Arsenal held by battling Newcastle as Man Utd cruise

LONDON - Arsenal were held to a goalless stalemate by high-flying Newcastle on Tuesday but still extended their lead to eight points at the top of the Premier League as Manchester United tightened their grip on a top-four place.

Everton imploded at home to Brighton, losing 4-1 just days after drawing at champions Manchester City, while Fulham condemned Leicester to a third straight defeat.

Mikel Arteta's men had the better of a fractious encounter at a packed Emirates Stadium but the Spaniard complained his side had been denied two "scandalous penalties" in front of a baying home crowd.

Arteta was furious that Arsenal failed in their appeal for a spot-kick in the final seconds of stoppage-time after a cross in the penalty area struck Jacob Murphy's arm.

The Gunners boss also complained that Dan Burn was guilty of a shirt pull on Arsenal defender Gabriel in the area earlier in the second half.

Arteta was convinced Arsenal had been denied the chance to score from the spot even though the award of penalties would have been harsh on Newcastle.

"Extremely proud of my players. The way we played, dominated the game. We had so many situations. And then had two scandalous penalties," Arteta said.

"There were two penalties. It's very simple. I'm talking about what I've seen. It was two scandalous penalties."

Of the second penalty call, Newcastle boss Eddie Howe added: "Obviously at that stage of the game you're thinking 'God no, the lads have given so much' and that would have been a travesty for us.

"I didn't think it was a penalty but you just never know."

Arsenal, who dropped points for only the third time this season, are eight points clear of Manchester City, who have a game in hand.