Another game, another disappointing draw and yet more points dropped.
Sunderland played like a team who needed a win in order to get out of the relegation zone. Plenty of shots from far out and numerous surges forward, particularly down our right flank.
Arsenal, on the other hand, were dull and skittish – just like we have been since January. If it hadn’t been for a few stunning saves from Petr Cech, we might not have even left with a point.
Petr Cech – 8
The goalkeeper was tested without minutes when the Sunderland attack managed to glide past our back four. Fortunately, the Czech international looked lively and rushed out to punch away the danger. In the second half, he pulled off a number of huge saves as the Black Cats pummeled our goal.
Hector Bellerin – 6
The right-back gave Sunderland a huge chance in the first half by passing the ball directly to them, which led to the handball shout off Per.
Per Mertesacker – 6
Although the German had an early penalty shout against his, he had a solid match. He didn’t do anything of huge note, which is usually a good thing when it comes to defenders, because when they do get noticed it’s often for a mistake.
Laurent Koscielny – 6
The defender blew hot and cold. In the second half, he made a vital interception to prevent a low Defoe cross. However, when the resulting corner was delivered into the box, he ducked. Presumably he thought Cech was coming out to collect it.
Nacho Monreal – 6
The Spaniard had a quiet game, although seemed slightly off the boil, particularly during the first half.
Mohamed Elneny – 6.5
Another solid match for the new defensive midfielder.
Aaron Ramsey – 6
Ramsey’s pass accuracy was decent and his work-rate, as usual, fantastic, but couldn’t seem to pick the right pass.
Mesut Ozil – 7
The playmaker had a quiet game and didn’t appear to be as lively as he has been in the past. Whether he’s just tired or not, we’ll see.
Alexis Sanchez – 7
The Chilean tried to recreate his free-kick from the win against West Brom in the first half and came close but Vito Mannone saved it.
Alex Iwobi – 6
The forward had the best Arsenal chance in the first half when his shot was cleared off the line. In the second, he had another chance but completely sliced the shot and really should have done better. An uncharacteristically quiet game for the 19-year-old.
Olivier Giroud – 6
The striker was largely anonymous again and although he got in the right positions, he couldn’t seem to connect properly with the ball, which seems to be a reoccurring theme for the Frenchman this season. Once again, he was great at setting others up but didn’t actually do anything himself.
SUBS
Theo Walcott – 4.5
The forward put in a couple of decent balls within minutes of stepping onto the pitch, which was refreshing.
Danny Welbeck – 5
The striker had a good go when he came on and looked keen.