Arsenal moved level on 21 points with Manchester City at the top of the English Premier League table after securing a 2-0 victory over Everton at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday.
Goals from Ezri Konsa and Gabriel Magalhaes secured the victory for the Gunners, who capitalised on Manchester City’s earlier defeat to Aston Villa to strengthen their position in the title race.
Konsa opened his Arsenal account in the seventh minute, reacting quickest to a rebound after Gabriel’s effort from Martin Odegaard’s corner struck the crossbar.
Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford initially pushed Gabriel’s attempt onto the woodwork, but Konsa was on hand to turn the loose ball into the net and give the hosts an early advantage.
The visitors responded through James Garner, whose low effort tested Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya, while Tyrqiue George also threatened with a curling attempt that was deflected wide.
Arsenal continued to dominate possession and create opportunities, with Noni Madueke coming close to doubling the lead on two occasions.
The winger first dragged an effort wide after beating his marker before striking the side netting with a first-time shot following an impressive piece of individual skill.
Odegaard also threatened after weaving past several Everton defenders, but Vitalii Mykolenko produced a timely sliding block to deny the Arsenal captain.
Despite Arsenal’s attacking pressure, Everton nearly found an equaliser before the break when a poor header from Ben White presented Thierno Barry with an opportunity. Raya, however, remained alert to the danger.
The second half began with fewer clear-cut chances as Everton attempted to contain Arsenal’s attacking threat.
The hosts eventually doubled their advantage in the 68th minute when White, making his 200th appearance for the club, escaped the offside trap and delivered a cross towards the far post.
Gabriel rose above the Everton defence to head the ball past Pickford, marking his 200th Premier League appearance with a goal that put Arsenal firmly in control.
Everton sought a late response, with Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s flicked header narrowly missing the target, but Arsenal held on to secure all three points.
The victory extended Arsenal’s impressive home record against Everton, with the Merseyside club having recorded just one win in their last 31 visits to the north London side.
The result leaves Arsenal level with Manchester City on 21 points after eight league matches, although the Gunners remain second on goal difference.
Arsenal have now won seven of their opening eight Premier League fixtures, strengthening their title ambitions following City’s setback against Aston Villa.
The Gunners will next travel to fourth-tier Fleetwood Town for a Carabao Cup fixture on Tuesday before returning to league action against Liverpool the following Sunday.
They will subsequently travel to the Czech Republic to face Slavia Prague in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday, November 4.
