Arsene Wenger’s farewell party got off to a good start as Arsenal left it late to round off West Ham United at the Emirates comprehensively.
Arsenal secured a resounding 4-1 win over West Ham United at the Emirates in what was Arsene Wenger’s second-last Premier League home game before he quits at the end of the season. Goals from Nacho Monreal, Aaron Ramsey and two late strikes from Alexandre Lacazette secured a victory which might not have been fully deserved.
A goalless first-half saw both sides create chances but failed to convert any. West Ham could have been ahead if not for Shkodran Mustafi, who made a last-ditch challenge in the box on Marko Arnautovic. Danny Welbeck saw a shot sail wide, while Aaron Ramsey got into the thick of things.
Arsenal started the second half brightly, scoring early on through Nacho Monreal, who lost Aaron Cresswell and took a first-time shot. Marko Arnautovic, combined with substitutes Manuel Lanzini and Javier Hernandez and equalised for the Hammers, only for Arsenal to claw back through a ‘lucky’ Ramsey goal and two late strikes from Lacazette to seal a comprehensive win.
The win came courtesy of Joe Hart’s misjudgement of the ball as Ramsey’s attempted cross went into the net and after than Arsenal ably rounded-off the Hammers with two more goals, both scored by Lacazette. Apart from the scorers, there were many positives to take away, especially from the defence and Danny Welbeck, who had a spectacular performance.
How did Arsenal’s stars rated against West Ham United?
David Ospina – 6.5/10
Made a good save in the first half, but could do nothing about Arnautovic’s goal in the second period. His collection was excellent, so was his awareness of the long balls West Ham regularly played to find Arnautovic. Had a decent game, but his inclusion might be an indication that Cech might start in midweek against Atletico Madrid.
Hector Bellerin – 7/10
A potent attacker when he makes forward runs on the right side, and one particular cross for Welbeck was exceptional. Other than that, he got plenty of support on the right from Iwobi as well as being defensively solid.
Shkodran Mustafi – 7.5/10
Compared to a few games recently, Mustafi had a good game at the back. Made a brilliant last-ditch challenge to deny Arnautovic to open the scoring in the first half. Overall he had an error-free game, but could do nothing about the Hammers’ goal. Such games would do his confidence right ahead of the crunch semi-final clash against Atletico Madrid.
Laurent Koscielny – 7.5/10
He was playing a league fixtures after nearly six games. Played a captain’s role and led the team from the back. Handled the pressure of Arnautovic well, but like his partner, could do nothing about the finish. Could have scored himself in the first-half, but his header went wide of the target.
Nacho Monreal – 8/10
Monreal’s performances of late haven’t been at a good level, but this was more like his usual self. Scored Arsenal’s opening goal from the corner, and a well taken one too. His forward play was good from the left and combined well with Welbeck at times.
Mohamed Elneny – 7/10
Good first half from the Egyptian, who, with the idea of controlling the midfield, was also trying to contribute going forward. Got injured in a nasty tackle with Mark Noble at the end of the first half and was substituted. Hopefully, for the Egypt and Gunners faithful sake, it’s not a severe injury.
Granit Xhaka – 7.5/10
An excellent midfield performance from Xhaka, who was also found most times near the final third trying to help Arsenal score a goal. Did well in the absence of Ozil and was acting somewhat like a provider of sorts.
Aaron Ramsey – 8.5/10
Another fantastic performance from Ramsey, who, as usual, was heavily involved in most Arsenal attacks. Combined well with Arsenal’s front-men and came away with a lucky goal, which was intended as a cross for Aubameyang. Assisted Lacazette late on to round off a quality performance from the Welshman.
Alex Iwobi – 6/10
Alex Iwobi’s game currently is short of confidence and is deteriorating rapidly. His inconsistent form could cost him a place in the side next season. Against West Ham, he was decent, supporting Bellerin on the right but his contribution inside the box, after getting into promising passing positions needs improvement.
Danny Welbeck – 8/10
Danny Welbeck’s performance has been on the rise, and against West Ham, he continued his impressive showing similar to that against CSKA. Unfortunately, he did not get on the score-sheet but forced a very good save from Hart.
Alexandre Lacazette – 8/10
Lacazette had a quiet first half but exploded midway through the second. His performance levels increased drastically after Aubameyang’s introduction. Got two late goals which will do him good when he faces Atletico Madrid in mid-week.
Substitutes
Ainsley Maitland-Niles – 6.5/10
Added more energy to midfield after he replaced the injured Elneny. Will be pleased with his display and giving Wenger another option in midfield, especially for the midweek game.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang – 6.5/10
Aubameyang had an immediate impact on the attacking flow of the team. Provided the assist for Lacazette’s first goal, which effectively sealed the game for Arsenal.
Calum Chambers – N/A
Came on late in the game to shore up Arsenal’s defence and protect an unassailable lead.
