The Sports Lowdown For All Your News and OpinionsArsenal followed up their terrific performance against Bayern Munich with yet another victory as the Gunners held on to beat the Toffees 2-1 which means Arsenal have now won their last four games.
Everton were unable to break down Arsenal’s defence in the final stages of the game and may feel as though they should have been leaving North London with at least a point. To make things worse for Everton, Gareth Barry picked up a red card after two bookable offences which means he will miss their next game against Sunderland.
Arsenal on the other hand will be feeling relieved to have escaped with all three points. They were forced to work hard for their victory in the second half by Everton after the Gunners dominated the first half.
Arsenal started the game impressively. Their mixture of high pressing and possession football was working perfectly. The first goal of the game eventually came in the 36th minute. Mesut Ozil was given the space to deliver a beautifully weighted cross, which was flicked on by the head of Olivier Giroud past a helpless Tim Howard to put Arsenal 1-0 in front. Seconds later, Santi Cazorla whipped in a cross with pace which was met by the head of Laurent Koscienly to give Arsenal a two goal cushion. At this point the chant “We are top of the league” was already echoing around the Emirates stadium.
However just before the first half ended, Everton silenced some of the Arsenal fans thanks to Ross Barkley’s ambitious shot which deflected in off Gabriel which wrong footed Petr Cech and gave Roberto Martinez and his side a lifeline.
The second half was superb as both sides showed the hunger to attack. Everton will feel disappointed after missing two massive chances to go level with the Gunners. Romelu Lukaku saw his header hit the bar, then shortly after Gerard Deulofeu’s shot was saved excellently by Petr Cech to ensure Arsenal took all three points.
This was the type of game where the victory was all that mattered. This victory is massive in regards to Arsenal title ambitions and gives them momentum going into their next game.
The Gunners are now 11 points ahead of current champions Chelsea, and aren’t showing any signs of weakness. Are they title favourites?
Both Manchester sides will definitely give Arsenal a run for their money, however recent performances have indicated both Manchester City and Manchester United are still vulnerable at the back. Whilst Arsenal’s defence is looking organised and compact with the addition of Petr Cech.
Arsenal face a tough test in their next Premier League game as they travel to Swansea. Arsenal lost 2-1 at the Liberty Stadium last season, so it will be interesting to see how this inform Arsenal side cope with the challenge, and will be interesting to see whether they can continue to perform well on a consistent basis.
