Chelsea lost 2-1 to Arsenal in a set-piece-dominated derby, as Liam Rosenior’s team once again displayed a deeply troubling disciplinary issue. The hosts broke the deadlock at the 21-minute mark with William Saliba netting from close range following a corner. Chelsea equalised through a corner of their own. Reece James’ cross was inadvertently deflected into his own goal by Piero Hincapie just before the half-time whistle.

Yet Arsenal regained the lead via another corner. Jurrien Timber headed in to re-establish the Gunners’ advantage. Pedro Neto was subsequently shown a red card for receiving two bookings in quick succession. The Chelsea winger was initially cautioned for his protests following Arsenal’s second goal and then received a second yellow for cynically bringing down Gabriel Martinelli. Neto’s dismissal marked the ninth time Chelsea have had a player sent off this campaign. Express Sport rates and slates the Blues…

An anxious start for the Chelsea goalkeeper. He was overly relaxed on the ball at the edge of his own box and Viktor Gyokeres nearly punished him but couldn’t quite dispossess him. His carelessness in possession persisted and he appeared to be questioning every choice. Weak for Arsenal’s second goal, as well, as he misjudged the trajectory of the ball.

James was overpowered at the far post by Gabriel Magalhaes, who assisted Saliba’s goal. However, defending against someone like Gabriel in those circumstances is exceptionally difficult. James’ delivery was remarkably impressive. There aren’t many superior crossers of the football in the Premier League and that match demonstrated precisely that. His corner prompted the own goal just before half-time.

A first Premier League start for the 20-year-old defender, replacing the suspended Wesley Fofana. A challenging start with Sarr taking excessive time in possession at moments. He progressed as the match continued, though.

Chalobah performed well in several one-on-one situations with Gyokeres. He also claimed a couple of vital headers when Arsenal were flooding the box from corners.

Merely his fourth start in the Premier League. A careless beginning from Hato, who kept surrendering possession unnecessarily. As noted with Sarr, though, Hato made progress as the game continued.

Santos was OK, without being exceptional in midfield. He competed well in there.

Battling for everything on the pitch and more frequently than not, the Ecuadorian reached the ball first. Among Chelsea’s finest performers.

Palmer carried possession effectively and frequently appeared as the sole player seeking to drive Chelsea forward. Regrettably his final delivery was lacking. Had a fitness scare in the first half, but he continued.

Certainly not Fernandez’s finest afternoon. He has been excellent lately but genuinely toiled at the Emirates. Chelsea required him to be more composed in possession and demonstrate superior judgement.

Neto frequently served as Chelsea’s outlet when breaking forward but he was incapable of delivering the desired influence. These types of exasperating performances are occurring too regularly now for Neto. Sent off, quite stupidly.

The Brazilian engaged in numerous physical duels with the Arsenal backline. Occasionally he might have shown greater strength with his hold-up play. Spent excessive time on the turf. Was considerably more threatening in the second period which has elevated his rating somewhat.

Substitutes

Romeo Lavia (on for Santos 75′) – 6

Positive to witness him return to action but it came in challenging circumstances.

Malo Gusto (on for Hato 75′) – 6

Incapable of influencing proceedings significantly when introduced 75 minutes into the match.

Alejandro Garnacho (on for Palmer 86′) – N/A

Nearly secured the leveller in added time.

Liam Delap (on for Fernandez 86′) – N/A

Missed a good chance towards the end but didn’t spend enough time on the pitch to earn a fair rating.