Arsenal and the final day: 5 of the best matches in club history

Arsenal will sign off a whirlwind 2022/23 campaign this weekend when they host an inconsistent Wolves team at the Emirates Stadium.

In contrast with recent seasons, there is little importance tied to our last game as the visitors have already made sure of Premier League survival, while the Gunners will look forward to a much-needed summer break following their unsuccessful title bid.

The minimal excitement on this occasion pales in comparison to our thrilling final-day matches over the years, where several high-stakes encounters inspired big moments and created new north London legends that have since become part of club folklore.

5 of the best final-day encounters in Arsenal history 

From Champions League drama to title winners at the death, here are five of the best final-day meetings in Arsenal history.

1. Liverpool 0-2 Arsenal (1988/89)

Football certainly did exist before 1992, and the First Division era produced its own ‘Agueroooooo’ finale in 1989 which will be forever etched in the collective Arsenal memory.

The circumstances surrounding Anfield ’89 are well known to any Gooner worth their salt: Arsenal had slipped up in their two preceding home fixtures, Liverpool were the reigning champions and George Graham’s side needed to win by at least two goals to leapfrog them into first place – a prospect few anticipated when the clock ticked into additional time.

However, leapfrog them they did as John Lukic started a quick attack in the last minute and a long ball forward soon found a composed Alan Smith, whose pass to Michael Thomas enabled a cool finish and secured our first league title in 18 years.

An incredible climax that was worthy of the prize.

Continued on the next slide…