LONDON: A resilient effort from Newcastle United saw them hold Premier League table-toppers Arsenal to a goalless draw at the Emirates Stadium. The Gunners missed the chance to consolidate their lead at the top of the table as Newcastle’s defence frustrated the table-toppers.Arsenal failed to score in a Premier League game for the first time in 17 games in this chaotic match as they failed to create original chances against Eddie Howe’s team despite dictating possession.Jacob Murphy’s late handball challenge for a penalty, which the referee did not grant while refraining from deploying VAR, added to Arsenal’s dissatisfaction. Mikel Arteta, the manager of Arsenal, described the decision to not resort to the VAR as ‘scandalous’.The draw boosted Newcastle’s chances of finishing in the top four as they skillfully defended their box and safeguarded goalie Nick Pope. Having let up just 11 goals and recording 10 shutouts this season, Howe’s team continues to have the finest defence in the Premier League.Just before halftime, Newcastle had the finest opportunity of the game, but Joelinton’s header from four yards narrowly missed the mark. Manchester City play Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on Thursday night are now eight points behind Arsenal while Newcastle is just one point behind City to be ranked third in the Premier League table.