EPL: Alexander Isak's strike condemns Arsenal to their second loss in brutal title blow

EPL: Alexander Isak's strike condemns Arsenal to their second loss in brutal title blow

Evans Ousuru 18:00 - 02.11.2024

The Swedish striker scored the only goal in the 12th minute.

English Premier League title hopeful Arsenal suffered their second loss of the season, thanks to Alexander Isak's 12th minute  strike that gave Newcastle maximum points at their backyard. 

The Swedish striker converted  Anthony Gordon's sublime cross  to fire Eddie Howe's side at the St. James' Park as Newcastle returned to winning ways following a five-match winless run.

Arsenal, who haven't kept a clean sheet in the past six matches, once again we're punished by defensive laps that reared its ugly face. Anthony was a torn in the flesh of Arsenal defense, with his crosses troubling a dysfunctional Gunners' backline.

It took the Gunners 30 minutes to register their first shot on target before Sean Longstaff was booked in the 39th minute for a foul on Leandro Trossard as Newcastle were happy to head into halftime with a 1-0 lead.

The second half began in similar fashion with Newcastle testing Gunners goalkeeper David Raya barely a minute after the restart. 

Sandro Tonali replaced Joe Willock in the 64th minute as Newcastle added more steel in the middle of the pack. Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope required treatment on the field after hurting his thigh as the clock ticked down. 

The introduction of Brazilian Gabriel Jesus injected some attacking impetus for Arsenal but it was too little too late for the Gunners to salvage even a point. Despite dictating more  possession in the second half, the Gunners failed to count on their dominance.

Mikel Arteta's decision to start with Thomas Partey at right back was an exercise in futility. Lack of a number nine will prove costly to the Gunners' title chances. Arteta and Arsenal will have to put their act together when they face Inter Millan in the Champions League on Wednesday before settle scores with face red-hot Chelsea over the weekend in what will be a season-defining moment for Arsenal. 

Arsenal remain third on the log with 18 points but a win for both  Aston Villa and Chelsea will see the Gunner drop to fifth position.

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