Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has suggested why his team was defeated 2–1 by Aston Villa in the Premier League on Saturday.
Arteta watched as Aston Villa took the lead through Matty Cash in the first half.
But Arsenal fought back and equalised through Leandro Trossard in the second half.
However, a late goal from Emiliano Buendia ensured the hosts defeated the Gunners at Villa Park.
Speaking to TNT Sports after the game, Arteta admitted it was painful to lose against Aston Villa.
According to him, Arsenal failed to have dominance and allowed open spaces in the second half, adding that they gave two balls away to the opponent.
“In the first half we had moments, obviously had the best chance after a foul on Riccy [Calafiori] that Watkins goes through,” Arteta said.
“In the second half we started really well. Scored a goal and we were really dominant.
“But then we had periods again where the same issue appeared and then we didn’t have the dominance and we allowed the open spaces, we gave two balls away ourselves to the opponent which could have cost us the game before actually the goal.
“Last kick of the game we have the chance with the cross from Declan for Noni and Viktor. We don’t score. Goal kick long, second ball, clear the ball, individual action. The ball comes inside the box and you end up losing it. It is painful.”