Arsenal moved level on points with Premier League leaders Manchester City after securing a 2-0 victory over Everton at a rain-soaked Emirates Stadium, taking advantage of City’s defeat at Aston Villa.
Ezri Konsa opened the scoring with a close-range finish at the back post from a corner, giving Arsenal their first set-piece goal of the season. Gabriel then sealed the victory with a header despite an injury scare in the second half, marking his 200th Premier League appearance.
The Gunners, encouraged by City’s first league defeat of the campaign, secured their seventh win in eight league matches to reach 21 points, trailing the leaders only on goal difference.
Viktor Gyokeres, making his first Premier League start of the season, failed to score but provided the assist for Konsa’s opener. It was his second assist in as many appearances after setting up Declan Rice’s equaliser in Arsenal’s 2-2 Champions League draw against Bayern Munich during the week.
Everton had an opportunity to draw level shortly before half-time when Thierno Barry capitalised on a weak headed back pass from Ben White, but he failed to beat goalkeeper David Raya.
David Moyes’ side, who had remained unbeaten in the league until last weekend, have now suffered consecutive defeats. Everton’s wait for their first away victory of the Premier League season also continues following a difficult outing in north London.
The result strengthens Arsenal’s position in the title race as they maintain pressure on Manchester City at the top of the table.