Arsenal snatched a draw at Old Trafford this afternoon via a Theo Walcott cross-shot that resulted in a Tyler Blackett own-goal. The Gunners were lacklustre for the majority of the game, falling behind to Ander Herrera’s half-volley on the 30 minute mark following some poor defending although Arsene Wenger’s side did discover a degree of verve with ten minutes remaining and could well have taken an unlikely victory. Here’s how the Arsenal men rated:
David Ospina (GK): 5/10
The goalkeeping debate is fast descending into broken record territory but Ospina certainly isn’t helping himself in that regard. His distribution was poor throughout and much like on Monday night against Swansea, he was at fault for the goal, beaten by Herrera at his near post. It’s a shot you would expect a world class keeper to save and I imagine if Wojciech Szczęsny had conceded that goal he’d have faced immense criticism. It seems to be a situation very much akin to the 2007/2008 season when no 1 Jens Lehmann was dropped for Manuel Almunia. Arsene Wenger stuck with the Spaniard despite a multitude of errors and one wonders if the current ‘keeping dilemma will end similarly with Szczesny’s departure.
Hector Bellerin (RB): 6/10
Endured a difficult afternoon against a rejuvenated Ashley Young and was beaten by the England winger on the goal. His inexperience was clearly exposed but days like this are only to be expected from the young Spaniard. That duel with Young also inhibited his attacking impact as United attempted to exploit Arsenal’s right flank on numerous occasions. Taken off for Theo Walcott.
Per Mertersacker (CB): 6.5/10
The Arsenal captain generally did well against the rather elbowy/fouly Marouane Fellaini, winning a decent 71% of his duels. Can’t be faulted for the goal either.
Laurent Koscielny (CB): 7/10
Strong in the tackle and quick in the recovery as always, the Frenchman continued his fine form with 5 interceptions and 4 clearances. Made a fantastic block on Radamel Falcao and kept the striker quiet throughout.
Nacho Monreal (LB): 6/10
At fault for the goal, finding himself drawn to Mata and Fellaini, while leaving Herrera unmarked, but otherwise solid as usual. Got forward well and never stopped running.
Francis Coquelin (DM/RB): 6/10
Didn’t deal as well with Fellaini as he did in the FA Cup in March but to repeat that feat was always a tough ask. Wasn’t helped by the fact that Arsenal couldn’t keep possession until near the end but coped with the added pressure as best he could.
Santi Cazorla (CM): 5/10
The little Spaniard was very much below par today. Played fantastically well against an imposing midfield trio at the Etihad in December but today was very much a struggle. Passing was off throughout and it was no surprise to see him withdrawn for Jack Wilshere.
Mesut Ozil (CM/LW): 5.5/10
Another who was poor today, it felt like he was dispossessed far too easily on a number of occasions. The word anonymous may be harsh but this was a performance that harked back to the performances last year which drew so much criticism towards the German. Set piece delivery, bar one good corner, was off throughout.
Aaron Ramsey (RW/CM): 7/10
We’ve seen in recent weeks that Aaron can be effective from the flank but just like against Swansea on Monday it was telling that Arsenal were much better when he was shifted in-field. Worked ever so hard and played a number of sumptuous balls, one of which found Walcott for the goal. The manager may have got his tactics wrong today with Ramsey and Cazorla.
Alexis (LW): 5/10
By this stage of his Arsenal career, the Chilean’s work rate has become much vaunted yet it felt today like all that hard work this season has taken it’s toll. Guilty of holding on to the ball for too long or not finding the right pass, this is a game Alexis would rather forget. Withdrawn for Mathieu Flamini.
Olivier Giroud (ST): 6/10
The big man worked hard as always despite little service. Fashioned himself a brilliant chance when holding off Marcos Rojo that David De Gea saved well while he had United fans worried when his snap shot brushed the side netting.
Substitutions:
’72 Theo Walcott (RW): 6.5/10
Looked like it might be one of those days for Theo when his first act was to dribble straight into Tyler Blackett so it was a pleasent surprise when his sprightly run and cross-shot deflected off the United youngster into the net. Reminded me very much of the old, confident Theo. He was asked to get Arsenal back into the game and he did just that.
’73 Jack Wilshere (CM): 7/10
Continued his recovery well again today and played an important part in Arsenal’s dominance at the end of the game. Positive as always and full of energy, if Jack can keep fit the signs are very good indeed.
’90 Mathieu Flamini (CM): N/A
Brought on to shore up the midfield in the dying seconds.
