Arsenal moved level on points with Manchester City at the top of the Premier League after securing a 2-0 victory over Everton at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday.

The Gunners took advantage of Manchester City’s 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa earlier in the day, reaching 21 points. However, City remained ahead on goal difference, according to the match report.

Arsenal opened the scoring in the seventh minute through Ezri Konsa, who finished from close range after a corner caused confusion in Everton’s penalty area. The goal marked his first for the club since joining from Aston Villa in August.

Everton attempted to respond, but Arsenal maintained control for much of the contest. Noni Madueke threatened down the right flank, while the visitors struggled to convert their opportunities into an equaliser.

Arsenal also survived a scare before half-time when Thierno Barry intercepted a loose header from Ben White, but the Everton forward failed to make clean contact and goalkeeper David Raya made the save.

Manager Mikel Arteta made a triple substitution in the 68th minute, introducing Kai Havertz, Bruno Guimaraes and Riccardo Calafiori as he sought to strengthen his side’s performance in the closing stages.

The changes soon paid off. Gabriel Magalhaes rose to head home White’s cross, doubling Arsenal’s advantage and giving the hosts greater control of the match.

Everton came close to reducing the deficit when Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall sent a header narrowly wide, but Arsenal held on to secure all three points.

The result strengthened Arsenal’s position in the early title race, although Manchester City’s superior goal difference kept the defending challengers ahead at the summit. Arsenal will look to maintain their momentum as the Premier League campaign continues.

AFP