Moisés Caicedo, from Chelsea, was sent off in the 38th minute after a VAR control for making a forceful tackle on Mikel Merino. But three minutes into the first half, defender Trevor Chalobah headed into the net from James’ precise corner.
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Arsenal tied the score when Merino rose to meet Bukayo Saka’s cross in the 59th minute and managed to see the score through despite pressure from the Blues.
“We played 60 minutes with 10 men, having to deal with all their players. They are a very good team, they are leading the league at the moment,” James told Chelsea’s website.
“We knew the game was going to be tough, but to be honest, it was a game we felt like we probably could have won. It was tough to come away with just one point considering how well we did.”
Pedro Neto remained busy on the right and substitute Liam Delap had a great chance in the 78th minute which was saved by Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya.
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James said he was proud of the way Chelsea absorbed the pressure and counterattacked.
“We dominated the entire game in all areas. I think it was a great statement of where we are and why we are fighting,” James said.
Chelsea are third in the Premier League table with 24 points, six behind Arsenal, and next Wednesday they will face Leeds United as a visitor.
Additional reporting from Reuters