ARSENAL RIDE LUCK TO EDGE BRIGHTON AND OPEN SEVEN-POINT LEAD.

Arsenal survived heavy pressure from Brighton to secure a narrow 1-0 victory and
move seven points clear at the top of the Premier League.
Bukayo Saka’s early strike, which deflected off Carlos Baleba and slipped through
goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen proved decisive for Mikel Arteta’s side despite Brighton
dominating large spells of the contest.
The Gunners were fortunate not to fall behind in the opening seconds when David
Raya’s misplaced clearance fell to Baleba, but Gabriel recovered to head the
midfielder’s weak chip off the line.
Brighton pushed hard for an equaliser and came closest just before the hour mark
when Raya saved from Georginio Rutter.
Mats Wieffer later missed a golden chance, heading straight at the Arsenal
goalkeeper from close range.
Frustration grew among the home fans as Arsenal slowed the tempo during the
second half, but Brighton were unable to convert their pressure as the visitors held
on for a valuable win, especially after Manchester City were held to a 2-2 draw by
Nottingham Forest.