.jpg "Arsenal vs Everton: Ratings & Gyokeres Penalty – Gunners Top City")
Arsenal regained top spot in the Premier League standings thanks to a hard-fought 1-0 win over Everton at Hill Dickinson Stadium. This narrow victory was decided in the first half after Viktor Gyokeres scored from the penalty spot following Jake O’Brien’s handball in the box. Everton had two major penalty claims turned down in the second half, but the Gunners managed to hold on to secure the three points.
The Gunners the lead thanks to Viktor Gyokeres’ penalty in the 27th minute followed handball ridiculous from O’Brien, who touched the ball with both hands raised high above his head in the penalty area. Jordan Pickford did his best to slow down the penalty by protesting to the referee, but the Sweden international stepped up confidently and smashed the ball into the net to give the North London side a deserved lead.
To be honest, The Toffees were not at their best and failed to get a single shot on target in the first 45 minutes. However, they will feel unfairly treated as they were not awarded a penalty in the early stages of the second half when Martin Zubimendi tripped Thierno Barry right on the edge of the box. Everton boss David Moyes appeared angry when referee Samuel Barrott dismissed the protest. There was also a lengthy VAR review after Barry appeared to be fouled by William Lintasa, but again the match officials and VAR ruled no foul had occurred.
This win means something The Gunners overtook Manchester City to top the standings at Christmas, with key Premier League games against Brighton, Aston Villa and Bournemouth awaiting over the festive period after they face Crystal Palace in a postponed League Cup quarter-final on Tuesday.
GOAL provides Arsenal player ratings from Hill Dickinson Stadium…
