Arsenal 0 - Southampton 0: Gunners title hopes suffer blow after Fraser Forster stars

ARSENAL lost major ground in title race after Fraser Forster produced an outstanding display in goal to keep them at bay.

 

Mesut Ozil is denied by Southampton goalkeeper Fraser Forster

 

Saints made it difficult for the hosts to create a chance but the deadlock was nearly after a moment of class through Mesut Ozil.

Alexis Sanchez picked the German out with a 40-yard through ball which was controlled instantly but his first time shot was saved by Fraser Forster.

The England goalkeeper then denied Ozil again from point blank range when it appeared the Premier League's top assister had a tap in.

Southampton carved themselves two chances but Oriol Romeu shot over the bar and Sadio Mane shot straight at Petr Cech.

Arsenal started the second half on the front foot but Forster tipped over Giroud's shot.

Forster then produced three saves in quick succession, twice blocking from Theo Walcott and then a header from Sanchez.

Laurent Koscielny then headed over from four yards and Sanchez had a shot cleared off the line by James Ward-Prowse.

The Gunners have now gone four league games without a win and it was the first time in seven years that they have gone three consecutive Premier League games without a goal.