Newcastle United vs Arsenal: Match Report

Newcastle United 0-2 Arsenal

Goals: Martin Odegaard (34', Gabriel Martinelli (66')

Arsenal maintained their perfect start to the Premier League season with a 2-0 victory over Newcastle United at St James' Park on Saturday.

The Gunners dominated possession and chances throughout the match, and were rewarded for their pressure when Martin Odegaard fired them ahead just before the half-hour mark.

Gabriel Martinelli doubled Arsenal's lead in the 66th minute, finishing off a flowing move involving Bukayo Saka and Odegaard.

Newcastle rarely threatened to get back into the game, and Arsenal held on comfortably to secure all three points.

Match Summary

Arsenal started the match brightly, and were in control of possession from the off.

The Gunners had the first real chance of the game in the 10th minute, when Bukayo Saka's cross found Gabriel Jesus, but the Brazilian's header was saved by Nick Pope.

Arsenal continued to press, and were rewarded for their pressure in the 34th minute when Martin Odegaard fired them ahead.

The Norwegian midfielder received the ball from Gabriel Martinelli on the edge of the area, and drove a low shot into the bottom corner.

Newcastle rarely threatened to get back into the game, and Arsenal held on comfortably to secure all three points.

Reaction

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta was delighted with his team's performance.

"I'm really happy with the way we played today," he said.

"We controlled the game from start to finish, and created a lot of chances.

"We're still a work in progress, but we're moving in the right direction, and we're looking forward to the rest of the season."

Newcastle manager Eddie Howe was disappointed with his team's performance.

"We didn't play well enough today," he said.

"We were second best to Arsenal in all areas, and we deserved to lose.

"We need to improve, and we need to improve quickly."

Conclusion

Arsenal's victory over Newcastle United was a statement of intent from the Gunners.

Arteta's team are now top of the Premier League table, and they look like they will be a major force in the title race this season.

Newcastle, on the other hand, have a lot of work to do if they want to challenge for a top-four finish.