Arsenal Player Ratings: Rice Shines with Relentless Energy, Timber Stands Out, While Mosquera Struggles to Replace Saliba – The Sun
DECLAN RICE garnered accolades for his remarkable display as Arsenal staged a comeback to clinch victory over Newcastle.
In contrast, Cristhian Mosquera missed a chance to make an impact after joining the starting lineup alongside Gabriel Magalhaes.
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Arsenal faced an early setback as they fell behind to a Nick Woltemade header in the 34th minute.
Despite controlling a lot of the first half, they were denied a penalty after a VAR review.
The visitors managed to equalize as Mikel Merino emerged as the match hero, scoring in the 84th minute.
Gabriel sealed the comeback by netting the dramatic winner in the last moments of the match.
Scroll down to see how SunSport’s Gary Stonehouse assessed the performances of the Arsenal players…
DAVID RAYA – 6
Had little to do and was let down by Gabriel on the goal.
Cleaned up effectively when necessary.
JURRIEN TIMBER – 8
Displayed a strong performance battling against Anthony Gordon, proving effective when the game got physical.
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Should have converted a header from a great chance to equalize but demonstrated solid overall play.
CRISTHIAN MOSQUERA – 4
A mistimed kick led to the corner for Newcastle’s opener, and he struggled to regain momentum.
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Was outmatched as the game intensified and was substituted at half-time by William Saliba after a disappointing performance.
GABRIEL – 6
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Struggled against Woltemade and appeared shaken after a weak attempt to draw a foul allowed the German player to score.
However, he regained his composure when Saliba joined him and concluded a challenging outing on a high note by scoring the winning header.
RICCARDO CALAFIORI – 6
Did well to contain Jacob Murphy in the first half but contributed little offensively.
Was frustrated when the referee stopped his use of a towel for a long throw.
Substituted midway through the second half as Arsenal pushed forward, but not before receiving a booking for a silly foul.
EBERECHI EZE – 6
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Forced Pope into a save early on and had another tantalizing effort before half-time.
Maintained consistent pressure throughout but couldn’t convert his chances in this important match.
MARTIN ZUBIMENDI – 6
Was sometimes challenged by the tempo of the match and didn’t provide adequate defensive support; fortunately, Rice was there to assist.
Excited the crowd with a stunning pass to set up Timber, which was the highlight of his match.
DECLAN RICE – 8
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Put forth a significant effort to influence the match and excelled defensively, thwarting Jacob Murphy and preventing him from adding to the score.
Covered extensive ground, and his relentless effort was rewarded when Merino finished one of his impressive crosses.
BUKAYO SAKA – 6
Engaged in a competitive duel with Dan Burn, but the latter just edged it.
Provided solid assistance to Timber, but found it challenging to make a significant offensive impact.
LEANDRO TROSSARD – 6
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Another player who sought to energize the attack but struggled to make notable contributions.
Replaced late after failing to impose his threat.
VICTOR GYOKERES – 6
Had an early opportunity saved by Nick Pope and was involved in controversy when denied a penalty.
Made little impact in the latter stages, contending with strong defenders such as Malick Thiaw and Sven Botman.
SUBS
WILLIAM SALIBA (for Mosquera, 46) – 7
Dealt with Woltemade’s physicality significantly better than his predecessor, fortifying the defense.
GABRIEL MARTINELLI (for Saka, 70) – 6
Struggled to find his footing upon entry, with only one long-range attempt to show for it.
MIKEL MERINO (for Calafiori, 70) – 7
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Revitalized Arsenal’s midfield and enabled a crucial equalizer with a well-placed header.
MARTIN ODEGAARD (for Zubimendi, 82) – 6
His presence instilled confidence in the side as he crafted the winning goal with an expertly placed corner for Gabriel to score.
MYLES LEWIS-SKELLY (for Trossard, 88) – 5
Made an impact with his speed in the final minutes but was unable to create any noteworthy chances.