3 standout players from dominant win over Crystal Palace

With the not-too-distant Europa League disappointment still fresh on the minds of fans and players alike, there were questions posed to Arsenal.

Would they be able to bounce back? How would they deal with the new injuries? Could this team continue their momentum in the league? They answered all of these questions, and more, in their home win against Crystal Palace.

After a fairly even opening period, the game cracked open with Gabriel Martinelli’s goal. Arsenal dominated the match after that point. Creating chance after chance while also converting them effectively, the Gunners were able to put in an impressive performance and come away with the three points.

3 standout players from dominant win over Crystal Palace

Here are three players that stood out from Arsenal’s dominant win over Crystal Palace.

1. Rob Holding

News breaking yesterday indicated that the injury William Saliba suffered against Sporting was more serious than initially thought. With Takehiro Tomiyasu also out (forcing Ben White to remain at right back), it was Rob Holding who came into the team for Saliba. Although there were the occasional signs of rust or just poor quality, he performed quite well.

He asserted himself aerially throughout the game, winning duels over a difficult opponent in Odsonne Edouard. Holding’s ability to win these headers allowed Granit Xhaka and Thomas Partey to win the second balls before turning and continuing to mount constant waves of attacking pressure.

The centre-back’s ability on the ball was impressive as well. Holding passed out of the back calmly, aside from a few nervous moments, and also switched play accurately. He even found himself firing a half-volley inside the Palace box.

While the team still needs Saliba fit as soon as possible, his replacement can fill in and perform to an adequate standard. Holding put some nerves to rest, and fans and players alike will be hoping he can continue to do so.

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