In a dramatic finale at the Stadium of Light, Arsenal’s impressive ten-match winning streak came to an abrupt halt as Sunderland snatched a 2-2 draw, raising eyebrows over some questionable tactics employed by the hosts. The Gunners, who showcased a commendable performance especially during the closing stages, were left to rue Sunderland’s late equaliser from Brian Brobbey, denying them full points.
The match saw Arsenal’s talented duo, Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard, overturn Dan Ballard’s initial lead for Sunderland to fortify a 2-1 advantage, only for Brobbey to dramatically level in the dying moments. The encounter was notable not just for the on-field fireworks but also for the tactical subplot involving the placement of advertising hoardings.
Former Sky Sports stalwart, Richard Keys, now with beIN Sports, disclosed that the North Londoners are set to deliberate the issue internally. The crux of Arsenal’s grievance stems from Sunderland’s alteration of the pitch-side hoardings a ploy purportedly aimed at neutralising Arsenal’s potent long throw-ins.
In his remarks, Keys acknowledged, “While no rules were breached, Sunderland shifted the hoardings with an apparent aim to disrupt Arsenal’s long throws. The repositioning remained within legal constraints as long as a metre’s clearance from the touchline was maintained. Yet, given our recent learnings from pitch-side safety issues, it appeared uncomfortably close.”
Keys highlighted the potential risk involved, while conceding the cleverness of Sunderland’s stratagem. “Sunderland’s move was astute and easy to overlook, sparking a debate only post-match. Arsenal will discuss it in their upcoming meeting,” he noted.
Sunderland’s manager, Regis Le Bris, candidly addressed the move, stating, “We sought any edge to win. Arsenal’s set-piece threat was significant, and the game was well-balanced ultimately.”
The tactical manoeuvre, while sparking conversations, saw Sunderland operate within permissible boundaries, leaving Arsenal pondering over a crafty defensive display. Fans and pundits alike now await further developments from the Emirates.