Arsenal’s grip on the Premier League title race loosened as Liverpool produced a comeback to snatch a 2-2 draw from them in a supercharged clash at a raucous Anfield on Sunday.
The North Londoners were heading to their first league win at Liverpool since 2012 and a massive three points in their quest to win the league as they went on to win 2-0, but Roberto Firmino headed the equalizer on 87 minutes.
It could have been even worse for Mikel Arteta’s side, as Mo Salah, who scored Liverpool’s opening goal and missed a second-half penalty, fired a late chance and was later parried by Arsenal goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale.
Ramsdale then made a miracle save from Ibrahima Konate in a breathless period of stoppage time.
As the dust settled in a boisterous contest that had it all, Arsenal, seeking their first title since 2004, lead Manchester City by six points, but the reigning champions have one game to play and also face Arsenal at home.
Arsenal had taken an early lead when striker Gabriel Martinelli broke through in the eighth minute and managed a shot past Alisson.
The visitors attacked at will and doubled their lead when Martinelli assisted Gabriel Jesus in the 28th minute.
Salah pulled a goal back for Juergen Klopp’s side shortly before halftime, but sent his second-half penalty deflected in a game littered with near misses.
However, his blush was unaffected by Firmino’s late header.
Arsenal have 73 points from 30 games, six points more than second-place City. Liverpool is eighth with 44 points.
“It was a crazy game. We started very well. The first 40 minutes before they scored we controlled the game,” Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard told the BBC.
“After his goal the game changed a bit and we couldn’t keep the ball. Aaron (Ramsdale) was very good back there and saved us.
“Frustrated that we didn’t win, but we have to take the point and move on.”
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