The Gunners' performance was far from convincing but will still bring some relief to their beleaguered manager Arsene Wenger. Arsenal are new seven points behind fourth-placed Manchester City with a game in hand, while Middlesbrough lie six points from safety and have also played one game fewer than most of the teams above them. Arsenal's attacking difficulties were not unexpected because Middlesbrough went into the game after conceding only 37 goals — two fewer than Wenger's under-performing side. Middlesbrough were immediately on the front foot and levelled inside five minutes after Sanchez lost possession. Downing's cross was headed back towards goal by Friend and Ayala looked certain to score before he directed his header too close to Cech.

Source: Daily Nation April 17, 2017 21:20 UTC