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Set pieces were the highlight as Arsenal secured a 2-0 victory over Manchester United.
After a goalless first half, there were worries about whether Mikel Arteta’s team could maintain their title challenge.
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However, Jurrien Timber eased those concerns at the 54-minute mark by heading in from a set piece.
Timber smartly maneuvered to the front post, taking advantage of a delivery that eluded Bruno Fernandes and Rasmus Hojlund.
United didn’t adapt quickly enough, allowing William Saliba to increase the lead, scoring after Thomas Partey headed the ball back across the goal, with Saliba finishing with a clever touch.
Here are SunSport’s ratings for the Gunners as provided by Jordan Davies.
DAVID RAYA – 7/10
Had a below-par game with his distribution, misfiring clearances that are usually solid.
Nevertheless, he redeemed himself with a fantastic fingertip save to deny De Ligt’s looping header.
OLEKSANDR ZINCHENKO – 7
Demonstrated his importance to the squad with a solid and tenacious defensive performance after returning from the sidelines.
The only misstep was a moment of inattentiveness that resulted in a foul on Amad, earning him a needless yellow card.
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WILLIAM SALIBA – 9
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Even though he seemed to miss his defensive partner, he remained unfazed and composed under pressure, making impactful runs forward.
His efforts were rewarded with a goal that made it 2-0, as Partey’s corner header deflected off him.
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JAKUB KIWIOR – 8
Faced some physical challenges against Hojlund during goal kicks and long balls, occasionally letting the ball bounce instead of challenging for it aerially like Gabriel would.
However, he adjusted as the game progressed, delivering crucial defensive contributions that earned him recognition from Saliba.
JURRIEN TIMBER – 8
His partnership with Saka on the right wasn’t as cohesive as in previous matches, yet he displayed courage in winning the header that set up the opening goal in the second half.
Later, he switched to left-back, showcasing his versatility and importance to Arteta and Arsenal.
THOMAS PARTEY – 7
Failed to capitalize on a straightforward near-post corner early in the match and often lost possession due to misplaced passes throughout.
He transitioned to right-back for the last 20 minutes and assisted Saliba’s goal with a headed pass.
DECLAN RICE – 7
Initially struggled to make a mark but turned it around after halftime, providing the whipped corner that led to Timber’s goal.
MARTIN ODEGAARD – 7
Served as a leader despite lacking his usual flair. His pressing and overall work rate were vital to the team’s efforts.
GABRIEL MARTINELLI – 6
Missed a promising opportunity from close range when United’s defense faltered. He also provided defensive support to Zinchenko against Amad in the second half.
BUKAYO SAKA – 7
Consistently applied pressure on Malacia through his runs, remaining a constant threat and played a key role in Saliba’s goal with a well-timed corner.
KAI HAVERTZ – 6
Had a subdued performance overall, partly due to a lack of service, but worked hard pressing De Ligt and Maguire. Failed to convert a golden opportunity late in the match.
SUBSTITUTES:
MIKEL MERINO (ZINCHENKO, 70) – 7
Entered the match and nearly scored from a corner, surprising everyone when he missed the bottom corner.
LEANDRO TROSSARD (MARTINELLI, 70) – 6
His introduction invigorated the left side, creating several potential chances.
