Arsenal Stretch EPL Lead Despite Forest Stalemate as United Sink City

 

Arsenal moved seven points clear at the summit of the English Premier League on Saturday night, but their goalless draw with Nottingham Forest left manager Mikel Arteta frustrated at the City Ground.

The Gunners dominated large spells of the encounter yet were repeatedly denied by Forest goalkeeper Matz Sels, who produced a string of impressive saves to earn the hosts a valuable point.

Victor Gyökeres saw an early effort blocked when clean through on goal, while Gabriel Martinelli dragged a shot wide of the far post. Declan Rice also tested Sels before the interval, but the Belgian shot-stopper stood firm.

Arsenal increased the pressure after the break, with Sels brilliantly tipping over Bukayo Saka’s looping header. Mikel Merino later headed wide from a Rice free kick as the visitors searched in vain for a breakthrough.

The result means Arsenal now have 50 points from 22 matches and remain in control of the title race, although it was their second consecutive draw.

Elsewhere, Manchester City missed the chance to close the gap as they fell 2–0 to Manchester United at Old Trafford. Bryan Mbeumo and Patrick Dorgu struck for United in Michael Carrick’s first game as interim manager, condemning City to a fourth league match without victory.

Liverpool were also held to a shock 1–1 draw by struggling Burnley, while Chelsea secured a comfortable 2–0 win over Brentford.

RESULTS

Nottingham Forest 0–0 Arsenal

Chelsea 2–0 Brentford

Leeds United 1–0 Fulham

Tottenham 1–2 West Ham

Liverpool 1–1 Burnley

Sunderland 2–1 Crystal Palace

Manchester United 2–0 Manchester City