Arsenal v Portsmouth - Player Ratings

Last updated : 18 December 2006 By Clive Dickman

We fell further behind, early in the second half, to a cracking effort from Mathew Taylor but responded well & went on to dominate the remainder of the game after the introduction of the excellent Adebayor.

The most amusing part of the match was when the boss was sent to the stand by the pathetic Bennett only to sit one row behind it! Of course other managers never confront referees do they!? Grow up Mr Bennett.

Lehmann - 7 - Not at fault of either of their goals & handled well.

Eboue - 7 - Made some dangerous runs & back to his best with his crosses. (Flamini 78)

Toure - 8 - Excellent performance both defensively & offensively, one cracking effort forced James into yet another fine save.

Djourou - 7 - Comfortable on the ball & getting better & better.

Clichy - 7 - Some good over lapping runs & his defending was satisfactory.

Ljungberg Pulled a hamstring early on. (Walcott 6)

Gilberto - 8 - A real captain's performance worked hard for 90 minutes & was willing to get forward including when he smashed in our vital equaliser, could have won it late on.

Fabregas - 7 - Not as fluent as usual but still in a different class, a dogged performance.

Hleb - 7 - Once again not scared to put this foot in & also a threat going forward.

Aliadiere - 5 - Disappointing over all but would be better suited alongside someone that hold the ball up. (Adebayor 55)

Van Persie - 8 - Plenty of skilful moments & was unlucky not to be on the score sheet. He had one point blank header somehow saved by the excellent David James & a great run into the box late on saw his shot find the side netting.

Walcott -7 - (6) Gave Pamarot a torrid time & set up Adebayors vital goal. He will be a star.

Adebayor - 8 - (55) Whilst only on the field for 35 minutes he really did change the game, he is now looking the real deal.

Flamini - 5 - (78) Sliced wide late on when in a good position.

Subs Not Used: Almunia, Senderos.