Arsenal delivered a top performance at the Emirates on Saturday evening, easing to a 3-0 win over Fulham to move six points clear at the top of the Premier League.
A clinical first-half display from Mikel Arteta’s side effectively settled the contest before the interval.
Fast start sets the tone
The Gunners signalled their intent early, dominating possession from the opening whistle. Their pressure paid off in the ninth minute when Bukayo Saka produced a trademark surge down the right, skipping past challenges before drilling a low ball across goal.
Viktor Gyokeres was perfectly positioned to convert from close range, giving Arsenal the ideal start.
Fulham struggled to gain a foothold as Arsenal continued to dictate the tempo, and before long, Arsenal doubled their advantage five minutes before the break, and once again the combination of Saka and Gyokeres connected.
Released in behind, the Swedish forward showed composure to hold his run before squaring the ball into Saka’s path. The winger made no mistake, driving a powerful effort past Bernd Leno at the near post.
Third goal caps dominant first half
There was still time for Arsenal to add a third before half-time, capping a near-flawless opening 45 minutes. Leandro Trossard surged down the left and delivered an inviting cross into the box, where Gyokeres rose to guide a looping header beyond Leno.
With a comfortable cushion, Arsenal approached the second half with more control rather than urgency.
Gyokeres came close to completing his hat-trick when played through on goal, but Leno reacted quickly to deny him.
Riccardo Calafiori also threatened from a set-piece, his header striking the crossbar after a fine save from the Fulham goalkeeper.
Arteta used the latter stages to rotate his squad, introducing fresh legs with Atletico Madrid in mind.
