Arsenal held off an unexpected comeback from North London rivals Tottenham Hotspur to boost their Premier League title push.
The Gunners looked out of sight by the time the half-time whistle had been blown after they made the most of a clinical first-half display. Not for the first time this season, the impressive Bukayo Saka was the inspiration for Mikel Arteta’s men as his corner-kick forced Spurs midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg to head into his own net on the quarter-hour mark before the England winger doubled the lead with a neat finish on 27 minutes.
The dominance continued up to the interval as Kai Havertz continued his impressive recent form when he extended the lead as Spurs failed to deal with yet another set-piece. However, the hosts were handed an unexpected route back into the game as David Raya’s horror pass allowed Cristian Romero to half the deficit before a Son penalty ensured a nervy final five minutes was played out.
Arsenal held on and saw out six minutes of injury-time to put the pressure on title rivals Manchester City ahead of their visit to Nottingham Forest. After a dramatic afternoon, LondonWorld assesses the performances of the Gunners players as they boosted their title hopes with a nervy win.
9. Bukayo Saka - 8
A constant threat and his set-pieces played a key part in setting the tone during the first 45 minutes. Such an elegant player in the final third. | Getty Images
10. Kai Havertz - 8
Gave the Gunners an outlet and a presence at the top end of the pitch as he continued his impressive form. | Arsenal FC via Getty Images
11. Leandro Trossard - 6
Given just over an hour and worked hard but made little impact in attacking areas. | Arsenal FC via Getty Images Photo:
12. SUB: Gabriel Martinelli (on for Trossard) - 6
Didn't make too much of an impact but his pace always felt like it could unlock something on the break. | Arsenal FC via Getty Images