Declan Rice scored a wonder goal to earn Arsenal a victory over Newcastle, which secured the Gunners a place in next season’s Champions League.
Mikel Arteta’s side were flat and uninspiring before Rice’s exquisite curling finish from outside the box ensured second-placed Arsenal ended their home campaign on a winning note.
The Gunners had David Raya to thank in the first half as Newcastle – who remain in a good position for a Champions League spot – threatened despite missing leading scorer Alexander Isak.
BBC Sport reports that the scorer of 23 Premier League goals was absent with a groin injury. However, Raya was required to make smart saves to deny Bruno Guimaraes, Harvey Barnes, Dan Burn and Sven Botman inside the opening 20 minutes as third-placed Newcastle made a fast start.
But Rice’s 55th-minute goal – a first-time shot from 20 yards following Martin Odegaard’s pass – changed the atmosphere inside Emirates Stadium.
The win moves Arsenal on to 71 points. Of the teams below them only sixth-placed Manchester City, who are on 65 points with two games remaining, can match Arsenal’s tally. But the Gunners’ goal difference is substantially better.
Newcastle go into their final game at home to Everton knowing victory will almost certainly be enough to seal a Champions League place thanks to their strong goal difference.
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