[](https://fresharsenal.substack.com/)
Arsenal ensured they’ll be playing in the Champions League next season with a 1-0 win over Newcastle United on Sunday afternoon.
It was a lacklustre first-half performance, and in truth, the Gunners were lucky not to be behind at the break. David Raya made a string of saves to deny an Isak-less Newcastle.
A bit like last week at Anfield, a different Arsenal emerged after the break and they then moved into the lead when Declan Rice struck home superbly.
_Rate the players below and see the fan averages, and scroll down to see my ratings._
Here’s how I rated the players:
David Raya – 7 (10 for saves, 2 for kicking)
Ben White – 7
William Saliba – 6 (Calafiori on at HT – 7)
Jakub Kiwior – 9
Myles Lewis-Skelly – 7
Declan Rice – 8
Martin Odegaard – 7
Thomas Partey – 6
Gabriel Martinelli – 6
Bukayo Saka – 7
Leandro Trossard – 6
**Men of the match**: Jakub Kiwior. I thought he was brilliant today. A huge 10 clearances and a confident display. Will he be here next year? I think he’s done enough to show he should be trusted.
https://x.com/football\_pb/status/1924157841058759058