EPL: Arsenal restore five-point title advantage with win against 10-man Chelsea

Arsenal moved five points clear at the top of the Premier League with a 2-1 win over 10-man Chelsea at Emirates Stadium.

The victory lifts Arsenal to 64 points, re-establishing daylight over Manchester City, who had trimmed the gap to two points after beating Leeds on Saturday.

Although Arsenal have played a game more, the result keeps control of the title race in their hands.

Set-pieces prove decisive

After a cautious opening, Arsenal took the lead in the 21st minute from a corner. Gabriel Magalhaes headed Bukayo Saka’s delivery back across goal, and William Saliba’s header struck Mamadou Sarr on the arm before crossing the line.

Chelsea responded with pressure of their own and equalised before the break. Piero Hincapie flicked on Reece James’ corner, forcing an own goal.

Arsenal regained the lead in the second half when Jurrien Timber headed in Declan Rice’s corner. It was Arsenal’s 16th goal from a corner this season.

Chelsea reduced to ten

Chelsea’s task became harder with 20 minutes remaining. Gabriel Martinelli was brought down on a counter-attack by Pedro Neto, who received a second yellow card.

Despite being a man down, Chelsea thought they had equalised late on when Liam Delap bundled the ball in. However, Joao Pedro was offside in the build-up and the goal was ruled out.

Arsenal saw out the closing stages to secure three points that maintain their momentum in the title race, with set-piece execution once again proving decisive.