Arsenal Drop Points In Goalless Draw Against Newcastle
Top-of-the-league Arsenal dominated at home against third-placed Newcastle, but struggled to create quality chances, with the game ultimately ending in a goalless draw which is good news for second-placed Manchester City more than anyone else.
The Gunners had the lion’s share of possession and created more chances that the visitors, but were generally wasteful and lacking incision or composure in the final third.
Both sides kept pressing for a winner late in the game, with Newcastle trying to sneak a goal which could have seen them overtake the Citizens. It wasn’t to be, however, and both managers will leave the game frustrated.
Mikel Arteta’s side stay top, of course, but the draw means that City could narrow the gap to five points if they beat Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Thursday. The result also ends Arsenal’s run of five straight Premier League wins.
Next up for the Gunners is an FA Cup Third Round tie away to Oxford United on Monday before returning to league duty on the 15th with the North London derby. If ever an extra incentive was needed for a game against Spurs, Arsenal have one now, with their pride and, likely, their lead, dented today.
Newcastle, meanwhile, have two cup ties before their next Premier League game. First they travel to Sheffield Wednesday in the FA Cup on Saturday before welcoming Leicester in the EFL Cup quarter-final on Tuesday.
