Relive Daily Mail Sport’s live blog for the score, team news and updates as Newcastle welcomed Arsenal to St James’ Park in the Premier League, with Craig Hope reporting from the ground.
Gunning for the title
By Craig Hope At St James’ Park
That. Was. Huge.
Before this weekend, there was a prospect that Arsenal could have been eight points behind Liverpool if everything went wrong. Instead, the gap is now two points.
As soon as the whistle went at Selhurst Park yesterday and Crystal Palace had beaten Liverpool, an already massive game at St. James’ Park got even bigger.
Arsenal HAD to beat Newcastle, and well, that’s what they did.
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For a long time, it looked like it was going to be another afternoon of pain for the Gunners at a ground that has inflicted so much damage on their title hopes in the last few years.
They had a stonewall penalty overturned, missed heaps of chances, and then Newcastle went and took the lead through Nick Woltemade.
But this new and improved version of Arsenal did not give up, and they turned the game on its head late on. Mikel Merino levelled things up with five minutes to go, before Gabriel won it in stoppage time.
Now it’s Arsenal who have the momentum, not Liverpool.
The fact that we are talking like this just two months and six games into the campaign says everything, really. This is going to be a rollercoaster of a campaign with so many twists and turns.
But what we do know is that Arsenal will likely be there or thereabouts at the very end of it.
Anyway, I am going to dash off now. Thank you for joining us, see you soon.
19:50
‘Arsenal took their opportunity’
By Craig Hope At St James’ Park
Europe and USA, Newcastle and Arsenal. Here was the latest round of what has become the Premier League’s most irritable and intriguing rivalry. Welcome to Bethpage Black and White, where the raiders absorbed the barbs and held their nerve on the green of the St James’ Park battleground to sink one at the last.
Arsenal were trailing 1-0 entering the 85th minute. Whereas Superman had kryptonite, the Gunners have had Tyneside in recent seasons. After another bruising and bitter contest, they were headed for a fourth straight defeat here, again without scoring a goal.
To have lost, on a weekend when pace-setters Liverpool finally conceded some ground, would have felt like Mikel Arteta’s side as good as giving up on the Premier League title. This was a window of opportunity they had to take. In the end, they scraped through the frame seconds before it closed.
Arsenal seized the window of opportunity seconds before it closed
Europe and USA, Newcastle and Arsenal . Here was the latest round of what has become the Premier League ‘s most irritable and intriguing rivalry.
19:45
HIGHLIGHTS: Newcastle 1-2 Arsenal
These highlights are a must-watch.
I imagine that many an Arsenal fan have already re-watched this game a fair few times. If it were my team, I’d be lapping it up.
One of the matches of the season. A true blockbuster of a clash.
19:40
Howe: ‘We weren’t at our best’
Eddie Howe, Newcastle manager, on Sky Sports:
I thought we tried. We gave everything to the game. It was really physical. I don’t think we were at our best today, being honest. Arsenal played very well.
We had our chances in the game and we took the lead and we were desperate to try and hang on to that lead. Nick [Pope] made some good saves for us, but it wasn’t to be, and we conceded set-pieces at the end. It was so disappointing.
To a degree, there is a feeling that there is a player change for us but we can’t use that as an excuse. We have to win with the players we have. It was great to see Nick [Woltemade] score and we did have other chances in the game.
We have to take accountability for that and look to come back and be better. I said when we signed Nick and Yoane [Wissa], they are totally different players and we are never going to find another Alex [Isak] but we can find a way to be effective with them in the team. It’s good to see Nick get two goals so early in his Newcastle career.
19:36
Football butterfly effect
Butterfly effect can be big in football.
Sadly, I don’t have the footage of Gabriel hitting Nick Woltemade in the face; it would be very helpful right now, but I can tell you that it was really naughty.
In fact, I was stunned at the time that VAR didn’t actually check the incident. Gabriel easily could have been sent off.
Had he been, then he obviously wouldn’t have been on the pitch to score the winner.
But he was, and he did.
19:31
Woltemade: ‘I’m not the type of player to fall down, but I felt an elbow in my face’
Nick Woltemade, Newcastle goalscorer, on Sky Sports:
If you get two real late goals, it don’t feel good if you’re 90 minutes 1-0 in front. Yeah, just doesn’t feel good. I think in the second half we didn’t get the pressure away from our goal. We were just defending. Sometimes we have to take more situations where we can breathe, where we also play with the ball and get some situations where we can get out of pressure and get the ball in the Arsenal side and we have to learn about it because if you defend for 45 or 52 minutes in the second half and don’t get any chances and then they get two goals by corners, so don’t feel good.
On his goal:
We trained this yesterday, and I knew the ball would come there close to the second post, and I had a good position for this header because I was staying one arm away from Gabriel, so I could jump high and then head the ball really well.
On the situation with Gabriel after his goal:
After the goal, there was a situation where I felt his elbow in my face at two metres, so his arm had to be really high. I don’t know, I just said it to the referee that I felt something in the face, and I think it’s not right to feel something in the face, but I’m not the type of player to fall down for this. It’s hard because sometimes maybe you have to do this but this is not my type of football.
He said sorry after, so I think he knew he hit me in my face. I didn’t solve the situation to be honest. I don’t like this. If you do some things in-game and then a few seconds later you say sorry, that’s not part of the game. I like this situation where you can have a good battle, but his elbow should not be in my face.
19:23
More heartbreak for Newcastle
You have to feel for Eddie Howe and his side.
