Bolton deny Arsenal sixth successive win

Champions Arsenal dropped their first points of the season when a late Henrik Pedersen equaliser earned Bolton Wanderers a 2-2 draw at Highbury on Saturday. The Danish substitute poked the ball home after 85 minutes to deny Arsene Wenger’s team their sixth win in six Premier League games. Arsenal, who nonetheless extended their unbeaten record to 46 league matches, led through a first-half effort by Thierry Henry. Radhi Jaidi levelled with a header on the hour but Robert Pires quickly put Arsenal back in front.

The draw meant Arsenal have 16 points, three clear of second-placed Chelsea who entertain Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday. Improved Bolton are third on 11 points.

Only two fine interceptions by Jaidi prevented the visitors falling behind before Henry ruthlessly dispatched his fifth league goal of the season in the 31st minute. (Reuters)