Controversy as Arsenal strengthen title bid

League leaders Arsenal took a step closer to becoming Premiership champions tonight after a controversial 2-0 victory over West…

League leaders Arsenal took a step closer to becoming Premiership champions tonight after a controversial 2-0 victory over West Ham United at Highbury.

Second-half goals from Freddie Ljungberg and substitute Nwankwo Kanu sealed victory, but West Ham were denied what television pictures suggested was a goal for Frederic Kanoute at the end of the first half.

Kanoute rounded both skipper Tony Adams and goalkeeper David Seaman, only for defender Ashley Cole to whip the tap-in back out - apparently from behind the line.

The win put Arsenal four points ahead of Liverpool and five clear of reigning champions Manchester United.

At the other end of the table, Ipswich Town improved their slim chances of avoiding the drop by beating Middlesbrough 1-0, striker Darren Bent getting the winner.

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