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      Arsenal 2 Tottenham 1: Gunners fight back to cut Liverpool lead to four points but Spurs rage at controversial decision

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      ARSENAL cannot hit a barn door – but they have somehow given Liverpool something to think about in this Premier League title race.The Gunners displayed yet more of their attacking frailties in a North London Derby bereft of much quality or spark. Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta celebrates the winCredit: ReutersSpurs Ange Postecoglou looks on in frustrationCredit: GettyFourteen shots against Tottenham and just one 40th minute goal from Leandro Trossard, and another – a Dominic Solanke own goal – from a corner that should never have been given.It cancelled out Heung-Min Son’s deflected 25th minute opener that briefly sent shivers down the spines of a nail-biting Emirates.The gap at the top is now just four points to Arne Slot’s fumbling Reds, who still have that game in hand. Arsenal continue to trip over their own feet, but moving forward they continue to do.If Mikel Arteta’s men can cling on like this playing this averagely, just imagine the sort of run they can put together when Bukayo Saka makes his hero’s return from a hamstring injury.READ MORE IN football Not that Ange Postecoglou’s injury-plagued Spurs put up much of a fight, now just eight points off the bottom three in 13th without a win in their last five league games.After being taken to extra-time by part-timers Tamworth in the FA Cup, Ange ripped up his starting XI with four changes, bringing back old faithfuls Son, Solanke and Dejan Kulusevski.Arteta went one better with five changes – Declan Rice and Thomas Partey returned to the midfield while Leandro Trossard and Raheem Sterling sandwiched Kai Havertz up top.Clearly, this was not an attacking threesome brimming with confidence. Sterling was making just his third Prem start since joining the club – his last coming in October in a defeat to Bournemouth.Most read in FootballCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSHavertz lead the line again despite still being shaken by the vile abuse his pregnant wife received on Instagram in the wake of his shoot-out miss in the shoot-out loss to Manchester United.Gabriel Jesus ruptured his ACL in that FA Cup third round exit, joining Saka in the medical room – the England star watched his side warm-up from the sidelines on crutches as he recovers from hamstring surgery.Arteta not sure about trophy hopes after ‘incredible’ Arsenal loss The Arsenal players walked onto the pitch donning a shirt with his name and No.9 on the back with the message ‘Stay Strong Gabby’.And the hosts started strong, sticking to the script of their last two outings – producing 49 shots and one goal – of dominating proceedings, wasting half-chances before giving the opposition hope.Inside a fizzing and crackling atmosphere at the Emirates, Havertz went into full derby-mode straight away, flying in with a sliding tackle as Myles Lewis-Skelly nearly put in Sterling through the middle.Then came the set-pieces. Three corners inside the ten minutes was a real test for this put-together Spurs back four, but they dealt with it well, especially new keeper Antonin Kinsky.Martin Odegaard crossed for Rice at the far post and Trossard had an attempt blocked by Archie Gray.Ange was left frustrated by ref Simon Hooper with a few 50-50 fouls, but in truth, this young Spurs group were getting battered and bullied by Arsenal’s burly giants.Son Heung-Min opened the scoringCredit: ReutersSon’s opener went against the run of playCredit: ReutersKinsky started to look nervy, charged down by an onrushing Havertz before smothering well. The Czech then nearly did the same way out of his box minutes later.But the tide was turning. Djed Spence stormed down the left and with the outside of his boot picked out Solanke but for a brilliant Gabriel interception.Arsenal were ragged and loose. Pape Sarr was allowed to run over 60 yards to win a corner, and from there, the visitors pounced with an unlikely but completely inevitable opener.Arsenal player ratings vs TottenhamBy Dan KingARSENAL came from behind to defeat Tottenham 2-1 in the North London derby. Son Heung-Min had given the visitors the lead in the 25th minute against the run of play.But as they have done so often, the Gunners scored from a corner as Gabriel Magalhaes’ header was bundled in as an own goal by Dominic Solanke.Leandro Trossard then put the home side ahead on the stroke of half-time with an fine finish.Here’s how the players rated…David Raya – 6Spectator until kept out Kulusevski shot midway through first half, then beaten by deflection for Son goal. Didn’t make a save in second half.Jurrien Timber – 6Solid enough defensively to keep Son Heung-Min mostly quiet but less sure of himself going forward, wasting good chances to cross.William Saliba – 6Untroubled until Son’s shot went in off him. Started second half hesitantly but kept his concentration to minimise Tottenham openings.Gabriel Magalhaes – 8Brilliant interception to deny Solanke then decisive at other end to force equaliser. Excellent against Solanke twice more in calm and steadfast second half.