Brentford 1–1 Arsenal: Gunners held as title race heats up | OneFootball

Arsenal were held to a 1–1 draw against Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium in the Premier League, leaving them four points behind Manchester City.

Noni Madueke opened the scoring in the second half before Keane Lewis-Potter equalised, as the points were shared in the London derby.

As it happened

A slow opening to the game was brought to life in the 24th minute after David Raya got himself into trouble, gifting Keane Lewis-Potter the opportunity to deliver a ball into the box for Thiago. The striker’s effort looked goal-bound, but Raya recovered well to produce an excellent save.

That chance appeared to wake Arsenal up, with the Gunners growing into the first half, though they were unable to carve out any clear-cut opportunities in a frustrating opening period for the league leaders. Brentford were the happier of the two sides as the teams went into the interval level.

The second half proved far more entertaining, with Arsenal starting strongly and eventually getting the goal their pressure deserved. Noni Madueke rose highest to meet a superb delivery from Piero Hincapié, guiding his header beyond Caoimhín Kelleher to give the visitors the lead.

However, Brentford responded just 10 minutes later, once again making use of their dangerous long throw-ins, which have been such a key weapon for them this season. Michael Kayode launched the ball into the box, where Van den Berg flicked it on for Lewis-Potter at the back post, whose powerful header beat Raya to level the contest.

The remainder of the second half was packed with chances at both ends. Igor Thiago went close on two occasions, but crucial defensive interventions denied the striker a potential 18th league goal of the season.

Arsenal had one final opportunity to snatch all three points late on when Gabriel Martinelli found space in the box, but he was unable to guide his effort past Kelleher, who made a strong save to earn Brentford a well-deserved point.

The draw sees Arsenal lose ground in the title race, bringing Manchester City further into the conversation, although the Gunners still hold a four-point lead with 12 games remaining. Brentford, meanwhile, continue their push for European football and remain well placed after picking up another important point.

Both sides now turn their attention to FA Cup action, with Arsenal set to host Wigan, and Brentford travelling to Macclesfield Town.