[Player Ratings] Arsenal 2-0 Crystal Palace: The Ox Stars As Gunners Go Top

Arsenal broke through a stubborn Crystal Palace defence to secure a 2-0 win thanks to a second half brace from Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, with the win moving the Gunners back to the top of the Premier League.

Here are the player ratings from the game:

Szczesny 7.5/10

The Pole was rarely called upon but made a vital save to deny Cameron Jerome and keep the score at 1-0. He’s certainly making a difference this year.

Sagna 7/10

The Frenchman was always an outlet down the right and solid at the back.

Monreal 7/10

Like Sagna, Monreal was always keen to get forward and join in the attack but his final ball wasn’t always on point.

Mertesacker 7.5/10

The German international was in superb form and stifled the visitors on several occasions with some perfectly timed interceptions.

Koscielny 7/10

Solid again and marshalled the back-line to another clean sheet.

Arteta 7/10

Fought well in midfield, although his lack of pace was exposed a couple of times as he tired near the end.

Oxlade-Chamberlain 8/10

Stepped up and took his opportunity in midfield with both hands. His first was the pick of his two goals, as he showed a fine touch before cooly slotting home.

Cazorla 7/10

Showed off some lovely footwork and interplay, and his assist for Chamberlain’s first was stunning. It took his genius to unlock the visitors defence.

Ozil 7/10

Quietly went about his business and rarely lost the ball. Set up a chance for Monreal with a stunning through ball in the first half.

Podolski 6.5/10

In and out the game and wasted a decent chance to hit the target when he screwed his shot wide from a tight angle. More to come from him though when he’s fully match fit.

Giroud 6.5/10

Wasn’t really at his best as his touch seemed off and he was struggling against the overly-physical Palace defence. However, he did very well to set up The Ox for the second.

Subs:

Rosicky – 7/10 –  Certainly made a positive impact from the bench and offered more urgency in midfield.

Bendtner N/A

Gibbs N/A

So another important win and we now have a two point cushion ahead of tomorrow’s huge clash between Man City and Chelsea. A draw would be ideal.

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