Arsenal’s six-match winning run in the Premier League came to an end against Middlesbrough but a point was enough to move them to the top of the table.
Manager Arsene Wenger – celebrating his 67th birthday – watched his side dominate possession but underwhelm in the final third.
The Gunners managed five efforts on target, but only one worried Boro keeper, Victor Valdes when he pulled off a great one-handed stop to deny Alexis Sanchez.
Aitor Karanka’s side defended brilliantly and, despite conceding much of the possession to the home side, created the better chances.
Arsenal keeper Petr Cech blocked Gaston Ramirez’s header, twice denied the outstanding Adama Traore and also saved from Alvaro Negredo.
The home side briefly thought they had won it in injury time but Mesut Ozil’s effort was rightly ruled out for offside.
Despite remaining in 17th place, Boro should be buoyed by the display and unexpected result.