Arsenal missed the chance to go 10 points clear in the Premier League title race after being held 0-0 at home by a gritty Newcastle.
In what was a tempestuous encounter, Arsenal failed to score in a Premier League match for the first time in 17 games as they struggled to create quality chances against Eddie Howe’s team despite bossing possession.
Arsenal’s frustrations were raised further in injury time as a late penalty appeal for a handball from Jacob Murphy was not awarded by referee Andy Madley and VAR did not intervene. Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta called it a “scandalous” decision.
The result further strengthened Newcastle’s case for a top-four finish as they defended their box expertly and protected their goalkeeper Nick Pope. Howe’s side remains the best defense in the Premier League this season, conceding just 11 goals and keeping 10 clean sheets.
