A terrifically entertaining matchup between Arsenal and Crystal Palace ended 2-3 to the Gunners at Selhurst Park. The visitors started the match strong, controlling a majority of the possession.
Mustafi got the early lead for Arsenal in the 25th minute by smashing in the rebound from the edge of the six-yard box.
But a number of clear chances went astray and the Eagles punished them in the second half with Andy Townsend slotting in an open shot from the low driven cross of Zaha.
Alexis Sanchez scored a couple of goals in quick succession to give Arsene Wenger’s side a comfortable lead. The match ended on a nervy note for the Frenchman with James Tomkins sparking the possibility of a comeback with an 89th-minute header past Petr Cech.
Arsenal Player Ratings :
Petr Cech – 6/10
Could not do anything to stop the two Palace goals.
Calum Chambers – 5/10
Fell prey to Zaha’s pace on multiple occasions but put up a hard fight.
Laurent Koscielny – 4/10
Allowed Tomkins to rise over him for the second Palace goal. The Frenchman’s marking was also off the pace tonight.
Shkrodan Mustafi – 6/10
He needs to communicate better with Koscielny while handling opposition forwards, but his goal earns him a better rating. Did well to block an open shot from Zaha.
Hector Bellerin – 3/10
The Spaniard’s passing abilities need a lot of work in training. Very hardworking off the ball, but he needs to start exploiting the spaces he gets on the right. Got caught out of position defensively.
Jack Wilshere – 7/10
An inch-perfect lob over the Crystal Palace defence assisted Sanchez to the third goal for the Gunners. He took over the creative responsibilities completely breezing past the opposition players.
Granit Xhaka – 5/10
A usual display of highs and lows from the Swiss international.
Sead Kolasinac – 6/10
A much-improved performance after spending a few games on the bench. Attacked the opposition half aggressively from the left and was very efficient with the ball. He can expect to make a return to the starting XI.
Mesut Ozil – 5/10
The German failed to complete crucial passes around the opposition box and was just plain wasteful today.
Alexis Sanchez – 8/10
Sanchez did not have the best start to the game but burst into life in the second half. After a few lacklustre displays in recent weeks, we got see the return of an energetic and well enthused Chilian today. Working tirelessly on both ends of the pitch, he got himself a brace and lead his side to a win.
Alexandre Lacazette – 6/10
Laid off the ball to assist Sanchez for the second goal. He worked tirelessly in the opposition half to win possession but did not have any clear chances on goal.
Substitutes :
