| the lead against the run of play.
New signing from Chelsea William Gallas was at fault for the opening goal, though too were much of the Arsenal back line.
Despite Arsenals early pressure there was little penetration and Boro were only too happy to take advantage.
Once behind Arsenal turned up the tempo and forced keeper Schwarzer into several fine saves.
The game turned on George Boatengs sending off following his second yellow card.
With Middlesbrough under the cosh, Stuart Downing tripped Arsenal full-back Eboue in the box and the referee pointed to the spot.
Thierry Henry coolly converted the spot-kick and Arsenal sensed all three points were in the offering.
But for all their pressure, the Gunners simply could not penetrate the Middlesbrough back line.
Jonathan Woodgate, making his debut following his seasons loan from Real Madrid, marshalled the Boro defence superbly and showed no signs of the injuries that have plighted his career so cruelly in recent years.
With the game there to be won, Arsenal gave a debut to their recent recruit from Real Madrid Julio Baptista.
The Brazilian powerhouse certainly adds a bit of muscle to the Gunners midfield, something lacking since the departure of the heralded Patrick Viera.
But the South American was unable to help prise open Boro as Arsenals efforts became more frenzied.
The game was in remarkable contrast to last years fixture, when Boro were on the receiving end of a 7-0 hammering.
The result leaves Gunners boss Arsene Wenger with a headache following just two points from the opening three fixtures.
About The Author
Steven Cronin writes the hottest English Premiership Football news, results and opinion at http://www.sargas.co.uk/english_premiership_football
This article was posted on September 22, 2006 |
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