David Raya has revealed Arsenal’s squad reacted with rage in the dressing room after Anthony Gordon’s strike was allowed to stand and proved the winner for Newcastle.
Video assistant referee Andy Madley spent four minutes deliberating over Gordon’s effort as checks were made over a push from Joelinton on Gabriel Magalhaes, offsides and whether the ball went out of play.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta described the decision as “embarrassing” and said he feels “ashamed” that the decision was allowed to stand in a league often described in England as the best in the league.
Raya could only flap at Joe Willock’s cross before the ball fell for Gordon in what was another shaky performance from the Spanish goalkeeper.
He said: “What I could see was the ball went out of play, and then after going to the dressing room, looking back at the goal, it’s a big foul on Gabi. He’s pushing him with two hands on his back when he’s about to clear the ball.
“On the other hand, it could have been an offside position, that’s harder to see. But the ball is out of play and the foul is a massive decision that’s just going to cost us some points. We’re really frustrated.
“The way we played, the way we competed, it was brilliant from everybody. We did what the gaffer asked us to do; win duels and get the ball up the pitch and everything, but decisions have taken a goal.”
The Gunners could not find the breakthrough at St James’ Park as their unbeaten record in this season’s Premier League came to an end, mustering up only one shot on target from their 14 total attempts.
Arsenal could drop down to fifth after the defeat should both Liverpool and Aston Villa win on Sunday.
