By Razeen Gutta
Arsenal reclaimed top spot in the Premier League with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Everton at Hill Dickinson Stadium on Saturday.
The lone goal, scored by Viktor Gyokeres in the 27th minute, ended the Swedish striker’s five-game goal drought and proved decisive against a depleted Everton side missing some key players.
The penalty was awarded after Jake O’Brien inexplicably handled Declan Rice’s corner, a decision confirmed by VAR.
Gyokeres, stepping up ahead of Bukayo Saka, hammered the ball past Jordan Pickford.
Despite dominating possession, the Gunners struggled to add a second goal, with Leandro Trossard and Martin Zubimendi both hitting the woodwork.
The win ensures Arsenal lead the table at Christmas for the third time in four years, though past performances suggest the challenge is far from over.
Manchester City, who beat West Ham 3-0 earlier in the day, remain in pursuit. Erling Haaland inspired their win with a double, taking his tally to 38 goals for the season.
Elsewhere, Liverpool survived a nervy finale to beat nine-man Tottenham 2-1.
Alexander Isak scored but exited injured, while both Xavi Simmons and Cristian Romero were sent off for Spurs.
Chelsea fought back from 2-0 down to draw 2-2 with Newcastle, while Wolves remain winless after losing 2-0 to Brentford.
Burnley ended their seven-game losing streak with a 1-1 draw at Bournemouth, while Sunderland moved up the table with a goalless draw at Brighton.
With Arsenal’s narrow win and City’s relentless pace, the title race remains a thrilling contest. Aston Villa kept their names firmly in the conversation, too, with a 2-1 win over Manchester United on Sunday.
The Premier League’s festive fixtures have certainly set the stage for some highly watchable encounters.
Pictured above: Arsenal
Source: @arsenal
