Arsenal missed a chance to move top of the table with a stunning 2-1 upset loss at the Hawthorns against mid table West Bromwich Albion.
Powered by a fine performance from James McClean down the left channel against an Arsenal side that looked weary, WBA fully deserved their win on the day. Santi Cazorla missed a late penalty kick that would have preserved a point for Arsenal to complete a frustrating afternoon.
It was an agonizing outing for the Gunners, who had plenty of chances, but looked short of fitness and ultimately lacked a true cutting edge. Despite seeing plenty of the ball and getting another fine show in midfield from Mesut Ozil, Arsenal were disconnected and only rarely were able to break down a well-organized Albion.
This was not a park-the-bus game from WBA manager Tony Pulis, known for his defensive rigor. Indeed, WBA forced Cech into more saves than usual.
- Vanguard
