Arsenal shows they are going to push Manchester City all the way in the Premier League title race with a 2-0 victory away to Newcastle United on Sunday.

It was a match that looked like a potential struggle for the Gunners, especially given their defensive frailties of late.

Newcastle have been flying high above expectations this season, sitting in third-place, although they have quietly made their vast financial advantage over the rest of the league count.

With that being said, Newcastle were outplayed by a confident Arsenal side who showed their attacking quality in bursts.

The Magpies thought they had been awarded a penalty after eight minutes when Jakub Kiwior was judged to have handballed a shot inside the penalty area.

Referee David Coote pointed to the spot without hesitation, however VAR replays then showed the Polish defender had blocked the shot with his thigh.

The decision was overturned and the Gunners virtually went up the other end and scored.

Martin Odegaard fired a low shot into the bottom corner from outside the penalty area, taking advantage of the fact Nick Pope's view was obscured.Newcastle missed chances

Aaron Ramsdale made a number of saves either side of half-time, although Newcastle will look back on these chances as missed opportunities rather than outstanding goalkeeping.

Alexander Isak's header rattled the post, but Arsenal's second-goal was decisive.

Gabriel Martinelli made the game safe with a clever run down the left touchline, holding play up, and his attempted pass to Odegaard was turned into the net by the inadvertent touch from Fabian Schar.

The number of fouls throughout the match will be a concern to both coaches, with Schar fortunate to escape a red-card in the closing stages.

Arsenal now sit one point behind Pep Guardiola's charges, whilst Newcastle can be overtaken by Manchester United if they win at West Ham later on Sunday evening. Will this win help in their title contender.

Meet the Author

View Profile

---

Owusu Gideon

Blogger

follow me