Mikel Arteta said he was “disappointed” with the decision to award a second-half penalty at Brighton as Arsenal were held to a 1-1 draw at the Amex Stadium on Saturday night.
Arteta’s side were aiming to close the gap on Premier League champions Liverpool, who play Manchester United on Sunday, but failed to claim all three points on the south coast despite taking a first-half lead with the teenager Ethan Nuaneri.
The Gunners were knocked out after the break as the home side mounted a spirited comeback. Fabian Hurzeler’s side were rewarded for their efforts when they were awarded a penalty when William Saliba tried to head the ball but instead caught the head of striker Joao Pedro.
The Brazilian sent over the spot and from there Brighton wasted a couple of half chances to win the game late on.
Sharing points in Brighton.
A chance to turn the page quickly on Tuesday. pic.twitter.com/OvxH20cvqa
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) January 4, 2025
But the Gunners boss felt referee Anthony Taylor’s decision to award the penalty was harsh.
“We are disappointed because we wanted to win the game,” Arteta told Sky Sports.
“We started the game with some good actions and scored a very good goal. We knew it was going to be a really competitive and challenging game.
“But we fought. It wasn’t our best day, especially with the ball in the second half. We have so many simple balls away, which did not allow us to dominate the game.
“I can’t fault the effort, the intensity and how much we wanted it, but doing the simple things has to be right against a very good team. Today was not up to the standard required to win the game.
“And we’re very disappointed with the way (referee Anthony Taylor) gave the penalty. I’ve never seen that in my life. For me it’s clear no.”
A win for Arsenal would have moved them within three points of Liverpool. As it stands, the Gunners currently trail Arne Slot’s side by five points with two games in hand.
But Arteta chose not to dwell on questions about his title rivals and instead keep the focus on his own players.
“Today we wanted to win the game and we didn’t,” Arteta added.
“There are definitely things we need to improve. We are also very disappointed with the (penalty) decision and, after that, we have to try to be better in the next game.”
Next up for the Gunners is the visit of Newcastle in the first leg of the Carabao semi-final on Tuesday.
