Arsenal secured a tense victory against Burnley, thanks to a Kai Havertz header, keeping their Premier League title aspirations alive. The match was far from straightforward, with Arsenal labouring under pressure. A win was vital to keep pace with Manchester City.
Havertz’s Header and Defensive Solidity Secure the Points
Kai Havertz’s header, from a Bukayo Saka corner, broke the deadlock towards the end of the first half. Arsenal relied on a set-piece goal and their defensive excellence to see off Burnley. It was their 19th clean sheet of the league season.
Havertz was shown a yellow card for a challenge on Lesley Ugochukwu in the 67th minute. A review was undertaken to see if the card should be upgraded to red. The yellow card stood.
Nervy Finish as Burnley Threaten
Burnley, whose relegation from the Premier League was confirmed on 22 April, came into the match under caretaker manager, Michael Jackson. They had only avoided defeat three times in their previous 10 league matches, drawing all three. Despite their struggles, Burnley posed a threat, playing well enough to cause anxiety within the Arsenal ranks.
Seven minutes were added on at the end, with play continuing for a further two minutes. Kyle Walker, the former Tottenham player, slung a long throw into the Arsenal box, which was ultimately repelled. Mikel Arteta signalled on the sideline when it was finally over.
Title Race Down to the Wire
The Premier League title race remains tight. The title will be all over if Manchester City fail to win at Bournemouth on Tuesday night.
If City do get the points, then it will go to the final day on Sunday. Arsenal visit Crystal Palace, seeking to preserve what would be a two-point advantage over City, who host Aston Villa.
Arteta’s Passion and Tactical Choices
Arteta had demanded passion and energy. Arsenal fans turned out in their thousands to welcome the team bus beforehand, with red flares adding to the visuals. He put the throttle down with his selection – Martin Ødegaard and Eberechi Eze in central midfield in front of Declan Rice. Havertz was preferred to Viktor Gyökeres in the No 9 role. It turned into a grind.
There was the moment in the 15th minute when Leandro Trossard rattled a post from just outside the area.
After the match, Arteta addressed the crowd, his voice hoarse. A banner had appeared in the crowd – “Mikel Knows”. He was serenaded lustily, in what was described as a beautiful moment for him. Arsenal are nearly there.