Arsenal end 2023 at EPL summit after Liverpool draw

Arsenal will enjoy Christmas at the top of the English Premier League table following their 1-1 draw with Liverpool at Anfield on Saturday night. Needing only to avoid defeat to stay first, the Gunners took an early lead through Gabriel’s header. However, Mohamed Salah equalised for the Reds midway through the first period.

Both sides had chances to win it in an end-to-end second half, but a share of the spoils means Arsenal remain league leaders at the halfway mark.

The visitors drew first blood inside the opening 5 minutes when Gabriel rose highest to powerfully head home Martin Odegaard’s free kick. There was a nervous wait during a VAR check, but the goal was rightly given. Arsenal seemed most likely to add to their lead for the next 20 minutes, with Odegaard going close. Liverpool eventually levelled through Salah’s clinical finish after Trent Alexander-Arnold’s defense-splitting pass.

Gabriel Martinelli was presented with a golden opportunity to put Arsenal back in front right before half time. However, the Brazilian forward failed to hit the target with the goal gaping. Liverpool also had chances of their own after the interval, with Alexander-Arnold striking the bar amidst a counter attack. Ultimately neither side could fashion a winner in a heavyweight battle.

The point means Arsenal will top the EPL over the hectic Christmas schedule. Liverpool meanwhile remain hot on their heels, a point behind them in second place. This absorbing contest suggested the title race will continue to be an engaging contest, especially with Aston Villa, Tottenham Hotspur and defending champions Manchester City all still very much in contention.