Don’t get me wrong, they didn’t deserve anything from that game. Well, maybe you could argue that a point would have been fair, but they were dominated for most of the game.
But you either have to have a heart of stone or support Sunderland or Arsenal to not feel sympathy for the Magpies to lose in that fashion.
That’s the second time it’s happened to them this season. For that to happen twice across all 38 games is brutal enough, but twice in six games? Just so tough.
They are going to have to try to pick themselves up, but it will be hard.
19:18
Arteta: ‘That was a statement win’
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal manager, speaking on Sky Sports:
We fully deserved the win. the way we played, the way we competed. We fully deserved the win. The chances we generated. I think we fully deserved to win the game. We did it in a dramatic manner, but so happy and so proud of the team.
That’s how you get to a different level. Going through those tough moments and taking experiences from it. We discussed that in the game, and it’s a massive opportunity now to make a statement and to prove to everybody and ourselves the team that we are. And we certainly with the performance and thankfully with the results as well at the end.
That was a statement? Well, for ourselves, yes, just to prove, because it’s a terrific team that’s so difficult to play against, and we already played at Old Trafford. We played at Anfield, we played Man City. We already played here very early in the season. And again, the level of consistency and quality we showed in the performance today was stop.
19:13
Merino: ‘An unbelievable win’
Mikel Merino, Arsenal goalscorer, on Sky Sports:
It’s unbelievable to win these kind of games late winners are the best. But obviously, from my perspective, it is even greater. Coming back here is always big for me, big memories, amazing place in my life. But also being able to score and help the team coming on is incredible. And yeah, I mean, I couldn’t be better to win in the last minute. Congrats to all the boys.
Always coming here is great to see all the faces, old friends. I’ve had amazing memories here. I’ve only been here for one year, but is still a big part of my life, of my career. And yeah, to come here and score a winner, I had that again in the same goal as I saw for Newcastle a couple of years ago. It’s magical.
Maybe more for the fans [the win is more important] or for you guys than for us. We know the hard work we’ve been putting in, the kind of performances that we’ve been creating as well, and obviously winning the way we want today shows the character of the team.
How much we trust each other, how confident we are, and that doesn’t change, doesn’t matter the results. So we’re confident. We have an amazing team, an amazing squad, amazing staff, obviously, and amazing fans. So yeah, we’re ready for it.
19:08
Merino the goalscoring machine
Yep, that is a real sub-heading.
When Mikel Merino joined Arsenal, I think many of us just expected him to be a squad player, a back-up in the midfield.
But over the course of his 14 months at the Emirates, he has grown into a really important player… just not in the way you’d expect.
Merino is now Arsenal’s top scorer across both all competitions (9) and Premier League only (7) in 2025.
Four of his nine goals this year have been scored with his head, with no Premier League player netting more headers in this period.
Who’d have thought it?
19:03
Saka: ‘There’s nothing better’
Bukayo Saka, Arsenal winger, on Sky Sports:
It’s unbelievable. Late winners – there’s nothing better in football. So speechless. I’m so happy. It’s hard when you’re on the bench and you can’t control and affect the game.
But when you have guys like this guy [Mikel Merino] – he’s a big threat. And obviously big Gabi [Gabriel]. I have big trust in my teammates and we’ve got the win.
On the penalty being overturned in the first half:
The penalty, you know, for me, like if we have VAR for clear and obvious errors, and the fact that it took the ref that long to decide.
So it’s not a clear and obvious error, but it’s things like this, these little things that always go against us. But I think today, we got what we deserved for sure. I was speechless, man. But doesn’t matter now we won.
18:59
Historic header from Gabriel
Want more content on the late winner?
If you are an Arsenal fan, I imagine the answer is a resounding yes.
Well, there are plenty of incredible stats regarding Gabriel’s header at the death. It was a historic goal.
This was the second-latest that Arsenal have trailed in a Premier League game and gone on to win (equalised in 84th minute), after their 3-1 win over Norwich in April 2013, when the equalising goal was converted by Mikel Arteta in the 85th minute.
In fact, timed at 95:45, Arsenal scored their second-latest winning goal in a Premier League away game on record (since 2003-04), only behind Declan Rice’s winner at Luton in December 2023 (96:23).
This goal will be replayed over and over again for years.
18:55
The season of late winners
What is it about late goals this season?
Rio Ngumoha against Newcastle, Mohamed Salah against Burnley, Eddie Nketiah against Liverpool, and now Gabriel against Newcastle.
Week after week, there seems to be a massive winner in stoppage time. It’s just crazy.
I mean, as a neutral, it’s incredibly entertaining for us. There are already so many memorable moments from this campaign, just two months in.
I say ‘neutral’ because Newcastle must be sick of these late winners.
90+10 against Liverpool, and 90+6 here. Brutal.
18:50
WATCH: Gabriel wins it at the death
Want to watch the winner back?
I imagine if you are a Newcastle fan reading this, the answer will be a big fat NO.
So, this one is for you, Arsenal supporters.
It’s one hell of a header from Gabriel, and just look at the scenes in the aftermath of the ball hitting the net.
Pure joy and jubilation.
18:46
‘So big for Arteta’
Gary Neville, former Man United captain, on Sky Sports:
So big for Arsenal, so big for Arteta. A week ago the glass was half empty, now it’s more than half full. Liverpool lose, Arsenal win in stunning fashion.
They deserve it, they were the better football team. He made really good subs, he started with a strong team. That will give them huge confidence.
18:41
Terrific turnaround
Do we have new kings of the comeback?
In years gone by, Arsenal haven’t always been the best at turning games around, especially late on. But not anymore.
