London, Oct 25 (V7N)- Arsenal defeated Everton 2-0 at home in the English Premier League to move level with Manchester City on 21 points, intensifying the battle for the top spot.
The victory came after Manchester City dropped points against Aston Villa, giving Arsenal an opportunity to close the gap in the title race.
Arsenal made an aggressive start and took the lead in the seventh minute. Following a corner delivered by Martin Odegaard, Gabriel Magalhaes directed a header towards goal, but Everton's defence failed to clear the danger. Ezri Konsa capitalised from close range to put the hosts ahead, scoring his first goal for the club.
Everton attempted to respond, with James Garner and Tyreke George testing their attacking options, but goalkeeper David Raya kept the visitors at bay.
Arsenal dominated the first half, recording 13 shots and winning 10 corners before the break. The hosts also enjoyed an advantage in possession and attacking pressure.
The Gunners maintained their momentum after the restart and doubled their lead in the 68th minute. Gabriel Magalhaes rose to meet Ben White's cross and powered a header into the net, strengthening Arsenal's grip on the match.
Everton had an opportunity to reduce the deficit late in the game, but Kieran Dewsbury-Hall's header narrowly missed the target.
Arsenal held on to secure a comfortable 2-0 victory, taking their points tally to 21 and drawing level with Manchester City in the Premier League standings.
END/SMA/AJ
