For Arsenal’s longsuffering supporters, the emotional strain is reaching unbearable levels. They could only watch in stunned disbelief as Alex Scott’s goal 16 minutes from time condemned the Premier League leaders to a defeat Mikel Arteta must fear could prove to be extremely significant.
While Arsenal’s advantage over Manchester City remains nine points for now, another loss at the Etihad next Sunday would give City an opportunity to draw level on points if they beat Chelsea on Sunday and then win their game in hand against Crystal Palace. Having set the pace since the start of October, that is the nightmare scenario Arsenal must confront after another disappointing performance that once more belied their anxieties at this crucial stage of the season.
