Arsenal suffered a major blow in the title race with a 2-1 loss away at rivals Manchester City on Sunday.
After a few disappointing performances of late, it was a much more energetic display from the Gunners, lifted by the return of Martin Ødegaard to the side, with Kai Havertz up top and Eberechi Eze off the left.
It gave Arsenal much more technical security to sustain attacks, alongside more intensity off the ball, which led to Havertz's goal from pressing City's goalkeeper.
Havertz has gotten a lot of stick for missing two second half chances, but his all round play on the day was a big reason why the Gunners were competitive in the game.
His aerial quality and link up play gave Arsenal so much relief to get up the pitch and start attacks, something Mikel Arteta's other striker options don't offer in the same way.
However, it was a side not in rhythm with players still ramping up, facing off against a settled side that has hit peak form at the right time. Injuries at the wrong time, players looking tired, the manager not quite able to overcome the obstacles.
It may end up being the difference, and ultimately there are no excuses given the commanding position that Arsenal were in with the points gap.
The result was disappointing, but the performance was encouraging, compared to recent weeks at least.
If Arsenal play to that level in every game for the rest of the season then the title race should go down to the wire. It's now on the players and the fans to do everything in their power to deliver that.
Newcastle come to the Emirates at 5.30pm on Saturday, with Arsenal needing to get back to winning ways.
The Magpies are on a run of four straight losses and have sunk to 14th in the Premier League table.
Newcastle have often caused the Gunners problems in recent seasons but there won't be many better times to face them and get that much-needed win.
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