There are so many reasons that win is a massive one, but the fact that the Gunners came from behind so late in the evening is probably the biggest of them all.
I’ve said it so many times, but to show the mental strength to come from behind when so much had gone against them, at a ground that has caused them so much pain, is hugely impressive.
It will give those Arsenal players so much confidence going into the rest of the season.
Could this year be their year?
18:36
Gabriel the hero
The Arsenal fans serenade their hero.
The Gabriel chant is echoing out from the heavens of St. James’ Park, and the matchwinner races over to his adoring fans to celebrate.
You can feel just how much this means by these celebrations; Arsenal really needed that.
If the Gunners left with anything other than three points, it would have been a travesty. They dominated here, at a ground that has caused them so many problems in the past.
This title race is well and truly alive and kicking.
18:33
FULL-TIME: Newcastle 1-2 Arsenal
Arsenal end their St. James’ Park hoodoo.
The pain of years gone by are expelled by Gabriel, and he drops to the ground in celebration as the whistle is blown.
This feels huge. We are only two months into the new season, but that may hve just swung the title race in Arsenals’ favour.
They move within two points of Liverpool with a massive three points.
18:30, 96′
Goal:Newcastle 1-2 Arsenal (Gabriel 90+6′)
AT THE DEATH!
It’s pandemonium for Arsenal, and it’s heartbreak for Newcastle. Gabriel has won it right at the end.
I don’t know what it is about late winners this season, but they seem to be here in abundance, and the Gunners get their moment.
It’s, of course, from a corner and Gabriel hammers it past Nick Pope to claim a massive three points.
HUGE.
18:29, 95′
BIG BLOCK! Newcastle 1-1 Arsenal
Malick Thiaw, take a bow!
The Newcastle defender may have just earned his side a massive point with a huge block.
Myles Lewis-Skelly is in and looks to square the ball, but Thiaw comes across and makes a big challenge to block the ball.
18:28, 94′
SUBSTITUTION: Newcastle 1-1 Arsenal
Is this Eddie Howe going for it?
The Newcastle boss brings on Harvey Barnes, and it’s Joelinton who makes way for him.
That seems like an attacking change to me.
18:27, 93′
Newcastle 1-1 Arsenal
You could cut the tension in here with a knife.
St. James’ Park is pretty much silent bar a few whistles as Arsenal knock the ball about.
This could be a long few minutes for Newcastle if it continues like this.
18:24
EIGHT added minutes
I called it!
My prediction of eight additional minutes has come true, and there is plenty of time for a winner.
Who will get it, though?
18:23, 89′
SUBSTITUTION: Newcastle 1-1 Arsenal
This is a strange substitution.
I have been praising Mikel Arteta for going for it, but now they are level, you’d expect him to push for a winner.
So what does he does, bring on defender Myles Lewis-Skelly for winger Leandro Trossard.
Strange.
18:21, 88′
VAR: NO PENALTY!
This one goes Arsenal’s way.
The ball took a deflection up onto the arm of Gabriel, and he was pretty darn close to Anthony Elanga.
I think VAR has made the correct decision there. At last.
18:20, 86′
VAR CHECKING PENALTY
Ooooooh…
Gabriel could be in trouble here. VAR is checking a handball from the Arsenal man inside the penalty box.
Anthony Elanga fires a shot off and the defender has his arms outstretched and the ball hits it.
Yet more controversy.
18:18, 85′
Goal:Newcastle 1-1 Arsenal (Merino 85′)
MIKEL ARTETA’S SUBS HAVE DONE IT AGAIN!
Just like last week, a substitute has come off the bench to score a massive late equaliser.
Mikel Merino does brilliantly to rise highest and head home Declan Rice’s lovely cross.
That’s a big, big goal.
18:18, 84′
YELLOW CARD: Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
There we are!
Joelinton finally gets his yellow card.
The Brazilian easily could have got one in the first minute, but it has taken until the 84th for him to pick one up.
That’s decent by his standards.
18:17, 83′
SUBSTITUTION: Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
Mikel Arteta is throwing everything at this now.
Martin Odegaard is back from injury and he replaces Martin Zubimendi as Arsenal chase an equaliser.
Time for the captain to step up?
18:16, 82′
Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
Nick Pope, is that really you?
I know the bloke is having a good game, but I never thought I’d see him bring out some skills. He sends Vikto Gyokeres to the cleaners.
Moments later, Gyokeres is in the thick of it again. He clashes with Jamaal Lascelles, and then sends an effort comfortably wide.
It’s all going on now.
18:14, 80′
Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
There is only 10 minutes of normal time remaining, but this game is far from over.
I’m guessing there will be around eight minutes of stoppage time, and based on how this season has gone, I bet we will get a late goal.
Arsenal are approaching desperation station now.
18:11, 77′
SUBSTITUTION: Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
The stretcher is out; this really isn’t good.
Tino Livarmento looks distraught as he is lifted onto it; his hands are on his face. Poor lad.
He gets a lot of love from the crowd as he comes off, but I’m sure that will mean little to him right now, sadly.
He is replaced by Jamaal Lascelles, who plays for the first time in what feels like forever.
18:09, 75′
Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
Oh dear…
Tin Livaramento is down and it looks like he has awkwardly landed on his ankle. Not good.
Eddie Howe is staring into the distance with worry, as he knows he doesn’t have a replacement on the bench.
Remember, Lewis Hall is not in the squad.
18:08, 73′
Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
Bruno Guimaraes is one pumped-up man, my word.
