A fiery encounter at St James’ Park saw both sides shown several yellow cards but clear chances few and far between in the first half.
The biggest talking point of the first half came as Kai Havertz cynically fouled Sean Longstaff on the touchline but referee Stuart Attwell only showed the Arsenal forward a yellow card. Several Newcastle players, including Longstaff were then booked for protesting the decision.
But with neither goalkeeper really being tested in the opening 45, the sides went in at 0-0.
Here are the Newcastle United half-time player ratings from the match so far...
9. Miguel Almiron - 6
Was a threat on the break with his pace but nothing came off for him. | Arsenal FC via Getty Images
10. Anthony Gordon - 7
Ran about and won back possession in important areas but hasn’t caused too many problems for Arsenal. Should have done better to control Jamaal Lascelles’ flick-on at the back post. In the right place at the right time to score his fourth of the season and give Newcastle the lead. Booked. | Getty Images
11. Callum Wilson - 6
Got the ball in some promising areas but wasn’t able to do anything with it. Taken off just after the hour mark. | AFP via Getty Images
12. Tino Livramento - 7
On for Burn 46: Got the crowd cheering with a good challenge on Gabriel Martinelli inside the box minutes after his half-time introduction. Had his work cut out for the majority of the second half as Arsenal pushed for a goal. Booked. | AFP via Getty Images