Arsenal restored their five-point lead at the top of the Premier League with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over 10-man Chelsea on Sunday.
Goals from William Saliba and Jurrien Timber sealed the win at the Emirates Stadium as Mikel Arteta’s side strengthened their title charge.
Arsenal struck first in the 21st minute when Saliba forced the ball home after a dangerous corner caused panic in Chelsea’s defence.
The visitors responded from a set-piece of their own, with Pedro Hincapie inadvertently turning Reece James’ delivery into his own net.
Set-pieces again proved decisive just after the hour mark.
Timber nodded into an empty net after goalkeeper Robert Sanchez misjudged Declan Rice’s inswinging cross.
The goal marked Arsenal’s 16th from a corner this season, equalling a Premier League record.
Chelsea’s afternoon worsened when Pedro Neto received two quick yellow cards, reducing the Blues to 10 men with 20 minutes remaining.
Despite a late push, including a disallowed equaliser for offside, Chelsea failed to rescue a point.
Defeat leaves Liam Rosenior’s side three points outside the top five in the race for Champions League qualification.
Arsenal, chasing a first league title in 22 years, now hold a five-point cushion over second-placed Manchester City.
City, however, retain a game in hand and will host the Gunners in a potentially decisive clash next month.