He lets out an almighty roar alongside a huge fist pump as he blocks Jurrien Timber’s flick and wins a throw-in.
I swear there is always one minor moment in a big game where the Newcastle skipper lets out one of those, he blooming loves it.
It certainly riles up the crowd; they are alive again.
18:06, 71′
CHANCE! Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
Another big chance for Viktor Gyokeres!
This time, there is no hesitation, and the striker lets fly from the right-hand side of the box.
It’s a decent bending strike, but it flies inches wide of the post via a crucial deflection.
The pressure is ramping up again.
18:04, 70′
SUBSTITUTION: Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
Can Gabriel Martinelli be the hero again?
Well, he has the chance to be as he comes on to replace Bukayo Saka for the final 20 minutes.
And Mikel Arteta is really going for it as he hooks Riccardo Calafiori for Mikel Merino.
18:03, 69′
CHANCE! Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
Ohhhhh… I thought that was the moment.
It almost feels like time falls still as Bukayo Saka’s shot is deflected into the path of Viktor Gyokeres.
The Swede just needs to pull the trigger, but he hesitates and Newcastle hook the ball out for a corner.
Big, big moment.
18:00, 67′
SUBSTITUTION: Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
Eddie Howe rings the changes.
Nick Woltemade’s number is up and he gets a standing ovation as he leaves the pitch to be replaced by Will Osula.
Anthony Gordon and Jacob Murphy also make way, with Kieran Trippier and Anthony Elanga coming on.
17:59, 65′
BIG BLOCK! Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
Declan Rice to the rescue.
Newcastle are so dangerous on the counter attack, and for the first time in what feels like forever, they finally get out of their own half.
Jacob Murphy races away; he has the whole Arsenal half in front of him, but Declan Rice does brilliantly to track back and block his effort when he makes it into the box.
Huge block from Rice, that.
17:56, 62′
Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
It really is all Arsenal now.
They are probing, really probing, while Newcastle are just sitting deep in their own half with the aim of soaking up pressure.
Can the Gunners break them down?
17:54, 60′
WHAT A SAVE! Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
WOW!
What a save that is from Nick Pope, he is on one today.
It’s a stunning little dink from Martin Zubimendi to plop the ball on Jurrien Timber’s head five yards out.
His header looks set for the bottom corner, but somehow Pope reacts quickly enough to get low and turn the ball past the post.
That is an incredible stop.
17:51, 57′
CLOSE! Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
Ooooooft.
Now that is so, so close from Joelinton.
St. James’ Park screams ‘shoooot’ at the Brazilian as he picks up the ball on the edge of the area, and boy does he oblige.
Joleinton rifles a low drive across David Raya, and it bends just wide of the far post.
That’s a good effort, that.
Riccardo Calafiori loves yellow crads so much, I wouldn’t be surprised if he marries one.
He always seems to pick one up.
This time, he is shown a booking for wrestling Tino Livarmento to the ground like he is a WWE star.
17:49, 55′
CHANCE! Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
Oh, that’s a real chance.
Anthony Gordon burns down the right-hand side and then drills the ball into the six-yard box.
Nick Woltemade is trying to get there, but Gabriel does brilliantly to wrestle him enough to put him off.
Up the other end, Eberechi Eze then blazes over on the volley. It’s all happening in the north east.
17:46, 52′
Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
St. James’ Park is overcome with nerves again.
That’s because Arsenal have their Newcastle team pinned back in their own box and are trying to break them down.
This could easily become the pattern of the half, and if it does, those fans are going to be having kittens.
17:42, 48′
Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
Oh, I’ve just realised that Cristhian Mosquera has been hooked by Mikel Arteta.
That feels a bit harsh… is he injured?
Anyway, William Saliba has come on at the break and Mosquera is looking rather miffed on that bench.
17:41, 46′
OFF THE BAR! Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
How is it not two??
I can’t believe it, and neither can Nick Woltemade as he is on the floor with his hands on his head.
Newcastle come flying at the traps, and Jacob Murphy finds the big man in the middle, and you just expect him to score.
But no, he hits the bar.
It’s a massive chance, and a big miss, but it wouldn’t have counted anyway, as the flag does go up. Still, he has to score.
17:39, 46′
SECOND HALF: Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
Here we go again.
The teams are back out, and there is a massive roar as Sandro Tonali gets this second half underway.
Let’s hope this half is as entertaining as the first.
17:36
WATCH: Woltemade opens the scoring
I thought Nick Woltemade wasn’t known for his headers?
Everyone made a point of saying that Woltemade is brilliant with his feet, like a Peter Crouch-style player, despite being such a big man.
Well, that’s now two goals… both headers.
He takes this one so well, and no, it’s not a foul on Gabriel. He just tries to buy a free-kick as he knows he’s stuffed.
17:34
Uphill battle for Gunners
Things just aren’t going Arsenal’s way this season.
This is the first time since April 2023 that Arsenal have trailed at half-time in consecutive Premier League matches.
It really does feel like an uphill battle for the Gunners now. If they turn this around, it would be huge for their season, but it’s going to take a monumental effort.
I think many fans would take a draw.
Jamie Redknapp, former Tottenham midfielder, on Sky Sports:
He [Nick Pope] gets a touch, but I’m not sure it’s enough to negate the foul. I’m amazed that got overturned. He definitely clears him out.
17:28
WATCH: Should Arsenal have had a pen?
This is an incident that is going to be debated for some time.
Personally, I am still in a little disbelief that the penalty given to Arsenal for Nick Pope cleaning out Viktor Gyokeres was overturned.
