Arsenal’s Premier League title hopes suffered what will surely be a fatal blow as Brighton came to the Emirates and delivered a brilliant performance en route to a sensational 3-0 victory.
Manchester City’s comfortable win at Everton earlier on Sunday meant it was all or nothing for the Gunners but they were unable to rise to the occasion against a Brighton side that responded emphatically to their humiliation at the hands of the Toffees earlier this week.
In a feisty encounter that simmered throughout, Julio Enciso struck the first blow when he nodded in Pervis Estupinan’s cross from just yards out after being left unmarked by Jakub Kiwior, who went down in the build up.
The Seagulls then toyed with their hosts, who saw Mikel Arteta booked for dissent as they grew increasingly frustrated, and delivered the knockout punch when Deniz Undav punished former Brighton forward Leandro Trossard’s loose pass by lobbing Aaron Ramsdale.
Estupinan then added a third when he followed up Ramsdale’s weak save by prodding home the rebound and sparking wild celebrations on the south coast – and in Manchester.
Source: Sky sports
In other news-Belarus leader misses event fuelling health rumours
Belarus’ leader Alexander Lukashenko has missed a major state celebration, further fuelling health speculation.
The autocratic politician, 68, usually speaks publicly at the annual National Flag, Emblem and Anthem Day event but his prime minister read a message on his behalf on Sunday.
Last week, Mr Lukashenko left Moscow soon after Victory Day parade, skipping lunch with President Vladimir Putin.
Mr Lukashenko looked visibly tired, and his right hand was bandaged. Learn more
