EPL: Raya, Guimaraes inspire Arsenal to victory at Sunderland
Arsenal maintained their perfect start to the season after David Raya and Bruno Guimaraes produced two decisive moments in a hard-fought 2-0 win over Sunderland.
The Gunners looked set for a difficult evening after struggling to break down Regis Le Bris’ well-organised side, but Raya’s penalty save was followed almost immediately by a stunning strike from Guimaraes.
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Sunderland had the chance to take control in the 55th minute when Ezri Konsa was penalised for pulling down Dan Ballard inside the box.
Raya denies Sunderland before Guimaraes strikes
Enzo Le Fee stepped up to take the penalty, but Raya guessed correctly and produced an excellent low save to his left.
Arsenal made Sunderland pay just 121 seconds later.
Guimaraes, introduced by Mikel Arteta at half-time, collected the ball around 20 yards from goal before curling a superb effort off the crossbar and into the net.
It was the summer signing’s first Arsenal goal, and the moment carried extra significance given his previous association with Sunderland’s fierce rivals Newcastle United.
The goal finally gave Arsenal the breakthrough they had struggled to find despite dominating possession in the opening half.
Saka seals Arsenal’s perfect start
Arsenal had controlled 66% of the ball before the interval but found chances difficult to come by against Sunderland’s disciplined defence.
Kai Havertz missed from six yards before seeing another effort tipped over by Robin Roefs, while Dan Ballard produced a crucial goal-line clearance to deny the German striker.
Jurrien Timber also thought he had scored for Arsenal, but his header was ruled offside.
The visitors sealed the points in the closing seconds when Bukayo Saka converted from the penalty spot after being fouled by Reinildo Mandava.
The defender received a second yellow card and was sent off as Sunderland’s hopes of rescuing a result disappeared.
The victory gives Arsenal six wins from six in all competitions and four victories from four in the Premier League, leaving Arteta’s side at the top of the table.
Sunderland remain 14th with four points from their opening four league games, but Le Bris’ side can take encouragement from the way they pushed the title contenders before Arsenal found a way through.