Arsenal vs Brighton: 3 talking points from 0-0 draw

3. Did Differing Emotions Impact the Arsenal Performance?

After the hype surrounding the North London Derby in the week leading up to the match, every player knew the importance of a positive result. Brighton away does not have the same allure. But it shouldn’t be treated differently.

From the outset, it was clear Brighton was up for the fight and Arsenal wasn’t. For whatever reason the hosts just appeared to want it more. Their energy was outstanding. When the big boys come to town, the home sides give it their best shot and the Seagulls did tonight, albeit to no avail.

There was bound to be some form of an emotional letdown after the huge result against Tottenham and this rang true against Graham Potter’s men. The Gunners can consider themselves fortunate to come away with a point but after the week prior, perhaps a point isn’t the end of the world. It’s still ten points from four matches.

Three would have been perfect but after a match in which grave importance was placed, Brighton didn’t have the same feel to it and maybe the difference in emotion was on display for all to see. Which, if the case, is unacceptable. Only those inside the locker room will know for sure but watching from afar, it was evident that something was missing.

The team struggled. Badly. Whether it was from Brighton’s effective high pressing or other factors it was clear that this was not the same Arsenal side that tore Spurs apart a week ago.

Perhaps it was just an off day for Mikel Arteta and Arsenal. Every club has those. But this felt a little different and had the game been lost, questions would of been asked. It is not the be all and end all, as there is bound to be ups and downs throughout a season, but after its poor start, the margin for error for Arsenal and Arteta grows slimmer by the week.