Everton 0-1 Arsenal result – Viktor Gyokeres’ first-half penalty enough to fire Gunners to top of Premier League for Christmas

ARSENAL RETURN TO TOP OF TABLE FOR CHRISTMAS AFTER WIN AT EVERTON

Viktor Gyokeres’ first-half penalty was enough for The Gunners to move back to the top of the table.

Manchester City took Arsenal’s top spot earlier in the day but the win meant Mikel Arteta’s side would be league leaders on Christmas Day.

Arsenal started the stronger of the two, dominating possession, but it was Everton who threatened first.

David Raya failed to punch James Garner’s corner clear in the 14th minute, resulting in the hosts finding early confidence.

However, Arsenal opened the scoring after Jake O’Brien was penalised for handball in the box.

Gyokeres stepped up and emphatically hammered the ball past Jordan Pickford in goal to give The Gunners the lead after 27 minutes.

Everton started the second half well and could have had a penalty in the 57th minute. William Saliba appeared to kick the foot of Thierno Barry in the box but VAR decided it was not a penalty.

Arsenal then had the chance to extend their lead twice but Leandro Trossard and Martin Zubimendi both struck a post.

Everton pushed for a late equaliser but Arsenal remained compact and defensively sound to claim a deserved three points and go back to the top for Christmas.

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