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Arsenal and Newcastle played out a tight and tense draw at the Emirates Stadium on Tuesday night as neither side was able to secure the three points in a game that, for the neutrals, was thrilling despite the lack of goals.
Mikel Arteta named an unchanged side from the one that defeated Brighton 4-2 last time out.
It was a rather intense first half. There weren’t many chances and the challenges were flying in with several players from both teams picking up yellow cards. Arsenal started the better, but Newcastle grew into the game.
The second half followed a similar pattern to the first. Arsenal had the majority of the ball but couldn’t break down a Newcastle side who were comfortable in sitting back and not offering much going forward.
Overall, both picked up a point as Arsenal huffed and puffed but couldn’t get the all-important winning goal.
Arsenal 0-0 Newcastle: 3 talking points from feisty encounter
The game provided some talking points, here they are.
1. Nketiah leads well
While not a swashbuckling performance, Nketiah put himself about against a strong Newcastle backline. He chased, harassed, and put in a good shift against what is a stout defence.
He retained possession well in tight spaces and was always an option going forward. While there was no goal to his name, Nketiah led the line well in a big game with his physicality and ability to bring others into play.
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2. A point is a point
Coming into the game, Arsenal would have wanted three points. The Gunners didn’t get it, but at least they didn’t lose and they still extended their lead over Manchester City… even if it doesn’t feel like it.
The tactical battle at the Emirates was a sight to behold, and while Arsenal didn’t get what they came for, a point is far better than the alternative. At this stage of the season, accumulating points is all that matters, even if it isn’t a win.
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3. Reinforcements are needed
The 0-0 draw at home showed us something that most already know. Reinforcements are needed. With the Gunners starting XI trying to break down a stout defence, aside from Fabio Vieira, there was no other player capable of changing the game.
As a result, Mikel Arteta made just one change on Tuesday night: Takehiro Tomiyasu for Ben White.
Arsenal needed another offensive outlet to come on and try and change the game, but they didn’t have it.