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 8Fine pass to play in Sterling set tone for excellent, mature, all-round display from second youngest Arsenal player to start a North London derby.Thomas Partey – 7Strong presence who won the ball back well, not least ahead of Arsenal’s second goal. But sometimes looked vulnerable to Spurs’ pace on break.Declan Rice – 7Covered lots of ground and finally found a good set-piece delivery to create equaliser. Still not quite at his best, but much closer.Raheem Sterling – 5Saw plenty of ball, but with little end product, including golden chances at start of both halves. Curiously reluctant to take on his man. Deservedly hooked.Martin Odegaard – 6Prompted and probed without finding killer pass but released Trossard for second goal. Missed chance to make it 3-1, fewer signs of return to form than Rice.Leandro Trossard – 6Frustrated home fans with lack of killer instinct and poor decisions until he fired Arsenal in front. Did little after break to merit staying on for so long.Kai Havertz – 4Barely involved first half apart from nicking ball off Spurs keeper Kinsky. Headed wide from close range early in second. Nothing coming off for him.SUBSGabriel Martinelli (for Sterling, 61) – 5Slow to get up to speed and contributed little apart from one penetrating run into the box and a blocked shot.Kieran Tierney (for Trossard, 77) – 6Brought on to shore things up and did it well enough.Oleksandr Zinchenko (for Lewis-Skelly, 87) – 6Useful legs for dying minutes, almost created chance.Mikel Merino (for Rice, 87) – 6Good booking to stop Solanke getting away in stoppage time.Gabriel headed away a short corner to Son, so unmarked that he was able to watch the looping ball onto his boot and cushion a shot off the foot of William Saliba and past a helpless David Raya.Son shushed the crowd, and the home supporters obliged, collapsing into nervy silence.Yet the answer came from Arsenal’s seventh corner of the game. Rice’s in-swinger targeted the far post. Kinsky on this occasion was blocked and Gabriel evaded Radu Dragusin to nod in off Solanke.Gabriel levelled the game from another cornerCredit: PAThe derby was back onCredit: GettyIt should not have counted of course. Trossard’s cross bounced off Pedro Porro and back onto the leg of the winger before trickling out.Ange was seething. He also felt Sarr had been fouled by Lewis-Skelly in the build-up.Ex-Prem referee Mark Halsey’s viewSPURS will be fuming over the corner which led to Arsenal’s equaliser.I felt it was a clear goal kick when Leandro Trossard’s cross came off Pedro Porro and back off the Gunners wideman before the ball went out of play.Referee Simon Hooper must have lost concentration because he was in a great position and looking straight at the ball.Hooper was on that side of the field unlike his assistant and a referee at that level should be seeing it.Arsenal took full advantage and levelled at 1-1 from the resulting corner when Gabriel’s header went in off Dominic Solanke.It was a turning point in the match and Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou has had a few decisions go against him so this will not improve his mood.Four minutes later, Yves Bissouma then lost the ball in his own half to Partey.Odegaard broke and fed Trossard, that tricky little Belgian involved again, this time doing what his teammates have not done in a long time: whack a ball towards goal with anger and see what happens.It smacked the side-netting through a weak, flappy Kinsky wrist and Trossard celebrated by cupping his ears to an unwelcoming away end.Surprisingly, but not really, Ange went for broke at the break. James Maddison and Brennan Johnson were thrown on leaving his side top heavy and exposed.It led to a disjointed, end-to-end second half, like two groggy boxers throwing biggun’s without really landing anything.READ MORE SUN STORIESHavertz had a header straight at Kinsky and Odegaard missed a sitter late on. Spurs had a few decent counters that left Raya unmoved.Arsenal, incredibly, are still alive. Spurs’ season is on life support.Leandro Trossard won the game for the GunnersCredit: GettyArsenal took home North London bragging rightsCredit: AFP More

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      Antonin Kinsky brought back down to earth by Arsenal in North London Derby days after setting 101-year Tottenham record

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      ANTONIN KINSKY was at risk of making English football look easy.After all, the relative unknown from the Czech Republic had become the first Tottenham goalkeeper in 101 years to earn clean sheets in his first two games for the club.Antonin Kinsky saw his fortunes dip in the derbyCredit: AlamyKinsky had a couple of wobbly moments at ArsenalCredit: PAHe had been only the second stopper to prevent Liverpool from scoring this term – then successfully repelled Tamworth’s aerial bombardment.But a whirlwind first week showed the 21-year-old IS fallible after two rocky moments that helped Arsenal fight back for a thrilling 2-1 North London derby win.First Kinsky became the latest goalie to fall victim to Nicolas Jover’s set-piece specials, with Declan Rice’s corner sailing over his head, allowing Gabriel to head in off Dominic Solanke.Then the £12.5million capture from Slavia Prague failed to keep out a well-struck, but savable, shot from former Spurs target Leandro Trossard just before the break.READ MORE IN SPORTCalling them gaffes would be a bit harsh – particularly given the unrelenting pressure Arsenal put Kinsky under.But they did blot an otherwise unblemished copybook since arriving 11 days ago to solve Ange Postecoglou’s goalkeeping crisis.Spurs accelerated their plans to bring in a new stopper by a window after Fraser Forster struggled to play out from the back like Postecoglou demands.That followed No1 Guglielmo Vicario fracturing his ankle in November’s 4-0 win at Manchester City, with the Italian not expected back until late February.Most read in FootballThe Czech ace was initially on a high after Spurs took the leadCredit: GettyJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSKinsky was the man they plumped for, having been identified by technical director Johan Lange, and chairman Daniel Levy spending two days in Prague from New Year’s Day to conclude a deal.The son of a former Czech Republic international – also called Antonin Kinsky – the youngster had helped Slavia go seven points clear.Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta gives update on Gabriel Jesus injury He was already being compared to Petr Cech for his concentration and hailed as excellent with his ambidextrous feet.Postecoglou threw him straight in against Liverpool in last week’s Carabao Cup, where he was excellent and even did a keepy-uppy over Diogo Jota’s head early on.His save from Darwin Nunez in stoppage time meant Arne Slot’s side – who had won 6-3 at Spurs 17 days earlier – failed to score in only the second game this season.Kinksy then was given a completely different challenge on National League Tamworth’s plastic pitch.And while Spurs laboured – requiring extra-time to win 3-0 – Kinsky nullified the minnows’ high-ball threat impressively.The two shut-outs saw him match the feat managed by Spurs stopper Freddy Hinton way back in 1924.On Friday, Postecoglou praised Kinksy for how his presence in the box had given “confidence” to the defence around him.For much of last night, that was the case as Kinsky punched, clawed and claimed at the set-piece deliveries that came his way.But crucially, he got nowhere near Rice’s in-swinger for Arsenal’s leveller, which chalked off Son Heung-min’s controlled volley, with five minutes to the break.He will know he could have done better with Trossard’s drive four minutes later.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt did not dent the young man’s belief though – as proven by a gutsy backheel when under pressure after the break.Spurs games under Postecoglou are always great fun to watch, even more so now with their new man between the sticks.Arsenal player ratings vs TottenhamBy Dan KingARSENAL came from behind to defeat Tottenham 2-1 in the North London derby. Son Heung-Min had given the visitors the lead in the 25th minute against the run of play.But as they have done so often, the Gunners scored from a corner as Gabriel Magalhaes’ header was bundled in as an own goal by Dominic Solanke.Leandro Trossard then put the home side ahead on the stroke of half-time with an fine finish.Here’s how the players rated…David Raya – 6Spectator until kept out Kulusevski shot midway through first half, then beaten by deflection for Son goal. Didn’t make a save in second half.Jurrien Timber – 6Solid enough defensively to keep Son Heung-Min mostly quiet but less sure of himself going forward, wasting good chances to cross.William Saliba – 6Untroubled until Son’s shot went in off him. Started second half hesitantly but kept his concentration to minimise Tottenham openings.Gabriel Magalhaes – 8Brilliant interception to deny Solanke then decisive at other end to force equaliser. Excellent against Solanke twice more in calm and steadfast second half.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 8Fine pass to play in Sterling set tone for excellent, mature, all-round display from second youngest Arsenal player to start a North London derby.Thomas Partey – 7Strong presence who won the ball back well, not least ahead of Arsenal’s second goal. But sometimes looked vulnerable to Spurs’ pace on break.Declan Rice – 7Covered lots of ground and finally found a good set-piece delivery to create equaliser. Still not quite at his best, but much closer.Raheem Sterling – 5Saw plenty of ball, but with little end product, including golden chances at start of both halves. Curiously reluctant to take on his man. Deservedly hooked.Martin Odegaard – 6Prompted and probed without finding killer pass but released Trossard for second goal. Missed chance to make it 3-1, fewer signs of return to form than Rice.Leandro Trossard – 6Frustrated home fans with lack of killer instinct and poor decisions until he fired Arsenal in front. Did little after break to merit staying on for so long.Kai Havertz – 4Barely involved first half apart from nicking ball off Spurs keeper Kinsky. Headed wide from close range early in second. Nothing coming off for him.SUBSGabriel Martinelli (for Sterling, 61) – 5Slow to get up to speed and contributed little apart from one penetrating run into the box and a blocked shot.Kieran Tierney (for Trossard, 77) – 6Brought on to shore things up and did it well enough.Oleksandr Zinchenko (for Lewis-Skelly, 87) – 6Useful legs for dying minutes, almost created chance.Mikel Merino (for Rice, 87) – 6Good booking to stop Solanke getting away in stoppage time.Fraser Forster had struggled to play out from the backCredit: Alamy More

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      Newcastle 3 Wolves 0: Isak can’t stop scoring as he bags double to help Toon ease back into top four

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      ALEXANDER ISAK made it EIGHT in a row as he fired Toon to Cloud Nine.The Swedish superstar, 25, achieved a feat that even the legendary Alan Shearer failed to.Alexander Isak netted the opener just before the break to extend his scoring streakCredit: GettyThe Swede collected his 11th goal in ten games with the aid of a deflectionCredit: AlamyAnthony Gordon continued his own run of scoring form in the victoryCredit: ReutersThe striker became only the fourth player in the Premier League era to score in eight consecutive top-flight matches, hitting a deadly double against Wolves.And that helped Newcastle to secure a ninth straight win in all competitions to lift them above Chelsea into fourth.That stunning winning run equalled the amount that Kevin Keegan and Rafa Benitez knocked up with Eddie Howe now chasing a club-record number ten against Bournemouth on Saturday.It was in-form Jacob Murphy, who provided yet another assist for Isak, got the action started when he tested Jose Sa first time.READ MORE ON FOOTBALLBruno Guimaraes fed the winger out wide on the right, and he cut in on to his left foot and pulled the trigger from the edge of the area only for the ‘keeper to palm it away. However, any thoughts of the Magpies storming through the strugglers from Molineux were quickly over.Things have picked up since Vitor Pereira took over last month and they looked a dangerous proposition as they nearly caught Howe’s side cold.Hwang Hee-Chan’s cutback from the left was deflected straight into the path of Goncalo Guedes, only the Portuguese international dragged a low strike wide of the far post.Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSSuspended Newcastle star Bruno Guimaraes shares heartwarming clip celebrating famous win in his living room with his sonWolves had no intention of coming here and parking the bus as they continued to get plenty of bodies forward while their high-line kept catching out Isak and his fellow Toon pals. Chances were proving to be few and far between and it took Murphy, in similar circumstances, to force Sa into action again.Finally, as the clock ticked past half hour, Isak finally got his opening.Toon countered with Guimaraes charging forward from halfway.He had Murphy racing away to his right, but the Brazilian opted for the opposite flank and slipped in his side’s top scorer.Isak doubled his tally just after the break as Newcastle took controlCredit: GettyIsak cut inside his man and let rip right-footed only his effort clipped the wrong side of the post.Though, when you are in the form that he is in, fortune always appears to be on your side.And moments later lady luck shined on him as he broke the deadlock on the 34th minute.Murphy switched play from right to left on another counter to the lurking hotshot.Isak cut back in and evaded three challenges as he moved centrally and struck it right-footed towards goal from the edge of the area.Sa looked to have it covered, but the fierce shot took a wicked deflection off Wolves ace Rayan Ait-Nouri, completely wrong-footing the goalie, and floated into the back of net.He now joins Jamie Vardy, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Daniel Sturridge to net eight Prem matches on the trot.Wolves could, and should, have been level before the break.Isak’s brace has helped Newcastle back into the Premier League’s top fourCredit: ReutersRodrigo Gomez found Jorgen Strand Larsen but the big forward’s first-time hit clipped the outside of the post and went wide.Joelinton thundered a 25 yard rocket over the bar in response and then inadvertently deflected his team-mate Sandro Tonali’s snap-shot off-target as they remained just one in it at the break.Matheus Cunha, Wolves’ ten-goal top scorer, was introduced off the bench at half time and he stung the hands of Martin Dubravka with one of his first touches.But any hopes of a comeback were quickly extinguished thanks to some Brazil-iance.And you just know who got it.Samba star Guimaraes produced a defence-splitting pass through three on the edge of the box to leave Isak left with the simple task of slotting past Sa for his 17th of the season.The £150m-rated star is not just a goal machine either.Eddie Howe has now masterminded nine consecutive winsCredit: ReutersSeconds after Cunha, back from his suspension, fired another long-ranger past the post it was three as Isak turned provider.After firstly being denied by a block when charging down the right of the box, he composed himself and slid the ball across for Anthony Gordon to make it three.There would be no hat-trick for Isak as he received a standing ovation when going off along with Gordon and Murphy.It ended up being a bad night all-round in the end for Wolves despite a late flurry following the Toon changes.Santiago Bueno thought he had got a late consolation when he bundled home from close-range when a corner hit Joelinton.READ MORE SUN STORIESBut that was ruled out for offside and then Strand Larsen’s deflected shot bobbled up and hit the crossbar before being cleared.That result leaves Pereira’s side still stuck in the bottom three but for Howe, Isak and the Magpies, they continue to keep flying high as they close on in another record this weekend. 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      Everton 0 Aston Villa 1: David Moyes’ return to Goodison Park can’t save Toffees from another loss after Watkins strike

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      MEMORIES were hardly made of this for David Moyes on a night that did nothing to trumpet a re-birth of the Blues.Not that he didn’t know anyway, but his first game back after almost 12 years away only underlined what a monumental task he faces to keep his beloved Everton in the Premier League.Ollie Watkins scored his ninth goal this season with a clever finishCredit: GettyVilla have won their last three gamesCredit: GettyDavid Moyes’ second spell in charge of Everton got off to a bad startCredit: GettyWhile opposite number Unai Emery celebrated a first away win after five successive defeats on the road, Moyes had much to chew on after watching the Toffees surrender to a fine 51st minute strike by Ollie Watkins.Emery was able to celebrate the victory that lifted his side to seventh and a first away clean sheet since April but there was only more Goodison gloom and doom.No wonder Moyes, just one game into his second stint, looked a worried man.That’s only one win 12 games and they have got just one goal in the last six.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLHe declared that his return as Sean Dyche’s predecessor was an opportunity he couldn’t ignore.But on the evidence of another sub-quality performance, some might say he let his heart rule his head.The dodgy scarf brigade did a brisk trade in with “Return of Moyes” merchandise outside the ground.But inside his welcome didn’t exactly suggest the fans were responding to the return of a prodigal son.