Brian Brobbey scored a dramatic late equaliser as Arsenal conceded their first goal since September and had to settle for a point against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.
The Black Cats have been a breath of fresh air on their return to the top flight and rose to the challenge of facing a side who had won their past 10 games across all competitions.
Sunderland were rewarded for an impressive first-half display when Daniel Ballard – who came through the Arsenal academy – drove in the opener as the visitors let in a goal for the first time in 812 minutes.
Arsenal came out stronger in the second half and equalised when Declan Rice won the ball in midfield and it was worked to Bukayo Saka, who squeezed in a right-foot shot at the near post.
Martin Zubimendi struck the woodwork with a fierce effort as Arsenal pushed for a winner, which they thought they had got when Leandro Trossard sent a superb 20-yard finish into the top left corner.
But the hosts did not give up and after David Raya denied Brobbey, the substitute was not to be denied when another chance came his way to be the Sunderland hero.
He hooked a shot into the back of the net in the fourth minute of stoppage time to spark delighted celebrations on Wearside.
The result means Arsenal are seven points clear at the top, although that will be trimmed when second-placed Manchester City host defending champions Liverpool on Sunday.
Sunderland, meanwhile, remained unbeaten at home, with this point moving them up to third in the table.
