Arsenal came from behind to beat West Ham 3-1 at the Emirates on Boxing Day.
THE LOWDOWN: COMEBACK WIN
Arsenal returned to the Premier League against fellow Londoners West Ham on Boxing Day at the Emirates. It is the Gunners’ first game since the win at Wolves before the World Cup break which extended their lead at the top of the log.
After falling behind at halftime on Monday night, goals from Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and Eddie Nketiah completed the turnaround for Mikel Arteta’s side in the second half.
THE LATEST: HOW IT HAPPENED
Arsenal defeated West Ham 3-1 at the Emirates on Boxing Day to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League.
It was the first return to Premier League action for the league leaders following the World Cup break.
Arsenal enjoyed a lot of the ball possession in the opening minutes of the game but it was West Ham who went in front through Said Benrahma’s penalty in the first half.
But Arsenal came out in the second half to stage a comeback and nick a much-needed win in the end.
Arteta’s side were rewarded for their aggression and positivity with three goals after the interval. First Saka comfortably dispatched a miscued shot from Martin Odegaard before Gabriel Martinelli fired home at the near post.
Eddie Nketiah, Gabriel Jesus’ replacement, then turned his marker wonderfully before finishing to make it 3-1.
The victory moves Arsenal seven points clear at the top before Manchester City play on Wednesday.
THE VERDICT: GOOD RESTART
It was a show of character from the Gunners to beat the Hammers. It was believed that Arsenal will struggle in the absence of Jesus, but Nketiah and the rest of the front three thrashed those talks with an improved second-half display.
The win helps the confidence of the players and that of fans who believe the team can go all the way.