Puncheon (7)- Looked combative all evening stopping Mohamed Elneny and Granit Xhaka and had to do the dirty work to subdue Arsenal build-ups before they turned into threats.
Flamini (6.5)- Sam Allardyce has given a fresh start to the former Arsenal man and he worked hard to prove his mettle.
Arsenal were a much better team than Crystal Palace and hopefully, he will get more chances in the new year.
Zaha (8)- One of the major threats across the pitch for Palace. He looked dangerous whenever he was on the offensive and didn’t allow Bellerin to move up that flank freely.
Cabaye (6.5)- Apart from his quickly taken long range volley, which was brilliantly taken when he saw Cech miles up the goal line, he looked rather dull.
The shot needed a brilliant save to keep Arsenal in the game and Cech was up for it.
Townsend (7)- Allardyce was quick to notice that speedy wingers could create problems for Monreal and Townsend’s choice was the perfect.
His pace really kept Monreal on his toes and it was one of the main reasons why only Bellerin posted most of the threats from the right flank.
Benteke (6.5)- He was a constant threat to Arsenal’s defence. Although he was no match Gabriel who kept the Belgian out for most of the match.
The biggest chance for Palace came right after the second half starting whistle. And he missed it.
