Arsenal lead trimmed after Sunderland snatch late draw

Arsenal were forced to settle for a draw at the Stadium of Light as Sunderland struck late to halt the league leaders’ momentum and underline their growing Premier League reputation.

The Gunners appeared on course for an 11th straight victory after goals from Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard overturned Dan Ballard’s opener, but substitute Brian Brobbey’s stoppage-time equaliser earned the hosts a well-deserved point.

It was a frustrating night for Mikel Arteta’s side, whose lead at the top of the table has now been trimmed to seven points, with Manchester City and Liverpool still to play this weekend.

Arsenal had not conceded since late September and arrived in the north-east on the back of a 10-match winning run, but Sunderland refused to be intimidated.

The promoted side, inspired by captain and former Gunner Granit Xhaka, showed grit and belief throughout a high-tempo contest.

The hosts were rewarded for their enterprise when Ballard, another ex-Arsenal man, powered home from a loose ball after a set piece midway through the first half. That goal ended Arsenal’s run of eight consecutive clean sheets in all competitions.

Sunderland pressed aggressively and unsettled the visitors early on, but Arsenal responded with authority after the break.

Declan Rice won possession deep in midfield before combining with Mikel Merino and Eberechi Eze to set up Saka, who beat Robin Roefs at his near post to restore parity.

The turnaround seemed complete when Trossard curled a fine right-footed effort into the top corner from the edge of the box, capping a well-worked move down the left.

Arsenal pushed for a third, but fatigue and Sunderland’s persistence kept the game alive. David Raya made one fine save to deny Brobbey late on, but the substitute found redemption deep into stoppage time with a sharp acrobatic finish to level the scores.

The goal sparked jubilation in the stands and frustration for Arsenal, who could not find a response before full-time.

Sunderland remain unbeaten at home this season and have now climbed to third place, an extraordinary feat for a newly-promoted side.

Arsenal still lead the way, but this setback serves as a reminder that every title chase faces its tests — and Sunderland, full of spirit and determination, provided a fierce one.

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