Arsenal required only seven minutes to go in front against Everton, as the reigning Premier League champions opened the scoring in their usual manner. A characteristic corner routine from the Gunners carved out the chance, and summer arrival Ezri Konsa applied the finishing touch to push the ball across the line.
The goal stood out especially for Konsa, who found the net for Arsenal for the first time since his transfer from Aston Villa. It also represented a rare set-piece success for the club, whose previous goal from a set piece in all competitions, penalties excluded, had arrived in May.
Arsenal’s corner routine pays off against Everton
Martin Ødegaard’s corner triggered a scramble in the box, enabling Konsa to force the ball over the line after seven minutes. The passage of play was a familiar sight for Premier League followers used to Arsenal’s threat from corners.
Regardless of that reputation, the goal brought an end to a dry spell for the Gunners, who had failed to score from a set piece in any competition, penalties excluded, since May.
Ezri Konsa’s goal lifts Arsenal title ambitions
The finish was Konsa’s first for Arsenal after his switch from Aston Villa. The England international made an instant impression, assisting the reigning champions in taking an early advantage over Everton.
Earlier on Saturday, Aston Villa had also aided Arsenal’s prospects by defeating league leaders Manchester City. With Konsa now among the scorers, the Gunners appeared set to draw level on points with City at the summit of the Premier League table.