[Player Ratings] Man City 2-2 Arsenal: Giroud Shines For Battling Gunners

Arsenal battled well to secure a 2-2 draw away to Manchester City this afternoon to put them within just one point of securing a top three finish.

Sergio Aguero put the hosts ahead before Olivier Giroud equalised for the Gunners with a header in the 10th minute. City restored their advantage with a fine Kevin De Bruyne strike but Arsenal earned a valuable point thanks to a 68th minute goal from Alexis Sanchez.

Here are Gooner Mac’s ratings for Arsene Wenger’s men:

Cech  5/10 | Beaten at his near post for the Aguero goal and should certain have done better to keep out De Bruyne’s effort – which also beat him at his near post. Looked nervy all game.

Bellerin 6/10 | His poor header led to City’s second but otherwise Hector had a solid game.

Gabriel 6/10 | Made a crucial block to deny Aguero a second but like many of his defensive team mates, he looked suspect at the back.

Koscielny 5.5/10 | Made countless clearances and interceptions but Kos actually looked a little of out sorts today.

Monreal 6/10 | Looked suspect at times and was given a tough time by Navas.

Ramsey 5/10 | Another below par display from the Welshman. Plenty of energy but failed to stamp any sort of authority on the game.

Elneny 6.5/10 | Should have done better to deny Aguero a chance to shoot for his goal but otherwise the Egyptian was solid.

Sanchez 6.5/10 | Not at his best for long spells of the game but popped up with a crucial equaliser.

Iwobi 5/10 | Did very little before being taken off early in the second half.

Welbeck N/A | Off early with a serious knee injury.

Giroud 7/10 | Ended his 14-game drought with a fine header and assisted Sanchez with a beautiful lay-off. Much better contribution from the Frenchman.

Subs:

Wilshere 6/10 | Got stuck in but looked a yard off the pace – which is understandable.

Walcott 5/10 | Offered a direct threat but wasted a great chance to score.

Coquelin N/A | On too late

The result was a very positive one considering we played pretty poorly and created very few chances overall. Now we need a point at home to Aston Villa to guarantee third spot while a win would see us steal second if Spurs lose at Newcastle.