Brentford holds Arsenal in 1-1 draw

Arsenal missed the chance to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium. 

Mikel Arteta’s side, without the ill William Saliba, had hoped to secure a third successive league win but were forced to settle for a point after a hard-fought contest.

After a goalless first half, Arsenal broke the deadlock in the 61st minute.

Noni Madueke finished confidently after being set up by Piero Hincapié, giving the visitors the advantage and briefly strengthening their grip on the title race.

The goal shifted momentum in Arsenal’s favour as they looked to press home their superiority.

Brentford, however, responded with determination and were rewarded 10 minutes later. Keane Lewis-Potter rose to head home from Sepp van den Berg’s assist in the 71st minute, drawing the hosts level and energising the home crowd. 

The Bees, chasing a third straight league victory themselves, refused to sit back and continued to threaten.

The closing stages were frenetic, with both sides pushing for a winner. 

Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya was called into action late on, while Caoimhín Kelleher produced a superb save at the feet of Gabriel Martinelli to preserve parity. 

Igor Thiago also squandered a golden opportunity for Brentford, firing over when well placed in stoppage time.

Declan Rice was instrumental for Arsenal throughout, covering ground relentlessly and making crucial interceptions, including a vital late block to deny Mikkel Damsgaard. 

Cristhian Mosquera also recovered superbly to prevent Thiago from racing clear as the game stretched in the final minutes.

Despite late pressure from both teams, neither could find a decisive goal. 

The draw leaves Arsenal four points clear of Manchester City as things stand, but it will feel like a missed opportunity for the league leaders, while Brentford can take pride in another impressive performance against top opposition.