The Gunners were nine points clear of Manchester City just two weeks ago before defeats against Bournemouth and City allowed their rivals to edge ahead of them.
Saturday’s home game against Newcastle was a must-win for Arsenal, with Pep Guardiola’s team involved in an FA Cup semi-final against Southampton, which they won to stay on track for a domestic treble.
Before the Gunners kicked off on Saturday, the two title contenders were locked on 70 points each, with an identical goal difference.
City topped the table on goals scored.
It was a 16th league defeat of a dispiriting season for Newcastle.
“We had the necessity to win the game, the margins are very short, and we got through it,” Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta told Sky Sports.
Arsenal could increase their advantage over City to six points before the Blues play again, when they face Fulham next week.
The Gunners are desperate to shed their reputation as perpetual runners-up as they chase a first Premier League title since 2004. (AFP)
