Arsenal let their two-goal lead slip for the second time as West Ham staged a hearty comeback.
Watching Man City vs Leicester match yesterday and Arsenal vs West Ham today, one would say Arsenal copied Man City but buckled. Manchester City race into a three-goal lead within 25 minutes against Leicester was a show of intent that they are still in the race. Arsenal start against West Ham was therefore an emphatic reply.
Arsenal were at their slick best from the off and cut West Ham down to size within ten minutes. Gabriel Jesus gave Arsenal the perfect start as he rounded off an eye-catching team move within the opening few minutes. The Brazilian now has nine goals in all competitions for the season and has scored in each of his last three Premier League games.
Shortly after, captain Martin Odegaard doubled the lead. He volleyed home from close range after more slick play from Mikel Arteta’s men. Like City, Arsenal wobbled against West Ham. But unlike their rivals, they weren’t able to hold out as they let their advantage slip having been incharge.
Thereafter, momentum swung though as Said Benrahma reduced the deficit from the penalty spot. Bukayo Saka had a golden opportunity to put his side back in charge from the spot after a Michail Antonio handball. Unfortunately, he blazed his effort wide.
Jarrod Bowen then completed an impressive comeback from the Hammers. Given the change of mementum and atmosphere within the London Stadium, it was certainly no surprise to see Moyes’ men get themselves level. It was also no shock to see when was on the schoresheet.
The 26-year-old had scored in each of his last two games against Arsenal and made it a hat-trick with another well-taken strike. He latched onto Thilo Kehrer’s lofted ball into the box to fire beyond Aaron Ramsdale having been played onside by Gabriel.
While Moyes was delighted to see him keep up his hot form against Arsenal, he will hope that the winger’s goalscroing run continues for the remainder of the season.
Arsenal has been unstoppable when taking the lead. In their last two matches however, they have showed signs of vulnerability. This is something that could actually cost them in the Premier League title race.
At Anfield against Liverpool, they were cruising before Mo Salah found the net in the 42nd minute. After that point, the momentum completely swung. The situation was similar at the London Stadium.
Immediately after Benrahma found the net from the spot, West Ham were the better side and an equaliser looked inevitable. Those four dropped points could be terminal as the Gunners attempt to beat Man City to the title. In this case, Arteta must find a quick soloution for the lack of concentration sooner rather than later.