Manchester City slipped in the fight with Arsenal for the Premier League title this season as they were held to a 2-2 draw at home by Nottingham Forest on Wednesday night.

Antoine Semenyo put City ahead in the 31st minute from an assist by Rayan Cherki, but the visitors equalised 11 minutes after the halftime break through Morgan Gibbs-White, who was set up by Igor Jesus.

Rodri restored City’s advantage in the 62nd minute when he headed home Rayan Ait-Nouri’s corner kick.

Despite conceding, Forest continued to chase a second equaliser and got it in the 76th minute, courtesy of Elliot Anderson, who curled the ball home from yards out.

City launched a late push to secure a stoppage-time winner, but Forest thwarted every attempt and secured a vital point in their push for survival this season.

The result meant City allowed Arsenal to move seven points ahead of them after the Gunners earned a hard-fought 1-0 win over Brighton at the American Express Stadium.

Bukayo Saka’s effort, which was deflected into the net by Carlos Baleba in the first half, was enough to secure Arsenal the important three points in the title race.

Meanwhile, Chelsea thrashed Aston Villa 4-1 at Villa Park to return to winning ways after losing to Arsenal over the weekend.

Douglas Luiz put Aston Villa ahead barely two minutes into the match, but a hat-trick by Joao Pedro and one goal from Cole Palmer sealed the win for the Blues.

Chelsea moved to fifth on the table with 48 points, three adrift of fourth position, currently occupied by Aston Villa.

At Saint James’ Park, Michael Carrick suffered his first defeat in his second spell as Manchester United manager as the Red Devils were beaten 2-1 by 10-man Newcastle United.

Anthony Gordon put the hosts ahead from the penalty spot in added time, but Casemiro equalised for Man United moments later after heading home Bruno Fernandes’ free kick.

Despite the numerical disadvantage, substitute William Osula curled home a left-footed shot inside the 18-yard box to win it for Newcastle United.

Full results

Aston Villa 1 vs 4 Chelsea
Brighton 0 vs 1 Arsenal
Fulham 0 vs 1 West Ham
Man City 2 vs 2 Nottingham Forest
Newcastle United 2 vs 1 Man United