After a disappointing midweek defeat to FC Porto in the UEFA Champions League, Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal would be looking to return to their impressive form in the Premier League as they welcomed Newcastle United to Emirates Stadium.
ARS: Raya; Kiwior, Gabriel, Saliba, White; Rice, Jorginho, Ødegaard; Martinelli, Havertz, Saka
NEW: Karius; Livramento, Botman, Schär, Trippier; Miley, Guimarães, Longstaff; Gordon, Isak, Almirón
A win for Arsenal seemed to be written in the stars from the very start of Saturday’s contest in North London, as an unfortunate Sven Botman found the back of his own net after Loris Karius had done well to deny Gabriel from a corner.
Gabriel Martinelli capitalised on uncertainty amongst the Newcastle United defence just six minutes later, threading a ball through for Kai Havertz to slot home and double Arsenal’s lead. The Gunners never looked back.
Embed from Getty ImagesTwo goals in four minutes came shortly after the hour mark had passed, with Havertz first teeing up Bukayo Saka for a neat finish into the bottom-left corner before Jakub Kiwior bundled home from a Declan Rice corner.
The Magpies did manage to net a late consolation goal through Joe Willock, who saw his lopping header fly over David Raya – but it was arguably the only positive from a dismal away performance that leaves a lot to be desired from Eddie Howe’s side.
Arsenal remain two points behind Liverpool in the Premier League table, while Newcastle United continue to sit just outside of the European qualification spots in 8th.
The Gunners travel to Sheffield United on March 4, while Newcastle United must visit Blackburn Rovers in the Emirates FA Cup before they can turn their attention to Saturday’s home clash with Wolves.
