Arsenal’s lead at the top of the table was cut short to 2 points after the Gunners were held to a 1-1 at St. Mary’s.

Arteta fielded same XI that defeated Leeds 1-0 at Elland Road and expectedly got the first goal of the game in the 11th minute. Saka and White worked the ball on the right before the latter’s cross was connected by Granit Xhaka for the opener.

The Swiss International is having the best of seasons for Arsenal with a more advanced role. Yesterday’s goal was similar to the goal against PSV in the Europa League on Thursday. Both goals were from his weaker right foot.

The Gunners failed to capitalise on the momentum and missed opportunities to make it 2-0 before the break. After the break, the Gunners couldn’t still convert. Gabriel Jesus was harried and hugged around by the Saints defenders but he had 2 clear chances that he missed. Those two chances were from captain Odegaard but Jesus fluffed his lines.

Days after signing a new contract with the club, Gabriel put up a very good display at the back. He made 10 clearances, won 100% of his aerial duels and had the highest number of passes played.

Southampton increased their intensity and Arsenal’s began to make poor passes. The home side were rewarded with a goal after a quick counter attack.

While the officiating could have been better, Arteta’s subs didn’t make the positive changes expected. Vieira first 2 touches were poor and he was clearly featherweight. Nketiah was deployed on the left but had his effort blocked later on.

Speaking after the game, Arteta expressed disappointment at the result. “I think we stopped doing all the simple things right”

Arsenal have drawn a Premier League game for the first time since the 0-0 against Burnley on the 23rd January: DWWWWWLWLLLWWWWLLWWWWWWLWWWWD.

In other results, Taiwo Awoniyi helped Nottingham Forest to a 1-0 win over Liverpool, Spurs lost 2-1 to Newcastle at home while Aston Villa began life after Gerrard with a 4-0 win over Brentford.

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