January 04, (THEWILL) – Arsenal’s perfect home record this season came to an end as Newcastle held out for a 0-0 draw at the Emirates Stadium.
In the opening minutes, Arsenal had a golden opportunity to take the lead against the meanest defence in the League as a scramble in the box fell to Martin Odegaard, but the midfielder was unable to control his strike and blazed high and wide.
The match saw tensions rise as both sides picked up yellow cards and VAR had to wave away Newcastle’s penalty shout when Dan Burn felt he was pushed late in the first half. But, the second half saw Arsenal continue to push for an opener, even as Newcastle remained resolute and rarely looked in danger of conceding.
The visitors looked to run down the clock whenever possible, playing for free kicks and slowing the game down, much to the frustration of the Arsenal players and home supporters. Still, there were chances for the Gunners as attempts by Gabriel Martinelli and Eddie Nketiah did not go in. Arsenal also had a penalty appeal against Jacob Murphy, but the referee and VAR were not convinced and the match ended goallessly.
The next match for Arteta’s team is an FA Cup match against Oxford United, followed by the north London derby against Tottenham Hotspur. Newcastle will play Sheffield Wednesday in the Cup competition before an EPL match against Leicester.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
