Arsenal’s Premier League title charge took a small dent as Brentford drew 1-1 at home on Saturday night.
Mikel Arteta’s side came into the game hoping to bounce back from their shock loss to relegation-threatened Everton last weekend. However, it was Brentford who started the better of the two sides.
Rico Henry squandered a glorious opportunity in the fifth minute when he missed on goal from just twenty feet. Ivan Toney then hit the post while Bryan Mbuemo’s goal was also disallowed for an accumulated foul.
The Gunners, however, had most of the possession, but were unable to break through Brentford’s stoic defense before half time. The league leaders produced attacking football, but the ball in the final third was always left wanting.
After the restart, both teams had a chance each, first Arsenal, when Martin Odegaard’s shot was well saved by David Raya. Five minutes later, Toney simply fired his effort inches away from the right post.
Trossard scores the first goal for Arsenal
Leandro Trossard gave Arsenal the lead on 66 minutes, just four minutes after coming on. The Belgian finished off from the far post finishing off a low cross from Bukayo Saka from the right wing.
Toney finally made up for his earlier mistakes in the 74th minute when he restored equality with a simple header from close range.
Arsenal simply couldn’t clear a loose ball from a Brentford free-kick before the England striker nodded to finish. The VAR was consulted and the goal was planted, which was nothing more than what the traveling side deserved.
Neither team could find the winning goal as both London teams settled for a draw.
The result sees Arsenal lead the top of the league table with 51 points from 21 games, six points clear of reigning champions Manchester City who play Aston Villa on Sunday.
Arteta hopes his team can regain form before hosting City for the top of the table and potential title decider on Wednesday.
Photo Credit: IMAGO/Focus Images
