Arsenal up to third as Leeds’ poor run continues

London, April 17: Leeds United slumped to their fourth successive English Premiership defeat after going down 4-0 at home to Arsenal - a r...

London, April 17: Leeds United slumped to their fourth successive English Premiership defeat after going down 4-0 at home to Arsenal – a result which takes the Gunners up to third above their opponents on goal difference.

Goals from French international Thierry Henry, Martin Keown, Nigerian Nwankwo Kanu and Dutchman Marc Overmars wrapped up the points for the visitors, and to add to their problems, Leeds had defender Ian Harte sent off just before the interval.

Arsenal are now level with Leeds on 60 points and have a game in hand. Despite the importance of this clash at Elland Road which could have a huge bearing on who qualifies for the Champions League, the murders of the two Leeds fans in Istanbul 12 days ago were still foremost in everyone’s thoughts.

This was Leeds’ first home match since the killings of Kevin Speight and Chris Loftus and the club’s players, management, officials and supporters were determined to pay them a fitting tribute. But a jaded Leeds were outplayed by Arsenal, who spurned several other chances.

Liverpool improved their own chances of securing a Champions League place next season after beating Premiership strugglers Wimbledon 2-1 in the earlier match at Selhurst Park.

Record signing Emile Heskey scored a goal in each half – a blistering shot and a glancing header – before Martin Andresen pulled one back for the home side 20 minutes from time. Liverpool are now unbeaten in 12 – the last time they lost was in the first week of January in a 1-0 defeat at Tottenham.