Arsenal star reveals how referees helped Brighton to beat them

Arsenal’s title charge took a hit on Sunday as they suffered a 3-0 defeat at the hands of Brighton & Hove Albion. The Gunners were left frustrated by the referees’ decisions, particularly on Brighton’s first goal, which centre back Jakub Kiwior believes should have been ruled out by VAR.

Kiwior spoke to the media after the game, saying: “I felt contact and lost my boot. I didn’t even see the goal. I hoped VAR would intervene and rule out the goal, but unfortunately the referee saw it differently. After we conceded the second goal, our heads dropped and we couldn’t come back.”

Brighton’s first goal came in the 51st minute when Pervis Estupinan volleyed a cross into the ground and Julio Enciso was left unmarked to head in from a few yards out. Kiwior had lost his boot during a melee in Arsenal’s six-yard box after a clash with opponent Evan Ferguson and stayed down clutching his foot in pain. Brighton then played in another cross while Kiwior was on the floor and Enciso was left free to score.

LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 14: Arsenal manager Miklel Arteta after the Premier League match between Arsenal FC and Brighton & Hove Albion at Emirates Stadium on May 14, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

The Gunners were unable to recover from that setback and went on to concede two more goals in the second half. Deniz Undav scored Brighton’s second goal in the 86th minute after Pascal Gross won possession with some brilliant pressing. Estupinan then scored his first Premier League goal in stoppage time to seal a comprehensive victory for Brighton.

Arsenal had gone into the game hoping to keep pace with league leaders Manchester City, who currently have 85 points plus one game in hand. The Gunners are now four points behind City with just two games remaining, making it unlikely that they will be able to catch up.

Despite their disappointment, Arsenal can take heart from their strong season so far. They have been one of the most consistent teams in the league and have shown that they are capable of challenging for the title. With a few more additions to their squad, they could be even stronger next season.

For now, though, Arsenal will need to regroup and focus on their remaining fixtures. They will be hoping to finish the season on a high note and secure a top-two finish in the Premier League.