Arsenal restored their five-point lead at the top of the Premier League table after a hard-fought 2-1 win over 10-man Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium.
The Gunners needed victory following Manchester City’s win over Leeds on Saturday, and they delivered with another strong performance from set-pieces.
Arsenal took the lead through William Saliba, who forced the ball home from a corner. It was their 15th league goal from a corner this season. Jurrien Timber later added the second, converting another delivery into the box to make it 16 goals from corners in this campaign.
Chelsea found an equaliser just before half-time, also from a corner. A dangerous cross from Reece James caused problems in the Arsenal defence and Piero Hincapie turned the ball into his own net under pressure.
The visitors’ hopes of a comeback suffered a major blow in the second half when Pedro Neto was sent off. The winger received a second yellow card for a foul on Gabriel Martinelli only minutes after being booked for dissent. It was Chelsea’s seventh red card in the league this season.
Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya made several important saves to protect his side’s lead, including a late stop to deny Alejandro Garnacho. At the other end, Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez endured a difficult afternoon and could have done better for Timber’s winning goal.
Chelsea were also left frustrated after a corner appeared to strike Declan Rice’s arm inside the box, but no penalty was given.
Despite late pressure from the 10-man visitors, Arsenal held firm to secure all three points. The result keeps them five points clear of Manchester City in the title race, although they have played a game more.
Chelsea remain in the battle for Champions League qualification but are now three points behind fifth-placed Liverpool.
Arsenal’s dominance from corners continues to be a key factor in their success this season, with their set-piece strength proving decisive once again.
