BY OSABUOHIEN VIVIAN-ROSE
Arsenal moved a step closer to ending their long wait for a Premier League crown after Leandro Trossard’s late strike secured a tense 1-0 victory over West Ham United at the London Stadium on Sunday.
With the title race entering its decisive stage, the Gunners overcame a determined West Ham side thanks to Trossard’s 83rd-minute finish from a precise Martin Odegaard pass. The Belgian winger calmly fired a low shot beyond the goalkeeper to send the travelling Arsenal supporters into celebration.
Despite dominating possession for large periods, Arsenal were pushed all the way by a spirited West Ham team fighting to avoid relegation. The hosts thought they had rescued a dramatic equaliser deep into stoppage time when substitute Callum Wilson bundled the ball home following a corner.
However, after a lengthy VAR review, referee Chris Kavanagh ruled out the goal for a foul on Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya in the build-up, leaving West Ham players and fans devastated.
The victory restores Arsenal’s five-point lead at the top of the table with two matches remaining. Mikel Arteta’s side now know victories against Burnley and Crystal Palace would guarantee their first league title since 2004, although Manchester City still hold a game in hand.
For West Ham, the defeat could prove costly in the relegation battle. The Hammers remain in danger of dropping into the bottom three depending on results elsewhere.
The controversial VAR decision is certain to spark debate, but Arsenal will care little as they continue their pursuit of Premier League glory after surviving one of their toughest remaining tests of the season.
