Arsenal’s impressive 10-game winning streak across all competitions came to an end on Saturday after Brian Brobbey’s stoppage-time strike secured a 2-2 draw for Sunderland.
The Gunners, who had gone eight matches without conceding a goal, managed to stretch their lead at the top of the Premier League to seven points over Manchester City — who host Liverpool on Sunday — but will rue their missed chance to strengthen their title grip.
Dan Ballard ended Arsenal’s defensive record dating back to September 28 by putting newly-promoted Sunderland ahead in the first half.
Second-half thunderbolts from Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard looked to have completed another comeback for Mikel Arteta’s side, but Brobbey’s late effort, after outmuscling Gabriel Magalhaes to meet Ballard’s flick, ensured a share of the spoils for the home team.
The dropped points come as a timely boost for Arsenal’s title rivals ahead of Sunday’s heavyweight clash at the Etihad.
With Manchester City and Liverpool having dominated English football over the past decade, both sides will take encouragement from Arsenal showing rare signs of vulnerability.