“He was smarter than Havertz and Gabriel Jesus, he left the stadium with a standing ovation after a 9/10 display yesterday, he was everywhere on the pitch”- Arsenal Legend Thierry Henry was soooo happy as he heaps plenty praises on Arsenal’s “Mr 9/10” star who ran the show against Brighton yesterday
In a dazzling display at the Emirates Stadium, Arsenal secured their seventh Premier League victory of the season, triumphing over Brighton with a 2-0 win after a somewhat disappointing loss to Aston Villa the previous weekend. The resounding hero of the day, hailed by none other than Arsenal Legend Thierry Henry, was none other than Declan Rice, fondly referred to as Arsenal’s “Mr 9/10.”
Mikel Arteta’s side, eager for redemption after the Aston Villa setback, opened the scoring with a commanding header from Gabriel Jesus off a corner just ten minutes into the second half. Although Arsenal faced challenges with finishing, a late strike from Kai Havertz in the 87th minute sealed the crucial victory, propelling them to the top of the Premier League with 39 points after 17 matches.
Examining the statistics from the match against Brighton, the first 45 minutes showcased Arsenal’s dominance, amassing 15 shots, 0.93 xG, and denying the Seagulls any attempts. With a strategic focus on wide areas and effective ball recycling, the Gunners commanded 58% possession. Noteworthy was Gabriel Martinelli’s missed opportunity after a Bukayo Saka cutback, a moment that added drama to the first half.
The second half brought a shift in dynamics as Brighton gained more possession, registering 59% and attempting six shots. Despite Pascal Grob squandering a key opportunity for the Seagulls, Arsenal looked more dangerous on the break, taking 11 shots and creating significant chances.
While Jesus and Havertz found the net, it was Declan Rice who emerged as the standout player on the field. The English midfielder’s stellar performance was marked by a 91% pass accuracy, completing 53 out of 58 passes, executing three successful long balls, and amassing 69 touches. Arteta’s halftime instructions to intensify aggression paid off, with Rice leading the charge in stealing the ball high up the pitch, epitomizing a dynamic and commanding midfield presence.
A defining moment occurred in the 84th minute when Rice showcased his skill, receiving the ball in his own half, deftly spinning past Gross, and launching a left-footed strike saved by the keeper. His consistent excellence has earned him the moniker “Mr 9/10,” a testament to his unwavering high standards week after week, as acknowledged by soccer correspondent James Benge.
In Arteta’s eyes, Rice emerged as the true hero of the day, overshadowing the goal-scorers with his professionalism, athleticism, and versatile prowess on the field. Arsenal’s triumph not only solidifies their position at the top of the Premier League but also highlights the indispensable role played by “Mr 9/10” in their ongoing success.
