Football Review | Newcastle United 1 - 2 Arsenal

Gabriel struck a 96th-minute winner as Arsenal secured a dramatic victory over Newcastle.

The defender rose to meet Martin Ødegaard’s corner, sending manager Mikel Arteta into celebration on the touchline.

Author | DJ

Stadium | St. James' Park

Mikel Merino's glancing header off the post in the 84th minute had cancelled out Nick Woltemade's Newcastle opener in what had appeared like it was going to be a missed opportunity following Liverpool’s defeat to Crystal Palace earlier in the weekend. They now sit only two points behind the league leaders.

Closer analysis of what happened

Newcastle had looked set for victory when Woltemade rose above Gabriel to meet Sandro Tonali’s inswinging cross and power a header past Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya.

Gabriel went down theatrically in his own box after feeling contact, prompting Arsenal players to surround referee Jarred Gillett, but the goal stood.

The visitors’ frustration had already been evident after a penalty award was overturned following a VAR intervention while the match was still goalless. Striker Viktor Gyokeres appeared to be brought down by Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope around the 15th minute. Gillett initially pointed to the spot but reversed his decision after consulting the pitchside monitor, announcing to the stadium that Pope “played the ball and there was no foul”.

Despite Woltemade giving Newcastle the lead, Arsenal demonstrated resilience to snatch victory in the final moments.

More Arsenal fan reaction

Shaun: We needed that win. It is still early in the season, but keeping the pressure on Liverpool is vital. One concern is that Gyokeres has yet to score in big games, though that may reflect the way we play. He is a target man who relies on deliveries into the box.

Carl: We need more creativity up front and chances must be taken. While the defence holds firm, the attack has to do its part. We cannot keep depending on corners and free-kicks. It was a much-needed win, but far harder than it should have been.

Philip: Wow, what a moment that was. Check out the picture I took from the away end.

Lewis: I can feel the team’s determination now. We did not start the season as well as we might have hoped, but with Saka back, the squad is fully together.

Laura: After Newcastle’s goal I was honestly bewildered by the game plan and the line-up, but as always, Arteta proved the doubters wrong. The referee was poor and VAR added nothing. Overall, it was a hard-fought win that underlines our ambitions for the season, including the Premier League title.

Bryan: Arteta took the brake off and it showed.