The Gunners defeated relegation-threatened West Ham at home yesterday, but by the skin of their teeth.
For much of the first half, Arsenal controlled the match as they tested West Ham many times. However, as the game progressed in the second half, Arsenal showed signs of nerves once again, and on another day, West Ham could have really damaged the Gunners’ title bid.
Leandro Trossard scored for Arsenal in the 84th minute, but minutes earlier, Matheus Fernandes carved out a 1v1, which David Raya saved.
West Ham thought they had equalized at the last minute, but VAR overturned the goal to give Arsenal a controversial 1-0 win.
Arsenal have looked shaky in key moments of important matches of late in the Premier League and could have dropped more points than they have since the beginning of March.
West Ham almost mirrored Arsenal’s approach, as they sat deep and also dominated aerially. This frustrated Arsenal in their attempt to find a goal, as the nature of risks they took on the ball in the second half reduced significantly.
Also, after Trossard’s goal, Arsenal failed to take back control, as they resorted to time-wasting and other antics they could have regretted if the West Ham goal had stood.
Arsenal have to learn to play like champions with a commanding presence, especially in the middle of the pitch. With Burnley coming to the Emirates next week and a trip away to Crystal Palace, if Premier League teams sense fear and jitteriness, Arsenal could pay dearly.