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSThere were a few banners around the place and warm enough applause but those supporters weren’t expecting him to walk on water, not with the players Dyche left behind.The nightmare run Moyes now finds himself locked into tells the s tory of what produced Dyche’s P45 from new owners The Friedkin Group.Darren Ferguson says Everton star ‘had a pop at me’ for not bringing on Ashley Young’s son TylerBut it all fell flat right from the start and Villa should certainly have been one goal ahead and maybe two, within the first 17 minutes.Earlier in the day, Dyche broke his silence on his sacking a week ago to say he had left them in a “stable” and “good place”.Dyche had plenty of problems, not least two years of financial crisis during his time in charge, but Everton’s league position – and their start in Moyes’ first game back – made that statement seem delusional.Morgan Rogers was forcing Jordan Pickford to mark his 300th appearance for the Toffees with a fine deflection by the fifth minute.Amadou Onana, one of the enforced sales by previous owner Farhad Moshiri to keep the club afloat for £50million, was given a free run but pulled a shot wide.James Tarkowski made an heroic block to deny Youri Tielemans and then in that 17th minute Ashley Young so nearly gifted one of his former clubs the opener.Almost on the half-way line, he tried to knock a pass back to Pickford, got it horribly wrong, and Ollie Watkins pounced…. only to show that the confidence built from last season’s 28-goal haul is a memory.As Pickford advanced towards his England team-mate, the Villa striker, who arrived with just eight strikes from 27 appearances in this campaign lost his cool, shooting too early and wide.Somehow Everton survived all of that and found a way to produce some problems for Villa.Abdoulaye Doucoure met a cross from Vitaliy Mykolenko but shot straight at Emi Martinez.Just before the break Dominic Calvert-Lewin got on the end of a cross from Jack Harrison but unluckily the ball was just behind him.He made contact but could get no purpose on his shot, his strike rolling slowly forward for Boubacar Kamara to make the easiest ever goal line clearance.Any Blues bounce from that encouraging final part of the first-half was soon gone.Watkins profited from exactly the kind of muddled midfield thinking that has dragged the side down so often in the past months.Rogers picked up on yet another show of sloppiness, powered forward into space and found the striker, who suddenly found his memory loss had suddenly gone.This time he was the picture of self-belief and composure as he met the pass from the blossoming midfielder.Watkins let Pickford make his charge, then calmly rolled the ball beyond him to collect the opener that said everything about how much quality he does have.READ MORE SUN STORIESCue an increase in the kind of negative noise that Dyche spent so much time listening to, trying to make the best of an increasingly tough situation.After two years he wouldn’t be blamed for thinking Moyes is welcome to it. More

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      Arsenal star Leandro Trossard ‘breaks Pedro Porro in half’ with piece of skill that leaves ‘whole stadium gasping’

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      AWED fans saw Leandro Trossard “break Pedro Porro in half” with skill that left the “whole stadium gasping” in a dramatic North London derby.Tottenham’s Porro writhed in agony – and “embarrassment” – after the Arsenal winger’s twist and turn sent him sprawling to the ground.Pedro Porro was left in agony following Leandro Trossard’s moveCredit: AFPTrossard’s magical manoeuvre impressed everyone except PorroCredit: EPATrossard remained at the centre of attention for the rest of the first half as he inspired the Gunners’ 2-1 comeback victory.Spurs had led through Son Heung-Min’s surprise opener.But Trossard then won a controversial corner from which Dominic Solanke put through his own net for a 40th-minute equaliser.And the Belgian himself lashed Arsenal’s winner before the break.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut it was Trossard’s “Cruyff turn” that most captivated viewers.He darted down the left with his back to Porro, before dummying the Spaniard.Porro came close to doing the splits as he slumped to the floor holding his leg.One fan said: “Trossard may have just injured Pedro Porro with a Cruyff turn. Felt like the whole stadium gasped there. Play’s stopped for him to receive treatment.”Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSAnother posted: “Leandro Trossard just ended Pedro Porro’s career.”Referee Simon Hooper promptly stopped play for the stricken Spurs star to get treatment.Jadon Sancho throws corner flag during Chelsea’s celebration at Tottenham But one fan claimed the 25-year-old was only suffering from an “embarrassment injury”. Another wrote: “Trossard actually broke Porro in half.” A few minutes later the ex-Sporting Lisbon wideman played his Arsenal tormentor onside.And TNT Sports pundit Rio Ferdinand said: “I don’t think he’s recovered from that bit of skill earlier.”Ferdy’s colleague Darren Fletcher added: “The first thing the physio did was untie him.”Arsenal player ratings vs TottenhamBy Dan KingARSENAL came from behind to defeat Tottenham 2-1 in the North London derby. Son Heung-Min had given the visitors the lead in the 25th minute against the run of play.But as they have done so often, the Gunners scored from a corner as Gabriel Magalhaes’ header was bundled in as an own goal by Dominic Solanke.Leandro Trossard then put the home side ahead on the stroke of half-time with an fine finish.Here’s how the players rated…David Raya – 6Spectator until kept out Kulusevski shot midway through first half, then beaten by deflection for Son goal. Didn’t make a save in second half.Jurrien Timber – 6Solid enough defensively to keep Son Heung-Min mostly quiet but less sure of himself going forward, wasting good chances to cross.William Saliba – 6Untroubled until Son’s shot went in off him. Started second half hesitantly but kept his concentration to minimise Tottenham openings.Gabriel Magalhaes – 8Brilliant interception to deny Solanke then decisive at other end to force equaliser. Excellent against Solanke twice more in calm and steadfast second half.