Sure, the Newcastle man got the slightest of touches on the ball, but it doesn’t change that he took the Swede out. Gyokeres would have scored if not for the challenge.
Some of my colleagues believe that because of the touch, the referee made the right decision, but I have to disagree. I think Mikel Arteta has a right to feel hard done by.
Watch and let me know what you think.
17:23
HALF-TIME: Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
And breathe.
This fixture never fails to deliver; this has been a belting affair on Tyneside, and Newcastle lead at the break.
Arsenal will feel hard done by, considering they should have had a penalty and dominated before going behind.
But they lost their way in the St. James’ Park cauldron eventually, and Nick Woltemade stuck the Magpies in front against the run of play.
The fact is, though, that ain’t the half of it…
17:20, 49′
Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
Bukayo Saka is losing his head here.
The Arsenal stand-in skipper goes apoplectic at the referee after not getting a free-kick.
He goes to the ground after a collision with Sandro Tonali, but it’s never a foul. Not in my eyes at least.
Saka doesn’t agree, though; he’s incensed.
17:18, 47′
Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
Arsenal have certainly lost their way since the goal.
You can see that many of the players feel decisions have gone against them, and it’s affecting their performance now.
They just need to forget about what’s happened and just get back to playing football again.
You don’t get anywhere when frustrated.
17:16
SEVEN added minutes
Thank goodness.
This is an enthralling contest and I just don’t want it to be paused yet. Luckily, we have seven more minutes until the break.
17:14, 43′
Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
Nick Woltemade and Gabriel are still going at it.
Sandro Tonali is down receiving treatment after getting hit flush in the face by the ball.
Meanwhile, the big man and the Brazilian are still discussing the goal, and the clash thereafter.
Gabriel loves a rivalry with a big striker, doesn’t he? CC Erling Haaland.
17:12, 41′
Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
Brilliant defending that, wow.
Viktor Gyokeres is on his bike and just has to get past Malick Thiaw as he enters the box.
But the Newcastle man stands up to the challenge excellently, nicking the ball off him and driving the Geordies back up the pitch.
St. James’ Park roars again.
17:09, 38′
Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
I’ve watched it again, it’s definitely NOT a foul.
Gabriel is still livid, though, and there are some afters with Nick Woltemade that Jarred Gillett has to break up.
We were waiting for this game to reach boiling point, and my word, it has now.
It’s the feisty affair we were expecting.
17:08, 36′
Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal
Arsenal fans may be a little miffed again.
David Raya went bananas while Nick Woltemade was celebrating as he thought the German pushed Gabriel before meeting the cross.
There are definitely hands on the Brazilian, but he goes down as if he has been sniped from the terraces.
I say no foul, but the Gunners will feel aggrieved.
17:05, 34′
Goal:Newcastle 1-0 Arsenal (Woltemade 34′)
Football, eh?
It’s a cruel old game. Arsenal have been battering Newcastle all game, but it’s the Geordies who take the lead.
The big man Nick Woltemade sends St. James’ Park into a frenzy as he nods into the corner from a lovely cross.
That’s why they paid the big bucks for the lad.
17:03, 32′
CHANCE! Newcastle 0-0 Arsenal
Save, after save, after save.
I’m not sure what Nick Pope had for breakfast this morning, but it has fuelled him to become a saving machine.
This stop is much more straightforward as he denies Bukayo Saka from a tight angle, but he still has to make it.
The bloke is being peppered like a bowl of pasta at an Italian restaurant.
17:01, 29′
BIG SAVE! Newcastle 0-0 Arsenal
Another huge save from Nick Pope to deny Eberechi Eze.
If it weren’t for the goalkeeper, Newcastle would be out of this game, and Arsenal would be cruising.
Once again, he flies across to get a big hand to a stinging Eze shot, and the Geordies survive.
He probably made that save in anger after Riccardo Calafiori nicked his towel moments earlier to dry the ball for a throw-in.
You can’t do that and he got a telling off from a referee.
16:59, 27′
Newcastle 0-0 Arsenal
There is a goal coming here, you can feel it.
Arsenal have put that penalty farce behind them and are continually bashing at that door. Soon it will come down.
Eberechi Eze yet again has a dig, but there is a huge block to stop it from hitting the target.
16:57, 25′
OFF THE POST! Newcastle 0-0 Arsenal
Wow, what a move that is!
It’s champagne football from Arsenal, and I have no idea how they are not ahead here.
The Gunners shift the ball from left to right beautifully, and eventually Declan Rice slides in Leandro Trossard.
I hover over the goal button, thinking the net is about to ripple, but the Belgian smashes the ball back off the post.
So, so unlucky.
16:56, 24′
CHANCE! Newcastle 0-0 Arsenal
Oh…. that’s a chance, a real chance.
St. James’ Park falls silent with nerves as Declan Rice’s free-kick is glances across the box by Viktor Gyokeres.
Riccardo Calafiori dives to meet it and you are thinking, ‘oh hello, this could go in’.
But his header flies just wide of the post. Close, but no cigar.
16:53
‘Gillett’s mic stayed on’
By Craig Hope At St James’ Park
Jarred Gillett’s mic was still on as he explains to Saka… “the goalkeeper got a toe on the ball before contact, that’s why”
16:51, 19′
Newcastle 0-0 Arsenal
That may just be the kind of decision that completely changes this game.
St. James’ Park is a cauldron of noise once again, and the Newcastle players are thriving off it.
Arsenal need to try and ride out this period of the game.
16:49, 18′
VAR: NO PENALTY! – Arsenal
That’s a joke.
