The Digest:
Arsenal navigated a stubborn Brentford to secure a 2-0 victory, re-establishing a crucial five-point cushion at the Premier League summit and proving they can grind out results even when not at their fluent best.
Key Points:
- Arsenal defeated Brentford 2-0 at the Emirates Stadium with goals from Mikel Merino and substitute Bukayo Saka.
- Merino opened the scoring with an 11th-minute header from a Ben White cross, starting as the central striker.
- Saka sealed the victory in the first minute of stoppage time, finishing after being set up by Merino.
- The win restored Arsenal's five-point lead over rivals Manchester City at the top of the table.
- The Gunners managed the game despite injury concerns, losing defender Cristhian Mosquera before halftime and seeing Declan Rice limp off late.
- Manager Mikel Arteta again selected Merino upfront, with main striker Viktor Gyokeres starting on the bench.
- The result was a response after dropping points in a draw against Chelsea the previous weekend.
Sources: Goal.com, Sky Sports
