The Gunners could have extended their lead just before halftime, but Pickford was alert to deny Trossard’s effort in stoppage time. Declan Rice’s follow-up rebound was blocked by an Everton defender, leaving Arsenal with just a 1-0 advantage at the break
Arsenal’s hopes of securing a vital three points in their final league trip to Goodison Park were dashed on Saturday, as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Everton in a frustrating encounter. A controversial penalty awarded to the Toffees early in the second half allowed them to snatch a point after Leandro Trossard had given the Gunners the lead before the break.
Arsenal started the match with a burst of energy, and their first real chance arrived in the 33rd minute. Raheem Sterling’s pace saw him break through the Everton defense and set up Trossard, who calmly slotted a low shot past goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. The goal marked Trossard’s second consecutive season with a goal at Goodison Park.
The Gunners could have extended their lead just before halftime, but Pickford was alert to deny Trossard’s effort in stoppage time. Declan Rice’s follow-up rebound was blocked by an Everton defender, leaving Arsenal with just a 1-0 advantage at the break.
Arsenal made two key substitutions for the second half, bringing on Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka, both recently returned from injury. However, just minutes after the restart, Everton drew level. Myles Lewis-Skelly was adjudged to have fouled Jack Harrison in the box, and after a lengthy delay, the referee awarded a penalty. Iliman Ndiaye stepped up to the spot and calmly sent David Raya the wrong way to make it 1-1.
Despite some moments of promise in the final stages, including a powerful free-kick from Rice and a late shot from Martinelli that was brilliantly saved by Pickford, Arsenal couldn’t find the elusive second goal. Martinelli’s effort was pushed over the bar by Pickford, while a header from Mikel Merino narrowly missed the target, leaving the Gunners frustrated at the final whistle.
While Arsenal extended their unbeaten league run to 11 matches, the draw was a bitter disappointment, especially given their dominance in the first half. The result leaves Arsenal with mixed feelings as they turn their attention to their upcoming Champions League clash with Real Madrid.
This draw also marked the 113th and final league visit to Goodison Park for Arsenal, who now bid farewell to the historic venue. Although the Gunners will look to take positives from their strong run of form, they will be keen to bounce back in their next challenge on the European stage.