I’m sorry, I can’t believe it. How this has been overturned for the smallest of touches from Nick Pope’s boot is just silly.
Mikel Arteta is laughing, but I’m sure inside he is absolutely fuming.
Arsenal just can’t catch a break with these decisions.
16:47, 16′
VAR CHECKING PENALTY
Surely not?
How is this even being checked. Jarred Gillett has been sent to the screen, and I can’t believe it.
They are saying Nick Pope has touched the ball, but its the smallest of touches that doesn’t make any difference to the challenge.
He’s been sent to the screen.
16:44, 14′
PENALTY TO ARSENAL!
That is about as stonewall as you can get.
Nick Pope rushes out and hacks down Viktor Gyokeres, and the referee points to the spot. Clear as day.
It all comes from a huge Jacob Murphy brain fart as he passes through to Gyokeres to allow hm to race through.
The Swede rounds Pope, and is then cleaned out. Penalty.
16:44, 13′
Newcastle 0-0 Arsenal
It’s wave after wave after wave of Newcastle attacks now.
It’s almost as if they know I am criticisng them and just start playing well to spite me. These things always seem to happen.
A succession of corners come and go, though, and nothing from them.
16:42, 11′
CHANCE! Newcastle 0-0 Arsenal
That’s much, much better from Newcastle.
They have finally woken up, and Nick Woltemade starts the counter down the left-hand side.
It’s fair to say he has serious wheels for a big man.
A decent move leads to a corner, which is then met by Malick Thiaw, but his header is comfortable for David Raya.
This is more like the game we were expecting.
16:39, 8′
Newcastle 0-0 Arsenal
Craig is right, Newcastle haven’t started well here at all.
Arsenal are playing like a team that have a point to prove after all the misery they have experienced here over the years.
The Gunners are playing some lovely, lovely stuff.
16:38
‘No intensity from Newcastle’
By Craig Hope At St James’ Park
Newcastle usually start these games with intensity and in the face of opposition. It hasn’t been like that so far, and it’s needed a big save from Pope to deny Eze to keep it 0-0.
16:37, 6′
BIG SAVE! Newcastle 0-0 Arsenal
What a save from Nick Pope!
I thought that was in from Eberechi Eze. I really thought that was in. So did he it seems, his hands are on his head in disbelief.
The first chance of the game falls to the Arsenal man as Jurrien Timber’s cross is deflected into his path.
The midfielder drills the ball toward the bottom corner, and Nick Pope does incredibly well to tip it past the post at full stretch.
Top goalkeeping.
16:35, 4′
Newcastle 0-0 Arsenal
It looks like Newcastle are playing a back four.
Dan Burn is out on the left while Jacob Murphy is on the right and high up the pitch.
I must say, I’m surprised given that we have not seen Burn play at left-back for quite some time.
A bit of a risk considering he is up against Bukayo Saka, no?
It has taken 54 seconds for Joelinton to commit a foul.
Bukayo Saka skips away from the Brazilian, so he just hacks him to the ground.
How long until he gets a yellow? My guess is 16 minutes.
16:30, 1′
KICK-OFF: Newcastle 0-0 Arsenal
The huddles have been had, the players take to their positions, and the music has subsided.
The whistle is blown, and there is an enormous roar from all four stands.
And… we have a false start. Don’t see that too often.
But finally, we are now underway.
16:27
Regular rowdy atmosphere
St. James’ Park is at it again.
Every time I cover a big game at this venue, I am astounded by just how loud the noise these fans generate.
This place is absolutely bouncing as the two teams emerge from the tunnel. The roar is almost deafening.
Arsenal know they are walking into a bear pit, and they will have to try and do what Barcelona did here a couple of weeks ago and ride out the first few minutes.
If they can quieten the crowd, three points may be in the cards, but if they can’t, you know what will happen.
Either way, let’s just hope we get a cracker.
16:24
Kick-off closing in
Right guys, it’s time to get excited.
The warm-ups are over, and both managers will be giving their final instructions to their respective teams as I type this.
I imagine they are saying: ‘Just go and blooming win’. Well, something along those lines – maybe slightly more complicated.
It’s nearly go-time.
16:20
Howe: ‘We’ve deserved more this season’
Eddie Howe, Newcastle manager, speaking on Sky Sports:
They’ve been really tight games – two teams that show great will to win and pride themselves on detail. We’ve enjoyed them. Today will be another great game.
There are a few different ways we can go. We can change our shape if we need to. We have a strong team, we are looking forward to seeing that team gel together. You’ll find out [the formation] in no time.
Our general performances have been strong. We’ve deserved more from the games we’ve had.
16:17
A birthday present from the Magpies?
A bit early for this sign, isn’t it?
Actually, where are my manners? Happy birthday, kid. I hope you have a belter.
I’m sure he is desperate for his beloved Magpies to give him the perfect day by picking up three points. Then he can truly celebrate.
And you never know, maybe he will get a shirt as a present after it all.
I don’t imagine he will get one now, though… for obvious reasons.
16:15
‘This is a grudge match’
Chris Sutton, former Chelsea striker, on BBC Sport:
This has become a bit of a grudge match since Newcastle’s controversial at St James’ Park in 2023. Arsenal have lost on their past three visits but even a draw might not help them much this time, because they cannot afford to fall any further behind Liverpool at the top of the table.
16:11
‘Howe managing Hall’s minutes’
By Craig Hope At St James’ Park
No injury for Lewis Hall, who isn’t in the matchday squad. Newcastle just managing minutes and he should be OK for USG in Champions League on Wednesday.
