Tiny T gives us his usual take on the player`s performances. This time after a spirited display, against a classy Arsenal side in the FA Cup, who proved just too good on the night.
Schmeichel 8
Stood no chance with the first or third goal, slightly at fault for the second but a Gordon Banks save against Chamakh was simply outstanding.
Connolly 7
Run ragged on occasions, got forward to support Snodgrass and stuck to his task.
O’Brien 8
Like a few others, at fault for the first goal, but experienced and nous got the defence working much better as the game went on.
Bruce 8
Never say die attitude was what we needed, like others, the first goal was a nightmare, recovered well to be the outstanding defender.
Parker 7
Possibly the weak link at the back, stuck to the task, a late error gave Bendtner space to cross for the third goal. There will be those who have a go at Ben, but remember it`s only his third game back and two of those have been against the Gunners, needs more game time.
Snodgrass 7
Worked hard both in attack and defence, but they were aware of the danger and always doubled up on him.
Johnson 8
It could be the goal of the season, a rasping drive from at least 25 yards got us back in the game. Tackled his heart out and got forward when possible.
Howson 8 Star man
All over the place with a non-stop display, tried to get us on the front foot and worked hard defensively.
Watt 7
Another who was not afraid to get stuck in, worked hard and battled, good support in front of Parker.
Gradel 8
Infuriating one minute, great the next, never stopped trying and worked hard especially after Paynter went off, he led the line and was not afraid to challenge the big men at the back.
Paynter 6
Nothing fell right for Billy, battled away up front but no real spark.
Substitutes
Bromby 7
Like the rest of the defence, slotted in well when coming on.
Somma 5
We needed him to work up front but he didn’t, he also tackles like my mother in law, no bite
Sam 5
Game already lost when he came on.
Summary
The fans can be proud of the fighting display we gave, scored the goal of the game, and thankfully we are out of the Cup to concentrate on the League.
This also gives us a free weekend soon and some of the players need a break after featuring in every game.
Arsenal settled with the early goal and Kasper might think he could have done better with the second goal.
The goal of the game was ours, we put the Gunners under pressure, the ball fell to Howson who rolled the ball inside to Johnson and the next it was in the net from fully 25 yards, got the fans buzzing again.
Defensive lapses were our undoing and perhaps a little slow on the ball when it mattered, we will get a lot out of this for the rest season.
We’ve mixed it with the best again and shown we are not far off against top Premier League opposition.
Now let us see us push on and see what the rest of the season brings.
Thanks as always Tiny for your fans view.
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