Arsenal FC clinched their second Premier League win of the season as Fabricio Coloccini’s own goal gifted the Gunners a scrappy 1-0 success at 10-man Newcastle on Saturday.
After Monday’s goalless draw with Liverpool FC left them with one victory from their opening three matches, Arsene Wenger’s spluttering side were already in danger of being cast adrift in the title race.
Although they were below their best again, Arsenal FC got back on track at St James’ Park with the help of hot-headed Newcastle striker Aleksandar Mitrovic’s latest indiscretion.
Arsenal FC were denied a stone wall penalty when Bellerin was clipped inside the box by Thauvin
Referee Andre Marriner had infuriated Wenger when Arsenal FC were denied an early penalty after right-back Hector Bellerin appeared to have his heel trodden on by Florian Thauvin as he burst into the Newcastle area.
But Marriner was back in Wenger’s good books in the 16th minute when he sent off Mitrovic after the Serbia international needlessly stamped on Francis Coquelin’s ankle as he stretched in a failed attempt to reach a loose ball.
The combative Mitrovic’s red card came after he had already been booked twice in his first three games since his pre-season move from Anderlecht.
Home sides have won only 6 out of 31 games so far this season
Wenger’s team eventually took advantage of their numerical superiority in the 52nd minute when Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s low drive beat goalkeeper Tim Krul via a deflection off Coloccini as the Newcastle defender tried to block.
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Newcastle are without a win in their first four league matches under new boss Steve McClaren.
The Gunners’ away win also continued an unusual trend that has seen only six home wins from 31 Premier League matches so far this season.
Later on Saturday, leaders Manchester City will aim to extend their 100 percent start with a fourth successive win when they host unbeaten Watford.
After securing their maiden victory of the season at West Bromwich Albion last weekend, champions Chelsea FC take on fifth-placed Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge.
Liverpool FC, in third place, face West Ham at Anfield, while Leicester, surprisingly in second place, travel to Bournemouth.
Tottenham’s new South Korean signing Son Heung-min may have to wait for his debut following his arrival from Bayer Leverkusen on Friday.
The 23-year-old’s transfer is subject to international clearance and obtaining a work permit, leaving him with a race against time to feature against Everton at White Hart Lane.
Elsewhere, Aston Villa play Sunderland and Stoke clash with West Brom.
On Sunday, Manchester United go to Swansea and Southampton host Norwich.
By AFP
