Defenders on target as Arsenal beat Everton to go joint top of league table

Ezri Konsa and Gabriel Magalhaes found  the back of the net as the Gunners made it seven wins from eight league fixtures to sit alongside City on 21 points.

The defending champions took the lead as early as the seventh minute when Konsa bundled in his goal for Arsenal, after an almighty scramble in the box following a corner.

Arsenal had goalkeeper David Raya to thank for preserving their slender lead, the Spanish shot-stopper keeping out efforts from James Garner and Tyrique George.

The hosts certainly dominated the first half and were unlucky not be extend their advantage, as the visitors still had hope of coming back into the contest.

That flame was dosed after the interval though Gabriel joined his centre-back partner on the scoresheet when he headed in Ben White's cross with little over 20 minutes remaining.

Everton almost pulled one back late in the game when Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall flicked a header just wide.

Arsenal held on for a deserved victory that reaffirms their status as the favourites to retain their league title.

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