It was heading towards a “1-0 to the Arsenal” win at the Hawthorns until Mike Dean decided otherwise. The Baggies needed an 87th minute penalty to cancel out Alexis Sanchez’s goal three minutes before.

Yes, the Gunners have not had the best of years but the way the men in black continuously screw the team with dubious calls. What was Mike Dean thinking last night – have one last blast with Arsenal?

Kieran Gibbs in the box flicked the ball against Calum Chambers, the ball hit the Gunner’s hand. Mike Dean pointed to the spot. It shouldn’t have been. But it was given. Cech can’t save a penalty for his life. Goal.

It was excruciating. Wilshere was booked. Cech even got booked for asking about the call after the game. No 200th clean sheet for the former Chelsea man. It was a blow. The top four is slipping away.

Mike Dean awards other top teams a penalty every 5 games on average, but Arsenal a penalty every 21 games – 3 penalties in 64 matches. – culled from 7amkickoff

Expectedly, Wenger was furious and expressed his disappointment. The officiating in the Premier League continues to dwindle. None will be in the World Cup.

For Arsenal, Chelsea is next. Happy New Year.

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