The Game

We survived some scary moments at the Reebok and were lucky that the finishing of the home side was very poor on the day, but all in all, a brave performance from Arsenal who move back to three points from the top of the table.

The return of Cesc Fabregas was needed and Fran Merida showed why he wants more first-team action. Very disappointing game from Armand Traore, who will probably be dropped for next Wednesday’s game now that Gael Clichy is back.

As for Bolton, oh well, no comment. When they understood they cannot do it the football way, injuring our players was their new plan which was incredibly sad to see.

Match Video Highlights

Match video highlights are available in the Videos section of our website. If not there yet, rest assured they will be up in a matter of hours.

Player Ratings

Almunia: 6,5 – He did have some crazy moments, he always does, but responded very well after that, doing what he was asked to do to perfection. Having said that, I’m still not 100% convinced with him and from the “look” he gave him, neither is Gallas apparently.

Gallas: 6,5 – Some shaky moments especially when challenging Klasnic, but still an overall solid game from the Frenchman.

Vermaelen: 7,5 – Didn’t put a foot wrong today Thomas, who as always, gave 101% out there. His aerial capabilities made sure Davies was kept quiet for the whole 90 minutes.

Traore: 4 – Just like Everton, a game to forget for the Frenchman who gave Lee way too much space on the left-hand side. What I really was disappointed with was his reaction after losing his marker, walking instead of running to recover.

Sagna: 7 – Poor crosses aside, Bacary again was rock solid at the back, no wonder Bolton attacked from the other wing. Maybe we’ll get to know more on why he opted not to take the throw-ins.

Eastmond: 6 – Premiership debut and clearly nervous. Way too many balls given away cheaply in dangerous areas but he’ll surely take a lot of positives out of this one.

Diaby: 7 – Gave possession away cheaply sometimes but just like Fabregas, having him in midfield is becoming of vital importance. He’s a beast when pushing forward and did well in the second half after taking on the defensive midfield role after Eastmond’s substitution.

Fabregas: 8 – Welcome back, captain. Won a penalty, not given, scored the first and went close to score another. When all they tried didn’t work for Bolton, they tried to injure him.

Rosicky: 6,5 – Contrary to many, I believe Tomas had a very good game. He was the key in the build-up to the first goal, fighting twice to win the ball and did well to start some moves from our half of the pitch.

Eduardo: 6,5 – Still not at his best as he showed in the first half when he had to sprint but as the match progressed, he was more involved and was unlucky not to score.

Arshavin: 6,5 – Just like Eduardo, the Russian was also a nuisance for the Bolton defense throughout the game, though I believe he should be rested on Wednesday.

(Subs)
Clichy: 6 – Gave protection to Traore when he came in and based on what we saw today on that left wing, his comeback is very much needed in the squad.

Merida: 7 – He wants more first-team action, and this is why. Did almost nothing wrong, great first touch, great vision and great goal.

Vela: No Vote – Only 7 minutes for the Mexican, who played in an usual right-wing role today.