Tim Krul (8) - A really good performance from our young keeper. He did very well in handling the crosses which came into the box and made some really good saves. On a performance like this I wonder whether he should become our number one.
Danny Simpson (8) - I thought he too had a really good game. He defended well and offered a little going forward although he did not always get the chance. What I liked about his performance today was the fact that he got stuck in and put in some good tackles as well as a fine block in the second half.
Mike Williamson (7.5) - Solid in the air, he gave Chamakh no room to be effective. Together with Coloccini he marshaled the back line superbly.
Fabricio Coloccini (8) - A very calming influence at the back once more it must be said. He made numerous interceptions and read the game superbly, the hallmark of any top defender. His partnership with Williamson at centre back has been one of the highlights of our year and it was very evident in this game.Jose Enrique (7.5) - Apart from seeing Walcott hit the post when coming in on his inside in the second half , Enrique dealt really well with the pacy winger and generally looked assured in defence.
Joey Barton (7.5) - He kept the ball really nicely for us and worked very hard. He's set pieces were not to his standards of the last few weeks but he did set up the goal so don't think I can be too harsh on him. Has continued his good form thus far.
Cheik Tiote (8) - Overall he was outstanding in his defensive midfield role. He kept the ball superbly at times, while other times he lost the ball, but he did his job and very well at that.
Kevin Nolan (7) - He wasn't in the game as much but he went about his business quietly and played some neat balls for us to counter attack from.
Jonas Gutierrez (6) - This wasn't one of his better games but what he did do, was work really hard for the team. He was guilty of giving the ball away too often in this match but it was his run that earned us the free kick which led to the goal so his contribution should not go unnoticed.
Shola Ameobi (6.5) - I remember him making a block in the first half, from an Arsenal set piece and that is a sign of the improvement in his work rate in the last few weeks. He worked hard for the team and it's a side of his game which was questioned in previous seasons but shouldn't be judging by his recent performances.
Andy Carroll (8) - He earns the Man of the Match for three reasons. Firstly, he scored the only goal of the match and took it really nicely even though some may blame the goalkeeper. As far as I'm concerned he still had a bit to do and he should take credit for that. Secondly his work rate was exceptional and lastly I lost count of the number of defensive headers he won so he deserves it for me. Barring injury, I can't not see him in the next England squad.Substitute
Nile Ranger (7) - Came on and did well to help us secure the win.
Man of the Match - Andy Carroll
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