Arsenal drop points in title chase after Brentford force draw at home in thrilling encounter

Arsenal were held to a 1–1 draw at Brentford’s Gtech Community Stadium by Brentford on Thursday, with Noni Madueke’s second-half header cancelled out by Keane Lewis-Potter’s equaliser in a thrilling Premier League.

The visitors arrived in west London looking to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League, especially after Manchester City’s midweek win narrowed the gap, while Brentford, sitting seventh and in strong form, were aiming to push closer to European qualification spots.

The first half was competitive and cagey, with Brentford’s physicality and organisation frustrating Arsenal’s usual patient build-up play, reports the Guardian.

The Gunners struggled to fashion clear chances and were forced to work hard to find space against a disciplined home defence.

After the break, Arsenal finally found their breakthrough. Madueke met Piero Hincapié’s cross with a powerful header in the 61st minute.

Brentford responded with renewed energy and belief just 10 minutes later, when a long throw from Michael Kayode caused chaos in the Arsenal box, and Lewis-Potter rose highest to head home and level the score, much to the delight of the home fans.

According to the Guardian, the contest opened right up thereafter, with both sides going close to snatching victory.

Brentford looked dangerous from set-pieces and transitions, while Arsenal’s substitutes pressed for a winner late on.

Despite late opportunities, including an excellent save to deny Gabriel Martinelli in stoppage time, neither side could find a decisive goal, and the match finished all square.

The point sees Arsenal’s lead at the top reduced to four points, trimming the cushion they had in the Premier League title race and giving Manchester City a springboard as the season enters its final 12 matches.

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