The Game

Just like last Sunday, there were some scary moments tonight and our dream was almost shattered when Bolton took a 0-2 lead. But, the determination, tenacity and will of the Arsenal players made sure of victory.

Yes, William Gallas did commit a foul but that second goal has justice written all over it as it’s not the first time OUR players get kicked and the referee waves play on and it’s not the first time our players fail to show this sort of determination. All of them fought from the first to the last minute and you can clearly see they want to win the title. Badly.

Another clear penalty not given on Cesc, two in four days with today’s being a photo copy of Rooney’s given penalty against us away at Manchester.

But anyway, we go top.

And there, to stay.

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 – Not at fault in the two goals and very solid when having to catch it in the air.

Gallas: 7 – He may make mistakes at the back, but the determination William shows out there is simply amazing. Was almost an added midfielder/striker on the night, great game.

Vermaelen: 8 – A legend. Conceded nothing to Bolton and showed all his experience when we were 0-2 down and the side exposed forward, by committing those fouls which break the opponent’s game. And also scored, of course.

Clichy: 6 – If I have to rate his determination, it’s a 10/10, just look at those 10 seconds which ended in a yellow to understand what I mean. But, unfortunately, he still has the defect of failing to clear the ball properly when he has to, as the first goal clearly showed.

Sagna: 7 – He may not be the best crosser in the world, but screw that, he’s such a force at the back, a rock!

Denilson: 5 – Poor game, very poor. There was absolutely no need to commit such a foul inside the penalty area and was again guilty of giving balls away cheaply.

Diaby: 6,5 – Moments of brilliance, moments of sloppiness. He did work very hard but like Denilson, was guilty of giving the ball away in a number of occasions.

Fabregas: 9 – I’ve never seen him so determined, wanting to win so badly. He’s our leader and words cannot describe how vital he is for us.

Rosicky: 7,5 – Sunday was just the “appetizer” of what was coming next. Brilliant in starting our moves from our half, so good on the ball, turning provider when required and produced a thunderbolt to re-open the game.

Eduardo: 7 – He may not be THAT sharp in front of goal but his commitment is top class. Involved in Arshavin’s fourth goal and hey, it’s only January, he’ll be 100% starting February.

Arshavin: 7 – Disappointing first half. Not in terms of commitment as contrary to other games he was up for it, but failed in almost anything he tried. The second half was much better. When we were 0-2 down I kept on telling myself, “He and Cesc can turn this around”. Cesc did immediately, the Russian, kept it late.

(Subs)
Eastmond: 6 – I must say he looks more and more a candidate for a regular place. Cool, calm, collected and looks strong for his role.

Vela: No Vote – Very little again for Carlos, who will hopefully feature in the F.A. Cup.

Walcott: No Vote – Poor Theo was furious with Andrey for not giving him the opportunity to make it 5. Glad to see him back, of course.