Saka MotM v Forest - player ratings
By Gunnersingh and Boris
August 12 2023
The start of the match was delayed by 30 mins but the spectators inside the stadium didn have a clue what was happening as !2.30 came and went with no explanation. The first half when it finally came didint really fizz due to Forest 10 men behind the ball strategy.It took Eddie to break the dealockon 26 minutes with a fine goal nutmegging a dfender and giving a badly sighted keeper no chnace. At last the game fizzed into life.
When Saka on 33 minutes finally broke away from tight marking it was to score a wonder goal. It was one of the finest goals I have ever seen an Arsenal player score in 65 yerars of watching them. Timber was felled towrds end of first half and he never really recovered. This might have been reflected in the poor defending that followed for the rest of match. At times it looked more likelly that Arsenal would concede than score. Which sadly came to pass on the 83 minute when Awoniyi scored. It was a tense final 17 final minutes (10 minutes added time) it was with great relief that the crowd welcomed the final whistle. Afterwards Arteta said that the team had given Forest hope. Never a truer word. But its 3 points, we won and we go again.
Goonersingh RATINGS FOLLOW
Ramsdale 5- looked shaky at times. Was lucky with a low shot that was deflected, as he had already gambled it to his left. Also, took too long on the ball on occasion.
White 5 - Gave the ball away on occasion and was very poor for their goal.
Saliba 6 - Confidant, gave a few silly fouls away.
Timber 6 - Looked comfortable as a 3rd CB, hope the injury isn't serious.
Partey 6 - Played well on the ball but caught out on the counter
Rice 6 - Didn't look completely fit. Needs to pass forward more and not safe.
Odegaard 7- Some great moments of skill. Put in a great shift.
Havertz 6 - Worked hard enough but we need to see more from him.
Saka -8 MOTM. The goal was worth the admission fee alone. Will get better with more fitness.
Nketiah - 7 Worked hard and scored a good goal.
Martinelli 8 - Thought he was brilliant in the first half but got tired in the 2nd half.
SUBS
Tomiyasu 6 - Done well.
Trossard 4- Poor cameo. Gave the ball away a few times which could have proved costly.