Arsenal 2-2 Crystal Palace: Player ratings as Gunners punished for woeful defensive showing

Arsenal were twice pegged back by Crystal Palace on Wednesday night, with the two sides playing out a 2-2 draw at the Emirates.

The Gunners, who were without the unfit Mikel Merino and Ben White, got off to the perfect start, as Jakub Kiwior headed home his first goal for the club in the opening exchanges.

However, the hosts' showing in the aftermath was uncharacteristically messy, as Palace had success progressing through and in behind Mikel Arteta's midfield and defence. David Raya failed to exude calm between the sticks, and Daichi Kamada, the man responsible for Unai Emery's sacking, had an effort which deflected just wide.

The visitors restored parity in some style through Eberechi Eze, whose pinpoint volley from a corner beat Raya via the inside of the Spaniard's post.

Kiwior then denied Eddie Nketiah his first Premier League goal for the Eagles on his Emirates return with a fine block, and Arsenal regained the lead before the break through the in-form Leandro Trossard.

There was more of the familiar control in a less eventful second-half, although the Gunners twice came close to extending their advantage before Jean-Philippe Mateta equalised for Oliver Glasner's side with a delicate chip from distance. After Gabriel Martinelli had a goal ruled out, Bukayo Saka's volley was brilliantly saved by Dean Henderson.

Palace looked the more likely to score the game's fifth goal, but a dramatic late winner never came to pass. As a result, Liverpool require just a point on Sunday against Spurs to claim their second Premier League title.

Arsenal 2-2 Crystal Palace player ratings

Goalkeeper & Defenders

David Raya (GK) - 4/10 - I'm not convinced that this was actually David Raya between the posts. The man who almost always exudes so much calm was all over the place against Palace. Poor distribution and decision-making laced his performance.

Jurrien Timber (RB) - 8/10 - Another fine showing from the Dutchman, who's going to be ever so important against PSG. Played a key role in Trossard's goal and looked dynamic when he ventured forward.

William Saliba (CB) - 5/10 - Saliba was serenely making his way through the contest, but he was completely at fault for Palace's second goal.

Jakub Kiwior (CB) - 8/10 - His first Arsenal goal set the tone for a near flawless performance. This was the sort of defensive display we've grown used to Gabriel producing over the years. Kiwior's coming into his own.

Myles Lewis-Skelly (LB) - 7.5/10 - Oozes confidence every time he takes to the field. Just love watching him go about his work.

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