Barry’s big night spoilt by Lacazette double

Midfielder sets appearance record

ARSENAL 2 WEST BROM 0

Alexandre Lacazette’s first double in English football continued Arsenal’s excellent home form as they beat West Brom at the Emirates Stadium.

On an evening when Alexis Sanchez, widely expected to leave at the season’s end when his contract expires, made his first league start since his attempt to join Manchester City, the striker continued to justify his club-record transfer fee.

Spoiling the occasion of Gareth Barry’s record 633rd Premier League appearance, his two goals also ensured a continuation of Arsenal’s 100% record at the Emirates so far this season and wider run of eight consecutive home league wins.

The £52 million French striker nodded in the rebound after Alexis Sanchez had hit the crossbar in 20 minutes and then rifled home a penalty midway through the second half to secure the points.

West Brom, largely outclassed by their composed hosts, had chances and were unfortunate not to be awarded a penalty when Jay Rodriguez was brought down by Shkodran Mustafi’s clumsy challenge.

The striker still forced Petr Cech into a fine save when the goalkeeper tipped his low shot on to the post and was denied again before half-time when Nacho Monreal cleared his header off the goal-line.

Midfielder Barry was named Baggies captain for the night in recognition of his achievement in surpassing the mark set by former Manchester United winger Ryan Giggs.

Barry made his debut for Aston Villa at the age of 17, appearing as a substitute in a 3-1 victory at Sheffield Wednesday on May 2 1998.

He went on to play for Manchester City and Everton before joining West Brom on a free transfer in the summer.

Pictures: Getty Images. Above: Arsenal striker Alexandre Lacazette celebrates the first of his two goals last night; right: West Brom’s Gareth Barry, who made his record 633rd Premier League appearance.