Man of the match: Gabriel Martinelli was in superb form for Arsenal against Liverpool on Sunday
(Picture: Action Images via Reuters)Arsenal went back to the top of the Premier League by beating Liverpool at Emirates Stadium.
In an enthralling game, Mikel Arteta’s side took the lead three times but on two of those occasions they were pegged back by their visitors.
Gabriel Martinelli opened the scoring inside a minute and Bukayo Saka struck twice, with the second proving a decisive penalty.
Darwin Nunez and Roberto Firmino both found the net for Liverpool, however they were unable to find a third and went down 3-2.
Simon Collings was at Emirates Stadium to see Arsenal in action...
Aaron Ramsdale 6
Didn’t have huge amounts to do but made some vital saves in both halves. Looked to injure his hip very early on, but carried on.
Ben White 8
Not in the most recent England squad, but he outshone Trent Alexander-Arnold here. His game has come on so much this season and looks great going forward.
William Saliba 7
The better of Arsenal’s two centre-backs and overall he had a solid game. Dealt fairly well with the threat of Nunez, who caused problems in behind.
Gabriel 5
The Brazilian looked shaky at times and he will be disappointed with Liverpool’s first goal, as he failed to intercept a ball over the top.
Takehiro Tomiyasu 8
Was a surprise starter at left-back but the Japan international did really well. Kept Mohamed Salah quiet and the Egyptian was hooked with 20 minutes to go.
Martin Odegaard 7
Like Partey alongside him, the Norwegian was not given the time he usually gets. Still had some nice moments, but missed a glorious chance to score early in the second half.
Thomas Partey 7
Particularly in the first half, Liverpool pressed the Ghana international really well and he couldn’t get on the ball. Improved significantly, however, as the game went on.
Granit Xhaka 7
A solid performance from the Swiss, who went about his business quietly and efficiently. Almost scored with a stunning flick and volley.
Bukayo Saka 9
Had a really good game out wide, where he got plenty of joy up against Kostas Tsimikas. Scored just before half-time and then slotted the decisive penalty.
Gabriel Jesus 8
Bright and lively, and involved in lots of Arsenal’s good attacking play. Took an elbow to the face early in the second half, but managed to carry on. Won the penalty for Arsenal.
Gabriel Martinelli 9 | Star player
A brilliant performance from the winger, who terrorised Alexander-Arnold for the whole first half. Finished the game with a goal and an assist.
Substitutions
Kieran Tierney (Odegaard 82’) N/A
Eddie Nketiah (Jesus 90’) N/A
Fabio Vieira (Saka 90’) N/A
