Dennis Bergkamp hit a post in the opening minutes and missed at least two other good chances – while Freddie Ljungberg lobbed on to the bar after being sent through by Thierry Henry whose brilliant combination with Oleg Luzhny had set up Wiltord’s goal.

Even Luzhny went close to adding another for Arsenal. He stumbled as he connected with Henry’s low cross and sent the ball wide from no more than six yards – although Newcastle had enough cover on the line.

There was time before the whistle for Henry to mis-kick twice yet still keep possession and muscle past Aaron Hughes to send a low cross skidding through the six-yard box without it getting a touch.