By Edet Ikotidem
Arsenal maintained their lead in the Premier League when a superb performance overwhelmed Tottenham in the North London derby at Emirates Stadium.
Mikel Arteta’s side was consistently superior and the Spurs case was not helped by Emerson Royal’s red card for a foul on Gabriel Martinelli in the second half.
Arsenal got off to a fast start and took a well-deserved lead when Thomas Partey scored a precise goal in the top corner from 25 yards after 20 minutes.
Spurs received a lifeline before half-time when Gabriel’s foul on Richarlison gave Harry Kane the opportunity from a penalty to score his 14th goal in 18 derby appearances and his 100th away goal in Premier League.
Arsenal regained their lead when Spurs goalkeeper Hugo Lloris tinkered badly to score Gabriel Jesus four minutes after half-time. Antonio Conte’s frustration was compounded by Royal’s reckless challenge to Martinelli, which prompted referee Anthony Taylor to produce a direct red card. Conte attempted to make three changes as Granit Xhaka effectively ended the contest with a low finish to local Lloris.
also read: Desert Warriors of Algeria Defeat Super Eagles of Nigeria 2-1 to Win International Friendly
Arsenal’s stellar start to the season, aided by some smart work in the transfer market over the summer, has raised hopes they could emerge from a lengthy transition period after Arsene Wenger.
The Gunners were bitterly disappointed to miss out on Champions League football on the final day of last season, but Arsenal have energy, panache, and the threat that suggests they can make a serious impact this season.
Even in last month’s loss to Manchester United, Arsenal showed signs of maturity and progress, evidenced here by the manner of their victory over former rivals.
Arsenal flew out of the blocks to take the lead and even recovered from the frustration of giving out-of-form Spurs a way back into the game when Gabriel challenged Richarlison. Jesus has proven to be an excellent signing, while William Saliba has excelled in central defense since returning from loans to St Etienne, Nice, and Marseille.
There is still work to be done but Arsenal look like a club and a team that have finally found a clear direction, a delightful mix of young players and experience that bodes well for the future.
Arsenal’s next game, here against Liverpool next Sunday, will be another big test, but confidence is growing at the Emirates Stadium
