Arsenal managed to pull off a comeback against Manchester City to earn a 2-2 draw at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday evening.
Leroy Sane made the most of some dismal defending from the Gunners to put Pep Guardiola’s men ahead as early as the fifth minute of the game. In what was a frenetic affair then on, Theo Walcott managed to pull Arsenal back on level terms with five minutes left for half-time. The parity did not last long, however, as City were ahead within two minutes of Walcott’s goal through talismanic striker Sergio Aguero.
The visitors looked good value for their lead until their defensive weakness was exposed by Shkodran Mustafi, who rose high to head the ball past Willy Caballero eight minutes into the second half to equalize for the Gunners and as a result the two teams went on to share the spoils.
The result meant Manchester City find themselves in the fourth position, with Liverpool winning their game yesterday and Arsenal continue in the sixth place, two points behind Manchester United.
Arsenal Player Ratings
David Ospina – 6.5/10
Made a couple of decent saves to keep Arsenal in the game. Was left exposed by a horrible defence in front of him.
Hector Bellerin – 4/10
Got stripped for pace by Leroy Sane for the opening goal and the German continued to cause him serious troubles throughout the game. Looks down on confidence.
Shkodran Mustafi – 6/10
Looked nervous at the back and made a couple of errors as well. Made up for the nervy performance with the all important equalizer in the second half.
Laurent Koscielny – 6/10
Looked the better of the defenders before he was taken off with an Achilles injury at half-time. The Gunners will be hoping that it is not too serious.
Nacho Monreal – 6/10
The Spaniard looked very uncomfortable against the pace of Raheem Sterling, but supported well in attack and frequently overlapped Alexis Sanchez.
Granit Xhaka – 5/10
Booked again. His disciplinary issues continue to be a worry for Arsenal. Steady in possession, but nothing that stood out.
Francis Coquelin – 5/10
Lacked the imposing presence in the middle of the park. It was as if Arsenal played without a defensive midfielder. He too got a yellow card.
Theo Walcott – 6/10
Showed great grit and determination on the right flank. Worked hard for the team and took his goal well in the first half.
Mesut Ozil – 5.5/10
Returned to the line-up and displayed some nice touches and flicks, but was largely on the peripheries. Grabbed the assist for the second goal with a good corner.
Alexis Sanchez – 6/10
Was a threat on occasions, but could not get himself as involved as he would have liked. Not long back from South America after the international break and it showed.
Danny Welbeck – 6.5/10
Did not get much service but battled hard and grafted for his team through the middle. Looks some way away from his best.
Substitutes
Gabriel – 6/10
Replaced the injured Koscielny at half time. Made some crucial blocks and interceptions.
Olivier Giroud – 6/10
Came on for Walcott in the 68th minute. Put his body around but couldn’t influence the proceedings.
Alex Iwobi – 6/10
Came on to replace Welbeck in the 77th minute, got in a few dangerous positions but failed to work the goalkeeper.
Out of all the average performances, let us know about your pick for the MOM