SUNDERLAND GAIN ARTETA'S RESPECT

Arsenal boss upset at conceding late leveller but gives credit to opposition in tough game

- 

Manager Mikel Arteta lamented that "the game was almost there" as English Premier League leaders Arsenal's long winning run came to an end in a breathless 2-2 draw at Sunderland after a stoppage-time leveller on Nov 8.

It looked as though Leandro Trossard's 74th-minute thunderbolt had claimed an Ilth successive win in all competitions for Arsenal, who trailed at halftime, but substitute Brian Brobbey struck in the 94th minute at an electric Stadium of Light.

Sunderland defender Dan Ballard had put the high-flying hosts in front after 36 minutes, the first time Arsenal's defence had been breached in nine matches.

But Arteta's team found another level in the second half to take charge with captain Bukayo Saka firing home an equaliser in the 54th minute, before Belgian forward Trossard cut in to smash an unstoppable shot that gave Robin Roefs no chance.

Sunderland were not finished though and Brobbey showed great athleticism to volley past David Raya from close range.