John McGinn proved the difference as Villa cemented their grip on third place - moving just one point behind the Gunners. There is now talk in some quarters of the media that Unai Emery’s side could launch a surprise bid for the Premier League title.
However, a moment of controversy came in the final stages as Arsenal fans were adamant they should have been awarded an equaliser. Havertz bundled the ball into the net but his celebrations were cut short.
Referee Jarred Gillett ruled the goal out for handball - with Gunners supporters feeling aggrieved as the ball also ricocheted off Matty Cash. A lengthy VAR check failed to intervene and Villa held on for a closely fought victory. The result rounded off a perfect week for the Villans as they beat Manchester City by the same scoreline just days earlier.
Mikel Arteta stayed coy in his post-match interviews, refusing to question the referee given the fall-out from the Newcastle United defeat last month. While the Spaniard said little, he was clearly irate as he replied “clear and obvious” when asked about the decision.
Havertz has now given his verdict on the game to his social media followers. The German admitted the result was “tough” to take but insisted Arsenal should have earned at least a point at Villa Park.
“Tough one to take,” Havertz wrote on Instagram. “I thought we deserved more… Now onto Tuesday. Thank you as always for the support!”
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