Arsenal squandered an easy three points against Watford in the most Arsenal way possible.
Arsenal were in good form before the international break and, for the first time in a while, there was some excitement to see them play again.
Unfortunately, the performance left much to be desired. At best, Arsenal played within themselves but did just enough to take a half-time lead. That all went down the drain in the second half as we failed to put the game to bed, conceded a penalty after a Richarlison dive, then came away with nothing as Tom Cleverley scored the winner in stoppage time.
Just like that, a good run of form came to a crashing halt, and everyone is miserable again.
So, how did our darling, lovable plays fare?
Forwards
Alex Iwobi 6
He had a good chance that was well-saved by Gomes, and did set-up the chance for Ozil in the second half as well. On another he day, he comes out of this game with a goal and assist.
Danny Welbeck 5
Always a willing runner and worker, but not very effective in the final third of the pitch. His return to the starting line-up seemed premature, and was confirmed when he pulled a muscle in the second half. It wasn’t the return to action he would have had in mind.
Alexandre Lacazette 5
He had a bright first half, making darting runs in behind and being tidy on the ball. He looked to be the only player in the team with enough quality to make something happen in the final third. But, as seems to be the trend this season, he failed to score within seventy minutes and was replaced by Giroud. We’ve long talked about having a striker who can play with Giroud, but it’s painfully obvious it’s always going to be a case of one or the other.
Next, subs