Arsenal got the better of Newcastle at the Emirates Stadium to make sure of Champions League qualification, with Declan Rice's second-half goal deciding the game
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Declan Rice after Arsenal vs Newcastle
Declan Rice scored Arsenal's winner against Newcastle
(Image: Getty Images)
Arsenal match-winner Declan Rice has admitted Mikel Arteta told the Gunners to take things personally as they chased a valuable three points against Newcastle. Eddie Howe's side had beaten the Londoners in their three previous meetings, but Rice's strike ensured they didn't make it four out of four.
An early Alexander Isak goal was the difference when the teams met in the league before Christmas. They were pitted together again in the new year, with Newcastle winning both legs of their Carabao Cup semi-final before going on to beat Liverpool at Wembley, and Rice explained how Arteta was able to motivate his men.
"We've been poor by our standards the last few weeks in the Premier League," Rice told Sky Sports on the pitch after the final whistle. "We obviously went so hard in the Champions League [and] our form dropped in the Premier League.
"That happens sometimes, but Newcastle are such an in-form side and we've lost three games to them this year. And the manager's message before the game was clear - take it personal - and I think we did today.
"I think first half was a bit of a slow start, but we grew into the game and in the end we showed that grit. And three points at home on the last [home game] was a nice day to top it off."
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Isak was missing through injury on Sunday, and Howe's men weren't able to find the net at the Emirates Stadium. They had their chances early on, though, and David Raya needed to be at his best to keep the visitors quiet.
Arsenal's win means they're sure to be in next season's Champions League, and they're likely to go into the competition as Premier League runners-up. Newcastle can join them if they beat Everton on the final day, but any other result and their top-five status will come under threat.
Mikel Arteta after Arsenal vs Newcastle
Mikel Arteta's Arsenal have confirmed Champions League qualification
"We had a dream, it was to be here or in a week's time and bring the big trophies to you guys and we couldn't do it for many circumstances," Arteta said after the victory. "We need to make sure that chasing a dream doesn't get blurry and make sure we chase the dream with positivity and enthusiasm for next season.
"We have to start creating our own history here in this stadium and we started this season. There is much more to come and it won't be easy. These players have the talent.
"We need to rest and finish at Southampton and then go on holiday. Any other club in this position would finish in a position that we cannot even dream of."
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