Stoic Sunderland halts Arsenal's winning run
Premier League leader Arsenal's long winning run came to an end in a breathless 2-2 draw at Sunderland with Brian Brobbey securing a deserved point for the hosts with a stoppage-time leveller.
It looked like Leandro Trossard's 74th-minute thunderbolt had claimed an 11th successive win in all competitions for Arsenal, which trailed at half-time.
Sunderland defender Dan Ballard put the high-flying hosts in front in the 36th minute, the first time Arsenal's defence had been breached in nine matches.
But Mikel Arteta's team found another level in the second half to take charge with captain Bukayo Saka firing home an equaliser in the 54th minute before Trossard cut in to smash an unstoppable shot past Robin Roefs.
Sunderland was not finished, though, and Brobbey showed great athleticism to volley past David Raya from close range.
Arsenal now has 26 points as it extended its lead to seven points over second-placed Manchester City, which could close the gap at home to champion Liverpool on Monday (AEDT).
"The game was almost there," Arteta said. "But you know this is the Premier League and the manner that they [Sunderland] play, they're going to hang in there when it's just one goal difference.
"I'm upset and frustrated because it's an action that we can defend better, but as well you have to give credit to the opposition to do what they've done.
"Obviously, the feeling is disappointment and frustration because we wanted the three points, and we have to navigate through a really tough game."
Promoted Sunderland continued its excellent return to the top flight and sits third on 19 points.
"You saw again the fight in the team," goalscorer Ballard said.
"The boys worked so hard throughout the whole week. We fight right to the end. The number of late goals we've scored – it's brilliant."
