Arsenal took full advantage of Manchester City’s defeat at Aston Villa by beating Everton 2-0 at a rain soaked Emirates Stadium to move level on points with the Premier League leaders.
The champions secured their seventh win in eight league games to reach 21 points. They remain second on goal difference after City suffered their first league defeat of the season.
Ezri Konsa opened the scoring with a scrappy finish at the back post from a corner. Gabriel then sealed the victory with a header on his 200th Premier League appearance.
The result kept Arsenal firmly in the title race as they continued their strong start to the campaign. Their performance matched the relentless rain in north London, with the hosts controlling much of the contest.
Konsa and Gabriel Secure Arsenal Victory
Arsenal finally scored their first non penalty goal from a set piece this season through Konsa’s opener. Viktor Gyokeres, making his first league start of the season, provided the assist despite still waiting for his first goal of the campaign.
The forward has now assisted twice in his last two appearances. He also set up Declan Rice’s equaliser in Arsenal’s 2-2 draw at Bayern Munich on Wednesday.
Everton had a major opportunity to draw level before half time. Ben White’s weak headed back pass left Thierno Barry with a chance to punish Arsenal, but the forward failed to beat goalkeeper David Raya.
That missed opportunity proved costly as Arsenal maintained their advantage before Gabriel added the second goal to confirm the win.
The defeat extended Everton’s poor record at Arsenal. They have now gone 14 league visits to the Emirates without a victory.
David Moyes’ side arrived in north London without Jack Grealish and Jarrad Branthwaite. Everton had remained unbeaten in the league until last weekend, but consecutive defeats have halted their progress.
They also remain without an away win in the Premier League this season after four attempts. Meanwhile, Arsenal continue to apply pressure on City at the top of the table, with both teams sitting on 21 points.