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 8Fine pass to play in Sterling set tone for excellent, mature, all-round display from second youngest Arsenal player to start a North London derby.Thomas Partey – 7Strong presence who won the ball back well, not least ahead of Arsenal’s second goal. But sometimes looked vulnerable to Spurs’ pace on break.Declan Rice – 7Covered lots of ground and finally found a good set-piece delivery to create equaliser. Still not quite at his best, but much closer.Raheem Sterling – 5Saw plenty of ball, but with little end product, including golden chances at start of both halves. Curiously reluctant to take on his man. Deservedly hooked.Martin Odegaard – 6Prompted and probed without finding killer pass but released Trossard for second goal. Missed chance to make it 3-1, fewer signs of return to form than Rice.Leandro Trossard – 6Frustrated home fans with lack of killer instinct and poor decisions until he fired Arsenal in front. Did little after break to merit staying on for so long.Kai Havertz – 4Barely involved first half apart from nicking ball off Spurs keeper Kinsky. Headed wide from close range early in second. Nothing coming off for him.SUBSGabriel Martinelli (for Sterling, 61) – 5Slow to get up to speed and contributed little apart from one penetrating run into the box and a blocked shot.Kieran Tierney (for Trossard, 77) – 6Brought on to shore things up and did it well enough.Oleksandr Zinchenko (for Lewis-Skelly, 87) – 6Useful legs for dying minutes, almost created chance.Mikel Merino (for Rice, 87) – 6Good booking to stop Solanke getting away in stoppage time. More

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      Arsenal equaliser vs Tottenham should not have stood rage fans who claim Spurs were ‘ROBBED’ after ref misses incident

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      ARSENAL’s equaliser against Tottenham to make the score 1-1 in the North London derby should NOT have stood, fans have raged.Spurs took the lead at the Emirates through a deflected Son Heung-Min strike from a corner.Arsenal scored from a controversial cornerCredit: GettyBut replays showed the ball actually hit off an Arsenal player and should have been a goal kickBut 15 minutes later the Gunners hit back through a corner of their own as Gabriel Magalhaes’ far post header back across goal was accidentally bundled into the net by Spurs striker Dominic Solanke.However, replays showed the corner should have never have been given.Leandro Trossard and Pedro Porro were tussling for the ball and replays revealed that the final touch came off the Arsenal star.But the officials missed the moment and instead gave the Gunners a corner, mistakenly thinking Porro was the last to touch the ball.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLTaking to social media, there was a huge outcry of injustice from fans.One viewer said: “They gave THIS as a corner that resulted in the goal…”A second said: “Arsenal getting all the decisions again tonight. Should never have been a corner.”A third said: “IT SHOULDN’T HAVE BEEN A CORNER, TOTTENHAM HAVE BEEN ROBBED!”Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSArsenal player ratings vs TottenhamBy Dan KingARSENAL came from behind to defeat Tottenham 2-1 in the North London derby. Son Heung-Min had given the visitors the lead in the 25th minute against the run of play.But as they have done so often, the Gunners scored from a corner as Gabriel Magalhaes’ header was bundled in as an own goal by Dominic Solanke.Leandro Trossard then put the home side ahead on the stroke of half-time with an fine finish.Here’s how the players rated…David Raya – 6Spectator until kept out Kulusevski shot midway through first half, then beaten by deflection for Son goal. Didn’t make a save in second half.Jurrien Timber – 6Solid enough defensively to keep Son Heung-Min mostly quiet but less sure of himself going forward, wasting good chances to cross.William Saliba – 6Untroubled until Son’s shot went in off him. Started second half hesitantly but kept his concentration to minimise Tottenham openings.Gabriel Magalhaes – 8Brilliant interception to deny Solanke then decisive at other end to force equaliser. Excellent against Solanke twice more in calm and steadfast second half.Myles Lewis-Skelly – 8Fine pass to play in Sterling set tone for excellent, mature, all-round display from second youngest Arsenal player to start a North London derby.Thomas Partey – 7Strong presence who won the ball back well, not least ahead of Arsenal’s second goal. But sometimes looked vulnerable to Spurs’ pace on break.Declan Rice – 7Covered lots of ground and finally found a good set-piece delivery to create equaliser. Still not quite at his best, but much closer.Raheem Sterling – 5Saw plenty of ball, but with little end product, including golden chances at start of both halves. Curiously reluctant to take on his man. Deservedly hooked.Martin Odegaard – 6Prompted and probed without finding killer pass but released Trossard for second goal. Missed chance to make it 3-1, fewer signs of return to form than Rice.Leandro Trossard – 6Frustrated home fans with lack of killer instinct and poor decisions until he fired Arsenal in front. Did little after break to merit staying on for so long.Kai Havertz – 4Barely involved first half apart from nicking ball off Spurs keeper Kinsky. Headed wide from close range early in second. Nothing coming off for him.SUBSGabriel Martinelli (for Sterling, 61) – 5Slow to get up to speed and contributed little apart from one penetrating run into the box and a blocked shot.Kieran Tierney (for Trossard, 77) – 6Brought on to shore things up and did it well enough.Oleksandr Zinchenko (for Lewis-Skelly, 87) – 6Useful legs for dying minutes, almost created chance.Mikel Merino (for Rice, 87) – 6Good booking to stop Solanke getting away in stoppage time.Another said: “Arsenal just stole the first goal. Clearly Trossard touched the ball.”A fifth added: “How is the ref stood in that position and still misses that it’s come off Trossard, that decision has changed the game, not a chance we get anything from this now.”Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta gives update on Gabriel Jesus injury Arsenal icon Martin Keown spoke about the incident at half-time, but largely glossed over the incident by saying “it’s a corner because the ref gave it,” to the ire of more fans.One wrote: “Martin Keown it is a corner because the referee gave it … Just imagine if that happened at the other end & spurs scored he would be going mental.”A second said: “‘It’s a corner because the referee gave it’. Martin Keown ladies and gents.”A third added: “Martin Keown, I beg. Just try to give an impartial opinion about Arsenal one time!”Ex-Prem referee Mark Halsey’s viewSPURS will be fuming over the corner which led to Arsenal’s equaliser.I felt it was a clear goal kick when Leandro Trossard’s cross came off Pedro Porro and back off the Gunners wideman before the ball went out of play.Referee Simon Hooper must have lost concentration because he was in a great position and looking straight at the ball.Hooper was on that side of the field unlike his assistant and a referee at that level should be seeing it.Arsenal took full advantage and levelled at 1-1 from the resulting corner when Gabriel’s header went in off Dominic Solanke.It was a turning point in the match and Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou has had a few decisions go against him so this will not improve his mood.Trossard, at the centre of all Arsenal positivity in the opening half after also skinning Porro and leaving him decked on the floor earlier on, then completed the turnaround by arrowing a strike across goal and into the bottom corner.Arsenal managed to hold on to clinch a vital 2-1 win. 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      Kyle Walker responds to criticism of ‘unacceptable behaviour’ after being accused of ‘failing to show up for matches’

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      KYLE WALKER has hit back at claims he “failed to show up” for Man City’s draw with Brentford.The England full-back was left out of the squad that threw away a two-goal lead in West London on Tuesday night. Kyle Walker has hit back at claims he failed to show up and play against BrentfordCredit: GettyThe 34-year-old has asked for a move away from Manchester CityCredit: GettyWalker is set to depart the Etihad after spending seven years with the reigning Premier League champions. City boss Pep Guardiola confirmed Walker’s intention to leave following the 8-0 FA Cup win over Salford last weekend.Guardiola said: “It’s not easy for me to say but Kyle is not here because two days ago he asked to explore the options to play abroad at the end of his career.”He asked two years ago after the Treble, when Bayern wanted him, but the offer was not good enough.”READ MORE ON FOOTBALLWalker was missing entirely from the squad as City faced the Bees on Tuesday. A Man City fan account on X later hit out at Walker for a “lack of commitment”.It claimed the England star’s behaviour was “completely unacceptable” and he had “failed to show up for the match.”Walker took to his official X account to respond directly and debunk the claim. Most read in FootballFOOTBALL FREE BETS AND SIGN UP DEALSThe 34-year-old wrote: “Failed to turn up? “I can’t be at Brentford and training at the same time. You may need to check your sources.”Pep Guardiola reveals Kyle Walker has asked to LEAVE Man City with England defender set or £400K-A-WEEK Saudi transferEarlier this week, SunSport revealed Walker had rejected a mega-money move to Saudi Arabia.The full-back has been capped 93 times for the Three Lions.And he feared a move to the lucrative Saudi League would end his chances of more international appearances. Walker is being lined up for a sensational loan move to Inter Milan. Representatives for the player have been in contact with the Serie A giants and a deal is being thrashed out.Walker has won six Premier League titles with Man CityCredit: ReutersA source said: “It’s fast moving but the deal is on the table and it’s being worked on.”A loan move to Inter Milan will give Kyle the opportunity to start afresh.READ MORE SUN STORIES”His difficulties off the pitch are well documented and he needs space to reset.”He simply can’t get that in the Premier League.” More

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      Meaning behind VAR’s cryptic four-word message to referee after controversial Chelsea decision made history

