Arsenal player ratings vs Everton: Dowman dazzles as 5/10 duo bailed out by Gyokeres, Dowman extraordinary as Raya steps up again…

Arsenal player ratings against Everton: Dowman shines while 5/10 duo are rescued by Gyokeres

Arsenal player evaluations: Dowman exceptional as Raya rises to the occasion again

The Gunners make significant progress towards the Premier League title with a last-minute victory over Everton.

Max Dowman’s outstanding performance propelled Arsenal to a crucial 2-0 victory against Everton at the Emirates Stadium.

For a large part of the match, it seemed like it would be a frustrating and potentially damaging night in the title race, with Arsenal struggling to break down a formidable Everton team.

As the tension mounted, the discontent from the crowd intensified, but Dowman emerged from the bench, delivering a cross that allowed Viktor Gyokeres to score in the 89th minute.

Dowman capped off a remarkable cameo with the final touch, sprinting clear from a corner with Jordan Pickford out of position and finishing to a thunderous cheer.

The Emirates Stadium provided ratings for the Arsenal players…

David Raya 8

Made a stunning save with his feet to deny Beto’s low shot early in the second half. Also thwarted Dewsbury-Hall with a sharp save, stepping up significantly when needed. Worked diligently for his clean sheet.

Jurrien Timber 5

Showed decent combination play but suffered an early injury and could not recover, despite playing for another 20 minutes. A major concern ahead of a crucial week.

William Saliba 7

Had a lot of possession and was tasked with making more incisive passes than usual. While not always successful, he showed good intent. Had the upper hand against Beto and Barry.

Gabriel 7

Oddly allowed the ball to bounce from kick-off when Everton played it long, but was otherwise solid defensively. No need for his usual last-minute heroics.

Riccardo Calafiori 7

Very unpredictable in the attacking third. Came close twice early on, and an incredibly good acrobatic block prevented what seemed like a certain goal from McNeil. Adds a unique element to the Arsenal attack.

Martin Zubimendi 6

Showed improvement compared to recent performances. Displayed more energy when bursting into the box, leading to several touches in Everton’s area during the first half. However, his influence significantly waned in the second half, and he appeared increasingly fatigued.

Declan Rice 7

Demonstrated abundant energy as he consistently sought to advance into open spaces. His cross created an opportunity for Zubimendi and Saka. Made several excellent challenges to thwart Everton’s attacks in the second half.

Bukayo Saka 6

Was denied by an outstanding save from Pickford, only for the offside flag to be raised anyway. He was active but did not create any significant moments. His involvement diminished after moving to the No10 position.

Eberechi Eze 5

Arsenal requires more from their No10 in matches like these. He made one nice pass to Havertz but was otherwise wasteful and too eager to shoot from long range. Came close with a brilliant left-footed strike but was largely ineffective.

Noni Madueke 6

Made a rare start on the left and was electrifying at times, yet frustrating at others. He was direct in his runs at defenders, which is a positive, but his final pass or shot often fell short. Substituted after an hour.

Kai Havertz 6

Unlucky not to win a penalty in the first half and linked up well with Saka and Zubimendi at times. He faded after halftime and struggled to stay involved before being substituted in the 60th minute.

Substitutes:

Cristhian Mosquera (Timber 38’) 6

It was interesting to see him chosen over White as Timber’s replacement. He was proactive in his defending but contributed nothing in attack.

Viktor Gyokeres (Havertz 60’) 7

Had been largely ineffective until the ball came to him for a simple finish. He was present when it mattered most.

Gabriel Martinelli (Madueke 60’) 4

Had a disappointing appearance. Failed to clear the ball in his own box, nearly giving Everton a significant chance, and his execution at the other end was far below what was needed.

Max Dowman (Zubimendi 74’) 9

Remarkable. At only 16, he is Arsenal’s best hope for a moment of brilliance. His cross set up Gyokeres’ goal, and he then sprinted half the pitch to score his own. An extraordinary talent.

Piero Hincapie

Great flick in the move for Dowman’s chance. Then in the right place to get the ball across and set up Gyokeres’ winner.