Gunners' Winning Run Ends in Dramatic Stadium of Light Clash
Arsenal's impressive winning streak came to a dramatic halt on Saturday night as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Sunderland at the Stadium of Light. The Black Cats, who have emerged as the Premier League's surprise package this season, fought back in stoppage time to deny the Gunners all three points.
Match Analysis: From Dominance to Disappointment
The match began with Sunderland taking an unexpected lead when Dan Ballard fired past David Raya in the first half. The defender outmuscled Declan Rice to reach a long ball before expertly finishing past the Arsenal goalkeeper.
Arsenal responded strongly after the break, turning the game on its head with two well-taken goals. Bukayo Saka equalised with a neat finish at the near post after being set up by makeshift striker Mikel Merino. The comeback appeared complete when Leandro Trossard hammered a beautiful effort into the top corner in the 74th minute.
However, Sunderland had the final say when Brian Brobbey scored in the 94th minute, beating both Gabriel and Raya to a Ballard knock-down to rescue a point for the home side.
Arsenal Player Ratings: Standouts and Struggles
David Raya: 6/10 - Couldn't do much about either goal and made some important saves throughout the match.
Riccardo Calafiori: 5/10 - Had a difficult evening against Sunderland's energetic attack and struggled to impose himself.
Gabriel: 6/10 - Generally solid but will be disappointed with the late equaliser after being beaten by Brobbey.
William Saliba: 7/10 - The French defender stood out in Arsenal's back line with another composed performance.
The result leaves Arsenal reflecting on what might have been after appearing to have secured all three points before Sunderland's late intervention. The Gunners will need to regroup quickly as they look to maintain their position in the Premier League table.
