From now on, i'll try to write a post-match ratings of Arsenal players after every Arsenal match (thats the team I support), this would help bring the thread back to some life. Other members can post ratings of their own teams.
I'll start of from today's match:
Arsenal vs QPR
Mannone-7- Decent. Nothing much to do, except that crucial save in the end off Mackey.
Sagna-6.5- Solid, some good crosses, and an unexpected start after a injury layoff. Made some good challenges.
Vermaelen-7- Solid, made some crucial interceptions and blocks from crosses, neutralized Zamora. Had a hand in getting a QPR player a red in the end as well!
Mertesacker-6.5- Same as Vermaelen, the tactical partner in the centre of defence.
Santos-6- Okay. Nothing too much, a bit shaky at times.
Arteta-7- His usual self. Being an outlet for teammates, and some good defensive contributions. Got the all important goal in the end.
Wilshere- 7.5- Was in the middle of everything for the time he played, excellent passing and dribbling, and especially considering that it was his first EPL game after 14 months, remarkable. Well done.
Cazorla-6.5- Tried to make things happen, sometimes it came off, sometimes not. Should have buried that chance in the closing stages, no pressure whatsoever. Oh well!
Ramsey-6-Continuing his role in the wing, running and huffing at the opposition, doing the defensive duty. Was much better at the central role, good attempt with the half volley.
Giroud-8- Excellent throughout. Controlled all the long balls, some good flicks and touches, got up for the headers and applied pressure. Strong header in the end that was well saved by the goalkeeper, but rebound found it's way to Arteta for the goal.
Podolski-6.5- A bit more involved today, helped out the suspect Santos well today, decent outing.
Subs:
Arshavin-7- The little Russian got the all important cross in for Giroud, and then helped out in the defensive side of the game in the end.
Walcott-6-Nothing too much, made some good runs, and brought on some much needed pace.
Gervinho- N/A- Got an injury soon after coming on
Special mention:
Julio Cesar- 9- Made some incredible saves. He is still a quality keeper. Looked suspect in the beginning but gigantic figure in goal, saved shots from Cazorla, Ramsey, Giroud. (all very good attempts that would've gone in on most days).
In the end, I would like to say that i'll get a heart problem someday with the tension I get from these kind of matches!!!