Saturday April 11, 2015 – 17.30 PM BST
It was a hard fought three points at Turf Moor, but Aaron Ramsey’s goal proved the difference maker. Francis Coquelin provided the platform for our attacking players to push on, and we are now just four points behind league leaders Chelsea.
Here are the player ratings for our 0-1 win over Burnley:
Burnley were understandably less than adventurous, so the Colombian barely had anything to do. He didn’t lose concentration however, and was on hand to make a couple of good saves to keep the home side out – most notably from the run of Sam Vokes and a Kieran Trippier free-kick.
Solid going forward, but made a few defensive mistakes. He was nutmegged by Ben Mee in the second half, allowing the Burnley man to get an excellent cross into the box that should have been converted.
Despite the clean sheet, the Frenchman was not at his best by a long shot. He gave the ball away on several occasions, with his clearances poor by his usual standard.
He didn’t look confident, and was lucky Burnley didn’t take advantage of his mistakes.
Made a huge number of blocks and interceptions, and besides one occasion when he was left for dead by Sam Vokes he was extremely solid.
Our best defender on the day, the Spaniard put in an excellent shift at both ends of the pitch.
He didn’t push too far forward, but made sure he was an outlet when needed. He was also diligent at the back, and never left himself exposed.
Another unbelievable performance from the Frenchman, whose role in the team can’t be understated.
He put in some really important tackles, and prevented Burnley from countering on a number of occasions.
We spent large portions of the game with bodies camped in their half of the pitch, and Coquelin’s defensive work meant we were able to do so without fear of the break.
A solid performance from the Spaniard, who combined well with Francis Coquelin to start a number of our attacks.
The German playmaker was excellent in the first half, and looked at his creative best.
He stuttered somewhat in the second 45 however, and was far sloppier on the ball.
A great performance from the Welshman, back among the goals in his unfavoured position on the right.
He took his goal well, and it proved to be the winner in the end.
His tireless nature was hugely important, and he was unquestionably one of the best players on the pitch.
He was unlucky not to get amongst the goals, but his quick footwork was too much for Burnley – who were forced to bring him down to stop him.
The Frenchman has been in fine form recently, but struggled today. Burnley played with ten men behind the ball, and Giroud just couldn’t find the space to work with.
Was only on the pitch for a short time, but didn’t do much of note. His movement wasn’t the best, although his pace scared Burnley somewhat.
A cameo performance.
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