Kind of a frustrating match. We got it over the line in the end, but it was a struggle against a team that's played poorly all season and had already been deservedly relegated.

It really highlighted our lack of quality in depth. Tierney did well as always (godspeed you magnificent bastard!). Zinchenko was okay but struggled defensively (again). Sterling was terrible, yet again. And I'm so relieved I'll never have to see him in an Arsenal shirt again. Nwaneri was very good. He struggled a bit against their low block and with limited support, but he still showed his potential. Partey did okay, but highlighted how we need a stronger defensive midfielder. He doesn't have the pace to recover in either defensive mid or at right back when he switches off.

We were so static with the ball for long periods - not enough movement off the ball. And we struggled against their low block and failed to stretch their midfield and defense (credit to Southampton there). But the biggest problem was how vulnerable we looked in defense. They were breaking very well, and if they had real quality up front they would have smoked us. Shout out to Kiwior, who saved us a few times.

[–] Astrealix@lemmy.world 2 points 1 week ago (1 children)

For ratings: both fotmob and onefootball are listing Tierney at CB instead of Partey at RB. thoughts?

[–] ThePowerOfGeek@lemmy.world 3 points 1 week ago (1 children)

Tierney started as a centreback, Partey ended as a right back (after starting in defensive mid).

Honestly though, our defensive formation was kind of weird the entire match, and I'm not convinced any of our players knew where they were supposed to be playing (except for Kiwior, and MLS when he came on). So I think there's a lot open to interpretation.

[–] Astrealix@lemmy.world 3 points 1 week ago

ngl the first half of this match is hardly in my head until the Zinchenko shot cuz i was kinda really bored so i think you're right

this match was such a hodgepodge lol