Arsenal’s hopes of winning the premier League title for first time in 20 years is hanging in the balance after succumbing to 2-0 to Aston Villa at the Emirate.
Meanwhile, Aston Villa revived their hopes of featuring in the Champions League next season by extending the gap between it and Tottenham Hotspurs to three points but with a match advantage.
Arsenal started well and had the majority of the early chances but it was the visitors who almost took the lead as Ollie Watkins struck both posts following an effort from Gabriel.
Few seconds later, Aston Villa had goalie, Emi Martinez to thank for pulling up a point blank save to deny the Gunners the lead which emanated from a counter attack.
Both sides tried but couldn’t break the deadlock as first half ended goalless.
But Villa took charge after half time, and struck the frame of the goal again when Youri Tielmans hit both the bar and the post with a bending shot that almost found the top corner.
Bailey came off the bench to arrive at the back post and steer Villa in front, before Watkins doubled Villa’s lead three minutes later with a chipped finish over goalie Raya.
Earlier another title favourite Liverpool also lost at home to visiting Crystal Palace by 1-0 thus throwing the league open.
City top the log with 73 points followed strictly by Arsenal with 71 points while Liverpool dropped to third with 71 points but trail Arsenal on goal difference.