Arsenal held as Armstrong rescues draw for Southampton

SOUTHAMPTON, United Kingdom: Arsenal dropped points for only the second time this season as Stuart Armstrong’s equalizer forced the Premier League leaders to settle for a 1-1 draw against Southampton on Sunday. Mikel Arteta’s side went in front through Granit Xhaka’s first-half strike at St. Mary’s.

But Armstrong levelled after the interval as Arsenal paid the price for failing to convert several chances to increase their advantage. It was a rare slip from the Gunners, who had won nine of their 10 previous league games this season, with their only defeat coming at Manchester United. The end of Arsenal’s eight-game winning run in all competitions leaves them two points clear of second-placed Manchester City with both having played 11 games.

While Arteta will be frustrated that Arsenal squandered the lead given to them by Swiss midfielder Xhaka, it is a tribute to his team’s unexpected rise this season that failing to take maximum points ranks as a disappointment. Arsenal have already proved they are a force to be reckoned with as they chase a first title since 2004 and they started in vibrant mood on the south coast. Bukayo Saka’s cross was inches away from Gabriel Magalhaes before Gabriel Martinelli caused havoc in the Southampton defense with a direct run that ended with Xhaka’s powerful drive repelled by Gavin Bazunu.

Xhaka turned provider moments later when he teed up Martin Odegaard for a low strike that whistled wide from the edge of the area. Arsenal were in complete control and Xhaka delivered the goal their pressure merited in the 11th minute. It was a smooth move as Saka’s backheel sent Ben White away down the right flank and his cross reached Xhaka, who crashed a blistering strike into the roof of the net from