Mikel Arteta's side proved once again why they're dominating the Premier League table with a meager but effective performance against Fulham, securing a crucial three points in their pursuit of the title.
Despite the lackluster displays from most players, Arsenal showed the resilience and patience required to grind out wins when the going gets tough. The game was an exercise in minimalism, with both teams employing tactics that prioritized defensive solidity over flair. The outcome, however, was far from in doubt once Leandro Trossard popped up with a well-timed goal just before the hour.
Gyökeres's struggles to find his footing after returning from international duty raised concerns, but Arteta remains optimistic about the big Swede's long-term prospects. Gyökeres ran hard and made chances for himself, showing flashes of brilliance that suggest he'll eventually get back on track.
Fulham, meanwhile, created more chances in the opening exchanges than their opponents managed to muster throughout the game, with Raúl Jiménez and Harry Wilson going close in a positive start from Marco Silva's side. However, Arsenal's collective defense proved impenetrable, with their full-backs Riccardo Calafiori and Jurriën Timber marshaling a solid backline.
The absence of Martin Ødegaard also cast a shadow over the proceedings, as his captaincy was crucial in breaking down Fulham's defenses. Eberechi Eze struggled to make an impact against Sander Berge's tenacious marking, but Arsenal's midfield trio held firm.
A goal from Trossard and a couple of missed chances for Gyökeres were all that separated the two teams by the final whistle, with Fulham ultimately unable to breach Arsenal's defenses. The pressure on Liverpool, meanwhile, continues to build as Mikel Arteta's side increases their lead at the top of the table.
For Arteta, the win was a welcome respite from the controversy surrounding refereeing decisions earlier in the season. He'll be relieved that another row over officiating can be put behind him, and he can focus on maintaining his team's momentum as they head into crucial matches against Liverpool and Manchester United in the coming weeks.
Arsenal's win may have lacked panache, but it showcased their ability to grind out victories when the going gets tough. As the title chase heats up, Mikel Arteta's side must continue to demonstrate this mettle if they're to emerge victorious come May.
Despite the lackluster displays from most players, Arsenal showed the resilience and patience required to grind out wins when the going gets tough. The game was an exercise in minimalism, with both teams employing tactics that prioritized defensive solidity over flair. The outcome, however, was far from in doubt once Leandro Trossard popped up with a well-timed goal just before the hour.
Gyökeres's struggles to find his footing after returning from international duty raised concerns, but Arteta remains optimistic about the big Swede's long-term prospects. Gyökeres ran hard and made chances for himself, showing flashes of brilliance that suggest he'll eventually get back on track.
Fulham, meanwhile, created more chances in the opening exchanges than their opponents managed to muster throughout the game, with Raúl Jiménez and Harry Wilson going close in a positive start from Marco Silva's side. However, Arsenal's collective defense proved impenetrable, with their full-backs Riccardo Calafiori and Jurriën Timber marshaling a solid backline.
The absence of Martin Ødegaard also cast a shadow over the proceedings, as his captaincy was crucial in breaking down Fulham's defenses. Eberechi Eze struggled to make an impact against Sander Berge's tenacious marking, but Arsenal's midfield trio held firm.
A goal from Trossard and a couple of missed chances for Gyökeres were all that separated the two teams by the final whistle, with Fulham ultimately unable to breach Arsenal's defenses. The pressure on Liverpool, meanwhile, continues to build as Mikel Arteta's side increases their lead at the top of the table.
For Arteta, the win was a welcome respite from the controversy surrounding refereeing decisions earlier in the season. He'll be relieved that another row over officiating can be put behind him, and he can focus on maintaining his team's momentum as they head into crucial matches against Liverpool and Manchester United in the coming weeks.
Arsenal's win may have lacked panache, but it showcased their ability to grind out victories when the going gets tough. As the title chase heats up, Mikel Arteta's side must continue to demonstrate this mettle if they're to emerge victorious come May.