Arsenal’s Premier League title hopes suffered a significant setback as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Everton at Goodison Park, with Gunners boss Mikel Arteta lambasting a controversial penalty decision.
The equalizer came from Iliman Ndiaye’s calmly converted second-half spot-kick after Myles Lewis-Skelly’s challenge on Jack Harrison in the box. Referee Darren England swiftly awarded the penalty, a decision upheld by VAR.
“I have seen it 15 times – in my opinion, it is never a penalty,” said a visibly frustrated Arteta. “We were in control and dominating, but this decision came out of nowhere. It’s disappointing.”
Everton’s manager David Moyes, however, refrained from weighing in, admitting he had not reviewed the incident.
Arsenal had started the match brightly, with Leandro Trossard giving them the lead, but Ndiaye’s penalty immediately after halftime halted their momentum. Despite pressing for a winner, Arsenal could not break through a resolute Everton defense.
The draw leaves Arsenal’s title chase hanging by a thread. Leaders Liverpool now require just 11 points from their final eight matches to seal the championship, starting with a clash against Fulham on Sunday.
Chris Sutton, speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, labeled the decision a “soft penalty,” echoing the sentiments of fans and pundits alike. The Premier League’s match center, however, defended the call, citing sufficient contact within the area.
