In a thrilling match at St James’ Park, Arsenal showed their mettle and came out on top with a 2-0 win over Newcastle United to keep their hopes of a Premier League title alive. It was a devilishly difficult fixture for the Gunners, who faced a Magpies side that had won eight of their last nine games and lost just twice in their last 24 Premier League home games.

Arsenal started the game on the back foot, with Jacob Murphy hitting the post in the second minute. The Gunners were given a scare when referee Chris Kavanagh initially awarded a penalty to Newcastle after Jakub Kiwior appeared to block Bruno Guimaraes’ shot with his hand. However, the official changed his mind after reviewing the incident, which showed the ball deflected off the defender’s knee.

Arsenal took the lead against the run of play in the 14th minute when Martin Odegaard fired in a left-footed drive from the edge of the box. The goal settled the away side into their stride as they took control of the game, with Pope having to make a string of saves to keep Newcastle at bay.

The Magpies hit the woodwork twice through Murphy and Alexander Isak, but they were unable to find a route to goal. Arsenal sealed the win 19 minutes from time when Martinelli’s driven cross deflected off Fabian Schar and into the net.

It was a victory that dispelled any notion that this Arsenal team will not be able to sustain their charge. Last season, their hopes of a top-four finish were dashed after a 2-0 defeat at St James’ Park, but this season they are a more resilient and battle-hardened group.

Speaking after the game, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta admitted that last season’s defeat was part of the motivation ahead of this clash. “My players had revenge in their minds after last year,” he said.

With this win, Arsenal remain one point behind Manchester City, who still have a game in hand. It may prove to be a chase in vain, but the Gunners are staying hot on their heels as the title race rolls on. For Newcastle, the result leaves them with work still to do to claim a top-four finish.

Overall, it was a compelling encounter played in a ferocious atmosphere, with both sides showing their attacking prowess. However, it was Arsenal who came out on top, proving that they have what it takes to compete at the highest level and keep their title hopes alive.