Former Arsenal goalkeeper David Seaman has pinpointed David Raya's decision-making as the crucial factor in Arsenal's dramatic 2-2 draw with Sunderland on Saturday night.
Late Drama at the Stadium of Light
Mikel Arteta's side found themselves trailing at half-time after Dan Ballard put the home team in front. The Premier League leaders improved after the break, with Bukayo Saka equalising before Leandro Trossard's brilliant effort from the edge of the box handed them the lead.
However, Sunderland mounted a fierce response. In the 94th minute, an excellent flick-on header from Ballard found Brian Brobbey, who acrobatically steered the ball past the onrushing Raya to rescue a dramatic draw for the Black Cats.
Seaman's Goalkeeping Analysis
Analysing the late equaliser for Premier League Productions, Seaman directly questioned Raya's actions. "Whether Raya should come, I'd question that," Seaman stated. "And the way he comes for the ball, he tries to catch it. Is he aware of the guy [Brobbey] getting close?"
The Arsenal legend, who won three league titles with the club, suggested an alternative approach. "It's a great finish by Brobbey but I would just question the decision of Raya, whether he should come and try to punch it, rather than try to catch it."
Premier League Implications
The draw at the Stadium of Light leaves Arsenal seven points clear at the top of the Premier League, though that advantage could be reduced by Manchester City, Liverpool, Bournemouth, or Chelsea in their upcoming fixtures.
Despite the dropped points, Seaman remains confident about Arsenal's title prospects. "This was a difficult game, especially when you looked at it first half," he said. "Sunderland were well-organised, and they knew exactly what they needed to do with Arsenal."
Seaman concluded with an optimistic outlook for his former club: "But Arsenal... they're in a good position because this was a big test."
