Match info
Arsenal 1-2 Southampton
Possession: 57%-43%
Shots: 7-11
On target: 5-5
Corners: 3-4
Fouls: 13-14
Gunflash Moment
Although Alexis Sanchez’s free-kick was pretty special, I actually think that…just kidding, of course it was the Chilean’s magic moment.
The 30-yard set piece defied, well, logic; I mean, its movement didn’t seem to fit the power with which the former Barcelona unleashed the drive. It moved in the air like a caressed Andrea Pirlo dink but flew like a rocket into the top corner just like we’d come to expect from Sanchez.
Player Ratings
David Ospina – 5 – Not sure Wojciech Szczesny will lose too much sleep over the Colombian ‘keeper’s debut.
Hector Bellerin – 7 – Well, would you look at that! A much more realistic game for the former Barcelona youngster to play in and he looked composed and impressive.
Calum Chambers – 6 – Crazy to think the back four were looking to the former Saints man for leadership! Being asked to do too much for someone of his age and inexperience.
Isaac Hayden – 7 – Maybe we’ve found our fourth-choice centre-back.
Francis Coquelin – 5 – Not a left-back and can’t see much of an Arsenal future for the Le Coq.
Tomas Rosicky – 4 – Gave away the penalty but apart from that was anonymous.
Abou Diaby – 7 – He did it! He got through nearly 70 minutes without injury before being subbed. Huge boost to be able to have him back in the back.
Jack Wilshere – 7 – Another encouraging performance for the England international, seemed to thrive being given more freedom and leadership responsibility.
Alexis Sanchez – 8 – We are lucky to have him.
Joel Campbell – 4 – Failed to grab his chance, not sure he is off an Arsenal standard.
Lukas Podolski – 4 – Loan deal with a view to permanent move with Hamburg in the Bundesliga awaits in January.
Gooner of the Match
Our marquee summer signing, Alexis Sanchez, of course; a dominant and energetic performance was epitomised by that world-class free-back. Deserves better from those around him.