Not up to our Standards - Arteta laments Arsenal’s defensive errors in Sunderland draw

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed frustration after his side’s hard-fought 2–2 draw against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light, admitting that the performance was “not up to our standards.”

The Gunners’ impressive defensive run came to an abrupt end as they conceded two goals, the same number they had allowed since late August, bringing their winning streak to a disappointing close.

The first half proved challenging for the visitors as Dan Ballard, a former Arsenal academy graduate, capitalised on a set-piece to break the deadlock.

Ballard’s strike, a powerful volley under David Raya’s crossbar, ended Arsenal’s 881-minute run without conceding a goal. His finish came moments after Sunderland had threatened with a similar long free-kick delivery.

After a frustrating first half, Arsenal regrouped after the break. Bukayo Saka restored parity with a fine finish before Leandro Trossard put the visitors ahead, seemingly steering the game back into their control.

The Gunners appeared poised to claim all three points until a moment of defensive chaos in stoppage time undid their efforts. Sunderland’s Ballard was again involved, flicking on a cross that led to Brian Brobbey’s late equaliser.

“I felt a pain in my tummy,” Arteta confessed post-match.

He continued, “They did really well, and we conceded a goal that is not in our standards. We can defend that action better, and today we haven’t done it.

“The last feeling is disappointment and frustration because we wanted the three points. Of course, it hurts, especially when it costs you points. We know that we have to do better, and even though we’re conceding goals, there are things we must improve on the ball. Learn from the past and get back,” the Spaniard said.