Arsenal held at home by Brentford

Arsenal’s Premier League title charge took a minor dent as they were held 1-1 at home by Brentford on Saturday evening. Mikel Arteta’s side came into the match hoping to recover from their shock defeat to relegation-threatened Everton last weekend. However, it was Brentford who started the better of the two sides. Rico Henry missed […]

Arsenal’s Premier League title charge took a minor dent as they were held 1-1 at home by Brentford on Saturday evening.

Mikel Arteta’s side came into the match hoping to recover from their shock defeat to relegation-threatened Everton last weekend. However, it was Brentford who started the better of the two sides.

Rico Henry missed a glorious opportunity in the fifth minute when he failed to hit the target from just six yards. Ivan Toney then hit the post while Bryan Mbuemo’s goal was also disallowed for a foul in buildup.

The Gunners however had the majority of the possession but were unable to break down Brentford’s stoic defense going into halftime. The league leaders did produce attacking football but the ball in the final third was always left wanting.

After the restart, both sides had an opportunity each, Arsenal first, when Martin Odegaard’s effort was well saved by David Raya. Five minutes later, Toney just blazed his effort inches wide off the right post.

Trossard scores first goal for Arsenal

Leandro Trossard gave Arsenal the lead in the 66th minute, just four minutes after coming on. The Belgian slotted home from the far post finishing off Bukayo Saka’s low cross from the right wing.

Toney scores in another big game

Toney finally atoned for his previous misses in the 74th minute when he restored parity with a simple header from close range.

Arsenal just couldn’t clear a loose ball from Brentford’s free-kick before the English striker nodded home to finish. VAR was consulted and the goal stood which was nothing than more what the traveling side deserved.

Neither side could find the winning goal as both the London sides settled for a draw.

The result sees Arsenal lead the top of the league standings with 51 points from 21 games, six points clear of reigning Champions Manchester City who play Aston Villa on Sunday.

Arteta will hope his side can recover form before hosting City for the top of the table and potential title-deciding clash on Wednesday.

Photo credit: IMAGO / Focus Images