Aston Villa's Comeback Erodes Arsenal's Lead To Force Draw

 

In a jaw-dropping turn of events, Arsenal's seemingly comfortable 2-0 lead was dramatically erased as Aston Villa staged an incredible comeback to secure a 2-2 draw at the Emirates Stadium.

The match began with Arsenal dominating proceedings, and they came agonizingly close to opening the scoring just nine minutes in. Thomas Partey's shot from a corner sailed over the bar, but it was a sign of things to come.

The Gunners' pressure eventually paid off in the 34th minute as Gabriel Martinelli reacted quickest to Leandro Trossard's cross, getting in ahead of Ian Maatsen to score despite Emi Martinez's best efforts.

Trossard yet again facilitated the second goal, collecting the ball and taking his time before sending a cross in for Kai Havertz to volley in. The Emirates Stadium was rocking, and Villa's hopes seemed to be slipping away.

However, Unai Emery's side refused to give up. Youri Tielemans got his head to a fantastic cross from substitute Lucas Digne to send it beyond David Raya, and an Arsenal midfielder came close to tying it up just a minute later, only to see his shot hit the post.

Villa restored the game to level terms following Matty Cash's cross that arrived just right for Ollie Watkins' header. The England forward was left unmarked for a great chance to score the equalizer. 

Arsenal pushed to regain their lead, but VAR intervened to disallow a goal from Mikel Merino for a handball from Havertz. Merino came close again in stoppage time, only to hit the post.

In the end, Villa held on to collect a valuable point, leaving Arsenal six points behind Liverpool, who boast a game in hand. The result will be unpleasant to Mikel Arteta's side, who seemed to have the win in the bag.

Overview

It was quite an unlucky game for Arsenal and Villa deserved the point they earned even as the Gunners dominated many parts of the game. Trossard was the catalyst for his contributions leading to the goal. He made the left wing really effective for Arsenal to break through into Villa's defense, The two goals conceded could have been avoided especially Watkins', who was left unmarked in between defenders.