Arsenal’s long term of fresh sheets got here to an finish in dramatic style as Brian Brobbey’s stoppage-time equaliser secured a 2-2 draw for Sunderland on the Stadium of Mild on Saturday.
The end result means Arsenal conceded their first targets since September, ending a formidable defensive streak of 812 minutes, whereas Sunderland’s spirited show ensured they continue to be unbeaten at dwelling of their Premier League return.
The Black Cats, who’ve impressed underneath supervisor Regis Le Bris, had been rewarded for a vivid first-half efficiency when former Arsenal academy graduate Daniel Ballard fired within the opener, beautiful the league leaders.
Arsenal, who had gained 10 straight video games throughout all competitions, got here out combating after the break. Declan Rice gained the ball in midfield earlier than Bukayo Saka drove into the field and beat the goalkeeper with a low strike on the close to submit to stage the rating.
The guests continued to press and regarded set for one more victory when Leandro Trossard curled an outstanding 20-yard shot into the highest nook to make it 2-1. Moments later, Martin Zubimendi struck the woodwork as Arsenal pushed for a 3rd.
However Sunderland refused to surrender. Substitute Brian Brobbey, who had already seen one effort saved by David Raya, made no mistake deep into added time, hooking in a free ball within the fourth minute of stoppage time to spark wild celebrations among the many dwelling followers.
The draw leaves Arsenal seven factors clear on the prime of the desk, although second-placed Manchester Metropolis may lower the hole once they face Liverpool on Sunday. Sunderland’s level lifts them to 3rd, sustaining their spectacular unbeaten dwelling run.
Sunderland Evaluation: Black Cats Present Their Preventing Spirit
Sunderland’s return to the Premier League continues to exceed expectations. Having already crushed Chelsea at Stamford Bridge final month, this battling show in opposition to the league leaders confirmed their rising confidence and resilience.
Supervisor Regis Le Bris deserves credit score for his tactical method, utilizing each element — together with transferring promoting hoardings nearer to the pitch to restrict Arsenal’s lengthy throws — to unsettle his opponents.
Led by their captain Granit Xhaka, who relished dealing with his former membership, Sunderland pressed aggressively and refused to again down. Their willpower paid off as they grabbed a deserved late equaliser.
No staff has scored extra late targets than Sunderland this season, with 5 coming after the ninetieth minute — a testomony to their never-say-die angle.
Arsenal Evaluation: Frustration After Uncommon Slip
For Arsenal, this was a irritating night. Their defensive solidity, which had matched a 122-year-old membership report of eight straight clear sheets, lastly cracked underneath stress.
After turning the sport round with targets from Saka and Trossard, it appeared Mikel Arteta’s facet had been heading for an eleventh consecutive win. However lapses in focus in stoppage time value them two important factors.
Regardless of remaining firmly in command of the title race, Arsenal’s late collapse serves as a reminder of how relentless the Premier League could be. Arteta will hope his facet be taught from this setback as they put together for an important run of fixtures forward.
