Arsenal pile on the pressure on Newcastle United with a clinical 3-0 win at the Emirates this evening. The Gunners had their problems breaking down the opposition defence in the first half, but an improved display after the restart saw them find three goals, with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang notably scoring a brace.
Arsenal Player Ratings Vs Newcastle United
Bernd Leno 6/10
Bernd Leno had nothing much to do for the most part of the game as Newcastle United provided minimal threat going forward.
Cedric Soares 9/10
Starting ahead of Hector Bellerin, Cedric enjoyed a phenomenal evening against NUFC. He looked energetic throughout the course of the game and was able to provide excellent crosses, one of which found Aubameyang for the third goal.
Rob Holding 7.5/10
Rob Holding had a nervy start to the game, but the Englishman eventually settled into the proceedings. Fared well against the pressure of dealing with Andy Carroll.
David Luiz 7.5/10
David Luiz’s experience and leadership were key as Arsenal dealt well against the likes of Carroll and Callum Wilson. A well-deserved clean sheet for the ageing centre-back.
Kieran Tierney 8/10
Kieran Tierney impressed upon his return to the starting eleven. The Scot was energetic on the left flank, often delivering those useful crosses from the far side and causing problems for Emil Krafth.
Thomas Partey 8.5/10
Thomas Partey was a reassuring presence in the Arsenal midfield, providing composure and tidiness with his passing. It was his excellent long pass that led to Aubameyang’s opener in the second half. A promising sign for the fans.
Granit Xhaka 8/10
Granit Xhaka was a vital cog in the Arsenal midfield. He was responsible with his passing and tackling, helping his team dominate Newcastle United in the middle of the park.
Bukayo Saka 9/10
Bukayo Saka was a livewire in the final third for Arsenal. The Englishman made a host of mazy runs across the flanks, making life difficult for the Newcastle defenders throughout the course of the game. He was rewarded with a goal around the hour-mark and was also involved in the third goal’s build-up.
Emile Smith Rowe 8.5/10
It was another remarkable performance from Emile Smith Rowe, who continues to impress at the highest level of football. The young playmaker made a host of excellent movements around the final third, notably the cross for Saka’s goal.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang 10/10
Missed a sitter in the first half, but made amends with an inspired second-half performance that saw him score two goals. He looked like his older self, often making darting runs behind the backline and taking on the opposition.
Alexandre Lacazette 7.5/10
Alexandre Lacazette worked hard to find a goal, as usual, but had a relatively unlucky evening. Nonetheless, his performance was impressive enough for him to retain his place in the side.
SUBSTITUTES
Mohamed Elneny 6.5/10
Replaced Partey midway through the second half, providing some freshness in the Arsenal midfield.
Willian N/A
Came on as a substitute for Aubameyang during the final phase of the game.
Gabriel Martinelli N/A
A late replacement for Smith Rowe.
