Fulham 1-1 Arsenal: Match Report
William Saliba Secures a Point in Rainy London Derby: Fulham 1-1 Arsenal
William Saliba’s second-half goal, capitalizing on a Declan Rice corner, earned Arsenal a hard-fought draw in a wet and windy clash against Fulham. The defender was perfectly positioned to tap in after Kai Havertz’s header at the far post early in the second half.
Fulham Take the Lead
Arsenal dominated possession in the early stages, pinning Fulham back and forcing several corners. However, Fulham struck first against the run of play. Kenny Tete’s precise pass released Raul Jimenez, who sprinted past Jakub Kiwior and fired into the bottom corner past David Raya, scoring with Fulham’s only attempt of the first half.
Despite conceding, Arsenal pressed on with plenty of possession but struggled to create clear opportunities. Bernd Leno, one of three former Gunners in the Fulham lineup, made key stops, including a diving save from a Declan Rice shot.
Leandro Trossard provided some creative spark, sending a cross to Bukayo Saka at the far post, but the England winger misjudged his volley.
Saliba Levels It
As the second half progressed, Arsenal increased the tempo. Declan Rice delivered a pinpoint free-kick that narrowly missed Thomas Partey’s touch. However, from the resulting corner, Rice’s deep cross found Havertz, whose header was nudged in by Saliba. After a brief VAR check for offside, the goal was confirmed.
Chances Go Begging
Arsenal pushed for a winner, with another Rice corner finding Partey, who headed wide. Fulham remained a threat on the counter, with Andres Pereira testing Raya, who saved well with his legs.
Mikel Arteta introduced Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus, Mikel Merino, and Ethan Nwaneri for fresh energy. Late on, Bukayo Saka thought he had scored after heading in a Martinelli cross, but VAR ruled the goal out for offside in the build-up.
The draw leaves Arsenal six points behind Liverpool in second place, at least until Sunday’s late fixtures.
