West Ham and Arsenal entered the break at the London Stadium level after a thrilling end to an otherwise lackluster first half.
Not before Rob Holding’s first-ever Premier League goal had a big chance either way as the Arsenal defender – in place of the injured Ben White – peeked out brilliant past Lukasz Fabianski in the 38th minute.
Seconds later, Aaron Ramsdale was called into action and pulled off a brilliant save from Declan Rice after the Englishman’s header at the near post from a corner.
The home side had reacted well to the delay, with Jarrod Bowen improvising a smart finish past Ramsdale just before the interval, via a Gabriel deflection.
With kick-off at 4.30pm BST, follow Standard Sport’s live blog for all the latest updates with Simon Collings providing expert analysis from the pitch…
Live updates
Ramsdale’s post-match reaction…
“It was vital that we win. I did not know the [Tottenham] score before going out, but of course it was important if we want to be fourth or even third if we are looking higher.
“I didn’t hit Jarrod Bowen, I was a yard away. He’s a good boy Jarrod, he jumped on it and was honest and said I didn’t touch him. He thought I was going to make contact.
bitter end
91:00 – More extra time as Rice and Nketiah argue, with a fight of sorts.
LUCK FOR ARSENAL
78:00 – Nketiah first on a loose backpass from Coufal and his shot is well saved by Fabianksi.
OPPORTUNITIES FOR BOTH SIDES
71:00 – Benrahma’s cross falls to Fornals, although his raucous volley is blocked by Gabriel.
Seconds later, Nketiah breaks but shoots wide after a brilliant ball from Elneny.
