Arsenal took full advantage of Manchester City’s defeat by Brighton to beat Liverpool 1-0 at Anfield and move three points clear at the top of the Premier League.
The win ended Arsenal’s 14 year wait for a league victory at Anfield. Their previous success came on 2 September 2012, when they won 2-0 with Mikel Arteta in the team.
City’s back to back defeats gave the Gunners a chance to strengthen their grip on the title race. However, Liverpool presented a tough test as they looked to build on their recent improvement.
Arsenal made the breakthrough in the 16th minute. Declan Rice sent the ball across the face of goal, and Kai Havertz arrived at the far post to turn it in.
Liverpool pushed hard for an equaliser for the rest of the first half. David Raya reacted just in time to reach Virgil van Dijk’s flick on before Alexander Isak could pounce.
The hosts also had two penalty appeals rejected. Florian Wirtz came close to drawing them level, but his free kick struck the crossbar.
Havertz Goal Ends 14 Year Wait for Arsenal at Anfield
Liverpool continued to dominate the opening stages of the second half. Yet Arsenal’s defence grew stronger and gave the home side few clear chances.
The introduction of Myles Lewis-Skelly helped Arsenal regain control in the closing stages. Christos Tzolis nearly doubled their lead with a fine first time strike towards the far corner, but Alisson produced a brilliant one handed save.
Havertz’s early goal ultimately proved enough. Arsenal held on to claim all three points and record their first Premier League win at Liverpool since 2012.
The final whistle brought an emotional response from the visitors. Arsenal’s players embraced in front of their travelling fans, while Arteta punched the air and celebrated with his staff.
The result leaves Liverpool fifth, nine points behind the leaders. Arsenal have also kept clean sheets in six of their nine league matches, a record no other Premier League side has matched this season.
BBC Radio 5 Live pundit Stephen Warnock summed up Arsenal’s defensive display:
“It was perfection from Arsenal from a defensive point of view. If someone didn’t win a challenge, the one behind them did. They covered, pressed, organised and communicated across the back line. It was a masterclass in how to frustrate a team, how to sit in and defend your goal.”
