Saturday 27 August 2022

Arsenal 2-1 Fulham

What a breathtaking second half. It was edge of the seat stuff, especially as dogged Fulham took the lead through Mitrovic, who bullied Gabriel off the ball in the box before burying it past Ramsdale.

It was hard to see how a breakthrough was going to come for the Gunners, with Leno in such imperious form between the sticks.

Odegaard, though, who was buzzing like a bee, finally stung Fulham via a deflection for the equaliser.

Ironically, it was a Leno mistake from a Martinelli corner that resulted in the winner. VAR threatened to kill the joy, as they tried desperately to find an angle showing a Saliba handball. Instead it was a Big Bill assist, rammed home by Gabriel, who must have felt so relieved to make up for his earlier mistake.

The truth is this was a tough three points. Fulham are not in the Premier League just to make up the numbers.

In the end, it was an emotional win, especially for Gabriel. Meanwhile, the forwards need to make sure they don't over-egg their work in front of goal.

Ratings
Ramsdale 8 - was called on a number of times
White 8 - much better second half and provided plenty of energy
Saliba 8 - Mitrovic didn't get the better of him and he came up with an assist
Gabriel 7 - proved his character after a mistake, but needs to learn not to dwell on the ball, especially when there is no obvious outlet
Tierney 6 (subbed for Nketiah) - a bit out of sorts
Saka 8 - great approach play, but no finishing touch
Odegaard 9 - a captain's performance
Elneny 7 - solid shift
Xhaka 7 - some good passes
Martinelli 7 - weak on corners, but provided the winner
Jesus 7 - fought hard and played on the left later in the game
Sub
Nketiah 8 - could have scored and was a real live wire in the last 30 minutes
Late subs
Holding - n/a
Tomiyasu - n/a

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