Champions Arsenal ended Newcastle United’s 11-match run of home victories but had to settle for a 1-1 draw on Sunday after Frenchman Laurent Robert scored a second-half goal before being sent off. The point kept the London side three points clear of second-placed Manchester United after Alex Ferguson’s team were also held 1-1 by neighbours Manchester City at Old Trafford. Thierry Henry gave Arsenal a 35th-minute lead in a first half dominated by Arsenal before compatriot Robert equalised in the 53rd minute, only to be sent off four minutes later for a second bookable offence. The champions looked majestic for long periods of the game but ultimately Newcastle merited a share of the spoils with the visitors unable to make the numerical advantage count. Only a late save by England goalkeeper David Seaman denied Newcastle a stoppage-time victory. The draw means Arsenal have 57 points from 27 games and Manchester United have 54 from the same amount. Newcastle have 49 points with a game in hand on their rivals. An extraordinary save from Shay Given was needed to keep the home side level in the 31st minute. Newcastle defender Titus Bramble diverted Henry’s cross towards goal from six metres and the Ireland goalkeeper headed the ball over the bar. Henry made amends when he put Arsenal ahead in the 35th with a smartly-taken goal. After Jermaine Jenas surrendered possession from a Newcastle throw-in, midfielder Gilberto fed forward Sylvain Wiltord who spotted Henry’s clever diagonal run with a sharp pass. Henry rounded Given before sliding the ball into the empty goal. Wiltord went close from 22 yards and then Pires broke free only for his low shot to be blocked by Given who easily saved the winger’s attempted lob. (Reuters)
