Aubameyang’s sending off
Crystal Palace entertained Arsenal in the lunchtime fixture of Saturday and as expected, there was a drama for all fans involved. I will publish an in-depth review of the game tomorrow, but it was not surprised to see that the starting lineups of both teams matched what I published in the preview of the game.
Here are the Gooner Daily player ratings:
Starting XI
Bernd Leno: The German shot stopper had little to do all game long but did well to claim some cross and made himself available when required. Unfortunate to concede from that deflection off his teammate. (6)
Sokratis Papastathopoulos: Had a good game by this fair standards, making the necessary blocks, clearances and interceptions. Would not be happy to concede that goal after his display (6)
David Luiz: Was at the heart of everything good for the team, especially with building from the back with his inch-perfect distribution. It is ironic to know that his deflection cost his side all three points. (7)
Ainsley Maitland-Niles: His duel against Wilfried Zaha was publicized prior to the game and it is fair to say that he acquainted himself well with the threat the Ivorian posed on that flank. (7)
Sead Kolasinac: Marauded the left flank but did not offer much in the final third. (6)
Granit Xhaka: In the week he declared his loyalty to the club, Xhaka has gone from strength to strength putting up another committed performance in the middle of the park. (7)
Lucas Torreira: Covered every blade of glass on the side but got injured. His absense in the second half was sorely missed. (7)
Mesut Ozil: Involved in some good attacking plays for his side. Sacrificed to make up for Aubameyang’s dismissal. (6)
Nicolas Pepe: Had a poor game by his fair standards, making little or no impact from his favored position. (5)
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang: Showed his class with a neat finish after some intricate passing play. Gutted to receive his marching orders for a mistimed challenge. (7)
Alexandre Lacazette: Continued working hard in attack but his lack of confidence in front of goal is a big cause for concern. (6)
Substitutes
Matteo Guendouzi: Brought onto the pitch to do Torreira’s work but failed miserably. (5)
Gabriel Martinelli: Tried to impose his influence on the game but was on the end of some intense fouling (6)
Reiss Nelson: Did not play enough to earn a rating. N/A
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