[Player Ratings] Newcastle 0-1 Arsenal: Gunners Defence Holds Firm To Clinch Top Spot

Arsenal edged past Newcastle United 1-0 at St James’ Park thanks to a second half winner from Olivier Giroud to move back to the top of the league heading into the New Year.

Here are my ratings from the game:

Szczesny 6.5/10

Had very little to do in terms of shot-stopping but the Pole dealt with a number of tricky crosses well. Got away with a poor clearance in the second half though.

Sagna 7.5/10

The Frenchman was excellent at the back and kept Gouffran relatively quiet. He was a little disappointing with his crosses but overall a very good days work.

Mertesacker 8/10

Magnificent display from the stand-in skipper. Held the defence together and his height was important to keep the hosts at bay. Reads the game superbly.

Koscielny 7.5/10

Recalled in place of the unwell Vermaelen and resurrected his impressive partnership with Mertesacker. A rock at the back, although his passing was a little suspect at times.

Gibbs 6.5/10

Was given a tough time by Debuchy in the opening 20 minutes but settled into the game. His final ball going forward was a little wasteful before going off in the 71st minute.

Flamini 7.5/10

A terrier in midfield as he chased down every ball. Protected his defence expertly before reverting to left-back when Gibbs went off.

Wilshere 5/10

Below par from the midfielder. He seemed a  little off the pace and his passing was poor for much of the game.

Rosicky 6.5/10

The Czech ace didn’t do too much going forward but was full of energy and worked his socks off.

Cazorla 6/10

Disappointing performance from he Spaniard. Was expected to step up and fill the creative void left by Mesut Ozil’s absence but failed to deliver.

Walcott 6.5/10

Wasn’t at his best for much of the game but created the games only goal with a lovely free-kick. Went close to adding a second minutes later but hit the bar.

Giroud 6.5/10

Ended his lean spell with a neat header. Hopefully it will do him the world of good to ease some of the pressure off his shoulders. He did miss another good chance to add a second but was involved in some nice link-up play at times.

Subs:

Arteta 6/10, Jenkinson N/A, Bendtner N/A.

What were your ratings from the game? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.