16:06
Aston Villa beat Fulham
Aston Villa’s season is up and running.
Elsewhere today, Villa hosted Fulham in the early kick-off, looking to finally secure their first win of the season.
Before the game, they had only scored one league goal in five games, and had looked nothing like the side Unai Emery has led in Europe the last few seasons.
But today, they rediscovered their form.
The Villans finally found their goalscoring touch again, coming from a goal down against Fulham to win 3-1. They needed that.
16:03
Saka seeking century
Today could be one to remember for Bukayo Saka…
With 54 goals and 45 assists, Bukayo Saka is one goal involvement away from becoming the eighth player to reach 100 for Arsenal in the Premier League.
Aged 24 years and 23 days on the day of this game, he would be the second youngest to reach this milestone for the Gunners after Cesc Fàbregas in 2010.
I mean, it’s a pretty crazy record. Saka has already done so much in such a short career; he is easily one of the best attackers in the Premier League. Not quite the best yet, but there is no reason he can’t be in a few years.
If he is at his best today, Newcastle will be in for a long afternoon.
15:57
Can Gunners get back to winning ways away?
Arsenal usually do love playing away from home.
Arsenal have lost just one of their last 16 Premier League away games, winning eight of those matches.
However, this did come last time out at Liverpool.
Only twice since May 2022 have the Gunners lost consecutive league games on the road, with the second defeat both times coming at Newcastle (May 2022 and November 2024).
With their biggest rivals Liverpool losing yesterday, Mikel Arteta simply can’t afford to slip up once again.
It feels like a must-win game for them.
15:54
Arteta: ‘Saliba still recovering from ankle injury’
By Craig Hope At St James’ Park
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal boss, on why William Saliba is not starting:
William Saliba is recovering from an ankle injury he’s trying to resolve. We have to manage the squad. Martin Odegaard is very keen. He’s trained the last two days. He’s desperate to get on the pitch.
These stadiums and these moments make your team. Those challenges make a better team. It’s going to be physical.
15:48
‘Newcastle would be better off attacking Arsenal’
By Craig Hope At St James’ Park
There was some debate pre match amongst us journalists as to whether Eddie Howe would drop Sven Botman (who does not like to be dropped) and stick to his preferred 4-3-3 formation.
He did not… and so Newcastle start with three centre-backs in Botman, Malick Thiaw and Dan Burn. I think Newcastle would have been better off forgoing a centre-back and attacking Arsenal, but hey, Howe knows more than me!!
15:44
Woltemade to shine?
One player I am excited to watch today is Nick Woltemade.
I only caught a brief glimpse of the big man when reporting on Newcastle’s game with Barcelona, but that was only a cameo, and I couldn’t make much of it.
Well, that’s the only time I have reported on him as a Newcastle player anyway. I covered the Under-21 Euros final, and he played in that. I thought he was decent that day, but his performance wasn’t at the level of what many have told me it can be.
He is up for a very tough afternoon against Cristhian Mosquera and Gabriel, but these are the types of games where you can show why Newcastle paid the big money.
The Geordies really need to start scoring goals again, and Woltemade needs to be the man banging them in.
Can he bag one today?
15:40
Snoozefest incoming?
Guys, I wouldn’t expect a lot of goals today.
History shows that these two sides don’t exactly give much away at the back. In fact, they almost give nothing away whatsoever.
Newcastle have kept four clean sheets in their five Premier League games this season, conceding only in their 3-2 defeat to Liverpool.
The Magpies have also failed to score in three of their five league games so far; they have been one of the dullest teams to watch in the division, if not the dullest.
Meanwhile, Arsenal themselves have only conceded twice this season, once against Liverpool and once against Manchester City.
So yeah, I wouldn’t get too excited. It’s either going to be a 1-0 win to either side, or maybe even a 0-0.
I’m not exactly helping sell this game, am I?
15:35
‘Newcastle are Arsenal’s bogey team’
Harry Redknapp, former Tottenham manager, speaking to BetVictor:
This feels like a big game for Newcastle. I just think they need a lift, need a good result. Some of the performances have been decent but they just haven’t taken their chances and it’s stating the obvious, but they do miss Isak.
It was a good point for Arsenal against City, but I thought they should have shown more ambition earlier in the game. That’s been a problem for them in a few of these big games. What a fantastic finish that was from Martinelli though!
Newcastle have been something of a bogey team for Arsenal over the last season or so. I know a lot of that was with Isak, but those fans will be so up for this, and I can see them getting a point.
15:31
Arteta goes attacking
Nobody can criticise Mikel Arteta for pragmatism today…
Last week the Arsenal manager was berated by pundits and fans alike for picking a rather reserved team when Manchester City came to town. They really came for him.
I mean, I was a bit confused by some of the choices, and they clearly didn’t work with how the game played out.
So, Arteta has seemingly listened to his critics and is going all guns blazing today.
Eberechi Eze is in from the start, and not on the wing this time as he plays in the attacking midfield role. Mikel Merino is the man who is sacrificed.
It’s the sort of team that can rock up to St. James’ Park and dominate. Yep, I do mean that. If this side clicks, it could cause the Magpies all sorts of problems.
I’m excited to see how they fare.
15:26
‘A difficult place to come for Arsenal’
Tim Krul, former Newcastle goalkeeper, speaking on Radio 5 Live:
For Arsenal, it has been a difficult place for them. Newcastle are looking to get a result.
If Arsenal get a win here, that will give them the confidence to kick on and really be a title challenger.
