The Digest:
Arsenal returned to the top of the Premier League table with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, secured by a first-half penalty from Viktor Gyokeres. The Gunners’ resilient defensive display and a slice of fortune with two penalty appeals denied for the hosts saw them reclaim first place from Manchester City just before Christmas.
Key Points:
- Gyokeres converted a 27th-minute penalty after Jake O’Brien handled in the box
- Everton had two strong penalty shouts turned down in the second half
- David Raya kept a clean sheet with a composed performance in goal
- Leandro Trossard was Arsenal’s standout attacker, hitting the post once
- William Saliba was fortunate not to concede a penalty for a challenge on Thierno Barry
- The win moves Arsenal one point clear at the top ahead of the festive fixtures
- Mikel Arteta praised his side’s resilience in a physical, low-quality contest
- Arsenal face Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup before league games against Brighton, Aston Villa, and Bournemouth
Sources: Goal, BBC Sports
