Arsenal made it three wins in a row after easing past Everton 3-2 at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday evening, despite their defensive frailties.
The North London club started poorly after gifting Everton with the opener, when a routine set piece was dealt catastrophically as David Luiz misguided a header that set-up Dominic Calvert-Lewin for a simple finish.
The Gunners equalized in the 27th minute when in-form Bukayo Saka delivered a pristine cross which found Eddie Nketiah, who made no mistake in finding the back of the net. Just a few minutes later Aubameyang put the Emirates club ahead from a Luiz pass but that was cancelled out by Richarlison who snuck one in from a confusing set piece.
However, Arsenal re-took the lead in the opening seconds of second half as Aubameyang delivered a pin-point header from a Pepe cross. It was a contrasting performance from Arteta’s side as they struggled in defense but delivered a stunning offensive display.
Here are Arsenal Player Ratings:
Bernd Leno – 7.5 – Was hesitant during Everton’s second goal, but the defense left him open. He was impressive in the second half as he made couple of reflex saves and was confident, when he had to come out of his line to make an interception.
Hector Bellerin – 6.5 – Was impressive going forward, but was found wanting on a couple of occasions in defense. Had a hand in Everton’s second goal, as he played Richarlison onside.
Shkodran Mustafi – 7 – Another solid performance from the German. Had a few nervy moments and looked sluggish at times, but was solid overall and made some important blocks and interceptions.
David Luiz – 6 – Should have done better for the opening goal, but made up for it with the assist for the second goal. Had some questionable moments in the defense though.
Sead Kolasinac – NA – Was forced off early but was very poor in whatever time he was on the pitch. Was responsible for the first goal and then nearly allowed Iwobi to score.
Dani Ceballos – 7.5 – He is back in form and the Spanish midfielder put in another impressive display. He controlled the game, dropping deep when ever required and then helped Arsenal move forward with his range of passing. A really solid display.
Granit Xhaka – 6.5 – Worked hard throughout the game. Moved the ball well in midfield while also keeping his shape in defense.
Mesut Ozil – 7.5 – A well rounded display from the German as he made Arsenal tick in midfield with some clever touches to get them going. It was a game of quiet influence.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang – 9 – Scored 2 important goals which helped the side secure the win. He was a huge threat going forward, and also worked hard in tracking back when Everton were on the offense.
Nicolas Pepe – 8 – Another solid outing for the record signing. Was a huge threat early on and grabbed a nice assist for the third goal and almost had a couple more. Has been very consistent over the past few games.
Eddie Nketiah – 7- Did well upfront while also bagging his first goal this season with a great finish. Worked hard and linked-up play very well, which will please Arteta.
Substitutes:
Buyako Saka– 7 – Came on for Kolasinac early on and put in a sensational cross almost immediately. Added some much-needed composure but looked tired at the end of the game giving away ball too cheaply on a couple of occasions.
Lucas Torreira– 6- Came on late to see out the result and provided reassuring presence.
Matteo Guendouzi– 6 – Did well in closing down Everton during the fag end of the game.
