Arsenal player ratings: Alexis Sanchez and Per Mertesacker shine in FA Cup Final
CF Theo Walcott 7.5
Walcott’s pace was just too much for the opposition, as he consistently got in behind the defense and was available for high though-balls that were mostly hit just a bit too long, allowing Given to collect them. His goal was an absolutely beautiful volley off of his left food, and he helped set it up by giving Sanchez a sweet pass before finding space behind everybody else in the case of a rebound. He got his favorable rebound, but still had plenty of work to do in order to beat Given at the near post.
The only real criticism I have of Walcott’s performance is the fact that he mis-timed a few of his runs (four offside calls against him), but his running was excellent and critical overall.