By Matty Sadler
December 29 2020

First half was bad. Far too ponderous on the ball and the midfield two didn't want to pass forwards.

Second half was completely different. Smith Rowe and, in particular, Saka came alive. Created a number of chances early on then super sub Lacazette scored after a pretty breathtaking assist from Saka.

Second win in a row, against one of our recent bogey sides. Keep it going.

RATINGS:

Leno - 7. Made a couple of saves but had my heart in my mouth early on...

Bellerin - 7. Okay. Only real criticism from me is in the first half he decided to duck under a cross when there were two blokes at the back post. Thought he got lucky there. Showed his fitness levels in the second half.
Holding - 6. Stopped a possible Dunk goal right at the start of the second half. Did well but still has an awful pass in his locker.
Mari - 7. Strong in the air. No dicey moments like against Chelsea.
Tierney - 7. Committed and energetic as usual.

Elneny - 5. I think he did more good for Brighton in the first half. Not like him for his short passing to be off.
Xhaka - 6. He didn't do anything massively wrong tonight but particularly in the first half we just needed more.

Saka - 8. Kid is amazing. Quality assist just oozed speed, strength, vision and confidence. Right decision every time.
Smith Rowe - 7. Particularly in the second half I thought he looked like a player just growing in confidence. Plays the right pass (bar that one back heel!).
Martinelli - 6. Not quite the same impact as against Chelsea but you know you're always going to get hard work and good energy from him. Did love him yelling at Aubameyang to press in the first half.

Aubameyang - 6. Didn't happen for him tonight. Very quiet first half and missed a couple of chances at the start of the second half. Worked hard throughout though.

Subs:

Lacazette - 6. Good finish.
Ceballos - 6. Good block late on.
Maitland-Niles - N/A. Not on long.

More discussion here