Arsenal’s Premier League title charge was checked as the leaders could find no way through third-placed Newcastle United in a disappointing 0-0 draw at the Emirates Stadium.
Victory would have given Arsenal a 10-point lead but they had to make do with a point against a rock-solid Newcastle who defended superbly to remain unbeaten since August.
The closest the hosts came to breaking the deadlock was in the 87th minute when Newcastle keeper Nick Pope made a great save to keep out a low shot by Eddie Nketiah while Arsenal also had a vociferous late penalty claim waved away.
Newcastle, who have the stingiest defence in the top flight this season, were content to sit deep for most of the evening although Joelinton wasted a good opportunity before the break.
Relive Arsenal vs Newcastle with our blog below:
