By Katie Catherall
Arsenal recorded a tight 1-0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford in a game that marked a crucial moment in their Premier League title campaign.
The Gunners headed into the match knowing a victory was compulsory if they were to move back ahead of Manchester City into first place.
Mikel Arteta's side delivered an uncharacteristically poor performance, but it was still enough to continue their season's dreams.
United were forced to begin the match on a sour note, with late news that both Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford would not be available against the Gunners. Their absence meant a midfield trio of Sofyan Amrabat, Kobbie Mainoo and Scott McTominay were forced to start.
Despite going up against United's depleted squad, Arsenal opened the fixture looking somewhat nervous, claiming just 30% possession in the opening 15 minutes. Arteta looked twitchy on the sidelines, encouraging his players to relax.
However, the Gunners didn't need much longer to get ahold of the game, and soon put a shot into the back of Andre Onana's net. It was Leandro Trossard who opened up the scoring, receiving the ball from Kai Havertz and slotting in from a low cross.
The Gunners can also thank Casemiro for their goal, with the Brazilian mistakenly offering acres of space and keeping the players onside.
United may have been trailing 1-0 at half-time, but their performances provided a few positives for fans, who were especially keen to see Amad Diallo dictating the game.
But, for the first time in 15 years, Arsenal led the way at the half-way mark at Old Trafford.
The Gunners struggled to see another chance at goal to more comfortably solidify their win, with very few opportunities arising in the second half. A moment did come late on, but a save from Onana denied Gabriel Martinelli.
Just minutes later, he proved vital again, blocking Declan Rice.
It was anything but a comfortable performance for the Gunners, but it was enough to see their title chances extended. The outcome means the title will be decided on the last day of the season.
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This article was originally published on 90min.com as X reacts as Arsenal earn crucial win away at Man Utd.
