Football Review | West Ham 0 - 1 Arsenal

Where to even start with this one...

Leandro Trossard’s late winner moved Arsenal a step closer to the title and dragged West Ham deeper into relegation trouble.

Author | Jamie Pugh

Stadium | London Stadium

Arsenal had been frustrated for long periods by the struggling Hammers until Trossard, who had struck the woodwork twice in quick succession during the first half, finally broke the deadlock seven minutes from time when his effort took a decisive deflection off Tomas Soucek.

The breakthrough arrived moments after a crucial intervention from David Raya, who denied Mateus Fernandes from point-blank range just as West Ham threatened to seize the initiative. The victory leaves Arsenal five points clear of Manchester City, albeit having played a game more.

Last minute VAR controversy

West Ham believed they had rescued a point deep into stoppage time when Callum Wilson turned in an equaliser, only for the goal to be ruled out following a lengthy VAR review for a foul on Raya. The decision sparked furious protests from the home crowd.

The controversy may yet prove one of the defining VAR moments of the Premier League season given the implications at both ends of the table.

For Arsenal, there was relief and celebration.

For West Ham, the picture looks increasingly bleak. They remain in the relegation zone, a point behind Tottenham having played a match more.

Arsenal controlled much of the opening period but lost rhythm after Mikel Arteta unexpectedly shifted Declan Rice to right-back following Ben White’s departure with a knee injury.

Rice returned to midfield after the interval, though by then West Ham had grown into the contest. Raya was required to make another important save after earlier keeping out a Taty Castellanos header, producing an outstanding stop to deny Fernandes when the midfielder appeared certain to score.

Trossard’s decisive contribution eventually settled the contest before Wilson’s disallowed effort ensured Arsenal, already through to the Champions League final, edged closer to a first league title in 22 years.