Arsenal edge Chelsea as set‑piece goals rescue win

After the free-flowing derby victory over Tottenham the week before, the Gunners failed to capitalise on their open play chances, struggling to create in transition during the first half and struggling to control the game in the second half.

Instead, it was a hallmark set piece victory, scoring from two corners through Gabriel and Jurrien Timber to set the record for the most corner goals in a Premier League season at 16.

 With open play chances, and goals, harder to come by this campaign, set pieces continue to be a massive difference maker for this side, but the attacking play still needs work to help the Gunners get over the line.

 Gabriel Martinelli was a bright spark off the bench to change the game with his pace and directness, which ultimately led to the red card. While the starting attackers have failed to consistently make the breakthrough in recent weeks, Arteta has more than enough quality on his bench each week to make the difference.

One concerning aspect of the game was the response when Chelsea did go down a man. Rather than pushing for a killer goal or slowing down the tempo by controlling possession, the intensity dropped, allowing Chelsea to stay in the game and pose a danger right until the end.

 It was an uncomfortable ending by a team that still look nervous in the face of pressure. It’s a situation we’ll undoubtedly see several times between now and the end of the season but all that matters is getting over the line with three points.

At the weekend, Arsenal will look to strengthen their hand in the fifth round of the FA Cup up against Mansfield Town at lunchtime on Saturday.

 With the Premier League games coming thick and fast and the Champions League knockout round starting up again soon, the cup is an important chance for Arteta to rotate his side, giving fringe players minutes and sharpness, while providing key players with a much-needed rest in the busy schedule.