Luton Town vs Arsenal LIVE: Premier League result and reaction as Declan Rice nets late winner
Luton 3-4 Arsenal: Rice’s last-gasp winner puts the Gunners five points clear
Declan Rice scored a last-gasp winner to settle a seven-goal thriller at Luton, sparing the blushes of goalkeeper David Raya to send Arsenal five points clear at the top of the Premier League.
Luton had looked on course to land a thoroughly deserved draw after two errors from Raya had seen them hit the front - only for the Gunners to rally and win it 4-3 at the death.
Raya embraced Rice at the full-time whistle after Kai Havertz had earlier drawn the visitors level in what proved to be a thrilling contest at Kenilworth Road.
The visitors had led 2-1 at half-time as Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus scored either side of a Gabriel Osho equaliser.
Raya, whose role as Arteta’s number one continues to be in the spotlight with Aaron Ramsdale warming the bench, then gifted two goals to Luton in the space of eight minutes as Elijah Adebayo and Ross Barkley turned the game on its head.
Havertz appeared to have salvaged a point for Arsenal but they pushed on to the last and £105million summer signing Rice nodded in a fine Martin Odegaard cross to wrap up the victory.
Luton Town vs Arsenal
Arsenal take a 2-1 lead into half-time thanks to goals from Martinelli and Jesus, either side of an Osho equaliser. A poor backpass from Bell forced Kaminski to play the ball out for a throw, which culminated in Saka teeing up Martinelli for the opener. Osho profited from some disappointing defending to power in a leveller five minutes later, only for Jesus to meet White's floated delivery from the right to restore his side's lead.
Luton Town vs Arsenal
SHOT! Doughty brings the ball out of the sky brilliantly. A cross into the box is cut out for a corner, which Saliba gets to. Luton keep the attack alive and a powerful Mengi drive is right down the throat of Raya.
Luton Town vs Arsenal
Five minutes have been added on at the end of the first half. Arsenal will feel they are worthy of that lead, having forced Kaminsky into a few saves after being pegged back. Can the hosts respond before half-time?
Luton Town vs Arsenal
Barkley goes sliding in on Martinelli to become the second Luton player to receive a booking. There was no reason for the midfielder to go to ground there.
Luton Town vs Arsenal
The Arsenal corner is cleared, but replays show that Kabore headed the ball onto his own arm when intervening. Nobody appeals for a penalty, but something very similar was given in PSG's favour against Newcastle last week.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments