Arsenal left it late to beat Everton with Viktor Gyokeres bundling home the winner before Max Dowman, 16, became the Premier League’s youngest ever goalscorer at 16 years and 73 days old
Arsenal left it late to secure a narrow triumph over Everton with Viktor Gyokeres and Max Dowman emerging from the substitutes’ bench to find the net in dramatic fashion.
The north Londoners entered the fixture aware that victory would establish a 10-point gap ahead of second-placed Manchester City at the Premier League summit.
Arsenal believed they warranted a spot-kick in the opening period when Kai Havertz tumbled inside the area, though referee Andy Madley swiftly signalled for play to continue and his ruling was upheld by VAR in a contentious moment.
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Both sides created chances to claim the points as time ebbed away and it ultimately favoured Arsenal, with Gyokeres converting from close range following outstanding play from Dowman.
The youngster subsequently delivered another magical moment in the final seconds to become the Premier League’s youngest ever scorer at 16 years and 73 days old.
He sprinted forward and slotted into an unguarded goal under pressure after Jordan Pickford had advanced for Everton’s last corner of the encounter.
Daily Star Sport assesses the Arsenal players following today’s dramatic late victory…
David Raya, 8/10 – Produced a series of vital stops to deny Everton and demonstrate why he ranks amongst the Premier League’s finest shot-stoppers, reports the Express.
Jurrien Timber, 5/10 – Endured a difficult afternoon before his withdrawal prior to half-time with what appeared to be an injury concern. Hopefully nothing too serious.
William Saliba, 7/10 – Largely dependable in defence alongside Gabriel and ultimately did sufficient work to secure a clean sheet.
Gabriel Magalhaes, 7/10 – Similar to his partner, delivered a robust defensive performance and rightfully claimed another shutout for his tally.
Riccardo Calafiori, 7/10 – Impressed at both ends of the field, surging forward to contribute to attacking phases whilst diligently tracking back defensively.
Martin Zubimendi, 6/10 – Began brightly and registered a couple of efforts on target during the opening 45 minutes. Adopted a more defensive approach in the second period.
Declan Rice, 7/10 – Overcame a very early fitness concern within the first minute and managed to see out the full match. Contributed effectively at both ends of the field.
Bukayo Saka, 5/10 – Registered several attempts on goal but failed to offer significant attacking menace and wasn’t at his typical standard despite his endeavours.
Eberechi Eze, 6/10 – Subdued initially but developed his influence as the match progressed. Came close to finding the net with a curling strike from distance in the second period.
Kai Havertz, 7/10 – Was unlucky not to be awarded a spot-kick when he was caught in the area. Troubled Everton’s backline consistently throughout.
Noni Madueke, 7/10 – Appeared energetic along the right wing, utilising his skill and nimble footwork to create space and deliver crosses into threatening positions.
Cristhian Mosquera, 6/10 – Entered to replace Timber before the interval and performed adequately, save for one concerning incident where he almost netted an own goal.
Gabriel Martinelli, 6/10 – Brought on at the hour mark, taking over from Madueke. Enjoyed a solid outing, making progress down the right flank.
Viktor Gyokeres, 7/10 – Barely touched the ball until he scrambled it over the line from close range to secure all three points for the Gunners.
Piero Hincapie, 6/10 – Entered the fray in place of Calafiori with just under 20 minutes left on the clock. Delivered a vital challenge to thwart an Everton attack during added time.
Max Dowman, 9/10 – Grafted relentlessly and contributed to the match-winning goal with an exquisite delivery. Capped off his display with the final touch of the match in a spellbinding moment. A superb cameo from the teenager.