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      VAR delivered a cryptic four-word message to referee Robert Jones before he made history during Chelsea’s clash with Bournemouth.During the Tuesday night game at Stamford Bridge, Jones became the first PL referee to reject a red-card review at the pitch-side monitor.Marc Cucurella was fouled by David BrooksCredit: APThe decision was put up to a VAR reviewCredit: TNT SportsRobert Jones went over to check the monitor and made history by not giving out a red cardCredit: RexJones was told by VAR Graham Scott ‘It’s in your gift’Credit: AlamyCherries star David Brooks had allegedly committed a foul on Marc Cucurella that was originally worthy of a red card while the score was 1-1.Jones was sent to the monitor for review with VAR Graham Scott to decide on the possible dismissal.However, Jones ultimately concluded that it was a yellow card, thus making history by rejecting the decision to send Brooks off.Mail Sport have revealed that Scott told Jones, “It’s in your gift”, in relation to Jones having the final say on the matter.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe report adds that refereeing sources explained all options – take no action, yellow or red card – were available to use, with Scott’s comments a sentiment used by PGMOL in such scenarios.Audio of the incident could be broadcast to fans on the Match Officials Mic’d Up show, hosted by ref chief Howard Webb.Bournemouth took a 2-1 lead following the incident before Reece James slammed home a stunning injury-time free-kick.The Blues had taken the lead through Cole Palmer and dominated most of the first half.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSHowever, Justin Kluivert equalised early in the second half from the penalty spot before Antoine Semenyo smashed home a near-post shot to take the lead.The result leaves Chelsea without a win in five league games, while Bournemouth are unbeaten in ten games across all competitions.Chelsea activate Trevoh Chalobah recall clause just hours before he was due to play for Crystal Palace against LeicesterChelsea player ratings vs BournemouthCHELSEA failed to win for their fourth Prem outing in a row as they drew 2-2 with Bournemouth.Having taken the lead through Cole Palmer, things went very wrong in the second half.Justin Kluivert scored from the spot after a poor challenge from Moise Caicedo led to the penalty. Antoine Semenyo then put the Cherries in front.But up stepped Reece James to fire in a brilliant 95th minute penalty and salvage a point.Here’s how the players rated…Robert Sanchez – 5His (or Enzo Maresca’s) insistence on playing the “riskiest pass in football” almost cost his side in the first half, but he wasn’t caught out on this occasion. Couldn’t do an awful lot about either of the goals, a pretty average performance.Moises Caicedo – 3Was solid in the first half if not a little fortunate not to be booked for a few “tactical” fouls. However, he got caught out in the second 45 and gave away a penalty through a poorly timed tackle on Semenyo. Not the kind of performance we’ve become accustomed to seeing from him as his passes too often went astray.Josh Acheampong – 5Made a few good blocks and tackles in the first half, but was easily beaten by Semenyo before he smashed home the goal that put Bournemouth in the lead. Looked a little inexperienced out there, but you can tell he has quality – was taken off for Tosin in the second half shortly after the goal, who you would imagine will take the starting spot going forward.Levi Colwill – 6Imperious in the air and across the ground in the first half. Didn’t do a lot wrong truth be told, but no clean sheet cost him a higher score.Marc Cucurella – 6Stepped into his tackles well and was solid throughout the game, keeping David Brooks quiet on the right for Bournemouth. Wasn’t as influential in an attacking sense as we have seen him be this season, but still did a decent job.Romeo Lavia – 5Dominant in midfield in the first half, and was brilliant in transition, looking like a master of his craft. Unfortunately, a second-half mistake saw him caught out which led to the Bournemouth penalty before he was then booked for a late tackle. Was taken off shortly after he was booked and replaced by Reece James.Enzo Fernández (c) – 6Worked well as he had done previously when given the license to roam forward, knowing he had Lavia and Caicedo behind him. Bournemouth’s midfield had no answer to him with the ball at his feet, but as for many of the Blues, he was much quieter in the second half.Noni Madueke – 6Arguably deserved a first-half assist after he left a defender on the floor with a mazy run from the right-hand side, but Nicolas Jackson fluffed his lines in front of goal. Continued his good work on the ball in the second half and generally created some good chances that weren’t finished.Cole Palmer – 8Looked like he was out to impress from the start, with a cheeky nutmeg followed by a Lampard vs Hull-esque dink early on which didn’t come off. This was all before the 12th minute where he sat interim goalkeeper Mark Travers on his backside with a fake shot before slotting home for the opening goal. He created good chances too for Jackson, but faded pretty heavily after his goal.Jadon Sancho – 4Two nutmegs in quick succession was the highlight of his first half, but he was pretty quiet throughout the 90 minutes.Nicolas Jackson – 6His first half performance would have had fans raving about how he is the second coming of Didier Drogba. But his second half reminded us of why he’s not, with two huge bites at the Cherries missed that ultimately cost his side.SUBSReece James (Romeo Lavia, 56) – 8Made the perfect comeback from his injury woes, with a rocket of a free-kick guided into the bottom right corner. Looked strong and composed on the ball after his introduction.Tosin Adarabioyo (Josh Acheampong, 71) – 7Brought a bit more presence and leadership to a Chelsea team that looked as though it was lacking exactly that tonight. Had a good header saved by Travers at the death, you’d imagine he will be starting against Wolves.Joao Felix (Moises Caicedo, 80) – 6Did really well with limited minutes on the pitch after being bought on. A tame effort on goal was saved by the Bournemouth keeper, but it was his mazy dribbling that won the free-kick that James fired home to equalise.Pedro Neto (Noni Madueke, 80) – 5Didn’t get long enough to properly warm into the game and Chelsea didn’t find him enough, could probably count his touches on your fingers. More