Arsenal vs. AC Milan: Rating Players from Gunners' 3-0 Champions League Exit

It was almost the comeback of the decade. It still might be the most memorable match in Emirates Stadium history. But at the end of the night, all Arsenal accomplished was learning just how deep of a hole four goals was to climb out of.

In the first half, it looked as though the Gunners were going to make a comeback of it. Laurent Koscielny had a fine header in goal in the opening minutes that got Emirates Stadium singing "Arsenal are by far the greatest team!" at the top of their lungs. Tomas Rosicky's goal minutes later to make it 2-0 only added fuel to the fire. 

But it wasn't until Robin van Persie converted a penalty kick right before halftime and put Arsenal up 3-0 that you knew there was going to be something different about this match.

But the second half was scoreless for both sides, as Arsenal slowed down a hair and AC Milan started to get wise of the English side's tactics.

The team looked absolutely brilliant overall, but it's hard to overcome being down four goals in the second leg of a playoff. How did the individuals grade out? Check out my player ratings and let me know if you agree.

Goalkeeper

Wojciech Szczesny: 8.0

Rushed several shots, forcing AC Milan's attempts wide, and made some athletic, highlight-reel saves. Kept a clean sheet and did everything he could to force extra time with the visiting Italians.

Defenders

Laurent Koscielny: 8.0 

An incredible display of athleticism and power on the header by the French international who put the ball in the back of the net for the second time all season. Started off the match making sure everything was coming up Arsenal.

Thomas Vermaelen: 7.5

Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny didn't face a shot on goal until the 53rd minute, meaning Vermaelen and Koscielny did their jobs well. Played through the last part of the match clutching his stomach, leading to several cheap shots on goal in the waning minutes.

Kieran Gibbs: 7.0

Physical play, great clearances, accurate passes to fellow defenders and readiness to support the midfield. What more can you ask for?

Bacary Sagna: 7.5

As outstanding as always along the right flank. Supported the attack well and fed the ball to Walcott in ways that allowed the midfielder to keep pace in the midfield. Showed strong tendencies in linking up with van Persie that nearly paid serious dividends.

Midfielders

Tomas Rosicky: 8.0

Incredible finish on the second goal of the match. Was disciplined to his position as attacking midfielder and stayed true to his zone. A real asset for Arsenal.

Alex Song: 7.0

Played smart and physical for most of the game, but a clumsy tackle on Zlatan Ibrahimovic got him into trouble in the middle of the second half. Had to play the last 30 minutes with caution.

Gervinho: 7.5

Fed the ball to van Persie several times, but nothing came to fruition for the 24-year-old. Showed energy and discipline as he roamed AC Milan's side of the field all night.

Forwards

Theo Walcott: 8.5

Absolutely dangerous on the right flank. His crosses were pinpoint accurate, and his assist on Rosicky's goal to put Arsenal up 2-0 showed that the English international may be young, but he's experienced.

Robin van Persie: 8.0 

Pressured AC Milan goalkeeper Christian Abbiati well, especially in the first half. His penalty kick conversion right before halftime made everyone believe Arsenal could actually take the night.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain: 7.5

Deadly cross to Koscielny to open the scoring and give the Italian champions a bit of a scare. His long passes, especially to Walcott at the end of the match, were things of beauty.

Marouane Chamakh: 7.0

Came on for The Ox and played out the last 15 minutes. No news was good news for the Moroccan international tonight.