Arsenal missed the chance to secure qualification to the knockout stages after a relatively dull 0-0 draw with Marseille at the Emirates last night. The first half was a very even affair with both sides creating chances but failing to convert, while the second half was far more laboured and chances were few and far between.
Aaron Ramsey and substitute Robin van Persie had the best chances to open the scoring but it wasn’t to be and now the Gunners will look to beat Dortmund and book their place in the hat for the knockouts. There were few stand-out performers on the night, but i’ve gone for Thomas Vermaelen as my Man Of the Match as he put in an assured display and it was great to have him back marshalling the defence. Here are my ratings:
Szczesny – 6 – Despite a lively Marseille side, the Pole only had to deal with one shot on target throughout the game. Did everything asked of him well enough.
Jenkinson – 7 – I thought he had a decent game, getting forward to support Walcott and looked far more comfortable than in previous games.
Mertesacker – 7.5 – Looked far more settled next to Vermaelen and dominated everything in the air.
Vermaelen – 8 – For me, he was MOTM. Arsenal looked much more solid with the Verminator at the heart of the defence, great to have him back.
Santos – 5.5 – Far too cavalier, goes forward far too often leaving huge holes at the back. As a defender, i feel he needs to think about defending first, attacking second.
Song – 7 – Not bad from Song, he played ok without excelling or dominating play.
Arteta – 7 – Another steady performance from the Spaniard, went close with a free kick in the first half but struggled to make things happen after the break.
Ramsey – 7 – Wasted 2 great opportunities to get on the scoresheet, but was one of the better players in the first half before being subbed early in the second.
Walcott – 6.5 – After a bright start and forcing the keeper in to a good save, Theo was kept quiet by his marker and struggled to get in behind the Marseille back line.
Gervinho – 6 – Frustrating display for the forward. Mis-controlled on a few occasions when a better touch may have lead to a shot on goal, but he worked hard before being subbed for Arshavin.
Park – 6 – Worked hard and seems to be decent in the air, but isn’t on the same wavelength as his team mates just yet. Hopefully that will come with time as we know the lad can finish. Subbed early in the second half for RVP.
SUBS:
Van Persie – 6.5 – Fluffed a great chance when through on goal but sent in a wonderful cross that deserved a finish, at least he tried to make things happen during a dull second half.
Rosicky – 6.5 – Brought some much-needed energy to the game and was unlucky with a few poor refereeing decisions going against him.
Arshavin – 5 – Hardly touched the ball and when he did, he gave it away. Not much time to get in the game though.
Agree with my ratings? Please leave sensible comments below. Remember, these are just my opinions and i encourage you to leave yours….
