Missed Opportunity for Gunners to Go Top

West Ham delivered a stunning blow to Arsenal, claiming their third consecutive Premier League victory and putting a dent in the Gunners' title aspirations.

In a display of ruthless efficiency, West Ham capitalized on two out of three shots on target, while Arsenal missed numerous opportunities that could have propelled them to the top of the league.

Tomas Soucek struck home from Jarrod Bowen's assist, although there was a question mark over whether the ball had crossed the line in the build-up. The video assistant referee found insufficient evidence to overturn the goal, granting West Ham a first-half lead. Their advantage doubled in the 55th minute when former Arsenal defender Konstantinos Mavropanos expertly headed in a corner.

Despite dominating possession and applying pressure, Arsenal failed to muster a reply. Their frustrating night nearly turned disastrous when Declan Rice conceded a penalty in injury time, but David Raya denied Said Benrahma's attempt, narrowly averting further damage.

The outcome leaves Mikel Arteta's Arsenal trailing league leaders Liverpool by two points, while West Ham concludes the year with 33 points – their highest tally at the midway point of a Premier League season.

Arsenal's downfall stemmed from their inability to convert dominance into goals. Their mounting frustration mirrored not just on the field but also in the stands, as fans witnessed missed opportunities, including Bukayo Saka hitting the post, Gabriel Martinelli's wayward shot, and Gabriel Jesus's headed chance.

In contrast, West Ham defended selflessly, repelling Arsenal's relentless attacks. The visitors' efficient performance stood in stark contrast to Arsenal's wastefulness.

With five teams clustered within six points at the league's summit, Arsenal's lack of clinical finishing could prove costly, leaving little margin for error in the title race.