Arsene Wenger concerned over Arsenal mental state after throwing away four-goal lead

11 April 2012

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger fears the psychological damage inflicted by Newcastle's fightback could have a lasting effect on his title-chasing side.

The Gunners lost ground in the Barclays Premier League title race after Newcastle staged an incredible comeback from 4-0 down to draw 4-4 at St James' Park on a day when 41 goals were scored in eight top-flight games.

The Gunners made the perfect start when Theo Walcott gave them a first-minute lead, and it was 2-0 inside three minutes when Johan Djourou headed home.

Robin van Persie made it three in the 10th minute and the Dutchman headed in his second and Arsenal's fourth 16 minutes later.

Abou Diaby was dismissed in the second half after reacting to a challenge by Joey Barton, who pulled one back for the Magpies from the penalty spot soon afterwards. Leon Best cut the gap to two goals in the 75th minute.

Barton scored a second from the spot before Cheik Tiote's long-range volley completed a stunning recovery by the Magpies.

Asked about the cost, Wenger said: "Mathematically, two points; psychologically, the damage is a bit bigger because everybody is, of course, very, very disappointed in the dressing room.

"But only the future will tell."

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