15:23
Mosquera over Saliba
Well, I have to say, I’m a little shocked.
William Saliba has just signed a brand spanking new contract and is back from injury, so you’d just expect it to be a given that he would start here today.
But nope, he is on the bench.
Perhaps it’s because Cristhian Mosquera has been solid and they want to ease Saliba back into the team. I mean, other than that, I can’t see any other reason why he would be dropped.
The Frenchman played at Port Vale in midweek and it didn’t look like he picked up a knock or anything.
I’m interested to see what Arteta says on it.
15:17
Arsenal Team News – Saliba DROPPED
Oooooh, now this is interesting.
William Saliba has been dropped by Mikel Arteta following Arsenal’s midweek win over Port Vale.
Cristhian Mosquera keeps his place, and Gabriel comes in to replace the Frenchman. Surprising.
Meanwhile, Martin Odegaard is back on the bench and Eberechi Eze is in the hole behind Viktor Gyokeres.
A very attacking team.
15:16
Newcastle Team News – Woltemade STARTS
Yep, they are all starting!
I knew that Nick Woltemade, Joelinton, and Bruno Guimaraes were happy for a reason. They are, of course, all involved from the start.
Eddie Howe is going pretty defensive, starting five at the back just like he did at Bournemouth last week.
Anthony Gordon comes in, and Jacob Murphy moving to wing back role.
15:14
Geordies’ good vibes
Good. Vibes. Only.
Look at all the smiles as Newcastle arrive at St. James’ Park ahead of this mammoth clash. You love to see it.
You wouldn’t guess that Newcastle are about to face off with Arsenal based on these pictures, would you? The players don’t looked stressed or nervous whatsoever.
I imagine that Joelinton, Bruno Guimaraes, and Nick Woltemade all know they are starting, going by the smiles, but we will have to wait and see.
Team news is imminent.
15:11
Arteta: ‘St. James’ Park is always a challenge’
Mikel Arteta, Arsenal manager, speaking on Friday:
It’s a lot of games that you have to dominate when you play against them, now we have to be ready because they continue so rapidly, so quickly, it’s a really intense match.
We will prepare for that, we know that as well, but increasing especially our efficiency and two very specific key things I think it gives us the best chance to win the game.
On the atmosphere at St. James’ Park:
Incredibly beautiful; I think it’s one of the best football atmospheres in this country. As a player, as a fan, as a coach, you want to live in this atmosphere; they play every single ball with you.
It’s electric, there is so much support there and it’s one team, one city, I think that makes it different as well. It’s such a challenge and opportunity as well, so it’s a great game to play.
15:08
Gunners Geordie hoodoo
By Harry Bamforth
St. James’ Park is the stuff of nightmares for Arsenal.
I’m pretty sure Mikel Arteta will have had sleepless nights in the lead-up to this game because of how much they have struggled there over the years.
If he has bags under his eyes today, you’ll all know why.
Under Arteta, Arsenal have only lost more away games at Manchester City in all competitions than they have away to Newcastle. Yep, he really does hate it here.
Newcastle have won each of their last three home games against the Gunners in all competitions without conceding a single goal, while they last won four in a row at home to the Gunners in August 1969.
Can the Gunners break that run today?
15:05
Calm before the storm
By Harry Bamforth
I love this period before a big game.
You know, when the stadium is dead calm and the only people pottering about are stewards before the fans arrive. It’s just so peaceful.
I think you really appreciate it because you know that in a couple of hours your ears will be ringing and you will barely be able to hear yourself think.
Well, we are in that very period now at St. James’ Park. The place is so, so quiet. Barely anyone is here.
That will all change come 4.30pm, though.
15:02
League leaders slip up
There is a reason Arsenal fans have woken up feeling giddy today.
Nope, it’s not just because their side are in action today, but rather because of a certain result regarding their biggest title rivals.
Yesterday, champions and leaders Liverpool hit their first roadblock of the season.
And that roadblock was Crystal Palace.
The story of the season has been the Reds and their late winners, and they looked like they had pulled it off again with a late leveller after being behind for the majority of the game at Selhurst Park.
But no, Crystal Palace do to the Reds what they have done to so many by scoring with the very last kick of the game.
Eddie Nketiah swept home in the eighth minute of stoppage time, and I’m pretty sure you could hear the cheers from North London while sitting inside Selhurst Park.
The former Gunner has given Arsenal a chance to close in on the Reds.
15:00
Can Arsenal close the gap?
‘The wolf pack’s starin’ at you, they’ll be comin’ for you.’
If I were in the Arsenal dressing room today, I would be wacking on that punk rock song by The Offspring. It’s surely the tone they want to strike today.
With Liverpool having dropped points for the first time this season yesterday, losing to Crystal Palace, this is the perfect opportunity for Arsenal to close the gap at the top to two points.
Just like the song suggests, they are coming for the Reds.
Closing the gap is easier said than done, mind. The Gunners have possibly one of the worst fixtures they could have in front of them this afternoon: Newcastle away.
St. James’ Park has chewed up and spat out this Gunners side plenty of times in the past, and I wouldn’t be stunned if it did so again this afternoon. The Magpies just love playing Mikel Arteta’s side.
I am incredibly hyped for this game, not because I am expecting a goal-fest or anything, but rather because I know it’s just going to be a dogfight. A proper scrap. A ruffle and tussle.
The next few hours are going to be a rollercoaster. Get yourselves comfy, grab a cuppa, strap in, and get ready for one hell of a ride.
It’s time to get groovy.
Credit: www.dailymail.co.uk
