Tense win with Timber winner and Raya heroics
Arsenal restored their five-point lead at the top of the Premier League with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Chelsea at Emirates Stadium. Jurrien Timber headed the winner from Declan Rice corner three minutes after Chelsea levelled while David Raya made a stunning late save to deny João Pedro.
The match was tense and physical. Arsenal panicked Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sánchez early with high press but struggled for cohesion in open play. Both goals came from corners. Saliba flicked home from Bukayo Saka delivery for opener while Chelsea equalised when ball went in off Piero Hincapié from Reece James corner.
Chelsea dominated second half but Timber wriggled free to head winner. Moisés Caicedo went close late and Garnacho cross nearly found João Pedro but Raya flung across for crucial stop. Liam Delap had ball in net but João Pedro flagged offside in build-up.
Arsenal laboured but found way. Mikel Arteta got better of Chelsea again. Lead over Manchester City back to five points though Arsenal played extra game.
Chelsea frustration and red card
Chelsea tasted first Premier League defeat under Liam Rosenior. Frustration clear with self-inflicted wounds. Set-piece defending cost seven goals in 13 matches under Rosenior. Pedro Neto collected red for high swipe at Gabriel Martinelli after Timber goal. On booking for dissent Neto knew risk but challenged unnecessarily with cover available.
Chelsea did well with ten men but Arsenal held firm. Tense physical battle Arsenal survived. Title race remains open but Arsenal momentum strong.
