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By Goli Innocent
Arsenal F.C. restored their five-point lead at the top of the Premier League table after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over 10-man Chelsea F.C. at the Emirates Stadium.
Following Manchester City F.C.’s win at Leeds on Saturday, the Gunners’ advantage had been cut to two points, piling pressure on Mikel Arteta’s men. But Arsenal responded in the 21st minute, breaking the deadlock from a corner after a cagey opening spell.
Gabriel Magalhães headed Bukayo Saka’s corner back across goal for William Saliba, whose header struck Mamadou Sarr on the arm before finding the net. Chelsea, however, drew level just before the interval when Piero Hincapié turned Reece James’ throw into his own net after sustained pressure from the visitors.
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Chelsea started the second half brightly and unsettled the home crowd before Jurrien Timber rose to head in Declan Rice’s corner, restoring Arsenal’s lead and taking their tally to 16 goals from corners this season. The goal ultimately proved decisive in the title battle.
The visitors’ hopes suffered a blow when Pedro Neto, already on a yellow card, was sent off with 20 minutes remaining after stopping Gabriel Martinelli’s counterattack. Chelsea thought they had salvaged a point late on through Liam Delap, but the goal was ruled out for offside against Joao Pedro in the build-up.
The victory lifts Arsenal to 64 points, five clear of Manchester City, though having played a game more than their closest challengers, as the Premier League title race gathers pace.
