Sports

Arsenal’s title hopes hit; Chelsea go fourth

Arsenal's Premier League title aspirations take a hit after a 1-1 draw with Manchester United, while Chelsea moves into fourth place with a crucial win.

Sentinel Digital Desk

LONDON: Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice struck in the second half to cancel out Bruno Fernandes's free-kick but Mikel Arteta's men could only muster a 1-1 draw with Manchester United in a big blow to their Premier League title chances.

Second-placed Arsenal, who have failed to win their last three Premier League games, have 55 points and trail leaders Liverpool by 15 points but with a game in hand.

Manchester United, with one league win in their last five games and just three victories in their last 12, are 14th on 34 points.

The first half was far from a classic with Arsenal, who were hoping to build on the momentum from their midweek 7-1 Champions League thrashing of PSV Eindhoven, dominating possession but with few chances for either side.

Fernandes finally broke the deadlock seconds before half-time and against the run of play with a brilliant free-kick that sailed over the wall and past the outstretched hands of goalkeeper David Raya. It was the first time United had led at halftime of a Premier League game since December 1.

The second half was far more entertaining with near misses for both sides before Rice levelled in the 74th minute when he latched onto a ball from Jurrien Timber and unleashed a blistering shot from the edge of the box past Andre Onana.

Chelsea returned to the top four of the Premier League after squeezing past struggling Leicester City 1-0, with a 60th-minute goal from Spain defender Marc Cucurella.

Europe-chasing Bournemouth were left kicking themselves as they squandered a two-goal lead to draw 2-2 at Tottenham Hotspur after outplaying their hosts. Agencies

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