Arsenal’s engine has been sputtering a bit in recent weeks. But against Fulham, with Timothy Castagne kicking off, The Gunners couldn’t imagine a better start.
Martinelli’s shot in the 4th minute was first knocked out of goal by Fulham goalkeeper Leno. But Saka followed well and pushed the ball in at the 2nd post.
On the half hour, Fulham fired back sharply. Raul Jimenez tapped in a great cross from Cairney.
Things went from bad to worse for Arsenal when Bobby Decordova-Reid made it 2-1 on the hour mark with a pinball goal.
Leandro Trossard was allowed to play his last minutes of 2023 halfway through the 2nd half, but that did not make any difference.
With a 4th league defeat (the 3rd in December), Arsenal loses the lead. Leader Liverpool can move further ahead on New Year’s Day if it sets aside Newcastle.
