Gabriel Martinelli scored twice as Arsenal thrashed Everton 4-0 at The Emirates to move five points clear of Manchester City at the top of the Premier League table.
Bukayo Saka broke the deadlock five minutes before half-time with his 10th goal of the season before Martinelli added a second in stoppage-time. Martin Odegaard made it three after the restart and Martinelli completed the rout, as the Gunners turned on the style in front of their jubilant supporters.
The convincing win gives Mikel Arteta’s some breathing space as they chase down a first league title since 2002/03.
Arsenal had been largely frustrated by Sean Dyche’s charges in the first half; despite dominating possession, they had managed just one shot with 40 minutes on the clock. But then, an almighty outpour of relief – Oleksandr Zinchenko slipped a cute pass into the feet of Saka and after a couple of nice touches he buried it past Jordan Pickford from a tight angle.
Martinelli had the ball in the back of the net once more before half-time after Saka robbed Idrissa Gueye, but the home side’s joy was short-lived as the offside flag was immediately raised. However, following a quick VAR check, the goal was given, and Arsenal had a healthy lead at the break.
Chances were at a premium after the restart, but again Arsenal showed they had the clinical touch as Odegaard made it 3-0, finishing with aplomb from Leandro Trossard’s cross, before substitute Eddie Nketiah laid on a brace for Martinelli.
