Brighton and Arsenal played out a goalless draw in their Saturday Premier League fixture at the Amex Stadium.
In a tight fixture that saw few chances, the hosts came out on top in possession but failed to capitalize on that.
Both teams came into this game off the back of encouraging derby results in the Premier League, but nothing could separate them after 90 minutes—the first time a head-to-head meeting between them had finished goalless.
The Gunners had the first chance of the game as Bukayo Saka tested Robert Sánchez within the first minute, after driving through the Brighton defence.
But it was the home team who then took control of the early exchanges. They had the opportunity to score in the 20th minute, but Lewis Dunk could not capitalise on Aaron Ramsdale‘s mistake.
Arsenal hit the post after that through Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang after another run by Saka.
But the hosts continued to threaten but could not apply the finishing touches to their chances while Arsenal also came close, but could not take their chances too.
In the end, the points were shared and both teams will now prepare for more action after the international break.
Arsenal’s winning run comes to an end
And so Arsenal’s mini-revival comes to an end at Brighton. After losing their first three games of the season, Arsenal won their next three games against Norwich, Burnley and most recently Tottenham. In doing so, they became only the third Premier League side to lose their opening three games and follow up with three victories.
But they could not repeat the trick on Saturday against Brighton and had to settle for a point.
The result means that their unbeaten run continues and they could go into the international break in the top half of the table. They have come a long way and will be grateful for where they are now.
Just last month, they were deeply rooted in the relegation zone.
How things change!
Brighton, the real deal
After their 3-0 dismantling of Tottenham, many expected Brighton to be a far easier opponent for Arsenal. But it appeared that the reverse was the case.
The ‘Seagulls’ were expected to crumble in this game against a team supposedly a member of the ‘big six’. But instead of crumbling, they stood their ground and even outplayed their opponents.
Graham Potter’s side ended the match with more possession (58%), more attempts, more blocked shots (7) and more corners (8). They also extended their unbeaten run to five games and are sure to enter the international break sitting within the top seven.
Those who are writing this team off better watch out. Brighton are the real deal and will go the distance.
Potter doing well
Again, it is not possible to talk about Brighton without talking about the man behind their rise—Graham Potter.
The Englishman was nominated for the Premier League Manager of the Month award in the month of September, after a remarkable month that saw him win three and draw one PL game.
His management of players like Neal Maupay, Marc Cucurella, Shane Duffy and Yves Bissouma has been commendable, while his tactical nous and ability to switch systems have a lot of clubs admiring.
At this rate, it won’t be long before one of the bigger sides in the league begin to circle around for his signature.
