Arsenal left it late to snatch a narrow victory over Everton with Viktor Gyokeres and Max Dowman coming off the bench to score in dramatic circumstances. The north Londoners went into the match knowing that a win would pull them 10 points clear of second-placed Manchester City at the top of the Premier League table. A resolute display from the Toffees almost earned them a goalless draw, but Arsenal eventually managed to break through.

There were plenty of chances in the opening 45 minutes, with both goalkeepers making some big saves to keep things level. Arsenal thought they deserved a penalty when Kai Havertz went to ground in the box, but referee Andy Madley was quick to wave play on and his decision was confirmed by VAR in a moment of controversy. Both teams had opportunities to win the match as the clock ticked down and it eventually went Arsenal's way, with Gyokeres bundling home from point-blank range after some excellent work from Dowman.

The teenager went on to become the Premier League's youngest goalscorer in the dying seconds, racing up the pitch and sliding into an empty net after Jordan Pickford went up for Everton's final corner of the match.

Express Sport rates and slates the Arsenal players following today's last-gasp victory...

Arsenal player ratings vs Everton

David Raya - 8

Made a string of crucial saves to keep Everton at bay and show why he is one of the Premier League's very best goalkeepers.

Jurrien Timber - 5

Wasn't having his best game before he was substituted before the break with an apparent injury. Hopefully nothing serious.

William Saliba - 7

Mostly solid in defence alongside Gabriel and ended up doing more than enough to earn a clean sheet.

Gabriel Magalhaes - 7

Like his partner, put in a strong defensive display and deservedly added another shutout to his record.

Riccardo Calafiori - 7

Played well at both ends of the pitch, racing forward to involve himself in attacking moves and tracking back to defend.

Martin Zubimendi - 6

Started strongly and had a couple of attempts on goal in the opening 45 minutes. Played a more defensive role in the second half.

Declan Rice - 7

Survived a very early injury scare inside the first minute and managed to complete the match. Did well at both ends of the pitch.

Bukayo Saka - 5

Had a few shots on goal but didn't provide a great deal of attacking threat and wasn't his usual self in spite of his best efforts.

Eberechi Eze - 6

Quiet to start with but grew into the game as it went on. Very nearly scored with a curled effort from long range in the second half.

Kai Havertz - 7

Was unfortunate not to earn a penalty when he was clipped in the box. Asked questions of Everton's defenders throughout.

Noni Madueke - 7

Looked lively down the right flank, using his trickery and quick feet to find space and put crosses into dangerous areas.

Substitutes

Cristhian Mosquera - 6

Came on to replace Timber before the halfway mark and did reasonably well, apart from one hairy moment where he nearly scored an own goal.

Gabriel Martinelli - 6

Introduced on the hour mark, replacing Madueke. Had a decent game, making inroads down the right-hand side of the pitch.

Viktor Gyokeres - 7

Hardly had a kick until he bundled the ball home from point-blank range to rescue all three points for the Gunners.

Piero Hincapie - 6

Came on in place of Calafiori with just under 20 minutes remaining. Produced a crucial tackle to deny an Everton attack in stoppage time.

Max Dowman - 9

Introduced in the closing stages as a final roll of the dice. Worked tirelessly and helped to create the winning goal with a delightful cross. Got in on the act with the last kick of the game. A wonderful cameo.

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