Arsenal went on to the top of the table for a brief period with an important win against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light. The Gunners were up for the task and took the lead in the first half but a penalty allowed the hosts to get back into the game in the middle of the second half.
The concerns of dropping further points were quashed by Olivier Giroud who came off the bench to score two goals and a huge impact to secure a comfortable victory for the visitors at the end.
Cech (6/10)
Didn’t have to make a single save in the game but conceded a penalty which Defoe converted to draw his team level.
Bellerin (7/10)
Excellent passing but was a bit conservative with the ball. Won all his tackles
Mustafi (7/10)
Had a relatively easy game as he won his tackles and aerial duels. Contributed in the offense too with his passing as he played a nice ball for Chamberlain in the 62nd minute to create an opening.
Koscielny (7.5/10)
Marshalled the defensive zone very well. Made 3 interceptions and 9 clearances and a nice block to keep things tight at the back.
Gibbs (8.5/10)
Excellent performance from the left back. Gibbs put in a thoroughly matured and balanced performance with his important interceptions and clearances in the defensive phase coupled with the important offensive play creating 3 chances for his team and getting the assist for the much needed 2nd goal for Arsenal.
Elneny (7/10)
94% passing accuracy from the Egyptian kept things ticking in the midfield provided a very good defensive support as well. Another tidy performance.
Coquelin (7.5/10)
Typical gutsy display from Le Coq. Functioned well with Elneny by his side once again as he broke down play in the midfield whilst aiding the forward play with his passes.
Oxlade-Chamberlain (8/10)
Good performance from the Englishman as he worked very hard in the defensive phase as well while making good contributions in the team’s attacking play. Provided the excellent cross for Sanchez to open the scoring in a 22-pass brilliant team goal.
Ozil (7/10)
Passed the ball well and created 3 chances in total including the delivery from the corner from which Giroud headed home his second goal.
Iwobi (6.5/10)
Good with his passing but needs to be a bit more decisive inside the penalty area. His form has dipped a bit in the last couple of games.
Sanchez (9/10)
Was a livewire with his direct play in the opposition half. Completed 5 of his 6 attempted take ons and scored a brace to increase his goal tally further for the season.
Subs
Olivier Giroud (8/10)
Came off the bench at 1-1 and made an instant impact scoring with his 1st and 2nd touch of the game to put the result beyond doubt. Looked hungry and ready to fight for his place in the team once again.
Aaron Ramsey (N/A)
Maitland- Niles (N/A)
