Everton Hand Arsenal the Points as Title Race Pressure Mounts
Arsenal Survive City Pressure to Stay Top
Arsenal passed a significant psychological test in the Premier League title race with a controlled but unspectacular 1-0 victory over Everton, reclaiming top spot after briefly being overtaken by Manchester City earlier in the day.
Viktor Gyökeres’ first-half penalty proved decisive, restoring the Gunners’ two-point cushion at the summit. While the scoreline suggested a tight contest, Everton offered little attacking threat and Arsenal were rarely forced out of second gear.
Moment of Madness Decides the Match
The game hinged on a bizarre lapse from Everton defender Jake O’Brien in the 27th minute. Having already survived one penalty scare moments earlier, O’Brien inexplicably raised both arms to block a corner inside the six-yard box, leaving referee Sam Barrott with no option but to award a spot-kick after VAR confirmation.
Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard handed responsibility to Gyökeres rather than Bukayo Saka, and the striker calmly blasted the ball straight down the middle to end a six-game scoring drought. It marked his 19th successful league penalty since joining Sporting Lisbon in 2023.
Everton Frustration Grows
Everton manager David Moyes was left frustrated by a separate VAR decision that went against his side, with William Saliba avoiding punishment after catching Thierno Barry while attempting to clear the ball. Moyes may feel his side were denied a penalty, but beyond that moment Everton struggled to mount any sustained pressure.
Depleted by injuries and absences, including Iliman Ndiaye and Idrissa Gueye at the Africa Cup of Nations, Everton lacked creativity and intensity. The pre-match spectacle at Hill Dickinson Stadium ultimately outshone their performance on the pitch.
Arsenal Do Just Enough
Arsenal’s dominance of midfield, aided by Riccardo Calafiori stepping inside, kept Everton pinned back for long spells. However, despite their control, the visitors registered just two shots on target and relied heavily on set pieces.
Leandro Trossard and Martín Zubimendi both struck the same post in the second half, but there was never a sense Arsenal needed a second goal. With a Carabao Cup quarter-final against Crystal Palace looming, Mikel Arteta’s side managed the game professionally.
The real test of Arsenal’s title credentials still lies ahead. They remain top at Christmas once again — but converting that position into their first league title since 2004 remains the ultimate challenge.
