Player Ratings: Olivier Girouds double a reminder of his ability in front of goal Olivier Giroud grabbed two goals and a further double from Santi Cazorlas helped Arsenal beat Newcastle 4-1 on Saturday. To win 4-1 twice in a week is something to be savoured for Arsenal fans and despite some moments of Newcastle pressure, nobody could argue the Gunners didnt deserve their win on Saturday to follow up the success against Galatasaray in the Champions League. Two goals apiece for Olivier Giroud and Santi Cazorla is also a sign that the reliance on the brilliant Alexis Sanchez has been offset and although Cazorlas late penalty was cheeky, the other three goals were top quality. The defensive performance will also have pleased Arsene Wenger with a reassuring solidity present there for the most part. Mathieu Debuchy didnt look out of place at centre back, while youngster Hector Bellerin had an outstanding day at right back. With eight days to prepare for a trip to Liverpool, this was the perfect antidote to the 3-2 defeat to Stoke last weekend. Player ratings (1-10; 10=best; players introduced after 70 minutes get no rating): GK Wojciech Szczesny, 8 -- Hell be unhappy at the marking, or lack of, that cost him his clean sheet but he made a great double save in the first half to keep the Gunners ahead. DF Hector Bellerin, 8 -- Hes still very young and raw but he worked tirelessly, won the ball to set up the first goal and almost ran half the length of the pitch to create a chance for himself. Dealt well with a harsh booking midway through the first half too. DF Mathieu Debuchy, 8 -- That it was his first professional game at centre-half is a testament to his overall quality. Never looked out of place. DF Per Mertesacker, 7.5 -- Had a horror show last weekend at Stoke but back to his usual composed self here. DF Kieran Gibbs, 7.5 -- An assured performance from the England man. Try as they might, Newcastle couldnt find a way down their own right hand side.
Posted on: Sat, 13 Dec 2014 20:25:48 +0000
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